INJURY UPDATE: Seahawks lose defensive leader with 72+ tackles to knee injury in Commanders game – Head Coach Mike Macdonald admits, “This will be the biggest challenge for the Seahawks this season.”

INJURY UPDATE: Seahawks lose defensive leader with 72+ tackles to knee injury in Commanders game – Head Coach Mike Macdonald admits, “This will be the biggest challenge for the Seahawks this season.”

Seattle, Washington – November 3, 2025

The Seattle Seahawks may have celebrated a dominant 38–14 victory over the Washington Commanders on Sunday, but the joy didn’t last long. Midway through the second quarter, star linebacker Ernest Jones IV — the heartbeat of Seattle’s defense — went down with a right knee injury that left the entire stadium silent.

The play looked routine until Jones was caught awkwardly in traffic and crumpled to the turf, clutching his knee in visible pain. Trainers rushed onto the field, and moments later, he was helped off to a standing ovation from fans who knew exactly how much he meant to this team.

Through eight games this season, Jones had been nothing short of elite — tallying 72 tackles, 3 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, and 1 interception — establishing himself as one of the most complete linebackers in the NFC. His leadership and communication anchored a defense that had carried Seattle to a 6–2 record and one of the league’s most balanced rosters.

After the game, head coach Mike Macdonald confirmed that Jones’ injury was not season-ending, though the exact recovery timeline remains uncertain. Still, Macdonald didn’t hide the emotional impact of losing his defensive captain.

“Ernest is the heartbeat of our defense,” Macdonald said. “He’s not just a great player — he’s the guy who brings energy, trust, and connection to everyone around him. Losing him is tough, but this is also our chance to show what being a Seahawk really means: resilience, unity, and fight.”

Macdonald also praised Jones’ leadership, even after the injury.

“He was still smiling, still encouraging guys from the sideline. That’s who he is — a leader in every sense. You don’t teach that kind of heart.”

With Jones sidelined, Drake Thomas took over as the green-dot linebacker, handling play-calling duties for the defense, while Tyrice Knight shifted back to his weakside role to stabilize the unit.

According to team sources, Jones will undergo an MRI early this week to determine the severity of the injury. Initial reports suggest he could return within two to three weeks if rehab goes smoothly.

Despite the setback, Seattle remains one of the top teams in the NFC, sitting at 6–2 and riding a wave of confidence. For Coach Macdonald and his players, the mission is clear:

“We’re going to keep fighting — for Ernest, for each other, and for what this team stands for. When he comes back, we want him to see that the Seahawks never stopped believing.”