Updated

The Seattle Seahawks may have been defeated by the Arizona Cardinals on Saturday afternoon, but, they did achieve an off-the-field victory, as their injured star safety Earl Thomas declared he will be returning to the team next season after weeks of uncertainty.

Three weeks ago, immediately after suffering a gruesome leg injury vs. the Carolina Panthers, Thomas alluded to hanging up his cleats for good...

...while his teammates supported him and implored him to spend some time before making a final decision.

Ultimately, it appears Thomas has made the decision to return next season -- and we can all agree, Seahawks fans or not, the game of football is a better place with Thomas suited up.