12th Man Rising
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What a KJ Wright contract could look like for the Seahawks

By Geoff Shull

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 15: Carlos Dunlap II #43 and K.J. Wright #50 of the Seattle Seahawks warm up prior to their game against the Los Angeles Rams at SoFi Stadium on November 15, 2020 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)
INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 15: Carlos Dunlap II #43 and K.J. Wright #50 of the Seattle Seahawks warm up prior to their game against the Los Angeles Rams at SoFi Stadium on November 15, 2020 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images) /
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PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – NOVEMBER 30: Carson Wentz #11 of the Philadelphia Eagles is tackled by K.J. Wright #50 of the Seattle Seahawks after running for a first down during the second quarter at Lincoln Financial Field on November 30, 2020 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – NOVEMBER 30: Carson Wentz #11 of the Philadelphia Eagles is tackled by K.J. Wright #50 of the Seattle Seahawks after running for a first down during the second quarter at Lincoln Financial Field on November 30, 2020 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) /

Wright is exactly the type of leader a defense needs

The answer has multiple layers. Let’s just start at the top. He may not be the most athletic, or the fastest, he just gets the job done. He plays with phenomenal instincts and motor that can keep him relevant for years to come.

Wright is also coming off arguably his best season as a pro athlete. He was absolutely everywhere. The switch from weakside linebacker to strongside seemed to rejuvenate him. His fresh set of eyes on a dull position brought new flare to the defense.

He was all over the field making plays. In fact, he was the only defender in the NFL to have 10 tackles for a loss and 10 passes defended. There is absolutely no reason to think Wright is slowing down any time soon.

Next, it helps keep continuity. There is some level of uncertainty with Bobby Wagner staying in Seattle past this year. His cap hit next year is right there with elite pass rushers. It is completely plausible that Seattle wants to give Jordyn Brooks a go at the middle linebacker (for a fifth the cost).

Having Wright on the roster would ensure that the veteran leadership at that position grouping remains. He is after all the longest-tenured Seahawk.

Finally, the market has fallen favorably in Seattle’s direction. Wright fell directly into where the salary cap squeeze occurred. Similar to what happened with Chris Carson, Benson Mayowa, Kerry Hyder, and Carlos Dunlap.

So what could a new contract look like?

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