Seahawks’ Cross Returns from Injury in Divisional Playoff Win

Seattle Seahawks offensive lineman Charles Cross returned from a month-long injury absence to start at left tackle in the team’s 41-6 victory over San Francisco in the divisional round of the NFL playoffs, according to sources familiar with the game.

Cross, a ninth-overall pick from Mississippi State in 2022, posted the second-highest pass blocking grade in the NFL during the Divisional Round, earning an 85.2 grade from Pro Football Focus. He played 36 snaps before leaving the game with a foot injury, the sources said.

The Seahawks now await their opponent for the NFC Championship game, with the Los Angeles Rams and cornerback Emmanuel Forbes advancing after a 20-17 overtime win at Chicago. Forbes, a first-round pick, recorded one solo tackle but left early with a shoulder injury, according to reports.

Other players with ties to Mississippi State also participated in the playoffs. Houston Texans running back Jo’Quavious “Woody” Marks led his team in rushing with 17 yards and caught two passes for 19 yards in their 28-16 loss to the Patriots. Defensive end Denico Autry logged 15 snaps on defense and four on special teams during Houston’s postseason run, which ended in the divisional round.

Autry’s season stats include eight tackles, 3.5 sacks and a forced fumble, with additional contributions during the regular season. Several other former Bulldogs also saw postseason action across the league, including Titans defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons and Bills cornerback Darius Slay, who was on the reserve/did not report list late in the season.

The NFL playoffs continue this weekend, with the Seahawks eyeing a spot in the Super Bowl after their dominant divisional round victory.

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