The Seattle Seahawks added second-year to their practice squad on Friday in preparation for Sunday’s crucial NFC West showdown. This move provides insurance in case veteran punter Michael Dickson, who has been dealing with back spasms, is unable to play.
Dickson experienced back spasms during the fourth quarter of the Seahawks’ recent victory over the New York Jets, forcing him to sit out late in the game. He was listed as a limited participant in practice on both Wednesday and Thursday. Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald addressed the situation on Wednesday, expressing hope that Dickson would be ready to play but acknowledged uncertainty, saying, “We’re not sure right now.”
Zentner, an undrafted player from Kansas State, has seen action in 10 games across three teams during his NFL career. His lone appearance this season was against the Seahawks in Week 9 when he briefly played for the Los Angeles Rams. Previously, Zentner suited up for four games with the Houston Texans and five with the Tennessee Titans during the 2023 season. After signing with the Rams on November 1, he was released on November 19.
In his NFL career, Zentner has averaged 44.1 yards per punt, with 13 of his 45 punts landing inside the opposing 20-yard line. Notably, he downed three punts inside Seattle’s 20-yard line in their Week 9 matchup, though he also had a punt blocked by Cody White.
Meanwhile, Dickson has continued to excel this season, averaging 48.7 yards per punt. Of his 50 punts, 18 have been placed inside the opponent’s 20-yard line, showcasing his precision and skill. Despite his absence late in the game against the Jets, the Seahawks made a pivotal fourth-down conversion inside their own 40-yard line, ultimately securing a go-ahead touchdown to win 26-21. Afterward, Macdonald humorously remarked that Dickson was the honorary player of the game “for not being available.”
To make room for Zentner on the practice squad, Seattle placed veteran offensive tackle Jason Peters on injured reserve. As the Seahawks prepare for their divisional clash, Zentner provides a reliable backup option should Dickson be unable to take the field.
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