The Facts: Last season, the Seahawks were reminded of just how important Carson is to Seattle’s offense. Carson appeared in only four games in 2021, saddled by a nagging neck injury. Now that Carson has had surgery to repair the injury, coach Pete Carroll is hopeful but cautiously optimistic that his No. 1 running back can return for his 2022 campaign. “His workouts are going well, he’s in good spirits, and he’s looking forward to playing and getting back,” Carroll said Wednesday from the 2022 NFL scouting combine in Indianapolis. “Anytime you have a neck surgery, it’s obviously very intricate and all, we’ve got to see how that works out. You know how much I’ve always loved Chris, I’d love to get him back if we can get him back.”

Diehards Line: Carroll said he has no reason to doubt Carson will be able to return but said it’s wait and see for now. Carson signed a contract extension with the Seahawks last March so he'll be back. But the team has also expressed an interested in retaining unrestricted free agent to be Rashaad Penny. ... We'll be watching for more.