Pair of Former Seahawks Released

Posted by: Shaun Dolence

The Denver Broncos have released a pair of former Seahawks: linebacker Niko Koutouvides (2004-07), and safety Marquand Manuel (2004-05). Both were on Seattle’s roster when they made an appearance in Super Bowl XL.

During his four years in Seattle, Koutouvides played in 59 games, tallying 111 tackles while contributing mostly on special teams. He became a key reserve in a stellar group of linebackers, and signed with the Broncos prior to last season. Last year with the Broncos, Koutouvides played in 14 games and had 12 tackles. Maybe the Seahawks will bring him back in a reserve role, very similar to what happened with D.D. Lewis? Lewis played for the Seahawks from 2002-2006, starting 17 games, and then signed with the Broncos after the 2006 season. After one season in Denver, Lewis was released, and returned to Seattle where he has seen relative success as a backup linebacker.

Marquand Manuel started 11 games with Seattle during their Super Bowl run, recording 90 tackles in two seasons. His unfortunate injury during the Super Bowl arguably resulted in the longest run in the game’s history, as Etric Pruitt took a terrible angle and allowed Willie Parker to dash 75 yards to the end zone. After 2005, Manuel signed with the Packers. He  has also played for the Panthers, and until today, the Broncos.

Denver also released four other players on Monday, including defensive tackle Dewayne Robertson (former top five pick), linebacker Jamie Winborn, defensive end John Engelberger, and tight end Nate Jackson.