The recent developments surrounding the Seattle Seahawks have sent shockwaves through the fan base and the NFL landscape. With the team releasing key players like wide receiver Tyler Lockett, defensive tackle Dre’Mont Jones, and defensive tackle Roy Robertson-Harris, along with the trade request from star WR DK Metcalf, it seems like the Seahawks are gearing up for a significant shift in their roster and strategic direction.
By cutting Lockett and several other players, Seattle has cleared nearly $45 million in salary cap space. This newfound flexibility gives the Seahawks some breathing room as they head into free agency. However, the moves also raise red flags regarding the team’s competitiveness moving forward. Are the Seahawks on the brink of a rebuild rather than vying for a playoff spot in the near future?
Currently, the Seahawks find themselves with approximately $32 million in cap space, but they have a crucial decision to make regarding their starting quarterback, Geno Smith. Last season, Smith displayed a commendable performance, racking up 4,320 passing yards with a 70.4 completion percentage. However, at 34 years old, questions linger about his longevity and effectiveness. As the Seahawks look to infuse youth into their roster, Smith’s timeline may not align with their aspirations.
Let’s consider the implications of cutting Smith or trading him away. Such a move would net the Seahawks around $31 million in cap savings and incur only $13 million in dead money, potentially making it an enticing option. This offseason’s quarterback market could be a prime avenue for Seattle to gain future assets. By trading Smith, the Seahawks could command solid draft compensation, perhaps an extra third- or fourth-round pick, which would aid their rebuilding efforts.
Then there’s Metcalf, who has officially requested a trade. If Seattle agrees to explore options for him, it not only provides additional cap relief but also presents an opportunity to acquire further draft capital. However, moving Metcalf would mean losing a premier playmaker from the current roster. While this trade might pave the way for Seattle to get younger and more financially stable, it comes at the cost of immediate talent on the field.
If the Seahawks proceed with cutting Smith and trading Metcalf, they would rapidly vacate any playoff aspirations and likely turn towards drafting high in the first round. The roster’s depth and talent would take a significant hit, potentially landing them among the league’s bottom three teams. This scenario could see them picking closer to the top 10 in the NFL Draft, positioning themselves for a much-needed overhaul.
Looking ahead, the 2025 NFL Draft could serve as a vital juncture for the Seahawks. With the 18th overall pick, they might not be in prime position to select a franchise quarterback, but they should focus on securing the best player available. Names like Tet McMillan, Nick Emmanwori, and Aireontae Ersery could be on their radar, providing immediate impact with cost-controlled rookie contracts.
Seahawks fans need to brace themselves for what could be a tumultuous 2025 season. With a potential reset on the horizon, they should keep their eyes peeled for the 2026 NFL Draft. That draft may well present the opportunity to select the future face of the franchise at the quarterback position. As the Seahawks embark on this journey of rebuilding, patience and a keen eye for talent will be essential for ushering in a new era of Seattle football.
