Ahkello Witherspoon Injury News & Updates
Keep up with the latest injuries from the Rams vs Seahawks game on Thursday with our National Football League injury report.Nov 29, 2025
Returning in Week 13
Witherspoon (shoulder) was activated from the injured reserve list and has no injury designation ahead of Sunday's matchup against the Panthers.
ANALYSIS
The 30-year-old will suit up Sunday for the first time since sustaining a broken shoulder blade in the Rams' Week 2 win over the Titans. Witherspoon was a key part of Los Angeles' secondary in 2024, recording 31 total tackles and nine passes defended, including one interception, across 13 regular-season contests. Now fully healthy, he's expected to operate as one of the Rams' top boundary corners in Week 13.
Nov 27, 2025
Practices in full again
Witherspoon (shoulder), who officially remains on IR, was a full participant in Thursday's practice, Adam Grosbard of The Orange County Register reports.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon logged two straight full practices after being designated to return from injured reserve Wednesday. With the cornerback's practice record, the Rams will likely activate him to the 53-man roster in time for Sunday's game against the Panthers.
Nov 26, 2025
Designated to return from IR
Witherspoon (shoulder) was designated to return from injured reserve Wednesday.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon has been sidelined since Week 2 while recovering from a broken shoulder blade, per Greg Beacham of the Associated Press. Head coach Sean McVay originally described the cornerback's injury as a broken clavicle in September, but nonetheless, the team has now opened a 21-day practice window for Witherspoon. The 30-year-old have to be activated from IR in that timeframe, or he'll be forced to remain sidelined for the rest of the season.
Sep 15, 2025
Shifts to IR
Witherspoon (shoulder) was placed on injured reserve Monday.
ANALYSIS
Head coach Sean McVay told reporters that Witherspoon broke his clavicle in the Rams' Week 2 win over the Titans, so his move to IR on Monday comes as no surprise. The Colorado product played 62 defensive snaps this season before sustaining his injury, recording three total tackles and one pass defended. With Witherspoon now on IR, Josh Wallace is currently the lone reserve outside cornerback on the Rams' active roster.
Sep 14, 2025
Breaks clavicle in Week 2 win
Head coach Sean McVay relayed that Witherspoon broke his clavicle during the Rams' 33-19 win over the Titans on Sunday, Stu Jackson of the Rams' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon left in the second quarter of Sunday's game, and further tests and imaging revealed the fracture. The severity of the injury will keep the 2017 third-rounder out for multiple weeks, making a stint on injured reserve likely. Emmanuel Forbes is the top candidate to start at outside corner opposite Darious Williams for as long as Witherspoon is sidelined.
Sep 14, 2025
Out for game Sunday
Witherspoon (shoulder) is out for the rest of Sunday's game against the Titans, Gary Klein of the Los Angeles Times reports.
ANALYSIS
The starting right cornerback did not record a stat before exiting in the second quarter. In his absence, Emmanuel Forbes will likely step forward as the Rams' "top outside corner," per Nate Atkins of The Athletic.
Sep 5, 2025
Good to go vs. Texans
Witherspoon (knee) does not carry an injury designation into Sunday's game versus Houston, Stu Jackson of the Rams' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon popped up on the Rams' injury report with a knee issue Thursday, but it was apparently minor and won't stop him from suiting up in Week 1. With Christian Kirk ruled out for Sunday with a hamstring issue, Witherspoon figures to be lining up mostly against Nico Collins and Jayden Higgins when he's on the field.
Sep 4, 2025
Nursing knee injury
Witherspoon did not participate in Thursday's practice due to a knee injury, Adam Grosbard of The Orange County Register reports.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon may have picked up the injury during Wednesday's practice session. The severity of the injury isn't clear, but his practice participation Friday will provide clarity on his chances of playing in Sunday's regular-season opener against the Texans in Los Angeles. Cobie Durant, Josh Wallace and Emmanuel Forbes would be the top candidates to start at outside corner opposite Darious Williams if Witherspoon is not cleared to play in Week 1.
Jul 30, 2025
Back at practice
Witherspoon (calf) returned to the Rams' practice Wednesday, Cameron DaSilva of USA Today reports.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon is healthy again after a calf injury forced him to miss several practice sessions last week. The 2017 third-round pick tallied 31 tackles (25 solo) and an interception across 13 games with the team during the 2024 campaign and is slated to start at cornerback again during the upcoming season.
Jul 26, 2025
Dealing with calf injury
Witherspoon is dealing with a calf injury, Adam Grosbard of The Orange County Register reports.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon has sat out the past few days of practice as he's currently battling a calf injury. The severity of the injury is currently unknown but if he ends up being forced to miss extended time, Cobie Durant would be in line for increased playing time.
Mar 19, 2025
Staying with Rams
The Rams re-signed Witherspoon to a one-year deal Wednesday, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon will remain in Los Angeles after spending the last two seasons of his career with the Rams. During that time, the 29-year-old appeared in 30 regular-season games (22 starts), logging 83 total tackles and 23 passes defended, including four interceptions. He's expected to remain one of the Rams' top rotational cornerbacks in 2025.
Jan 31, 2025
Uneven season with Rams
Witherspoon recorded 31 tackles, nine passes defensed and one interception across 13 games with the Rams in 2024.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon signed with the Rams late in the offseason and began the campaign on the practice squad. He was activated in Week 4 and saw an inconsistent role from there-- often rotating with Cobie Durant. Witherspoon allowed quarterbacks to post a 103.1 passer rating when targeted this season, though his nine passes defensed matched the second-best mark of his career. He will be a free agent this offseason and may be forced to wait until injuries occur in training camp before finding a new home or returning to the Rams.
Jan 19, 2025
Suiting up versus Philly
Witherspoon (thigh) will play in Sunday's NFC divisional-round contest versus the Eagles, Jourdan Rodrigue of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon was questionable to play after he sustained a thigh injury during Monday's 27-9 win against the Vikings in the wild-card round. The 29-year-old played in 13 regular-season games and has been the top cornerback for the Rams most of the year. Witherspoon will have an important role in helping slow down an Eagles passing game headlined by wideouts A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith.
Jan 17, 2025
Questionable for divisional round
Witherspoon (thigh) is officially questionable for Sunday's NFC divisional-round contest against the Eagles, but he's expected to be able to suit up, Sarah Barshop of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon suffered a thigh injury in Monday's wild-card win against the Vikings and missed most of the second half of the contest. He was deemed DNP at practice both Wednesday and Thursday but was able to participate in a limited fashion Friday. Rams head coach Sean McVay said Friday that he expects all four Los Angeles players heading into the weekend deemed questionable, including Witherspoon, to suit up Sunday.
Jan 16, 2025
Sits out of Thursday's practice
Witherspoon (thigh) did not participate in Thursday's practice, Adam Caplan of SiriusXM NFL Radio reports.
ANALYSIS
Despite opening the week with consecutive DNPs, head coach Sean McVay told reporters Thursday that he expects Witherspoon to play in Sunday's NFC divisional-round game against the Eagles, per Adam Grosbard of The Orange County Register. Witherspoon suffered a thigh injury in the third quarter of Monday's NFC wild-card win over the Vikings.
Jan 15, 2025
Estimated as non-participant
Witherspoon (thigh) was listed as a non-participant for Wednesday's walkthrough session, Stu Jackson of the Rams' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon left in the third quarter of Monday's NFC wild-card win over the Vikings due to a thigh injury. The Rams will host practices Thursday and Friday, and his participation in those two sessions will provide clarity on his status heading into Sunday's NFC divisional-round showdown against the Eagles.
Jan 13, 2025
Injures thigh vs. Minnesota
Witherspoon exited Monday night's wild-card playoff contest against the Vikings with a thigh injury and is doubtful to return, Adam Grosbard of The Orange County Register reports.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon walked off the field with the training staff after T.J. Hockenson's 26-yard touchdown in the third quarter. Josh Wallace would be next up for cornerback reps behind Cobie Durant, Darious Williams and Quentin Lake.
Dec 30, 2024
Game-winning pick vs. Arizona
Witherspoon tallied six tackles (five solo) and two pass defenses (including an interception) during the Rams' 13-9 win over the Cardinals on Saturday.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon played a season-high 73 snaps on defense Saturday. He made the biggest play of the game late in the fourth quarter, when he made a diving catch for the game-sealing interception on a pass from Kyler Murray to the end zone that bounced off the helmet of Trey McBride. It was Witherspoon's first interception of the 2024 campaign and the 12th of his eight-year NFL career. The 2017 third-round pick is up to 29 tackles (23 solo) and eight pass defenses (including one interception) across 12 regular-season games.
Oct 5, 2024
Called up from practice squad
The Rams elevated Witherspoon from the practice squad to the active roster Saturday.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon will be elevated for a second-straight week, and he will provide depth for the Rams' secondary against the Packers on Sunday. In Week 4 against the Bears, he played seven snaps on defense and registered one solo tackle.
Sep 11, 2024
Officially signs
Witherspoon signed with the Rams' practice squad Wednesday.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon's return to LA won't include an immediate spot on their 53-man roster. Considering he remained a free agent throughout training camp, the Colorado product will likely need some time to prove he's ready to compete on Sundays. However, once he does so, he'll likely have the opportunity to move to the active roster and bolster the Rams' depth in the secondary.
Sep 11, 2024
Return to LA expected
Witherspoon is slated to sign with the Rams on Wednesday, Jordan Schultz of BleacherReport.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon had a career year in 2023 yet remained unsigned throughout the offseason. It now appears though that the Colorado product will ultimately end up back with the Rams, where he spent last season after stops in San Francisco and Pittsburgh. Although it's not clear how long it may take him to get into game shape, he should bolster the team's depth in the secondary, as Cobie Durant is dealing with a toe injury and Darious Wiliams is on IR due to a hamstring injury.
Feb 4, 2024
Posts numerous career-highs
Witherspoon recorded 52 tackles (43 solo), 14 passes defended and three interceptions while recovering two fumbles during the 2023 regular season.
ANALYSIS
Expected to be a depth piece for the Rams after an underwhelming and injury-riddled 2022 with the Steelers, Witherspoon instead stepped in and earned the starting cornerback role alongside Cobie Durant, and he produced career-highs in tackles and passes defended while tying a career-high with three interceptions. He did sustain two injuries on the year, but played through them to log his first season with all games played in seven seasons in the NFL. Witherspoon is a unrestricted free agent in the offseason, and a return to Los Angeles will likely hinge on who GM Les Snead deems a priority with Kevin Dotson, Coleman Shelton and Demarcus Robinson all also pending free agents.
Jan 2, 2024
Productive in Sunday's win
Witherspoon logged seven total tackles (four solo), including one tackle for loss while also deflecting a pass in Sunday's 26-25 win over the Giants.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon was tied for Los Angeles' third-leading tackler in Week 17, posting the most total stops he has in a game all season. The veteran cornerback has been a staple on the Rams' defense in his first season with the team, recording 47 total tackles, 14 pass deflections and three interceptions in 16 appearances. Expect Witherspoon to continue holding it down in Los Angeles' secondary during the team's divisional matchup with the 49ers in Week 18.
Dec 20, 2023
Will play vs. Saints
Witherspoon (groin) does not carry an injury designation into Thursday's game versus the Saints, Adam Caplan of SiriusXM NFL Radio reports.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon was able to manage a full practice Wednesday, putting himself in position to suit up in Week 16. He projects to spend a healthy number of snaps lined up across from Chris Olave on Thursday.
Dec 19, 2023
Estimated as full participant
Witherspoon (groin) was estimated as a full participant at the Rams' walkthrough practice Tuesday, Adam Caplan of SiriusXM NFL Radio reports.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon was still nursing a lingering groin injury as of Monday, but it now looks like he's back up to full speed for Week 16. He will probably avoid carrying an injury designation into Thursday's game.
Dec 18, 2023
Expects to play vs. Saints
Coach Sean McVay said Monday that he expects Witherspoon (groin) to play Thursday versus the Saints, Gary Klein of the Los Angeles Times reports.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon sustained a groin injury during Sunday's game versus the Commanders, but it doesn't look like it will force him to miss extended time. He's been one of the Rams' most reliable corners so far this season, so he figures to draw a healthy dose of Chris Olave on Thursday.
Dec 17, 2023
Sustains groin injury
Witherspoon sustained a groin injury during Sunday's game against the Wizards.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon went down in the second half os Sunday's matchup and was deemed questionable to return, but he was unavailable down the stretch. It's not yet clear whether he'll be able to return to action for Thursday's game against New Orleans.
Dec 12, 2023
Nabs INT in loss
Witherspoon had four tackles and an interception in Sunday's 37-31 overtime loss to the Ravens.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon picked off Lamar Jackson late in the second quarter. It was his third interception of the year and he's now tied his career-high mark that he set in 2021 with the Steelers. Witherspoon is up to 35 tackles on the year and is two away from matching his career high he set in 2018 with the 49ers.
Oct 10, 2023
Interception in loss
Witherspoon recorded four solo tackles while intercepting a pass and deflecting another in Sunday's 23-14 loss to the Eagles.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon was able to snag his second interception of the year, picking off Jalen Hurts in the third quarter of the contest. Through five games, the cornerback has compiled nine tackles, two interceptions and three pass deflections in his first campaign with the Rams.
Oct 8, 2023
Returns versus Philly
Witherspoon (general soreness) returned to Sunday's game against the Eagles, Jourdan Rodrigue of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon temporarily exited the game while dealing with a cramping issue. However, it appears he was able to quickly overcome this issue, as he is back on the field for the fourth quarter. Expect Witherspoon to reprise his role as the Rams' top nickel cornerback for the remainder of the contest.
Oct 8, 2023
Questionable to return
Witherspoon is considered questionable to return to Sunday's game against the Eagles with cramping, Adam Grosbard of The Orange County Register reports.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon recorded his second interception of the season when he picked off a pass from Philadelphia quarterback Jalen Hurts near the corner of the end zone in the third quarter. It's unclear how severe the 28-year-old's cramping issue currently is, but his absence will leave the Rams without their top nickel back for the time being. With Witherspoon sidelined, expect Duke Shelley to take on a larger role behind starting cornerbacks Cobie Durant and Derion Kendrick.
Sep 26, 2023
Records interception
Witherspoon played all 77 defensive snaps and intercepted a pass in the Rams' 19-16 loss to the Bengals on Monday.
ANALYSIS
The cornerback also helped limit Cincinnati quarterback Joe Burrow to a 26-of-49 night through the air for 259 yards. Witherspoon signed with the Rams in June and has started all three games so far.
Jul 27, 2023
Participating in practice
Witherspoon, who dealt with a hamstring injury during the offseason, is taking part in training camp practices, Jourdan Rodrigue of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon signed with the Rams in June after being cut by the Steelers in May. He played in just four games last season but managed to post 20 tackles, two pass deflections and an interception. The 2017 third-round pick will be competing for a depth role in the Los Angeles secondary, though Rodrigue noted that Witherspoon's length and size compared to the other cornerbacks was noticeable.
Jun 29, 2023
Finds new home
Witherspoon (hamstring) signed with the Rams on Thursday, Jordan Schultz of TheScore.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon was released by the Steelers in May after an injury-shortened 2022 campaign saw him only appear in four contests. The 28-year-old is expected to be ready during training camp, where he'll likely be competing for a depth role in the Los Angeles secondary.
May 17, 2023
Set to be released by Steelers
Witherspoon (hamstring) has been informed that he is being released by the Steelers, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon appeared in four games with Pittsburgh in 2022, recording 20 tackles, two pass deflections and an interception prior to missing the final nine contests of the season with a hamstring injury. The 28-year-old will now look for another opportunity elsewhere, but his days as a starting option in the secondary are likely behind him.
Dec 28, 2022
Designated to return
The Steelers designated Witherspoon (hamstring) to return from injured reserve Wednesday.
ANALYSIS
After missing the last seven games due to a hamstring injury, Witherspoon is in line to resume practicing this week and potentially suit up New Year's Day against Baltimore. Pittsburgh will now have a 21-day window to activate the 27-year-old back to their active roster.
Dec 3, 2022
Headed to IR
Pittsburgh placed Witherspoon (hamstring) on its injured reserve list Saturday, Chris Halicke of DKPittsburghSports.com reports.
ANALYSIS
After missing the Steelers' last three games, Witherspoon is now officially headed to the injured reserve list, where he'll be required to miss at least the next four too. In his absence, Levi Wallace should be in line to see more work on the boundaries.
Dec 2, 2022
No go for Week 13
Witherspoon (hamstring) has been ruled out for Sunday's matchup with the Falcons, Teresa Varley of the Steelers' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon will miss his fourth consecutive contest in Week 13 as he continues to nurse a hamstring issue. The cornerback will now shift his focus to being ready for Week 14 against the Ravens and in his absence, Levi Wallace will likely draw another start in the Steelers' secondary.
Nov 26, 2022
Set to miss another game
Witherspoon (hamstring) has been ruled out of Monday's contest against Indianapolis, Mike DeFabo of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon will miss his third straight game after aggravating his lingering hamstring issue in Week 8 against the Eagles. The cornerback wasn't able to practice at all this week, so he never really had a chance of suiting up for Monday Night Football. In Witherspoon's absence, Levi Wallace will likely again get the start.
Nov 18, 2022
Out again
Witherspoon (hamstring) has been ruled out for Sunday's matchup against the Bengals, Teresa Varley of the Steelers' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon is slated to miss a second straight contest due to a lingering hamstring injury that's cost him a total of six games this season. Levi Wallace will likely continue operating as the starting cornerback opposite of Cameron Sutton, while Arthur Maulet sees work in nickel and dime packages.
Nov 16, 2022
Still not practicing
Witherspoon (hamstring) didn't practice Wednesday, Chris Halicke of DKPittsburghSports.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon was ruled out for Week 10 due to a lingering hamstring injury and remains sidelined to start Week 11 prep. He'll have two more opportunities to practice before the team needs to make a decision on his status for Sunday's matchup against the Bengals.
Nov 11, 2022
Ruled out for Week 10
Witherspoon (hamstring) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against New Orleans, Missi Matthews of the Steelers' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon was back in action for the Steelers' Week 8 loss to the Eagles, but he apparently aggravated his hamstring injury and will be forced to miss his fifth game of the season. It's not yet clear whether he'll be available for Pittsburgh's Week 11 matchup against the Bengals.
Oct 26, 2022
Full participant Wednesday
Witherspoon (hamstring) was a full participant during Wednesday's practice, Teresa Varley of the Steelers' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon has been sidelined since Week 3 due to a hamstring injury, but he appears close to returning to game action. However, he did register a full practice last week too before being ruled out, so the veteran defensive back will likely have to log full participation throughout Week 8 prep if he's going to be cleared for Sunday's matchup against the Eagles.
Oct 23, 2022
Officially ruled out
Witherspoon (hamstring) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Dolphins, Teresa Varley of the Steelers' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon was doubtful for Sunday's matchup, so his status isn't a significant surprise. Levi Wallace and Arthur Maulet should continue to see increased roles for the Steelers on Sunday.
Oct 21, 2022
Doubtful for Sunday night
Witherspoon (hamstring) is listed as doubtful for Sunday's game at Miami, Brooke Pryor of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Despite practicing this week, it seems likely Witherspoon will miss his fourth consecutive game with a hamstring injury he sustained Week 3 at Cleveland. Levi Wallace and Arthur Maulet should continue to see expanded opportunities as long as Witherspoon remains out.
Oct 20, 2022
Practices in full Thursday
Witherspoon (hamstring) was listed as a full participant on the Steelers' injury report Thursday.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon has been sidelined since suffering a hamstring injury in Pittsburgh's Week 3 loss to Cleveland. The 27-year-old returned to practice in a limited fashion Wednesday, and he looks ready to suit up again after logging his first full session Friday. Witherspoon tallied 15 tackles, two passes defended and an interception over his first three starts of the season, and he'll likely slot in opposite Cameron Sutton (hamstring), who also returned in full Thursday, for Sunday's contest against the Dolphins.
Oct 14, 2022
Out again
Witherspoon (hamstring) has been ruled out for Sunday's contest against Tampa Bay, Teresa Varley of the Steelers' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon is slated to miss a third straight game due to a hamstring injury. In his absence, Arthur Maulet and Levi Wallace have garnered increased roles.
Oct 7, 2022
Ruled out for Week 5
Witherspoon (hamstring) has been ruled out for Sunday's matchup against the Bills, Chris Halicke of DKPittsburghSports.com reports.
ANALYSIS
As expected, Witherspoon will remain out for a second straight game after suffering a hamstring injury during the team's Week 3 loss to Cleveland. In his absence, Arthur Maulet and Levi Wallace are likely candidates for increased roles opposite Cameron Sutton in Pittsburgh's secondary.
Oct 4, 2022
Likely out for Week 5
Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin said Tuesday he anticipates Witherspoon (hamstring) being out for Sunday's Week 5 matchup against the Bills, Mike DeFabo of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon suffered the injury during the team's Week 3 loss to Cleveland and remained sidelined for Week 4. In his expected absence, Arthur Maulet and Levi Wallace are candidates for increased playing time next to Cameron Sutton.
Sep 30, 2022
Ruled out for Week 4
Witherspoon (hamstring) won't play Sunday against the Jets, Teresa Varley of the Steelers' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon hasn't practiced at all since injuring his hamstring in the Week 3 loss to Cleveland, so his absence isn't surprising. In Witherspoon's absence, Arthur Maulet and Levi Wallace should see additional playing time alongside Cameron Sutton. Witherspoon's next chance to take the field will come in Week 5 against Buffalo.
Sep 22, 2022
Forced out Thursday
Witherspoon (hamstring) was ruled out for the remainder of Thursday's game against the Browns, Alan Saunders of PittsburghSportsNow.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon was seen being helped off the field after he sustained an unspecified hamstring injury during the second half against Cleveland, Dale Lolley of DKPittsburghSports.com reports. With the starting cornerback sidelined, Arthur Maulet and Levi Wallace should step up alongside Cameron Sutton.
Aug 29, 2022
Starts against Detroit
Witherspoon (shoulder) totaled three tackles (two solo) during the Steelers' 19-9 preseason win over the Lions on Sunday.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon sustained a shoulder injury during the Steelers' preseason opener against the Seahawks on Aug. 13, but he was a starter during Sunday's preseason finale. The 2017 third-rounder played 41 percent of the team's defensive snaps and should be available to begin the regular season.
Aug 13, 2022
Questionable to return Saturday
Witherspoon suffered a shoulder injury while tackling running back Kenneth Walker during Saturday's preseason game against the Seahawks, Brooke Pryor of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon was still able to leave the field under his own power before walking into the medical tent on Pittsburgh's sideline Saturday, Alan Saunders of PittsburghSportsNow.com reports. With the cornerback's availability for the remainder of this exhibition up in the air, backups James Pierre, Arthur Maulet and Chris Steele figure to see increased snaps in Pittsburgh's defensive secondary.
Mar 17, 2022
To rejoin Steelers
Witherspoon is in line to re-sign with the Steelers on a two-year contract Thursday, Josina Anderson of CBS Sports reports.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon was traded from Seattle to Pittsburgh in the early stages of the 2021 season, and down the stretch injuries forced him to handle an expanded role on defense. The Steelers appear satisfied with the capabilities Witherspoon demonstrated, and he now looks set to rejoin a familiar scheme for what will likely be a rotational role.
Dec 10, 2021
Two interceptions against Vikings
Witherspoon tallied four solo tackles, two interceptions and three pass defenses in Thursday's 36-28 loss to the Vikings.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon had taken on a fairly minimal role early in the year after he was traded from Seattle to Pittsburgh in September. However, he's had plenty of playing time in each of the last two games while Joe Haden (foot) has been sidelined. Both of the 26-year-old's second-half interceptions Thursday led to touchdowns as the Steelers nearly pulled off an improbable comeback. Witherspoon's playing time will likely decrease once Haden is cleared to return, but he certainly impressed in Thursday's matchup.
Sep 3, 2021
Shipped to Pittsburgh
Witherspoon was acquired by the Steelers from the Seahawks on Friday, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon signed with Seattle in March but was unable to win a starting job at cornerback in camp, leading the team to trade him. The 26-year-old should compete with Justin Layne for nickel reps in Pittsburgh.
Sep 1, 2021
Appears to lose starting role
Witherspoon isn't expected to be a starter in the season opener against the Colts, Gregg Bell of The Tacoma News Tribune reports.
ANALYSIS
Tre Flowers is on track to start at right cornerback while D.J. Reed secured the job at left cornerback. Witherspoon was expected to win the starting job after signing for $4 million guaranteed in March, but Flowers' strong training camp pushed Witherspoon out of a job. However, Flowers lost that job twice in 2020, so Witherspoon could eventually get another chance.
Jul 31, 2021
Slated for No. 1 role
Witherspoon (knee) is expected to be the Seahawks' No. 1 cornerback this season, Michael-Shawn Dugar of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon never quite got his footing in San Francisco due to a crowded secondary and injuries. He's healthy at training camp and is ready to compete for the top job. The Seahawks desperately need him to step into the No. 1 role after Shaquill Griffin left for Jacksonville. So far in camp, the 26-year-old has been sticky in coverage, using his athleticism -- he's 6-foot-3 with 33-inch arms and a 40-inch vertical -- to shut down the team's top receivers. D.J. Reed is expected to secure the other top cornerback role.
May 27, 2021
Rehabbing knee injury
Witherspoon (knee) is present at OTAs but rehabbing an injury, Michael-Shawn Dugar of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon, whom the Seahawks brought in during free agency, is expected to handle a starting role at cornerback, so his health will need to be monitored during OTAs. Of course, there's not yet any reason to believe his injury is more than minor. He did miss five games with the 49ers last season, but that was due to a hamstring issue.
Mar 16, 2021
Heading to Seattle
Witherspoon agreed to a one-year contract with the Seahawks on Tuesday, NFL reporter Josina Anderson reports.
ANALYSIS
The 25-year-old spent his first four seasons in San Francisco and will remain in the NFC West for at least one more year. Witherspoon missed time in 2020 with a hamstring injury and had 20 tackles (17 solo) and one interception in 11 games for the 49ers.
Oct 11, 2020
Ready to go Sunday
Witherspoon (hamstring) is active for Sunday's game against the Dolphins.
ANALYSIS
The 25-year-old missed the past two games with the hamstring injury and was questionable for Week 5, but he's good to go versus Miami. Witherspoon should be heavily relied upon with Richard Sherman (calf) and K'Waun Williams (knee) on injured reserve, while Emmanuel Moseley (concussion) and Dontae Johnson (groin) are inactive.
Oct 9, 2020
Officially listed as questionable
Witherspoon (hamstring) is questionable for Sunday's game against the Dolphins, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon has missed two straight games due to a lingering hamstring injury, but it looks like he has a fair shot to retake the field versus Miami. Emmanuel Moseley (concussion), Richard Sherman (calf), K'Waun Williams (knee) and Dontae Johnson (groin) are all ruled out for Week 5, so getting Witherspoon back would provide a much-needed boost for San Francisco's secondary.
Oct 7, 2020
Still limited at practice
Witherspoon (hamstring) was held to limited practice participation Thursday, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon continues to turn in practice participation despite missing game action. The 25-year-old has missed the last two games with the hamstring issue, as he's in jeopardy of missing more action. Fellow starting corner Emmanuel Moseley has missed the past few games with a concussion, so the cornerback depth chart is extremely thin for the 49ers at the moment.
Oct 2, 2020
Ruled out of Week 4
Witherspoon (hamstring) has been ruled out for Sunday's game versus the Eagles, Cam Inman of The San Jose Mercury News reports.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon's injury appeared to get worse as the week progressed, as he logged a 'FP/LP/DNP' practice schedule en route to being ruled out completely. Emmanuel Moseley (concussion) also won't play along with Richard Sherman, who is still on IR with a hamstring injury. K'Waun Williams (hip) is next in line, but he's considered questionable as well. Dontae Johnson, Jason Verrett and to a lesser extent Ken Webster all figure to have a role in Sunday's game as a result.
Oct 1, 2020
Limited for practice Thursday
Witherspoon (hamstring) was held to limited practice participation Thursday, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
The fourth-year pro was unable to suit up Week 3 against the Giants, but the depleted San Francisco secondary was still capable of containing Daniel Jones to just 179 yards passing with no touchdowns and one interception. It may be more urgent to get Witherspoon back in the lineup for an upcoming matchup against Philadelphia, though Eagles quarterback Carson Wentz has struggled in his own right, composing a 3:6 TD:INT in the early going. Witherspoon was a late addition to the injury report last week before being deemed inactive, but a limited session Thursday provides hope he will be able to suit up against the Eagles.
Sep 30, 2020
Practices fully Wednesday
Witherspoon (hamstring) practiced without limitations Wednesday, Keiana Martin of the 49ers' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon sat out of this past Sunday's game versus the Giants due to a hamstring injury, but it appears he's shaken it off and should be ready for Week 4's clash against the Eagles. The matchup could be quite favorable for Witherspoon depending on whether Eagles wide receivers Alshon Jeffery (foot) and/or DeSean Jackson (hamstring) play.
Sep 27, 2020
Officially out Sunday
Witherspoon (hamstring) won't suit up in Sunday's game against the Giants, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon was a late add to the injury report Friday dealing with the hamstring issue. With Richard Sherman (calf) already on IR, the team will be without two of its top corners. With Witherspoon sidelined, look for K'Waun Williams or Dontae Johnson to draw the start Sunday.
Sep 25, 2020
Questionable for Sunday's contest
Witherspoon (hamstring) is considered questionable for Sunday's game versus the Giants, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.
ANALYSIS
The 49ers are already without Richard Sherman (calf), and now they're in danger of missing Witherspoon as well. Witherspoon played all 65 snaps in Week 2 and finished with five tackles, but if he's forced to sit out, expect K'Waun Williams to bump into a starting role while Dontae Johnson sees an increase in usage.
Sep 18, 2020
Clears concussion protocol
Witherspoon has cleared concussion protocol and doesn't carry an injury designation heading into Sunday's game against the Jets, Cam Inman of The Mercury News reports.
ANALYSIS
The injury-riddled 49ers secondary can use as many warm bodies as it can get, so Witherspoon clearing concussion protocol is certainly a boon to this unit. Witherspoon managed just one tackle against Arizona in Week 1 before sustaining the injury that put him into concussion protocol.
Sep 18, 2020
Still in concussion protocol
Witherspoon hasn't cleared the NFL's concussion protocol and remains questionable for Sunday's game versus the Jets, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.
ANALYSIS
Earlier on Friday, GM John Lynch said Witherspoon has cleared the concussion protocol, according to Matt Barrows of The Athletic, but the 49ers have since walked back that statement saying that he appears on track to suit up in Sunday's game, although he's still in the protocol. If Witherspoon suits up as expected, he's going to start in place of Richard Sherman (calf) and cover a mix of Breshad Perriman, Chris Hogan and Braxton Berrios.
Sep 18, 2020
Ready to start Week 2
General manager John Lynch said Friday that Witherspoon has cleared the concussion protocol and will replace Richard Sherman (calf) in the starting lineup Week 2, Matt Barrows of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon is set to start as the 49ers' "field" cornerback against the Jets on Sunday, a role which he should hold on to for at least three weeks while Sherman works to recover from his calf injury. However, the 25-year-old doesn't offer much upside in IDP formats due to his low career tackle numbers.
Sep 17, 2020
Making progress in protocol
Witherspoon (concussion) was a limited participant in Thursday's practice, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon began the week as a non-participant in practice, so that he's now upgraded to limited activity is an indication that he's making progress through the league's five-step concussion protocol. He'll need to gain full medical clearance in order to suit up against the Jets on Sunday. With Richard Sherman (calf) set to spend at least three weeks on IR, Witherspoon will likely slot into the starting lineup across from Emmanuel Moseley when he's cleared to retake the field.
Sep 16, 2020
Enters concussion protocol
Witherspoon is in the concussion protocol Wednesday, Matt Barrows of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon appears to have sustained a brain injury during Week 1's divisional loss to the Cardinals. With Richard Sherman (calf) expected to spend time on IR, Witherspoon looks likely to slot into the starting lineup across from Emmanuel Moseley when healthy. However, it remains to be seen whether he'll gain full clearance in time to suit up against the Jets on Sunday.
Feb 21, 2020
Falls out of favor late in season
Witherspoon had 28 tackles (24 solo), nine passes defended, and interception and a touchdown in 10 games during the 2019 regular season.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon got off to a strong start this year, finally looking like a starting NFL corner opposite Richard Sherman before going down to injury in Week 3. Perhaps his foot never fully healed, as the 24-year-old did not look the same upon returning Week 11, eventually losing his starting role to Emmanuel Moseley down the stretch. Witherspoon may have a chance to regain his starting gig during training camp next season, but even if he does, the corner won't have much IDP value with low tackle totals and just three interceptions over 36 career games.
Sep 23, 2019
Will miss at least one month
Witherspoon will be sidelined at least one month with a foot injury, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon originally sustained the injury in Sunday's game against Pittsburgh and had to be carted off the field. The 24-year-old was optimistic that he could play against Cleveland after San Francisco's Week 4 bye, but it seems he'll have to rest for at least a few weeks after the bye.
Sep 22, 2019
Getting MRI on foot
Witherspoon, who was carted off during Sunday's game against the Steelers, is dealing with a foot injury and will get an MRI on Monday, Eric Branch of the San Francisco Chronicle reports.
ANALYSIS
Witherspoon is optimistic that he'll be able to suit up against the Browns in Week 5 following San Francisco's Week 4 bye. Whether that optimism is warranted should be revealed by the MRI results.
Sep 22, 2019
Heads off on cart
Witherspoon was carted off the field with a leg injury during Sunday's game versus the Steelers, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
The nature of Witherspoon's injury is unclear. He's been a stud in the 49ers' secondary this season, registering nine tackles, five pass breakups and a pick-six. D.J. Reed will see an uptick in his snap count during Witherspoon's absence.