Seahawks injury update: Jeremy Lane to practice Wednesday, Max Unger and Cooper Helfet still out

The Seahawks got out of Santa Clara without suffering any new major injuries, and now are hoping to get a few more key players back in time for Sunday's matchup with the Eagles. Pete Carroll mentioned in his press conference this afternoon that nickelback Jeremy Lane -- a key special teams player as well -- should return to practice today and that they'll monitor his progress from there. Lane's battled injuries all season long and couldn't get back in time on the short week prior to the Thanksgiving game against the Niners, but it's looking good that he'll be ready to go this weekend.

The return of Lane could be interesting for the Seahawks, who, in his absence, put Tharold Simon outside in nickel downs and moved normal outside-starter Byron Maxwell into the slot. Simon has a lot of potential in Seattle's system -- he's only allowed 7 receptions on 12 targets and hasn't missed a tackle in 142 coverage snaps -- but can't seem to figure out the line between playing physical and getting called for penalties. The second year corner, seemingly emulating Brandon Browner, already has seven penalties to his name and is obviously a player that officials are watching closely. If Lane is back to full health, look for him to play in the slot, which would allow Seattle to leave Maxwell outside and would keep Simon on the bench, in theory.

The outlook for C Max Unger and TE Cooper Helfet doesn't look as great, as both will sit out practice Wednesday and hope to return on Thursday. Carroll mentioned that Unger is looking better and progressing from an ankle and knee injury suffered against the Chiefs, but if I had to guess, he probably won't be ready to go by Sunday. Just a hunch.

The same could be said for Helfet, who is battling an ankle injury as well. He hasn't practiced this week and Carroll said it would be a day-to-day thing to see if he'll be able to get some reps in before Sunday. If he can't go, the Seahawks will run with Luke Willson and Tony Moeaki, both of whom have looked good (and have been major targets) in the offense of late.