Seattle Seahawks safety A.J. Finley sustained a significant knee injury during the team’s annual Fan Fest at Lumen Field on Saturday, August 3rd. Initial assessments proved accurate, and the Seahawks officially placed Finley on injured reserve on Monday, August 5th, effectively ending his availability for the start of the 2025 NFL season.

The move to injured reserve opens a roster spot, which Seattle quickly filled by signing linebacker Michael Dowell, a former fourth-round pick from Notre Dame, and long snapper Zach Triner, an undrafted free agent out of Tulsa. Dowell, who previously played for the Detroit Lions, brings experience to the linebacker corps. Triner’s signing provides crucial depth at a specialized position.

The addition of Triner is particularly timely, as starting long snapper Chris Stoll is currently dealing with back issues. During Saturday’s Fan Fest, tight end Brady Russell practiced as the backup long snapper, highlighting the need for insurance at the position ahead of Thursday’s preseason opener against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium in Paradise, nevada.

To accommodate both signings, the Seahawks waived undrafted free agent linebacker Seth Coleman. Coleman, who played college football at Oregon State, was vying for a spot on the team’s special teams unit.The Seahawks now have 89 players on their 90-man roster.

Understanding NFL Injured Reserve and Roster Dynamics

The NFL’s Injured reserve (IR) list is a designation for players who sustain injuries that prevent them from playing for a significant period. Players placed on IR are ineligible to return for at least four games. This mechanism allows teams to create roster space while providing injured players time to recover.

NFL rosters are fluid, especially during the preseason. Teams routinely sign and waive players to evaluate talent and optimize their 53-man roster for the regular season. Undrafted free agents face an uphill battle to secure a roster spot, often requiring exceptional performance and versatility.

The long snapper position, while often overlooked, is critical for prosperous special teams play. A reliable long snapper ensures accurate snaps for punts, field goals, and extra points.Injuries to long snappers can significantly impact a team’s special teams performance.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Seahawks’ Roster Moves

What caused A.J. Finley’s injury?

A.J. Finley suffered a knee injury during the Seattle Seahawks’ Fan Fest practice on August 3rd. The severity of the injury necessitated placement on injured reserve.

Who is Michael Dowell, and what position does he play?

Michael Dowell is a linebacker who was previously with the Detroit Lions. He was a fourth-round NFL Draft pick from notre Dame.

Why did the Seahawks sign Zach Triner?

Zach Triner was signed to provide depth at the long snapper position, as Chris Stoll is currently dealing with back issues.

What does it mean when a player is placed on Injured Reserve?

Being placed on Injured reserve means a player is ineligible to play for at least four games,allowing them time to recover from their injury.

Why did the Seahawks waive Seth Coleman?

Seth Coleman was waived to create a roster spot following the signing of Michael Dowell and Zach Triner.

When is the Seahawks’ preseason opener?

The Seattle Seahawks’ preseason opener is scheduled for Thursday, August 8th, against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium.

How many players are currently on the Seahawks’ roster?

Following these transactions, the Seahawks currently have 89 players