Barring an unforeseen change of events -- such as a surprise recovery by Tarvaris Jackson -- Charlie Whitehurst will be the starting quarterback for the Seattle Seahawks in Sunday's matchup against the Cleveland Browns.
While Jackson returned to practice this week in a limited capacity after sitting out the last two games with a strained pectoral muscle, Seahawks coach Pete Carroll handed the keys to the offense to Whitehurst during a radio interview Friday.
"Charlie's ready to go, and as far as I'm concerned he's starting the football game, unless something turns with Tarvaris here in the next couple days," Carroll told KIRO-FM.
Jackson was listed as doubtful by the Seahawks Friday. He has made a rapid recovery and is ahead of schedule in his rehabilitation, Carroll said Thursday, but hasn't been asked to fully test the injury to his throwing side.
Sunday will be Whitehurst's third career start.
Starting center Max Unger (foot) was listed as questionable.
For a complete look at all injuries around the league, go to NFL.com's injury page.
The Associated Press contributed to this report
