Mora took a break from the onslaught of bad news to talk about the Seahawks getting back two defensive stalwarts this week in linebacker Leroy Hill and cornerback Marcus Trufant.

“Hey, let’s talk about something positive here, OK. Trufant and Leroy Hill are back, baby,” joked Mora, slamming his fist on the table for emphasis.

Mora said Hill will start and likely play on first and second downs, while Trufant will not start but will play in his regular left cornerback position on third downs.

Mora said because Trufant has not played this season and his conditioning level might not be up to snuff that he does not want to rush him back into the starting lineup.

Extra points

Mora also announced that quarterback Matt Hasselbeck is experiencing some soreness in his cracked ribs and did not practice Wednesday, but should be OK to play Sunday. “He’s fine,” Mora said. “His ribs are a bit sore. He worked hard last week during the bye week and through the weekend, and just has some soreness. So we’re going to give him today to rest and recover. But it is not anything that will keep him from playing on Sunday at full strength.” ... Defensive end Patrick Kerney (groin) did not practice but Mora said he’s expected to play against the Cowboys. ... Running back Julius Jones was limited in practice by a non-injury issue, and safety C.J. Wallace (hamstring) did not practice. Guard Rob Sims (ankle) was a full participant in practice.

Eric D. Williams: 253-597-8437

eric.williams@thenewstribune.com