Mike Iupati

“My body was telling me it was time to close the door,” Iupati told Peter Harriman of The Spokesman-Review. A four-time Pro Bowl player, Iupati spent his first five seasons in the NFL with the 49ers, finalizing his 11-year career with the Seahawks from 2019 on. He appeared in 140 regular-season games including 11 postseason contests. He most recently missed several games late into last year when a significant neck injury cropped up, ultimately deciding that at age 33 his NFL career had come full circle. He walks away with $50.75 million in career earnings.

A 15-game starter for the Seahawks at left guard last season, 32-year-old Iupati was reliable during the regular season but missed the playoffs with a neck injury. Although available, he was also a liability during the regular campaign. Iupati has not been the same player since injuries started stacking up in 2017. He will obviously be a starting option but subject to competition after the Seahawks added a number of bodies along the interior.  

Iupati will miss his second straight playoff clash while dealing with the neck issue. In his stead, Jamarco Jones is expected to draw the start at the left guard position for the game.

Jamarco Jones is expected to start at left guard in Iupati's place. According to Omar Ruiz of NFL Network, if the Seahawks advance to the divisional round, Iupati is expected to be good to go.