The Seattle Seahawks had to let Tyler Lockett go after the 2024 season. His cap hit was more than $30 million and he was no longer anywhere near productive to be worth that amount. As a player, that is. As a human being, Lockett's value is unlimited. That will continue to be the case.
What might not continue to be the case is Lockett being a wide receiver in the NFL. After an exceedingly slow start to this season, his first with the Tennessee Titans, the former Seahawk has reportedly asked for, and been granted, his release.
He is free to sign with another team after 1 pm PT on Wednesday. Would it be surprising if Tyler Lockett chose to come to Seattle, sign a one-day contract with the Seahawks, and retire as a member of the team? Absolutely not. Would it be fitting? That's more complicated.
Former Seattle Seahawks icon Tyler Lockett has asked for his release with the Tennessee Titans
Lockett clearly believes he is still of value to NFL teams or he wouldn't have signed with Tennessee after being let go by Seattle. It didn't work out with the Titans, a team with a poor offensive scheme and a rookie quarterback. Through seven games, Lockett had caught 10 of 21 targets for just 70 yards. Only three of his receptions had gone for first downs.
Returning to the Seahawks shouldn't really be an option. As great as Lockett has been, his production diminished a great deal over the last couple of seasons. He also isn't a good fit in new Seattle offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak's system.
Last season, the Seattle Seahawks saw Lockett make too many business decisions and give himself after catching a pass and before getting tackled. For a player past 30 years old who isn't big physically and can't overpower defensive backs, the moves make sense. But not for Seattle's offense.
Maybe there are teams who will be happy to sign Tyler Lockett. They might look past what he has done the past couple of seasons. The wide receiver isn't likely to change the narrative of an offrense, though. He would be great in a locker room that needed a solid veteran presence, however.
Ultimately, Seattle Seahawks fans probably want what is best for Tyler Lockett. He is an all-time great wide receiver for the team. He might no longer be a productive receiver in the league, though. A one-day contract with Seattle would be a brilliant way to go out.