WR Lockette promoted to 53-man squad following Rice’s injury

Jan. 1, 2012; Glendale, AZ, USA; Seattle Seahawks wide receiver (83) Ricardo Lockette makes a one handed catch for a touchdown in the fourth quarter against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Cardinals defeated the Seahawks 23-20 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Ricardo Lockette was promoted from the practice squad to the 53-man squad on Wednesday after Sidney Rice was placed on injured reserve.

Rice tore his ACL during Monday’s game against the St. Louis Rams, ending his season.

Lockette, a 23-year old out of Fort Valley State, has two career receptions for 105 yards and a touchdown, including a 61-yard touchdown grab in the 2011 season finale against the Cardinals.

Lockette didn’t make the Seahawks in 2012 but played on the practice squad before getting cut and ending up on the San Francisco 49ers practice squad, according to the Seattle Post-Intelligencer.

Earlier this season, he was on the Chicago Bears practice squad before being released on Oct. 21.

Lockette will likely be a No. 4 or No. 5 receiver behind Golden Tate, Doug Baldwin, Jermaine Kearse and Bryan Walters, who was also promoted to the team earlier this season.

The Seahawks passing game has been a big weakness this season, largely in part to a weak offensive line. Regardless, the offense has only thrown for 198.8 yards per game this year, 28th in the league.

Fans are optimistic for the debut of Percy Harvin, who will instantly become a threat and a No. 1 target for Russell Wilson, provided he has enough protection to throw the ball.