Seahawks Tight End Elijah Arroyo Undergoes Season-Ending Surgery
The second-year tight end will miss the rest of the 2026 season following surgery to repair a shoulder injury.
Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Football
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Do you trust the Seahawks' depth at tight end following the loss of Elijah Arroyo?
Seattle Seahawks tight end Elijah Arroyo underwent season-ending surgery on October 22, 2026. The injury was sustained during a game against the Denver Broncos on October 15.
Why it matters
The loss of Arroyo removes depth from the tight end position as the Seahawks look to improve upon their current 3-3 record. The team is managing the roster following the setback to ensure adequate coverage behind starter AJ Barner.
Selected as the No. 50 overall draft pick in 2025, Arroyo appeared in 13 games during his rookie season. He recorded 15 receptions for 179 yards and one touchdown in his debut year.
The players
Elijah Arroyo
He is a second-year tight end who was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks with the 50th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
AJ Barner
He currently serves as the starting tight end for the Seattle Seahawks.
Josiah Deguara
He is an NFL tight end who was signed to the Seattle Seahawks practice squad in October 2026.
The details
Arroyo, a second-year tight end, is expected to spend the remainder of the 2026 campaign in recovery. To address the resulting roster gap, the Seahawks signed tight end Josiah Deguara to the practice squad on October 19.
Timeline
October 15, 2026: Arroyo sustained a shoulder injury during a game against the Denver Broncos.
October 19, 2026: The Seahawks added Josiah Deguara to the practice squad.
October 22, 2026: Elijah Arroyo underwent surgery to repair his shoulder.
Season Trajectory
Arroyo's absence alters the Seahawks' depth chart at the tight end position as the team holds a 3-3 record. This change impacts rotation flexibility for the remainder of the season, forcing the coaching staff to rely on other roster options.
The signing of Josiah Deguara to the practice squad provides the Seahawks with additional insurance for their tight end rotation. Fantasy owners and fans should note that AJ Barner remains the primary target at the position moving forward.
The takeaway
Maintaining roster depth is essential for NFL teams navigating injuries throughout a competitive season. Coaches often look to the practice squad to fill immediate voids when key contributors are sidelined.
Further reading
For more news on the team, visit the Seattle Football section.
Live Poll
Do you trust the Seahawks' depth at tight end following the loss of Elijah Arroyo?
