Roy

Lewis

Ruud is one of the least effective inside linebackers in football, but he at least gives Seattle a veteran presence at the position after David Hawthorne got away. Lewis is a special teamer, but the Seahawks won’t want him playing as much defense as he did last year. Lutui will earn a spot if he’s in shape.

Lewis has been a regular on special teams for Seattle over the past few seasons, and worked as the team’s nickel corner in 2011. The Seahawks clearly felt as though he wasn’t worth the $1.26 million minimum restricted free agent tender, but he could return at a lower salary.

With Walter Thurmond and Marcus Trufant both out for the season, Lewis is expected to play mostly in nickel packages. In 14 games a season ago, he notched 26 tackles and one sack.

He’s likely an I.R. candidate just ahead of first cuts. Lewis has played nickel back in Seattle before, but Marcus Trufant is now penciled into that role.

Lewis takes the roster spot of veteran Travis Fisher, who was released earlier in the day. It was a busy day at Qwest Field, with the Seahawks announcing nine roster moves.

Baker opened 2008 as Pittsburgh’s fourth receiver, but landed on the practice squad after Limas Sweed beat him out. Williams was the 49ers’ third round pick in 2006 and offers some return skills. Woods is a special teamer.

Bringing Davenport back aboard would seem to indicate concern about Willie Parker’s (knee) status for Week 13, but Parker did practice Thursday. Davenport gives Pittsburgh a solid special teamer and No. 4 tailback.

Roy Lewis is his backup. Jay Cutler started the game slowly, but the Bears’ passing game has picked up the pace since Jennings left.

Lewis finishes his first season as a major defensive contributor with 25 tackles, a sack, and four pass breakups. Lewis was surprisingly effective in coverage as a nickel and dime back, so he’s earned a long look for a roster spot in 2011. He’ll be easy to retain as an exclusive rights free agent.