SEATTLE, WA - DECEMBER 04: Free safety Earl Thomas #29 of the Seattle Seahawks leaves the field after getting injured against the Carolina Panthers at CenturyLink Field on December 4, 2016 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Jonathan Ferrey/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Earl Thomas

Seahawks suffered devastating injury news, and it could have a serious long-term affect

Did he say that out of frustration?

Seattle Seahawks safety Earl Thomas suffered a cracked tibia during Sunday night's 40-7 win over the Carolina Panthers, and he will be out for the remainder of the season.

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Thomas is perhaps the most important player on the Seahawks' defense, and his absence will certainly be difficult for Seattle to overcome. However, the results of Thomas' injury could mean more to the Seahawks long term. Thomas tweeted during the game he is contemplating retirement.

Thomas, 27, has been first team All-Pro for each of the last four seasons. Thomas and Kam Chancellor are the best safety duo in the NFL, and Chancellor was actually involved with the injury. Thomas went to intercept a Cam Newton pass, and he and Chancellor collided. Thomas joked about the hit and injury on Twitter during the game.

On the play immediately following Thomas' injury, Cam Newton hit Ted Ginn Jr. on a 55-yard touchdown pass.

The Seahawks are good enough elsewhere defensively to overcome Thomas' injury, but they won't be nearly as dynamic on defense without him prowling around at safety.

(h/t CBS Sports)