What a KJ Wright contract could look like for the Seahawks
By Geoff Shull
The Seattle Seahawks have been precise and diligent in addressing their holes on the roster. However, there is one position that has yet to be addressed.
I can honestly say this has been one of my favorite off-seasons under John Schneider and Pete Carroll. They didn’t sit back and let the scraps roll to them while spending 90% of their funds on RFA that were soon to be cut.
The Seahawks re-signed Poona Ford on a multi-year deal at a higher rate as opposed to just tendering the player for one year and having to battle free agency for his services. This ensured a rising star stayed in Seattle.
Seahawks were aggressive in free agency
They landed Gerald Everett, a dynamic tight end with a clear chance to fill in as the number 3 receiver. They took a shot on Ahkello Witherspoon. A long, athletic, and dynamic player who has struggled with consistency. Carroll is supposed to be the secondary whisperer. Let him do his thing.
They kept the continuity of the offensive line intact by re-signing Ethan Pocic, Jordan Simmons, and Cedric Ogbuehi. Some may not be happy about this. However, I remind you that this group was actually very stout until some late-season injuries occurred. It’s also important to note all 3 will likely end up as backup players (Pocic may or may not be starting depending on future moves).
Half the offensive line was playing through extreme muscle strains or broken bones. They were hobbled. However, they did make one very aggressive move to improve the line. They traded one of the most precious commodities they have (draft pick) for Gabe Jackson. Seattle is now down to just 3 draft selections. However, it was well worth it.
They got their guy. They made sure they were going to improve the interior of the line. At this point, they waited.. and waited… and waited. Some, including I, were starting to get concerned. Were they going to make another move?
That’s when they struck. Re-signing Chris Carson for less than half of what his original asking price was. Signing defensive line studs Kerry Hyder and Benson Mayowa for less than $5 million per year, each. Sounds very Michael Bennett and Cliff Avril like back in 2013.
Finally, re-signing Carlos Dunlap on a deal that can be worth up to $16.6 million for 2 years. For just $2 million more than his original contract, it’s now a 2-year deal. That is what you call crafty negotiating.
There is one player left that Seattle should look to. That player is KJ Wright.