How much Seahawks can save by restructuring/extending key players

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SEATTLE, WASHINGTON – JANUARY 09: Jamal Adams #33 of the Seattle Seahawks reacts in the first quarter against the Los Angeles Rams during the NFC Wild Card Playoff game at Lumen Field on January 09, 2021 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images) /

Jamal Adams was a breath of fresh air last season when healthy.

Adams was everywhere and anywhere when on the field. He consistently put his athleticism, football IQ, and leadership on display. He is exactly the type of player Seattle thought they were getting when they traded the farm to acquire him.

However, Adams is going into the final year of his rookie deal. He is unlikely to play on this deal without a sizeable extension in place. After all, Adams and the Jets relationship soured after contract talks began (and didn’t progress). It’s possible the same could happen here in Seattle if Adams doesn’t like the price point Seattle is looking at.

Player: Jamal Adams

Age: 26

Year: Base salary: Signing Bonus: Roster Bonus: Cap hit: Dead Money:

2021 $9.86m $0m $0m $9.86m $0m

How much can be saved through 6 different methods of cap savings:

Cut (pre-June 1st): $9.86m

Cut (post-June 1st): $9.86m

Trade (pre-June 1st): $9.86m

Trade (post-June 1st): $9.86m

Restructure: $0m

Extension: $7.096m

Jamal Adams entire contract for the 2021 campaign consists of a base salary. Meaning, none of it is guaranteed. None of it will be left in dead cap if traded or released. Seattle can save all $9.86 million if there were to move in a different direction. If Adams is extended, the team can save up to $7.096 million against his 2021 cap number.

With Jamal Adams campaigning himself as a defensive weapon, instead of a safety, it’s likely he wants to be paid like a pass rusher. He wants upwards of $20 million per year. Problem is, the largest contract right now for a safety is just below $15 million. That would be a massive jump.

What I think will happen: Adams will ask for $20 million. Seattle will offer $15 million. If a deal is to materialize, it’ll likely end up around $17 million. If Adams won’t come down to that number, he will likely be traded away. Players like Malik Hooker and Keanu Neal could be intriguing free agent options that will be considerably less expensive. Seattle also has Marquise Blair sitting on the roster.

Verdict: Extend Adams for $17 million or less. If that isn’t attainable, trade Adams.

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