They signed T Na'Shan Goddard off the New York Giants' practice squad, but that does not address their immediate needs for a backup center. If Vallos gets injured, converted guard Mansfield Wrotto will be the center. Wrotto has had trouble with the exchange in the past.

PLAYER NOTES

--LB Leroy Hill did not practice on Thursday and is doubtful for Sunday's game against New England.

--OT Walter Jones did not practice for the second straight day Thursday because of a leg injury but should play against the Patriots.

--G Mike Wahle did not practice Thursday with a shoulder injury and is doubtful.

--QB Matt Hasselbeck was limited in practice Thursday but is expected to play and start against his hometown team.

--DT Red Bryant was limited in practice Thursday but could play against the Patriots. He had a high ankle sprain.

--S C.J. Wallace was limited in practice Thursday because of a hamstring injury but could play against New England.

--C Chris Spencer was placed on IR with a sore back.

--QB Travis Lulay was released.

--OL Erik Robertson was signed to the practice squad.

--OT Na'Shan Goddard was signed off the New York Giants' practice squad.

GAME PLAN: The Seahawks rank last in the NFL in pass defense, giving up 265 yards per game. They must find a way to contain New England's passing game, which features Randy Moss, who leads the team with eight touchdowns, and Wes Welker, who has 84 catches for 848 yards. The Seahawks also need to score touchdowns when they are in the red zone. They could not do that last week against Dallas, when they were forced to kick three field goals.

MATCHUPS TO WATCH: Seahawks CB Josh Wilson vs. Patriots WR Wes Welker - Wilson, who is listed at 5-foot-9, will face a big test in Welker, who ranks second in the NFL in receptions with 84.

Seahawks defensive line vs. Patriots offensive line: Seattle's defensive line has just seven sacks in the past five games. New England's offensive line has given up 40 sacks this season and was unable to keep Pittsburgh's pressure off Matt Cassel last week.

INJURY IMPACT: Walter Jones is suffering from a leg injury that hampered him last week against the Dallas Cowboys, when he uncharacteristically gave up two sacks, both to DeMarcus Ware. Jones will not practice all week.