Geno Smith's knee injury forced him out of action Sunday night and appeared serious enough to cause legitimate concern entering Week 16.

As time has passed, though, things have taken a turn toward optimism. The Seattle Seahawks quarterback avoided serious injury and told reporters Thursday his condition continues to improve, adding he expects to play Sunday versus the Minnesota Vikings, Nick Shook of NFL.com reports.

Smith's Thursday comments echo what coach Mike Macdonald told reporters Wednesday: Smith felt good and would participate in Wednesday's session in "a significant capacity." The Seahawks QB was officially a full participant.

This combination of updates makes for unexpectedly positive news, especially when considering how Smith appeared after he exited the Sunday night loss to Green Bay, grimacing on the sideline while backup Sam Howell replaced him and fared poorly. Without Smith in the lineup, Seattle's offense cratered, leading to a 30-13 loss.

At 8-6, the Seahawks know they need their quarterback back in the lineup as soon as possible, especially with another strong NFC North member in Minnesota awaiting them. It appears they'll have Smith for that game, a contest that is crucial in Seattle's playoff push.

This combination of updates makes for unexpectedly positive news, especially when considering how Smith appeared after he exited the Sunday night loss to Green Bay, grimacing on the sideline while backup Sam Howell replaced him and fared poorly. Without Smith in the lineup, Seattle's offense cratered, leading to a 30-13 loss.

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