NFL Rumors: Earl Thomas, Cowboys, Seahawks

Earl Thomas

• Josina Anderson of ESPN reports that there hasn’t been much in terms of trade discussions involving S Earl Thomas from the Cowboys since Draft.
• Anderson adds that Thomas’ decision to not attend mandatory minicamp hasn’t changed anything from the Cowboys’ perspective.

Cowboys

• Clarence Hill of the Star-Telegram writes that the Cowboys have “quietly held out hope of being able to acquire Pro Bowl free safety Earl Thomas in a trade with Seattle.”
• Hill mentions that Thomas has made no secret of his desire to play for the Cowboys and there’s no question Dallas could use a player of his caliber in their secondary.
• Beyond that, Hill notes that former Seahawks DC Kris Richard is now the Cowboys’ new secondary coach, so there should be an obvious fit.
• Hill says that the Cowboys spoke to the Seahawks about a Thomas trade at the start of free agency and during the draft, but felt that Seattle’s asking price was too high.
• Following the news that Thomas plans to hold out for a new contract, Hill wonders of the Seahawks could lower their asking price for Thomas this time around.

Seahawks

• Bob Condotta of the Seattle Times mentions that Seahawks GM John Schneider said he met with Earl Thomas’ representatives at the Combine, but it’s unclear whether a formal offer was made.
• Condotta believes the team likely presented Thomas with at least an idea of what they would be willing to offer him in a long-term extension.
• Thomas is believed to seeking a contract that would top the $13 million per year the Chiefs are paying S Eric Berry. However, Condotta adds that at minimum Thomas will want to make more than the $12 million per year Seattle gave to Kam Chancellor last year.
• As for a potential trade, Condotta says that it’s still a possibility and they could revisit a deal if he extends his holdout into training camp.