The Seattle Seahawks have been linked to a potential trade of star wide receiver DK Metcalf this offseason, but it’s actually one of his long-time teammates, Tyler Lockett, who is more likely to be playing elsewhere in 2025.
Brady Henderson of ESPN projected on February 27 that Lockett, entering his age-33 season, could be a strong cut candidate. Henderson noted, “The second-most prolific wide receiver in franchise history may have played his last game with the Seahawks.”
Lockett’s future has looked uncertain for some time, especially after he took a $4 million pay cut in March 2024 to remain with the team, only to see his role diminish when rookie Jaxon Smith-Njigba emerged.
Lockett is scheduled to earn $17 million next season, with a nearly $31 million cap hit, making another pay cut the only way he could return for an 11th season in Seattle.
The Seahawks are expected to keep quarterback Geno Smith for 2025, given that there are no immediate better options in free agency or the draft to help the team contend after a 10-7 season. However, the team is still likely to draft a quarterback, as Smith turns 35 in October.
Lockett, meanwhile, is entering the final year of a two-year, $29.67 million deal, which includes a hefty $31 million cap hit for 2025.
With Seattle currently $7 million over the salary cap, Lockett’s contract makes him more expendable than either Smith or Metcalf. While trading Metcalf would return assets in return, Lockett is simply more costly for the offense to retain.
Lockett has been a standout for the Seahawks throughout his 10-year career, with 661 receptions, 8,594 yards, and 61 touchdowns, including three All-Pro selections.
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