4 free agents Seattle Seahawks should aggressively go after
By Geoff Shull
Free agent target number 2: Chandler Jones, DE
The Seahawks defensive line was nearly last in sacks, pressure rate, tackles for a loss, and QB hits this season. The Seahawks need a true star on the defensive line. They have some promising pieces in Poona Ford, Darrell Taylor, and Alton Robinson. However, they need more sure-fire play.
Sometimes inserting a superstar unlocks the potential of pre-existing players. Look at the impact Adrian Peterson has had on Rashaad Penny. Who would have guessed Penny can move between the tackles the way he has since Peterson joined the squad. Not very many, that’s whom.
Chandler Jones at 31-years-old is still amongst the most disruptive and successful defensive ends in the NFL. Over the last 5 full seasons played, Jones has amassed 80 tackles for a loss, 70 sacks, 21 forced fumbles, and 19 passes defended. He is a menace.
Jones is a player who will absorb a lot of the offensive planning which opens opportunities for players like Taylor, Ford, and Robinson to swoop in and make a play. Jones is still elite enough to make the play all by his lonesome as well.
Suggested contract:
Terms: 3 years, $51 million
Average salary: $17 million
Cap hits by year:
- 2022: $11 million
- 2023: $16 million
- 2024: $24 million
Adding two talents at the level of Terron Armstead (LT) and Chandler Jones (DE) would be exactly the type of move that makes for a quick turnaround. These are the types of moves that make for quick and efficient retool. Build around the lines of scrimmage. Protect Wilson and get someone to attack the opposing quarterback.
After these two moves with the suggested cap structure, the Seahawks would still have nearly $51 million in cap space for 2022. In other words, adding Armstead AND Jones would cost the same in 2022 as Seattle would save from releasing Wagner, Carson, and Myers.