4 defensive ends Seahawks should chase in free agency

The Seahawks have some good young pieces on defense but some of those are at cornerback and only a couple are at edge rusher. But what Seattle really needs is a defensive end who can stop the run and help get to the quarterback. In other words, Seattle needs a player like Jadeveon Clowney without adding Clowney himself.

Seattle should, and hopefully will, address its defensive end issue with a decently high choice in the 2023 NFL draft as well, but Seattle has enough cap space to sign a productive player too. Kind of like they did last season when they signed Uchenna Nwosu to be a pass rusher, just this time someone who can play outside on the defensive line as well. There are several players available here.

This is also one area where the Seahawks probably won’t try to go after one of their free agents and instead bring in others. For instance, L.J. Collier doesn’t need to be re-signed. But here are four players Seattle should take a long look at in free agency.

4 defensive ends the Seahawks should chase in free agency

Premium players: Marcus Davenport

Team-friendly options: Akiem Hicks, Dremont Jones, Zach Allen

Marcus Davenport (Saints)

Davenport offers elite size and athleticism. At 6’6″, he has a huge wingspan which he frequently uses to disrupt passes and get his hands on runners. Davenport will likely command a huge payday as he is merely 26 years of age and currently boasts a projected market value of 22.7 million dollars.

Akiem Hicks (Buccaneers)

Akiem Hicks visited the Seahawks last offseason but ultimately decided to hold off on signing and eventually landed in Tampa Bay before the year started. Hicks has been a staple in the NFL as one of the most disruptive interior forces over his career, but with his age getting into the mid-30s, he may be an excellent solution to Seattle’s run defense on a cheaper one-year deal.

Dremont Jones (Broncos)

Dremont Jones has been one of the biggest unsung heroes for the Broncos’ stout defense over the past four seasons. Gathering 22 sacks and 28 tackles for loss over four seasons, Dremont could be an excellent under-the-radar addition at a projected market value of 7.2 million dollars a year.

Zach Allen (Cardinals)

As a former Arizona Cardinal, Zach Allen is a player that should have plenty of familiarity with the Seahawks. Allen has shown improvement every season and capped off his rookie contract with 5.5 sacks and ten tackles for loss. Zach Allen shows excellent motor and an ability to work hard and improve every year. At a projected market value of 6.3 million dollars, Allen could be an appealing option to help Seattle run defense.