The Seattle Seahawks have made a bunch of franchise-altering moves this offseason. If someone paid no attention to the roster between last year and June and saw that quarterback Geno Smith and wide receivers DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett were no longer on the team, they might wonder what happened.
Smith and Metcalf asked to be traded, of course, and the quarterback was dealt to the Las Vegas Raiders, and the receiver was sent to the Pittsburgh Steelers. Lockett was outright released and eventually signed with the Tennessee Titans.
We can assume Metcalf and Smith are both going to start for their new teams and have a big impact. Lockett, though? One Titans analyst thinks there is a chance that the receiver doesn't make the active 53-man roster.
If Tyler Lockett becomes available, the Seattle Seahawks should try to re-sign him
Justin Melo of SB Nation's Music City Miracles writes, "The Titans have more competition at receiver than most imagined. Many are already predicting Borgonzi and Callahan to keep seven receivers, with special teams standout Bryce Oliver and Restrepo included in that final count. If Lockett isn’t healthy at training camp, there’s a universe out there where he’s a surprise release."
The Titans drafted two receivers and still have Calvin Ridley. Lockett is purely a slot receiver with great hands, but lacks his old explosiveness. He also made far too many business decisions in 2024 and gave himself up too easily after catching passes. More than once, the Seahawks were hurt by his falling before he gained a first down that seemed assured when he caught the ball.
That doesn't mean he wouldn't be a valuable receiver for Seattle still. If Melo is correct and there is a chance the Titans do release Lockett when final roster cuts are made, the Seahawks should certainly entertain bringing him back. He wouldn't cost much, and the receiver would likely feel comfortable returning.
The Seahawks receiver room is no sure thing, either. Jaxon Smith-Njigba is going to be the top target, followed closely by free agent signee Cooper Kupp. After that, there are a lot of question marks.
Another free agent signing, Marquez Valdes-Scantling, is explosive but inconsistent. Jake Bobo and Cody White have both spent time in the NFL, but neither has shown they can be relied upon for loads of targets. Tory Horton was a 2025 draft pick and has promise, but rookie receivers usually have a tough time in their first year.
Of course, we aren't there yet. As much as many Seahawks fans would love to have Tyler Lockett return, the chances are that his leadership abilities are going to be valuable in the Titans' locker room. Even if he isn't catching 80 passes in 2025, he can help young Tennessee receivers learn how to be good pros.
Still, if there is any chance Lockett is let go, the Seahawks should attempt to bring him back, even if it is only on a one-year deal on the cheap.