Pro Football Weekly reports that, while the Seahawks are willing to use their franchise tag on RB Marshawn Lynch, they would, instead, prefer to lock him to a long-term contract.
It’s hard to argue against a guy that supplies some of the best highlights in the league. Lynch has been productive for the Seahawks since coming over in a trade two season ago, but he’s yet to put together a true breakout season. That may have more to do with the the fact that their offensive line was ranked #25 in the league last season by Pro Football Focus.
One of the more under-the-radar free agents is Seattle DE Red Bryant. PFW’s report mentions that Seattle will “go out of its way” to keep Bryant with the team.
The Seahawks see him as an important component to their run defense and appreciate his leadership. Pro Football Focus rates Bryant as the #12 best 4-3 defensive end against the run last season.
PFW adds that Seattle will not “break the bank” to Hawthorne despite the fact that he has lead the team in tackles for the last three season. PFW’s sources mentioned that questions about Hawthorne’s durability are the main reason why the team may choose to move on.
There will be other options on the open market but I wouldn’t expect to see that Seahawks actively shopping for one of the big names at the position like Stephen Tulloch or Curtis Lofton. Hawthorne should still be able to secure a decent contract though in free agency.
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