John Schneider is rolling. After making a bunch of moves this past offseason, both in free agency and the 2025 NFL draft, that would build the Seattle Seahawks into a Super Bowl contender, he proved he wasn't done being brilliant by working out an extension with left tackle Charles Cross. The move is an expensive one, but Seattle can afford it.
According to NFL insider Ian Rapoport, Cross inked an extension for four years worth $104.4 million maximum. That is an average of $26.1 million per year. The first year (2026) will pay him as much as $40.5 million.
The deal is the largest the Seahawks have ever given to a non-quarterback. That, of course, comes with a caveat because NFL contracts are at an all-time high and will continue to be so. In five years, some other Seattle player might have a contract bigger than Cross's.
Seattle Seahawks wrap up Charles Cross for at least four more years
But the extension also shows that John Schneider really likes where the offensive line is headed. Right tackle Abraham Lucas signed an extension before the season for three seasons. Seattle drafted left guard Grey Zabel in 2025. Center and right guard might still be concerns, though Jalen Sundell has been solid in the middle of the line when healthy.
Schneider also isn't afraid to make long-term moves with a team that has become extremely successful. The Seahawks are the top seed in the NFC in the playoffs, just won the NFC West title, and have a young roster (for the most part) capable of being a championship contender for years to come.
Part of that, of course, is making sure a good left tackle is protecting the quarterback's blind side, and over four seasons, Cross has shown himself to be a long-term anchor. He has allowed only two sacks this season, and in 2024, Pro Football Focus (subscription required) graded him as the 10th-best offensive tackle in the league.
Left tackles are going to get paid a lot compared to other positions, as long as they are good. Charles Cross is great. And now, Seattle Seahawks fans know he will be on the left side of the team's line through at least 2029.