Seattle Seahawks: Dream trade targets to fix the pass rush
Yannick Ngakoue, DE, Jacksonville Jaguars
First up is Yannick Ngakoue, one of the top young edge rushers in the NFL right now. And yet, there’s a reason he’s first on the list — he’s got a bit of an attitude problem.
Since making it clear that he was no longer interested in playing for the Jacksonville Jaguars after they slapped him with the franchise tag, Ngakoue hasn’t shied away from burning bridges.
I’m not in hiding sir, I’m in isolation getting ready for the draft. I’ve been pretty active on social media in isolation, but you wouldn’t know that since you unfollowed me (again).
— Tony Khan (@TonyKhan) April 20, 2020
It’s a new regime here sir. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for all of the contributions you made here. That said, tweeting insults at me won’t get you traded any faster. Only good trade compensation will do that. Please redirect your efforts into a more productive outlet
— Tony Khan (@TonyKhan) April 20, 2020
Obviously that’s not the type of social media laundry airing you welcome with open arms. Still, it’s hard to ignore the talent Ngakoue brings to the table. Arguably, it’s enough to overlook the character concerns in hope that a more ideal situation will make them a thing of the past.
Ngakoue would be a welcomed addition to the Seattle defense. Over the last four seasons, the former third-round pick out of Maryland has racked up 37.5 sacks and 14 forced fumbles while serving as one of the key pieces of Jacksonville’s dangerous young defense. And still only 25 years old, Ngakoue could still have his best days ahead of him.
The Seahawks would have to do some financial manipulation to account for the $17.7 million he’s owed in 2020, but this is a dream scenario. The money isn’t a concern right now. All I know is acquiring Ngakoue would come relatively cheap in terms of trade compensation considering the social media sparring session him and Tony Khan put on back in April.