Tyler Lockett injury update: Latest on Seahawks WR for Fantasy Football Week 16

As the Seattle Seahawks battle for playoff positioning, Tyler Lockett's fantasy football outlook draws attention heading into Week 16's clash with the Minnesota Vikings. The Seahawks sit second in the NFC West behind the LA Rams following their Sunday Night Football loss to the Green Bay Packers.

Lockett will play against Minnesota this weekend. His Wednesday absence from practice simply follows his routine veteran maintenance schedule, not an injury concern.

However, Lockett's diminished role in Seattle's struggling offense raises concerns. He hasn't secured five targets in any game since mid-October. His last noteworthy fantasy performance dates back to Week 9, his most recent top-65 PPR finish.

NFL: Seattle Seahawks at Arizona Cardinals - Source: Imagn

Fantasy analysts note Tyler Lockett still makes impactful plays for the Seahawks, but those moments haven't led to consistent fantasy production.

For Week 16, Lockett is projected to score just 8.0 PPR fantasy points, with 2.8 receptions, 37.4 yards, and 0.2 touchdowns. His reduced role behind DK Metcalf and Jaxon Smith-Njigba continues to limit his numbers.

The Seahawks' passing game faces multiple hurdles amidst Tyler Lockett's status

NFL: Seattle Seahawks at San Francisco 49ers - Source: Imagn

The Seahawks' offensive woes stem from several issues highlighted in their loss to Green Bay in Week 15. First-year offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb's play-calling has drawn criticism for lack of balance and red zone efficiency.

Head coach Mike Macdonald has publicly advocated for more rushing attempts and play-action passes. This shift could further limit Lockett's opportunities in the passing game.

Protection issues loom large. Seattle operates with the NFL's lowest-spending offensive line, investing $4 million less than any other team, according to Spotrac.

The quarterback situation adds another layer of uncertainty. Geno Smith's inconsistency and turnover issues have impacted the entire passing attack. Backup Sam Howell's performance against the Packers, completing just five of 14 passes with an interception, highlighted the team's quarterback challenges.

Tyler Lockett might find success against Minnesota's aggressive defense that often employs single coverage. However, relying on these sporadic opportunities carries significant risk for fantasy managers during playoff weeks.

Fantasy managers should view Lockett as a WR4/WR5 option. The passing game now runs through Metcalf and Smith-Njigba, making Lockett a high-risk flex play despite his veteran experience.