Reports: Seahawks release Chris Clemons, clear $7.5 million in cap space
Nov 17, 2013; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Seahawks defensive end Chris Clemons (91) celebrates a fumble recovery by a teammate against the Minnesota Vikings during the first quarter at CenturyLink Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports
The Seahawks released Chris Clemons Wednesday morning, saving $7.5 million in cap space, according to NFL.com’s Albert Breer.
The Seahawks have released DE Chris Clemons, per source.
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) March 12, 2014
It was originally thought that the Seahawks would keep Clemons if Michael Bennett decided to part ways with Seattle, especially because the team had already released Red Bryant.
Instead, Bennett decided to return with a four-year, $28.5 million deal on Tuesday, perhaps inadvertently forcing Clemons out as another cap casualty.
However, Clemons’ release could be alluding to a big signing later this week. The Seahawks reportedly have mutual interest in former Minnesota Vikings DE Jared Allen.
Allen, is coming off his sixth-straight season with double digit sacks and posted 11.5 last season.
The Seahawks are also going to visit with former Dallas Cowboys DT Jason Hatcher, who led the Cowboys with 11 sacks in 2013.
Clemons had 24 tackles and 4.5 sacks last season, after recording at least 40 tackles and 11 sacks the three years prior.
In his four years as a Seahawk, Clemons made 164 tackles with 38 sacks and eight forced fumbles.