(AP Photo/Michael McGinnis, File)
The Seattle Seahawks have sealed deals to retain two key players, defensive lineman Leonard Williams and tight end Noah Fant, according to a report from ESPN on Monday.
Williams’ contract spans three years and is valued at $64.5 million, with $48.85 million guaranteed.
Priority Retention: John Schneider’s Perspective
Re-signing Williams was, in general manager John Schneider’s words, “definitely a priority” for the Seahawks after they gave up a second-round pick to acquire him from the New York Giants in October. Schneider told Seattle Sports 710-AM last week that the team was already in negotiations with Williams’ agent.
“We gave up that second-round pick,” Schneider said. “We went for it and we thought that he was going to help change our defense. He played well. Unfortunately, we didn’t make the playoffs. But he’s a guy we want to keep in the mix. You can move him around. He can play three-, five-, nine-(technique). You can play him wherever you want, and he’s a great guy. He likes it here. I had a great exit interview with him and we hope to retain him.”
Cap Space Strategy
The Seahawks strategically positioned themselves for significant signings early in free agency by making several moves in the past week. This included the release of safeties Jamal Adams and Quandre Diggs, tight end Will Dissly, nose tackle Bryan Mone, and special teams captain Nick Bellore. Additionally, they restructured wide receiver Tyler Lockett’s contract, resulting in approximately $50 million in available salary cap space.
Noah Fant’s Return
Fant’s return is particularly significant as the Seahawks lost two of their top three tight ends from the previous NFL season. Colby Parkinson signed with the Los Angeles Rams, while Dissly agreed to join the Los Angeles Chargers after being released.
Fant’s Contributions and Contract
Fant’s contract spans two years, with earnings of $12 million in the first year, $9 million in the second, and a $9 million signing bonus. During his two seasons with Seattle, the 26-year-old recorded 82 catches for 900 yards and four touchdowns. He was also involved in the trade that sent Russell Wilson to Denver.
