The Seahawks’ trade for safety L.J. McCray Saturday is off because McCray failed his Seattle team physical. McCray, obtained for a conditional seventh-round draft choice, was sent back to the San Francisco 49ers Monday. That opened a roster spot for former University of Washington and Archbishop Murphy Prep star Tani Tupou, who will play fullback.
McCray tore his ACL last year and missed eight games. He also missed most of the 49ers’ offseason programs, but returned to play in two preseason games. The reserve safety and special teams performer played 100 percent of the defensive snaps in San Francisco’s preseason finale Thursday in San Diego.
The Seahawks had an opening at fullback after releasing/waiving Tupou and Will Tukuafu Saturday during the cut to 53 players. Tupou’s addition puts Seattle’s roster back at 53 players.
Tupou, 6-foot-1, 284 pounds, was a defensive tackle at Washington, but has played both defensive tackle and fullback with the Seahawks. He had a hand injury during camp and did not record offensive statistics during the preseason.
He signed with Seattle as an undrafted free agent in May and is the 15th rookie on its roster. Seven of the 15 are undrafted free agents. He is also Seattle’s fifth running back.
The Seahawks also confirmed Monday eight players for the 10-player practice squad. It includes WR Marcus Lucas, LB Jordan Tripp, DE Tylor Harris, WR Kenny Lawler, LB Kache Palacio, G Will Pericak, WR Rodney Smith and WR Kasen Williams.
Seattle also waived DEs David Perkins and Josh Shirley from injured reserve.