Marshawn Lynch

Seahawks hopeful Marshawn Lynch plays Sunday

Seattle Seahawks coach Pete Carroll said Monday he is hopeful running back Marshawn Lynch (abdomen) will play in the Wild Card Round against the Minnesota Vikings.

What It Means:

Carroll said Lynch returned to team headquarters on Monday, and it sounds like he's preparing to play. Carroll went as far as to say Monday that Lynch is "ready to rock." After such a long layoff, Lynch doesn't figure to be able to handle much more than 15 carries, but the Seahawks likely view him as an upgrade on Christine Michael and Bryce Brown.

We're not convinced yet he starts as our algorithms project Lynch for 52 rushing yards and 0.26 rushing touchdowns, as well as one reception for eight yards. On the season, his -0.02 Total Net Expected Points per play ranks 53rd among the 69 running backs with at least 80 opportunities.