Seahawks WR Ricardo Lockette released from hospital after scary neck injury

Four days after sustaining a scary injury and three days removed from surgery to stabilize ligament and disc damage to his neck, Seahawks wideout Ricardo Lockette has been released from the hospital.

Just before halftime of Seattle’s 13-12 victory against Dallas on Sunday, Lockette lay motionless on the AT&T Stadium field for a few minutes following a vicious hit by Cowboys safety Jeff Heath during a Seahawks punt that resulted in a fair catch. Heath was flagged for an illegal blindside block on the play.

Meanwhile, Lockette was eventually carted off the field on a stretcher, offering a thumbs up to his teammates. He underwent successful surgery on Monday, but his return was ruled out for the remainder of the season. Lockette also suffered a concussion from the hit. Mainly a special teams player for Seattle, he also totaled four catches for 69 yards and a Week 6 touchdown against the Carolina Panthers.

Lockette announced his release from the hospital and thanked his fans in an Instagram on Thursday night.

“Thanks for all the support. I’ve just been released from the hospital and the road to recovery has started!!! God did it #seahawks #rockette”

Heath was among those who wished Lockette well, sending him a text message that, according to The Dallas Morning News, “just told him my intention wasn’t to inure him and I hated the outcome of the play.” Of course, the Cowboys defensive back also told the paper, “I don’t apologize for the hit.”

As an aside, I enjoy Lockette’s “#rockette” hashtag. I guess it’s a combination of his last name and a rocket, referencing his 40-yard dash speed (4.34), but a Rockette is also a leggy dancer. Regardless, I’m just glad to see he’s on the road to recovery. Hopefully he can pull off one of those high leg kicks soon.