Seattle Seahawks: 2nd Round Pick Malik McDowell Could Miss Season

The Seattle Seahawks go into 2017 with the same expectations as before:  to win the Super Bowl. They had hoped their new draft class would help.

None more so than gifted defensive lineman Malik McDowell. Though questioned for his effort at times, there was no argument from anyone that the Michigan State alum was gifted. His rare blend of size, length, quickness and burst made for a serious headache in terms of blocking. When his motor ran hot, there wasn’t an offensive lineman who could stop him from reaching the backfield. No doubt Seattle felt Pete Carroll could keep him motivated.

Unfortunately he may not get the chance this year. Word is coming out that the 1st round pick was in an ATV accident. One so severe that it could very well cost him the season.

Details of the accident are still coming out. It’s unclear what precise sort of injuries he suffered. One must surmise though that the worst ones were around the head region. That would lead one to believe McDowell wasn’t wearing a helmet during his joyriding. Some will likely call him reckless but this is what lots of players do in their free time.

If nothing else it’s another lesson that was started by Jason Pierre-Paul with his fireworks incident. It’s okay to do things that are fun, but if they’re dangerous then be smart and take proper safety precautions. ATV riding is dangerous, especially if it’s on rugged terrain. Given McDowell is close to 300 lbs, going at high speeds meant an accident was almost inevitable.

In the end not only is his individual career in jeopardy because of it, but the Seahawks are also made a little bit worse by the result. Knowing them they’ll adjust, but it’s still a shame. Hopefully it’s not that serious.