New Seahawk Signings: Financial Upgrade?

Seahawk fans were devastated in early March after hearing the news of Tyler Lockett’s release and D.K Metcalf requesting a trade. However, the Seattle Seahawks have been active in the free agency market over the past week, making significant moves to reshape their roster for the upcoming NFL season. The following is a breakdown of their recent departures and acquisitions.

Cooper Kupp posing at a press conference with his new threads (best in the league)

Notable Departures:

In a surprising move on March 13, 2025, the Seahawks traded star receiver DK Metcalf and a 2025 sixth-round pick to the Pittsburgh Steelers in exchange for 2025 second and seventh-round picks. This trade signifies a strategic shift in Seattle's offensive approach, possibly influenced by salary cap considerations and the desire for roster flexibility.

On March 5, 2025, the Seahawks released veteran receiver Tyler Lockett, a decision also influenced by salary cap considerations. Lockett's departure marks the end of an era, as he has been a consistent playmaker and leader for the team over the years. Lockett is beloved by Seattleites and will be forever missed for his incredible catches, early career kick returns, role in fostering community from locker room to city-wide, unbelievable deep ball catches, and his leadership and team attitude.

Another big move was the trade of quarterback Geno Smith to the Las Vegas Raiders in exchange for a 2025 third-round draft pick. Smith, who revitalized his career in Seattle, made two Pro Bowl appearances and was a key offensive leader.

Sam Darnold with Mike MacDonald (right) and Klint Kubiak (left)

Key Additions:

On March 18, 2025, the Seahawks signed former Los Angeles Rams star Cooper Kupp to a three-year contract. Kupp, known for his precise route-running and reliable hands, is expected to strengthen Seattle's receiving corps after recent roster changes, filling the role that Metcalf held. His production has been on a slow decline since 2021, his career season and the second-highest all-time receiving season, influenced by succumbing to injury each of the last three seasons. Kupp has expressed his excitement for what the Seahawks organization is building, and I'm excited for what he can produce if he stays healthy. Also, it's fun that he is headed back to Washington where he is from.

The team addressed its quarterback position by signing Sam Darnold to a multi-year deal on March 13, 2025. Darnold, the third overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, has had stints with the New York Jets, Carolina Panthers, San Francisco 49ers, and Minnesota Vikings. The Seahawks view Darnold as a fresh start under center, aiming to capitalize on his experience and potential coming off of a fantastic season with the Vikings. My main concern with Darnold under center is the lack of protection our O-line has provided for a number of seasons, and the fact that he is more of a pocket passer than our previous QBs. In lieu of this signing, I hope that the Seahawks make additions to strengthen their offensive line in free agency signings or draft selections.

Also on March 13, 2025, Seattle signed Marquez Valdes-Scantling (MVS). Known for his speed and ability to stretch the field, MVS adds a deep-threat dimension to the Seahawks offense. He has been given the opportunity to fill the hole left by Tyler Lockett, but we'll see if he can hold onto the ball long enough to do so. Also, from the hopeful side of this fan, MVS has been a receiver for quarterbacks winning regular season MVP or Super Bowl MVP for each of the last five seasons. Maybe this could lead to success, who knows?

These moves reflect the Seahawks' proactive approach to restructuring their offense, balancing the infusion of new talent with strategic roster changes. Overall, I think these arriving players are of similar talent and performance ability to those leaving, and for a lower annual contracted rate ($54mil as opposed to $64mil), but I’m hesitant with the fact that now many key pieces of this offense are new to the franchise, and it may take time to sort things out. As the 2025 season approaches, fans will be eager to see how these adjustments influence the team's performance and cohesion. It will be exciting to see what draft decisions the organization makes to strengthen the roster. Thanks for reading and let me know what you think in the comments!