Seahawks Walter Thurmond III suspended 4 games by NFL for violating league’s substance abuse policy
By Peter Smith
The NFL has officially announced the 4 game suspension of Seattle Seahawks cornerback Walter Thurmond III for violating the league’s substance abuse policy. Assuming Thurmond does not appeal, the suspension would keep him out until the final game of the regular season against the St. Louis Rams.
The Seahawks are all but a lock to make the playoffs, but this suspension could have an impact on their seeding. They are coming off of their bye week and preparing to take on a 9-2 New Orleans Saints team that has the second best record in the NFC. Not having Thurmond to help defend against Drew Brees and the Saints passing attack could have a dramatic impact. If they win, both teams are 10-2 and in a dead heat for top overall seed with home field advantage throughout the playoffs.
The Seahawks reportedly have been in touch with Antoine Winfield to help them bridge the gap. Thurmond has contributed 23 tackles, a sack, 3 tackles for loss, 6 pass deflections and an interception he returned for a touchdown.