Clark’s development key to Seahawks front 7

Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports

SHEAD INSTEAD (of Williams):

OK, that headline was a reach, but there’s something to be said for keeping a consistent theme right?

In the wake of Cary Williams slow meltdown as the starting CB opposite All-Pro Richard Sherman this year, DeShawn Shead had been working hard to make the transition from safety to corner. He showed flashes of coverage ability in the preseason (in particular against Kansas City) and possesses the size and body type Seattle loves in their corners. When Williams was benched prior to the Pittsburgh game, Shead weathered the storm against the Steelers relentless air assault and held up well, getting credit for 4 passes defensed and nearly making a play on the one deep ball he gave up to Martavis Bryant. He followed that up with a solid performance against Minnesota.

Next: Seahawks vs Ravens injury report

Facing a Steve Smith-less Ravens team featuring Jimmy Clausen under center doesn’t exactly qualify as another “test” for Shead this week, but his continued development as a starting CB could very well be the key to the success of this Seahawks defense if they are indeed ready to make a deep playoff run. With Williams being outright released earlier this week, the team is counting on him being up to the task.