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Whatever you may think of Lee Daniels as a film director, and he's very well aware that no one is neutral about him, one thing for sure is that he's a truly fascinating person.
I've met him a few times before and the great thing about him is that there's no "filter" with Daniels. I've always found him totally straightforward, honest and he says exactly what he believes.
So last week, while on the PR tour for his upcoming film The Butler, I got together with him for a conversation (which I always try to do anyway, regardless of who I interview) instead of the usual stilted, Q & A interview.
And Lee was, as expected, "No Filter Lee," talking about his new film, the film business, his life and the fact, in turns out, that we're both members of an "exclusive club."
SERGIO: I once asked you, around the time Precious came out, if you made the film to be controversial and you told me you made it because you wanted to help people. I've always taken that answer with a grain of salt. I think you love being controversial don't you?
DANIELS: No I don't.
But you make films that are.
I'm sorry. But I seem to be doing that.
You can't help yourself?
No I can't. It's just who I am.
Actually I think it's great. I wish more film directors were controversial.
Yeah, but I don't know what's so controversial about it. But this is what I don't understand. I thought that filmmakers were supposed to take a strong stand and I think that if you're not doing that you're just a hired gun.
But you know that there are people who are going to love The Butler and there are those who will say: "Oh brother, not another film about a black servant. That's the last thing we need. Can't they do something else?"
Yeah, I've heard that already, but let me tell you something. I made this movie to figure out why it is that as African-American men we are followed. I go into a store and I'm watching those eyes on me. I can't get a taxi in New York City. We forget. We forget from where it came from.
Now there's going to be the "quote unquote" Lee Daniels's factor who are saying: "He's causing a stir". I'm not causing a stir. I'm just telling the story, I'm telling the history the way my grandmother told me it happened. The way my great grandmother told me it happened. The way my mama told me it happened and we've been through a lot. And whether we want to admit it or not, we have relatives, I do, that were maids, who serviced people. And this ain't The Help. It's far from The Help. This is a father and son story.
Which is the basic core of the film…
It's a father and son story which chronicles the Civil Rights Movement. He happens to be a butler, but learns about what's happening in the world and that, in turn, effects his decision about how he deals with his son. So I think that anything I do people will have something to say about it. My kids, you know, they read these blogs and they get quite upset and they say: "Dad, people don't like you sometimes." And I say to them: "Hey it is what it is."
You know I was telling Forest Whitaker, in those final scenes in the film, when his character is in his 80s, he reminded me so much of my father at the same age. He had been a cop for 30 years…
(Jumps up) Your father was cop? Mine too!
Yeah I know. We're both members of a very exclusive club - The Organization of Sons of Black Cops. But I understand guys like that. Old black men who worked hard all their lives, raising a family and going through a lifetime of monumental history and experiences and just life in general. It takes a toll, but you still carry yourself with pride and dignity.
Yeah I understand completely, That's why I wanted to make the film.
But I have to ask you about that whole title fight between Weinstein Co and Warners over the title The Butler.
Oh God!
And we know it was really all about The Hobbit percentage money that Harvey and Bob are getting from the movies, with Warners squeezing them to take less. But why come down on your film? Weinstein has many other films that Warners could have gone after.
I don't know. Who knows? But I'll tell you this much, the last thing I wanted was "Lee Daniels' The Butler."
Now I was thinking just the opposite. Wow he must love this!
(Laughing) No, No, No! It's like "Oh My God!" People aren't going to know that. Insiders know what happened. The MPAA knows. But most people in America are going to say: "Who's this guy who puts his name on a movie?" I'm not Scorsese.
But I have to ask, why this project? You're attached to several projects like the film version of the musical Miss Saigon. By the way are you still attached to that?
Oh yes.
But what was it about this project that screamed out to you and said: "Make Me Now"?
Here's the thing. I'm attached to several films as you said, as are many directors nowadays. I don't know of another director who doesn't have three or four projects in development. But for some reason, mine gets mentioned. It happens that most directors are attached to several movies at the same time, but why this movie? Again it spoke to my heart. Laura Ziskin, who produced Pretty Woman, As Good As At Gets and all the Spider Man movies, chose me to direct the film which was an honor.
And The Butler was her last project before she died in 2011.
And we worked hard on this movie, man. Hollywood didn't want this movie. We couldn't get the financing for this film. But what else is new? That's my life. That's the way it's been for me. All of my life from Monster's Ball to today I've not been able to get a film greenlit by the major studios. And I've continually gotten every film that I got done, financed by independent money, period. I've never worked with a studio - never. Though I mean my budgets have increased.
But still, you didn't have the kind of money you needed to make a film like this?
And it's hard not to be bitter about it.
You make with what you have.
As most African-Americans do.
But with this film, you are challenging yourself as a director. All your previous films were contemporary films. This is a period piece that spans several decades with a huge cast of famous name actors, a dramatic epic but on a limited budget.
Oh yeah. This is, no question, the hardest thing I've ever done. You know this budget should have been $60 million.
You made it for $25 million.
Yeah! How did you know? Sergio, how did you know? (laughing)
(Laughing) I know things, I hear things.
But it was budgeted at $60 million dollars so we had to really get in deals and I had to put my producer's hat on and figure out who'do how'da who'do how'da Can you work for me for free? Can you work for me and can I owe you later? Beg here, steal there. And we managed to skim by the skin of our teeth. It's been exhausting. It's been the hardest thing I've ever done. But I'm really proud of it. Really proud of it.
But it's timely. I think the time is now. I didn't know about Trayvon Martin when we made this movie. We didn't know about Trayvon martin when we made this movie. And then I was in the editing room when the whole Trayvon Martin case came up and I said: "This shit ain't changed."
When you look at a film after you're finished, are you completely happy with it, or do you say to yourself, maybe I could have done that better, or maybe I should have done this instead of that?
No. No, wait actually, yes! There are times when I've questioned, I second-guessed a casting choice. But I do the best with what I have in the editing room, and make it happen, and you know I had such an enormous cast with this film.
How do you handle a cast like that? You have everyone in this film from Forest Whitaker, Alan Rickman, Oprah Winfrey, Jane Fonda, Cuba Gooding Jr., Robin Williams, John Cusack, and that's just the tip of the iceberg. You can't allow yourself to be intimidated.
No I'm not afraid. I'm afraid of losing my kids early before me. But I've been bullied as a gay boy. I've been beaten by my dad. Ostracized in Hollywood. I am on my own doing this stuff .This is $25 million dollars of money that I've walked the streets for, to get to do this story. And so I ain't afraid of nothing.
So what's the secret to your survival in the business?
Not being afraid. I think that once you get bullied at 4 and 5 because you're different, you build a wall up and nothing can hurt you. You can attack my films sure, but I choose not to read it. (laughs) But the only thing I get afraid of is losing my kids. I don't know what I'll do without them.
Which leads me to a question I always love to ask people - what you know now that you wish you had known before you got into the business?
That humility takes you a long way. I had put the ego up because I was bullied. So you put that bravado on, the tough attitude and that takes form into something else and so you lose your humility through that process.
And you have to learn how to regain it.
Yeah, exactly. It's the hardest thing in the world to be humble, you know.
In life or in this business?
Once you have humanity you don't lose it. Once you have it, it's hard to lose. You're so honored and humbled when you think about your career and when you think about some of the people who haven't had the opportunities that you've had. I'm very very blessed.
So that's how you keep from going insane in this business, by all the disappointments and frustrations and b.s. you go through on a daily basis - by being humble? The best line I've ever heard about what being a film producer is like was by producer Joel Silver. When someone asked him what he does as a producer he said: "Simple. I wake up in the morning and have people telling me 'No!' all day."
(Laughing) That's it! But yeah, I mean I'm in a good place right now. I'm going to take a little break from directing.
Yeah you're tired.
(Laughs) Yeah, I literally just finished the movie two days ago and I need a break. I'm going to spend some time with my kids and then I'm going to rev up this battery again and hit it again with something that really excites me.
Which leads to me to ask - before, you were a talent manager, then a producer, so why move into directing?
Because I began as a director. People don't understand I started out as a director with my partner, that's how we met. I was directing plays. I even once directed Cuba [Gooding Jr] in a play.
So you got kind of sidetracked?
I was always a director. But it wasn't about getting sidetracked. It was about survival. And it was easier, at the time, to produce than to work as a director. But I don't know if I was too afraid to put myself out there creatively on the front line than to have someone else. Like I had discovered people like Marc Forster, who directed Monster's Ball, or Nicole Kassell who directed The Woodsman, earlier works that I produced. Yeah, but it was easy then.
You mentioned Marc Forster who directed Monster's Ball and we've seen where he's gone. He's directed other films like the James Bond film, Quantum of Solace, and this summer's World War Z. He moved to direct those $150 - $200 million budget huge studio pictures, while you're still in the indie film world. Do you want to direct a huge film like those or not?
I don't know the answer to that. Too much pressure. Maybe. If it was the right movie. It's all about the right material. (Pause) But I would have to answer to a bunch of people, a bunch of suits. Can you imagine me talking to a bunch of suits?
Certainly not you. You're too independent…
(At the moment a PR person comes to tell say the time is over)
Just a minute please. You're the only black person I've talked to today to talk about my movie, and they're trying to get us to stop. I mean what the fuck? (Laughs).
I think we're talking about things we're not supposed to be talking about. (laughs)
(Laughs) Yeah, but I don't think I can answer to a bunch of suits.
You are who you are.
Yeah, either you're going to love me or not like me. There's no grey area.
Too many compromises you have to make.
But then again it depends on who you have coming behind you. Like, if I had Harvey Weinstein behind me. He's fantastic! He's really been a great supporter. And he really was behind me 100% creatively on this film. If he was to come in with a project along with Sony or Paramount, that would be a different situation. Who knows? Maybe.
Donella | August 18, 2013 12:06 AM
Daniels did an amazing job on The Butler, his best work to date and tremendous growth and skill on display. Highly recommended. David Oyewelo did a great job. Everyone did.
al | August 15, 2013 3:36 PM
The comments on the site are sometimes just about as interesting as the post. I guess that's point of a blog.
Solaam | August 5, 2013 10:44 PM
Nice interview Sergio.
I dig these "shootin' the shit" type of pieces, because you seem
to get more spicy nuggets of exposition.
Blackman | August 5, 2013 9:01 PM
this dude is a low rent, pain filled, egotistical, trashy Fag.
yup, that's it.
bashe | August 5, 2013 1:19 PM
Good interview. I sure hope this film has Daniels' trademark Squirm Factor. Monster's Ball, Shadowboxer, Precious... Seems like every time the theater lights go down on a Lee Daniels film, I find myself, at one point or another, shifting uncomfortably in my seat---and I love that sort of difficult audience experience (I hope he still wants to make a film based on Ray Shell's novel Iced. Talk about "controversial"!)
The Butler, to be honest, looks like what Sergio calls a "castor oil film." But I'll check it out anyway, based on Daniels' track record...
Donella | August 5, 2013 1:18 PM
Definitely a great interview with a fascinating man.
Dawn | August 5, 2013 11:01 AM
Nice interview. I love Lee Daniels...
LeonRaymond | August 5, 2013 10:41 AM
Thanks Sergio, Great Interview and I respect Lee even more. But more to the point is that you cleared up in the conversation the misconception I had been told and that to find out that Laura Ziskin CHOSE him to do this project and for some one who did nothing but huge tentpole blockbuster mega budget films she reached out to him for what was a different sort of film
Nice interview
James | August 5, 2013 9:26 AM
From one club member to another, great interview!
ALM | August 5, 2013 9:00 AM
I love, love, love the way that he ignored the pr person. Daniels respected the fact that he was speaking to his sole interviewer of color. That says a lot about him in a positive way. The pr people always show up when questions get good, and they think the client is about to say too much.
Great job Sergio!
artbizzy | August 5, 2013 8:42 AM
Aww, what a beautiful photo of one of the most courageous, interesting, thought provoking directors in the business. Can't wait to see this film


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Zulgad: Twins call potential audible on where Ryan Doumit will play
First time posting here, but saw this last night and thought it was funny. Ryan Doumit played LF last night for the Twins. I didn't watch the game, but apparently he only made one fielding error. The link is to an article about the Twins plans for Doumit this year. Anyway, I hope you at least got a chuckle at the idea.

subset: commoncrawl


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Town Square
Attorney scrutinizes Menlo hotel parking approval
Original post made on Apr 4, 2013
Read the full story here Web Link posted Thursday, April 4, 2013, 8:19 AM
on Apr 4, 2013 at 12:03 pm
It'll be interesting to see where this goes, since the leadership failed.
on Apr 4, 2013 at 12:41 pm
I think other, future businesses in the 1300 block of El Camino which awaits development might have an interest in Garwood remaining public parking. What will the developers of other properties persuade MP to throw in as freebies?
MP spent time & money (for consultants) to develop the Specific Plan. Now, developer Moulds & senior planner Rogers seek to ignore that. Does MP pay Rogers a salary? His disregard for of regulations adopted specifically to benefit & protect MP & its residents is both arrogant & cavalier.
on Apr 4, 2013 at 1:19 pm
Dear Editor:
How many residents could be accommodated in the Casa Peninsula?
I know if it still does, but the Holiday Inn on ECR in RWC closest to MP was used by the county to house people released from jail. Are other hotels in MP already doing this?
Will the Marriott Residence Inn be doing that as well? Is permission from the City Council needed for that?


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It's week two of the Knock it Off series, and the wonderfully talented Amy's here to show us a whole line-up of looks that you can easily re-create yourself. I can attest to how awesome her patterns are since I've made a few myself, and now's a great time to pick some up since she's offering E&E readers a special deal. Thank you Amy!
Monday, November 12, 2012
Knock it Off - Nap Time Crafters
2 comments:
I like Amy's patterns because they are very current and fashionable kids designs. Im working on her pea coat pattern. So cute.ReplyDelete
I found that JCrew jacket in my gal's size at a consignment shop for $6 a few weeks ago! Ha! Look like great patterns. When I'm back in a sewing mood, I'll have to check out her shop!ReplyDelete
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5 Things You Need to Know Before the Stock Market Opens
BOSTON (TheStreet) -- The contraction in eurozone economic activity leads your quick fix of company, market, economic and investing news for Wednesday, Feb. 15.
Wednesday's 5 Biggest Stories
Eurozone GDP fell 0.3% in the fourth quarter after growing only 0.1% in the third quarter. [MarketWatch]
Here we go again: EU finance ministers call off an emergency meeting over Greece's second bailout. [First Post]
Recession? Greek default? Who cares? China is coming to rescue, pledging to invest in Europe's bailout fund. [Bloomberg]Oh boy. A Goldman Sachs (GS) analyst based in Taiwan is being probed for dishing out inside information to hedge funds. [WSJ] Regulators pull the plug on LightSquared, a nationwide high-speed wireless network backed by hedge fund manager Phil Falcone. [Washington Post]
Company NewsThe new Yahoo! (YHOO) looks a lot like the old Yahoo!, with talks between the company and Alibaba Group falling apart. [Reuters] Zynga (ZNGA) posts a loss in its first quarterly report as a public company and the social gaming company also offers a tepid forecast. [LA TImes] It appears Amazon.com (AMZN) doesn't have as many Prime members as previously thought. [Bloomberg]
MarketsHere's how Apple (AAPL) is clouding the rest of the market, and why analysts are pulling Apple from their broader market forecasts. [WSJ]
Investment StrategyThe best and the worst of the small-cap growth funds. [MarketWatch]
Odds and EndsRupert Murdoch's nemesis is a woman who was only 13 years old when she sang at his wedding in 1999. [Bloomberg] Happy Wednesday. Here's a song by Roxy Music to relax to as we're halfway through this week on our way to a holiday weekend. [YouTube] -- Written by Robert Holmes in Boston.
>To contact the writer of this article, click here: Robert Holmes. >To follow Robert Holmes on Twitter, go to http://twitter.com/RobTheStreet. >To submit a news tip, send an email to: firstname.lastname@example.com.
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Police say sorry for 'gay DNA' scandal (From The Argus)
Get involved: Send your news, views, pictures and video by texting SUPIC to 80360 or email us.
Police say sorry for 'gay DNA' scandal
1:20pm Saturday 26th January 2013 in News By Peter Truman
Police who took DNA samples from men for having been gay have apologised after The Argus exposed the scandal.
Sussex Police had turned up at the houses of three men who had been convicted of the now repealed offence of gross indecency, and asked for swabs.
The law, originally used to convict homosexuals, was repealed in 2003.
The swabs were taken as part of Operation Nutmeg, which aims to solve historic cases by using DNA samples from rapists, murderers and child sex abusers.
But those solely convicted of gross indecency had also been included in the operation.
Those who refused to co-operate could have been liable for arrest.
Now Sussex Police has backtracked on the approach and apologised to the three men.
A statement said: "Although police have the legal power to request these samples and all three men voluntarily provided them when asked, Sussex Police recognises this was not in the full spirit of the legislation and we apologise for any distress caused."
The Argus reported how two of the men had been so concerned after the incident they had called the Brighton LGBT Switchboard to ask about their legal rights.
And James Ledward, editor of Brighton-based G-Scene magazine, had demanded an apology from the force.
Sussex Police conceded "a more considered approach" should have been taken. Officers will now no longer look to take DNA samples from those convicted of the repealed offence.
A spokesman added: "We encourage anyone with concerns that they may still have a criminal record due to these repealed offences to request its removal.
"We can provide guidance to help with this.
"We will also be contacting the three people who have already provided samples, apologising for any distress caused and offering to assist them to apply for their conviction to be removed from the national database, which will result in the DNA samples we have already taken being destroyed."
So far more than 130 samples have been taken in Sussex as part of Operation Nutmeg.
- Firefighters deal with major blaze in Brighton
- Firefighters deal with chemical incident at Brighton police station
- Bushes to be kept high to hide gay cruising
- Bar's licence under threat after reports of drug use, under-age drinking and sexual assault
- Piano at Brighton station moved - because it is too noisy
Comments (8)
Please log in to enable comment sorting
6:43pm Sat 26 Jan 13
Morpheus says...
8:55pm Sat 26 Jan 13
Freeloaders says...
imnotpc wrote:I know the public aint much better also.Please wake up my friend.Only this week yet another police sergeant keeps his job after a string of complaints of touching up PCSOs.Iv lost count of the amount of storys about coppers up to know good in the Argus over the last 12mths.In most cases they always keep their jobs,and you can be sure they keep their pensions.
i think its absolutely disgusting that the police have to apologise just to be 'pc'.Why? they are just doing their job.And come on there's a lot of sicko's/pervs out there
9:23pm Sat 26 Jan 13
mimseycal says...
Morpheus wrote:No one is asking for convictions to be squashed. Merely that DNA garnered on the basis of a historic conviction, according to a now defunct law, be expunged from the DNA records.
Why do they need to have the continued distress of applying for the convictions to be removed? It should just be done by the police and without delay.
12:29am Sun 27 Jan 13
qstevie says...
2:40pm Sun 27 Jan 13
BiggerH says...
Lawyer scum
7:24pm Sun 27 Jan 13
Dr.Draconian says...
/giving head in public.
The fact that some elements of the gay community have decided the law was anti-gay is a massive insult to that very community.
There are filthy perverts out there that have been convicted of this offence that were caught masturbating at kids in playgrounds, do you want their convictions overturned?
10:37pm Sun 27 Jan 13
qstevie says...
11:21pm Sun 27 Jan 13
mimseycal says...
The DNA needs to be expunged from the records and all the DNA taken and kept under those circumstances should be expunged.
Comments are closed on this article.


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In-depth analysis, news notes, and commentary on the Seattle Seahawks offseason.
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The one thing the NFL has done a good job with these past few years - apart from that pesky lockout - is keeping the masses entertained during the offseason. They have a great many things to cover from the time the Super Bowl ends to the beginning of the preseason the following year.
They maintain interest by covering Draft prospects at the East-West Shrine Bowl, the Senior Bowl, the Combine, and then move swiftly into Pro Day coverage. There are league owners' meetings where they announce upcoming rule changes to pique your interest and they keep you hooked with free agency, trades, and the like. We're now into April, and as a NFL writer, I don't feel like I've even had a chance to take a deep breath despite my team, the Seahawks, not even making the playoffs.
Alas, there appears to be no rest for the weary - as the league's offseason programs start to kick in during the next two weeks. As of April 16th, teams will be getting together during a 10-week time period in which at least nine will be spent working out, training, installing the offense, and having formal OTAs and practices.
Obviously, let's not forget the Draft in late April.
That said, not a whole hell of a lot is happening this week, so of course the league decided to release their new uniforms on Tuesday and now apparently on Wednesday will be announcing the Preseason schedule for each team.
Looks like the NFL will be releasing the preseason schedule tomorrow afternoon— Tim Twentyman (@ttwentyman) April 3, 2012
Anything to keep your interest. And dammit - it works. I am legitimately kind of excited to see who the Seahawks will face in a series of four completely meaningless games.
Stay with us here this week and we'll update this stream with the announcement of the schedule, expected Wednesday.
For more on the Seahawks, make sure you head to Field Gulls and join in on the discussion.
The Seattle Seahawks are headed back to the drawing board when it comes to linebackers. With Leroy Hill still out there in free agency, Seattle might have to do some heavy replacing now that David Hawthorne has decided to take a look elsewhere.
Saints Agree on a 5-Year Contract with LB David Hawthorne— New Orleans Saints (@Saints) April 3, 2012
Reportedly, the Seahawks were offering $3 million a year (per John Clayton), but Saints gave him a better offer and that was enough to convince Hawthorne to look to the Bayou. Seattle probably would have needed to consider offering a longer-term deal to keep Hawthorne in Seattle.
The Seahawks will now have to fill up their linebacking coffers, as they're now down to but a few young backs who haven't played all that much. They may now have to consider picking a linebacker early int he 2012 NFL Draft in order to find their starters for the season.
To discuss Hawthorne and the Saints, head on over to Canal Street Chronicles. To talk about Hawthorne and the Seahawks, check out Field Gulls.
The compliments are already rolling in.
Buffalo Bills safety George Wilson tweeted that the Seattle Seahawks' new uniforms -- revealed as part of the new Nike uniform launch -- are the ones to look out for and have already been dubbed the favorite jersey among the players. And possibly the biggest compliment of all was that the Seahawks will be the "Oregon of the NFL".
Wilson, of course, is referencing the stylish Oregon Ducks college football team known for its ensembles and color schemes. With the Ducks near Nike town, they are fitted with fully customized gear that makes every team in the country jealous. And according to Wilson, that jealousy won't be transferred too far away with the neighboring Seahawks now being the talk of the league.
Take a look at what all the hoopla is about below.
For more on the Seahawks, make sure you head to Field Gulls and join in on the discussion.
In 2012, Nike will take over the uniform license for the NFL. The league unveiled the new team uniforms on Tuesday and saved our very own Seattle Seahawks for last.
The Seahawks have been noted for their uniforms over the past few years (for good or for ill) ever since the addition of neon green to their color scheme. It makes sense that Nike would latch onto the Seahawks to make their biggest splash, as the precedent is already there. Nike has also gained a large amount of uni-centric conversation in recent years (again, for good or for ill) for its "Pro Combat" college football uniforms. In particular, their numerous uniforms for the Oregon Ducks have sparked innumerable conversations as of late.
One of the unveilings before the official Seahawks announcement was the new team "salute" gloves that will be in use for every team. You can see the Seahawks gloves on the bottom row:
All images via Seahawks.com
The new Seahawks helmet:
And the full uniform:
You can see a full gallery of the new uniforms by checking out the Seahawks website.
Regardless of what you think about the new uniforms, the players that have seen or worn them appear to genuinely love the new design. The new jerseys will be on pre-sale April 15 and will officially go on sale April 26 and 27.
For more on the Seahawks, make sure you head to Field Gulls and join in on the discussion.
The Seahawks are at the center of the new Nike uniform changes that are being unveiled today, with anticipated color scheme and logo changes finally being released.
Nike is set to show the world what they've done with all the 32 teams' NFL uniforms and will do so live at 8:00AM PST. We'll make sure to add photos and updates throughout the press conference so you can see the changes.
There have been leaks and rumors surrounding the Seahawks new duds for the past several months and the latest scuttlebutt revolves around a third 'grey alternate' that, according to Mike Williams, is 'ice cold.' We've also heard that there will be feathers somehow featured, that there may be a totem pole somewhere, that the helmets will be darker, or that the helmets will be lighter, and that the Seahawks logo now has a strip of grey on the Seahawk head, instead of the cobalt blue currently there.
The one thing that we know for sure at this point, is that the uniforms Nike unveils will be a different fabric and fit than their Reebok predecessors.
For more on the Seahawks, make sure you head to Field Gulls and join in on the discussion.
Thanks to the meticulous work done by Pro Football Talk, Seattle Seahawks fans can keep track on which draft prospects the team is hosting leading up to April 26th.
LSU defensive tackle Michael Brockers (4/?)
LSU cornerback Ron Brooks (4/?).
Beloit receiver/tight end Derek Carrier (?/?).
UCLA running back Derrick Coleman (4/?).
Virginia defensive end Matt Conrath (4/?).
Cincinnati tight end Adrien Robinson (?/?).
Washington fans may be familiar with UCLA running back Derrick Coleman. Coleman played in three consecutive games for the Bruins against the Huskies from 2008 through 2010. However, the Huskies held Coleman under 100 yards each time.
Head coach Pete Carroll and general manager John Schneider will be picking the No. 12 overall pick in round one, No. 43 in round two, No. 75 in round three, No. 106 in round four with two subsequent picks in round six and seven.
For more on the Seahawks, head over to Field Gulls.
The Seattle Seahawks are starting a brand new age, and Nike will be their partners down the road. Nike has started their license with the NFL, and they're ready to get going with their new jerseys. Anne Peterson of the Associated Press files this report.
The biggest changes will likely be in the performance aspect of the uniforms, like newer lightweight fabrics and a sleek silhouette, but a few teams could get the Cinderella treatment.
Nike isn't commenting until the big reveal.
Dennis Dillon of Sports Illustrated has more on the situation.
In February, Nike President and CEO Mark Parker told CNBC's Darren Rovell: "We've innovated at a very high level. The uniforms are lighter, they're faster, they're better fitting. So, the athletes are actually very excited about what we're going to bring to the professional game. People are wondering, 'What are you going to do? Are you going to get crazy with the uniforms?' I think we're actually going to have some fun but respect the tradition of these teams at the same time."
However, it appears as if the Seahawks will be the only one getting a total overhaul of their new jerseys. Mike Sando of the ESPN NFC West Blog discusses it briefly.
The Seattle Seahawks are expected to unveil completely new uniforms. It's been about a decade since the team's most recent redesign. Seattle is the only team, to my knowledge, expected to unveil a redesign.
Here's a sample of the new logo that will probably be emblazoned on the helmets, which isn't that much stronger.
Nick Eaton of the Seattle Post-Intelligencer files this report.
To discuss the new uniforms of the Seahawks, head on over to Field Gulls.
The Seahawks will have to wait two weeks from Monday, April 16th, before they're allowed to begin their voluntary offseason workouts, but teams with new coaching staffs - specifically a new head coach - are now officially able to get started, according to Article 21 of the new NFL CBA.
These teams with new coaches can get started today and the basic rundown of the offseason program for each team is as follows:
Offseason workout programs for teams with new coaches can run for nine weeks within a 12-week period. The other teams have a 10-week window with which to get in nine weeks. The programs cannot exceed four days a week and must be conducted Monday through Friday. Offseason workout programs have three phases with different rules for each. They are based on strength and conditioning, individual instruction and organized team activities.
According to the good people at SB Nation Bay Area, the offseason programs are built into three phases:
Phase One: the first phase's primary goal is for trength and conditioning and/or injury rehab. Strength and conditioning coaches will work with the players on the field but regular position coaches are not allowed. This isn't a traditional practice - more akin to a group workout with a little bit of guidance from strength coaches. No pads.
Phase Two: the second phase is typically three weeks, and brings in coaches and on-field workouts. The teams are allowed to bring all coaches but are not allowed to wear pads or helmets, (non-hitting practice). This is a way for teams to team on-field schematics and principles without instructing on hitting and all that.
Phase Three: the third phase, which covers the four weeks, is where the famous Organized Team Activities (OTAs) come in. These are more like traditional practice with helmets but they're not full contact, as players don't wear pads. Again, used for getting acclimated back into football without the physical rigors of full-contact.
In late July or early August, training camp begins in earnest, and teams are allowed to start hitting and practicing in full pads again.
Here is the official language on the CBA, concerning off-season workouts and OTAs.
If a Club hires a new head coach after the end of the prior regular season, that Club may schedule or conduct an offseason workout program for no more than nine total weeks, with eight of the weeks required to be consecutive and subject to Article 22, Section 3, to be completed over a twelve-week period. All other Clubs may schedule or conduct offseason workout programs for no more than nine consecutive total weeks, to be completed over a ten-week period. In either case, Clubs may schedule no more than four workouts per week for any individual player. Such workout programs shall not be permitted on weekends.
(b) Each Club's official nine-week offseason workout program shall be conducted in three phases, as follows:
(i) Phase One. Phase One shall consist of the first two weeks of the Club's offseason workout program. ... Phase One activities shall be limited to strength and conditioning and physical rehabilitation only. During Phase One, only full time or part-time strength and conditioning coaches, who have no other coaching responsibilities with the Club, shall be allowed on the field; no other coaches shall be allowed on the field or to otherwise participate in or observe activities. No footballs shall be permitted to be used (only "dead ball" activities), except that quarterbacks may elect to throw to receivers provided they are not covered by any other player. Players cannot wear helmets during Phase One.
(ii) Phase Two. Phase Two shall consist of the next three weeks of the Club's offseason workout program. Subject to the additional rules set forth in Section 5 of this Article, during Phase Two all coaches shall be allowed on the field. On-field workouts may include individual player instruction and drills, as well as "perfect play" drills (e.g., offense or defense only, but not offense vs. defense), or special teams drills on a "separates" basis (e.g.., kicking team or return team only, but not kicking team vs. return team). No live contact or team offense vs. team defense drills are permitted. No offense vs. defense drills are permitted (e.g.., no one-on-one offensive linemen vs. defensive linemen pass rush or pass protection drills, no wide receivers vs. defensive backs bump and-run drills, and no one-on-one special teams drills involving both offense and defense are permitted.) Players cannot wear helmets during Phase Two.
(iii) Phase Three. Phase Three shall consist of the next four weeks of the Club's offseason workout program ... during Phase Three each Club may conduct a total of ten days of organized team practice activity ("OTAs" or "OTA days") ... The Club may conduct a maximum of three days of OTAs during each of the first two weeks of Phase Three.
A maximum of four days of OTAs may be conducted during either the third week or the fourth week of Phase Three, with the Mandatory Veteran Minicamp (Article 22, Section 2) to be held during the other week. During weeks in which the Club conducts only three days of OTAs, the Club may also conduct a fourth day of non-OTA workouts ... During Phase Three, all coaches shall be allowed on the field.
No live contact is permitted. No one-on-one offense vs. defense drills are permitted (i.e., no offensive linemen vs. defensive linemen pass rush or pass protection drills, no wide receivers vs.defensive backs bump-and-run drills, and no one-on-one special teams drills involving both offense and defense are permitted). Special teams drills (e.g., kicking team vs. return team) are permitted, provided no live contact occurs. Team offense vs. team defense drills, including all drills listed in Appendix G to this Agreement, are permitted, provided no live contact occurs. Clubs may require players to wear helmets; no shells are permit ted during Phase Three of the Club's offseason workout program or any minicamp.
For more on NFL Offseason workouts and OTAs, head over to SB Nation's NFL hub or head to Field Gulls for Seahawks' specific coverage.
Seahawks GM John Schneider, Head Coach Pete Carroll, and Offensive Coordinator Darrell Bevell were on hand Friday for Arizona State's pro day, apparently to get a closer look at what QB Brock Osweiler can do. The 6'7, 238 pound QB ran his 40-yard dash in 4.9 seconds and threw for the attendants - a scripted workout of 72 passes.
Gil Brandt of NFL.com reported that Osweiler's workout was so good that it might have vaulted him into the first round.
The scripted throwing session was run by Noel Mazzone, who recently left the Arizona State coaching staff to become an assistant at UCLA. Osweiler threw 72 passes, with seven hitting the ground. The seven misses were not, however, an indicator of wildness; his accuracy was very good. He presented himself very well, which is important for a quarterback, and interacted well with his receivers. Despite his height, he is very flexible and has a solid throwing platform. Mazzone has worked with him to correct a tendency to drop his elbow, which Osweiler avoided doing on Friday. Based on Friday's workout, I think Osweiler vaulted himself into the first round on draft day.
Kent Somers, of the Arizona Republic, had a similar report but wasn't quite so hyperbolic. He pointed out that while Osweiler obviously has some talent, he's very raw and will need to develop quite a bit before he's ready to play in the NFL.
Osweilwer threw the ball well. People who have watched him over the years believe he's altered his release, moving his arm to a higher point. He threw some wobblers and a handful of passes were errant. But overall, he was on the money. And he threw some great deep balls.
A couple of scouts I talked to pegged Osweiler as a third-round prospect who could move into the second round. My early guess is that will happen. He's big, smart and talented and teams will reach to take a quarterback. The downside is that he doesn't have a lot of experience. No one should expect him to play early in his career.
As for the Seahawks - this was their second pro day in as many days, following up their trip to College Station yesterday to attend Ryan Tannehill's workout. Whether they're just doing their due diligence, have legitimate interest, or are throwing up a smokescreen - we don't know, and may never know. We'll know one thing though in about four short weeks - whether Osweiler will become a Seahawk or get picked up by another interested team.
For more on the Seahawks, head over to Field Gulls.
The Seattle Seahawks were out to make some big splashes this offseason, possibly landing the services of Peyton Manning to be their new quarterback. They had to settle for Matt Flynn, but as Scouts Inc.'s Matt Wiliamson notes in his 2012 NFL free agency grades, that's not all a bad thing considering he still gave them an A for their moves made this offseason.
Here is Williamson's analysis:
Key additions: QB Matt Flynn, DT Red Bryant (re-sign), RB Marshawn Lynch (re-sign), DT Jason Jones, T Frank Omiyale, RB Michael Robinson (re-sign)
Key losses: TE John Carlson, G Robert Gallery, CB Marcus Trufant, QB Charlie Whitehurst, DT Anthony Hargrove
Analysis: This is an up-and-coming football team. While I am not the biggest Flynn believer, he is a clear improvement at the most important position on the field -- so I can't argue with that acquisition, especially at the price. Seattle is betting on Flynn, but they aren't betting the farm. Keeping Lynch in the fold should ensure that Flynn's transition to his new team is smoother. Bringing back Bryant, the massive run-stuffer, was huge for this young defense, as was adding an exceptional complement to Bryant in Jones, who is one of the better pure interior pass-rushers in the NFL. There are some big names on Seattle's key-losses list, but in reality, this group's value doesn't compare to its name recognition. The Seahawks are on the rise.
Grade: A
With the dominant year the 49er had in 2011 it's good to see that another NFC West team is on the rise alongside of them. This can only make the Carroll vs. Harbaugh meetings that all more exciting.
For more in depth discussion and analysis of the Seahawks, make sure you head over to Field Gulls to get in on the action.
Taking a look at the current state of the Seahawks' roster as we're well in to free-agency and approaching the Draft.
The Seahawks have set off a firestorm of speculation today, again, by sending a rather ostentatious contingent to the Texas A&M Pro Day that included Seahawks GM John Schneider, head coach and ultimate decision maker Pete Carroll, and offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell. Ostensibly, they were there to watch QB Ryan Tannehill throw for the first time in a quite a while after Tannehill sat out workouts at the Combine while recovering from a broken foot.
Tannehill did well, completing passes to WR Jeff Fuller and RB Cyrus Gray, both of whom - incidentally - the Seahawks might have some interest in as well.
Furthering speculation that the Seahawks are enamored with the Aggie QB was the news emerging that Pete Carroll and John Schneider joined Jeff Ireland, Joe Philbin and the Miami Dolphins representatives at dinner last night with Ryan Tannehill. While some painted it like the Seahawks simply showed up uninvited and sat down at the table, Miami beat reporter Ben Volin pointed out it was a pre-planned occasion for both teams to sit down together with the QB. Joe Philbin and John Schneider are old friends from their time together in Green Bay.
The Seahawks very public display of interest can really mean anything so I'm not even going opine one way or another. As has been widely publicized, the Hawks also showed great interest in Ryan Mallett and Jimmy Clausen in 2010 and 2011, respectively, and we saw how that ended up. The Hawks could have legitimate interest in Tannehill despite their recent signing of Matt Flynn, or they could just be putting pressure on Miami to stay at #8 and take him if that's their preferred quarterback this year. If Miami feels that they could take a, say, pass-rusher at #8 and then trade back into the late 1st round to grab Tannehill as well, that would potentially mean one less pass-rush option for the Seahawks at #12.
Smoke screen or not, teams like to weave a web of tangled lies in order to keep their enemies guessing. We really won't know one way or another until April 26th.
For more on the Seahawks, head over to Field Gulls.
The Seattle Seahawks hold a draft pick midway through the first round, which means there is plenty of uncertainty as to who they're going to end up picking.
The Seahawks would love a right guard.
Chad Reuter of NFL.com reports.
General manager John Schneider and head coach Pete Carroll settled the team's biggest need (or so they hope) by giving former Packers backup quarterback Matt Flynn his chance to be "The Man" in Seattle. They could use a legitimate outside threat at receiver across from Sidney Rice, in addition to the promising Doug Baldwin and solid tight end Zach Miller.
Breno Giacomini re-signed with the team and could start at right tackle, as 2011 first-round pick James Carpenter moves inside. But don't be surprised if the team picks up Seattle-area native David DeCastro in the first round to solidify things in front of Flynn and lead the way for multi-million dollar running back Marshawn Lynch.
The Seahawks have plenty of other needs. They could use a linebacker to help out David Hawthorne if he decides to return, or just to provide assistance to Leroy Hill. They could use a defensive end to take care of Red Bryant and Chris Clemons. And they could use depth behind the cornerbacks.
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To talk about the draft with Seahawks fans, hit up Field Gulls. To discuss how critical DeCastro is with Stanford fans, hit up Rule of Tree. To talk about the Seahawks offseason, go to the SB Nation Seattle storystream.
Say what you will about his methods. The bottom line is that they're effective.
When the Seahawks signed free agent QB Matt Flynn there was, predictably, a great deal of excitement as to the Seahawks' prospects in 2012 and visions of Flynn's 480 yard, 6 touchdown record-breaking performance danced through our minds in anticipation.
Obviously, though, Matt Flynn isn't going to put up that kind of production in every game - no one could - and potentially, he may not even win the starting job to start the season. As information trickles in, it becomes more and more apparent that the Seahawks took advantage of a slower-than-expected market to sign an unproven, potential impact player. That's what Matt Flynn is, really - after two starts, it's extremely difficult to project his ability to lead a team - he could be great, or he could falter and his deficiencies could be exposed.
All this, the Seahawks know. And, they paid Flynn an amount commensurate a player like that should be paid. At first blush, a 3-year, $26 million contract with $10 million guaranteed looks to make the easy case that Flynn will start and Tarvaris Jackson will back him up. "You don't pay a guy that much money to sit on the bench," many have said, not unreasonably.
Interesting #Seahawks note looking at NFLPA database: Matt Flynn's deal in base salary is $2 mil in '12, $5.25 in '13, $6.25 in '14— Tim Booth (@ByTimBooth) March 26, 2012
So - to sum that up - Matt Flynn's salary in 2012 is $2 million dollars, with an approximate cap hit of around $4 million, if you prorate his $6 million signing bonus over the life of his contract. Compare that to Tarvaris Jackson's salary of $4 million in 2012, plus another $750,000 or so in cap hit for his signing bonus, and their compensation is pretty similar.
In other words - Matt Flynn is not being paid as a starter in 2012, though admittedly his signing bonus might make it seem that way. The front office doesn't see it that way though, and remember - Charlie Whitehurst was paid $8 million over the last two seasons.
Flynn's contract is loaded towards the end of his deal and is highly dependent on his performance. His performance incentives, from what I've heard, will be difficult to reach, and if they are reached and the pay is triggered, it's a win-win for the team. You've found a viable starting quarterback and you can start paying him like one, starting in 2013 and going into 2014.
It's a calculated move by the front office to put themselves in a position to cut Flynn if he doesn't perform after a season or two, without losing a great deal of money. As I said, his cap hit is very close to that of Tarvaris Jackson this year, which, not coincidentally, plays into the Seahawks' stated desires for a true competition at quarterback this summer and fall.
Per Dan Pompei of the National Football Post, on Sunday:
The Seahawks were the right place for Matt Flynn for a couple reasons. He isn't being counted on to play like he did in the regular season finale for the Packers. In fact, he might not even be counted on to start. My Seahawks sources wouldn't be surprised if Tarvaris Jackson beat him out, given that Jackson played pretty well the second half of the season. And the Seahawks still are looking at QBs in the draft.
As for Jackson - he's taking the news about as well as you can hope for, and is looking forward to the challenge. In an interview with Brock and Salk this morning, Seahawks FB Mike Robinson shed a little light on Jackson's frame of mind:
"He's excited about it," Robinson said on Tuesday. "He's looking at it as a chance to up his game a little bit more to show that he can be a full-time starter in this league and do well. So he was excited about it."
"He said, 'Mike, you know, this always happens to me and I'm ready for it to bring the best out of me.'"
My initial reaction to the Flynn signing was excitement - and in my mind's eye I still see the former Green Bay backup winning the quarterback competition and starting for the Seahawks in 2012. That said, I have to say that the Seahawks did a good job of creating an atmosphere where Carroll's competition mantra can play out and if Flynn falters badly, they haven't sunk too much money into their backup QB.
Carroll has made it more than clear that larger contract doesn't = automatic starter.No one is safe, everyone earns his spot.— Liz Mathews 710 ESPN (@Liz_Mathews) March 26, 2012
#Seahawks QB Tarvaris Jackson will be taking the first team reps, with QB Matt Flynn right behind him.Sorry for the confusion!— Liz Mathews 710 ESPN (@Liz_Mathews) March 27, 2012
Per a Pete Carroll interview - Tarvaris Jackson is going to be getting the first team reps initially, and it's his job to lose. It will certainly make training camp interesting.
For more on this and all things Seahawks, head over to Field Gulls.
As if it wasn't bad enough to not be truly given a chance during the Peyton Manning sweepstakes, now this comes to light.
Look at what happened when Pete Carroll tried to surprise Manning with a visit during his free agency, according to SI.com's Peter King.
"One more surprise: Manning got a call informing him that Seahawks coach Pete Carroll had flown, unannounced with Seattle GM John Schneider to the airport in Englewood. Carroll would do whatever Manning wanted - talk for a while in Denver or on the plane to Arizona, his next visit, or fly him to Seattle for a lengthier discussion.
Peyton Manning does not like surprises. He said no thanks. Carroll flew home."
Ouch. Carroll must have had USC flashbacks and thought he could swoop in last minute and grab the biggest recruit in the NFL sea but he wasn't given a glass of water. It's okay coach, just look forward to the Matt Flynn era.
The Seahawks have signed 27-year old running back Kregg Lumpkin, most recently with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Lumpkin, 5'11, 228, is a former undrafted free agent out of Georgia that was signed by the Green Bay Packers in 2008. After an impressive training camp, he made the 53-man roster that year, but suffered an injury early on and was played on the injured reserve. He stuck with the Packers on the IR and practice squad until 2010 when he was released in final roster cutdowns, and subsequently he signed with the Buccaneers. Lumpkin was originally a highly recruited tailback - 2nd only to Reggie Bush in 2003 rankings, but his college performance never lived up to that due to injuries his sophomore and senior season.
In his NFL career, he has 33 rushing attempts for 124 yards and 45 catches for 325 yards. We'll see what this signing amounts to - he might just be a camp body, similar to Thomas Clayton of last season, or the Seahawks may have a real plan for him - in the backfield or in special teams.
Head over to Field Gulls for more on the Seahawks.
The Seahawks hosted free agent tight end Jacob Tamme last week in the hopes of signing the veteran as a replacement for recently departed John Carlson. Tamme made a name for himself in the NFL in 2010 when Dallas Clark went out with an injury. Catching passes from Peyton Manning, the Kentucky Wildcat, he reeled in 67 passes for 631 yards and four touchdowns in 8 starts.
The Seahawks were looking to bolster their tight end corps and have also recently hosted veteran TE Visanthe Shiancoe. The Hawks heavily feature two tight end sets in their offense and apparently aren't satisfied with their depth at the position. Soon to be 3rd year player Anthony McCoy was 2nd on the depth chart last year behind Zach Miller, but struggled catching the football, and 3rd on the depth chart is Cameron Morrah, a former 7th round pick that sat out the first six weeks of 2011 on the PUP list before breaking into the lineup.
Either way - tight end appears to be a target position the Seahawks are looking to upgrade so with Tamme now off the market the front office will have to look elsewhere.
For more on the Seahawks, head over to Field Gulls.
Taking a look at the current state of the Seahawks' roster as we're well in to free-agency and approaching the Draft.
The Seattle Seahawks signed former Bears offensive tackle Frank Omiyale this week and I figured it would be pertinent to get a little bit of background on the newest member of the team.
Omiyale was born in Nashville, Tennessee on November 23, 1982. He played his college ball at Tennessee Tech and made the All-America team for Division I-AA in 2004 before being drafted by the Altanta Falcons in the fifth round of the NFL draft.
He didn't make the active roster as a rookie and only played in a single game for the first three years of his career until he was claimed by the Panthers in 2008. Omiyale made his first start in place of Jordan Gross on October 5, 2008. After the season, the Bears signed him to a four-year, $14 million contract.
Omiyale made 31 starts in three years for Chicago before being released after the year and picked up by Seattle this week. He has played at both tackle positions and at guard, giving him versatility although he lost his starting job in Chicago because of ineffectiveness.
He's not expected to compete for a starting job, but he gives the Hawks the depth on the offensive line that they sorely need.
His name is pronounced, "Oh, me? Yahli?"
Yes, you Yahli.
The Seattle Seahawks could be going an unconventional route to find a new player for their 53-man roster. The Seahawks might be looking at Hayden Smith, who has gone off the beaten path and been through multiple sports, and whose next step could be the NFL.
The National Football Post has more, and what's interesting is that basketball was his first sport of choice before moving onto rugby.
Smith went from playing basketball to becoming a rugby star. He is a front liner for the Saracens in the U.K. The 26-year-old is being seriously pursued by four NFL teams now, a process that began in January after the Senior Bowl. Agent Jack Bechta said he hopes to have a deal in place soon even as more teams are curious about seeing Smith.
Brewster spent a week training Smith in San Diego earlier this month before he worked out for the Philadelphia Eagles, Washington Redskins and Dallas Cowboys. Previously, Smith has met with the New York Jets twice and he's also had a workout for the New Orleans Saints. The Chicago Bears and Seattle Seahawks have expressed interest in bringing Smith in but right now he has a tight schedule with his rugby commitments.
Pete Carroll is known for going out of his way to find the best, and this would definitely be one of his most interesting recruiting trips, even dating back to his days at USC. It could certainly be a very interesting story if it does come to fruition.
It has been a dream of Hayden to play in the league for quite some time.
"To play in the NFL would undoubtedly be the pinnacle of my career," Smith said. "I will do whatever it takes to make my dream a reality."
Here is a profile of Smith for those unfamiliar with him.
(via ten)
To discuss Smith with Seahawks fans, hit up Field Gulls.
More: With Flynn, the QB situation just got more interesting
The Seattle Seahawks landed Matt Flynn in the hopes that he could produce as their next starting quarterback. They got him at a bargain price too, meaning that even if he doesn't work out, Seattle didn't have to risk too much to land him and can move on pretty easily without damage to their cap. Of course, the main hope is that Flynn does a lot more for Seattle, and the former Packers backup is hoping similar things.
Flynn got a chance to talk with the media via conference call. Eric Williams of Seahawks Insider has the following.
"I just really enjoyed it up there – really liked the feeling and everything, the coaching staff and the whole organization," Flynn said. "I liked everything about it. It felt very comfortable. It's a team that's a very young team, and I felt like they're headed in the right direction, with a chance to really do something special."
The most interesting note is the Seahawks might not be parting with Tarvaris Jackson despite the money Seattle owes him next year. It appears Seattle wants two quality quarterbacks on the roster.
"I've always been a very competitive guy," Flynn said. "I've always been a very confident guy. And I've always been a guy that believes on working his tail off and doing the best he can.
"And I know that I'm going to come in here, and I'm going to be in a competition. And I know that whatever happens, whatever my role is, I just want to make the Seattle Seahawks a better football team. And that's something I look forward to doing."
This could be a good thing for both of these guys, as it might help them each to work with each other and get better over time. And it could also help Seattle to ensure they have some stability at the quarterback position.
To talk about Flynn with Seahawks fans, go to Field Gulls.
According to ESPN's Adam Schefter and Chris Mortensen, the Peyton Manning saga has ended and he will be the next quarterback of the Denver Broncos.
Manning's agent, Tom Condon, and the Broncos are working towards finalizing a deal rumored to be around five years, $90 million.
Schefter tweeted that Manning called John Elway this morning to tell him he's looking forward to coming to play for him and that other teams have been notified of the decision.
With Manning now on his way to town, it also means that the Broncos will look to trade Tim Tebow.
Manning heading to the Broncos makes the Seahawks getting Matt Flynn look even better. Flynn was the second-most coveted quarterback on the market behind Manning and the Seahawks locked him into a three-year deal before another team whose focus was Manning could turn their attention to Flynn. The Seahawks have a quarterback and can now turn their attention to the other parts of their team that need attention.
The media and fan reaction to the Seahawks' signing of Matt Flynn has been almost exclusively positive - it's a low-risk deal for the Seahawks and if Matt Flynn continues to show some of the potential he flashed in his 480 yard, 6-TD game against the Lions last season, his $10 million guaranteed dollars will be an absolute steal. Here are some reactions and insight into the deal and the process.
Said he sat for a long time with OC Darrell Bevell, formerly of GB, and felt the Sea offense would be just like the one he learned in GB.— Peter King (@SI_PeterKing) March 18, 2012
Talked to Flynn. Said a big factor in Sea over Mia was vibe in the building in Seattle: "The coaches, the staff--they were fantastic.''— Peter King (@SI_PeterKing) March 18, 2012
Flynn deal reportedly averages $6.33 million. Tavaris makes $4 million this year. Not a huge gap.— gregg rosenthal (@greggrosenthal) March 18, 2012
Told by source close to Flynn that Seahawks "showed interest and urgency, from top to bottom, throughout process. Great visit."— Andrew Brandt (@adbrandt) March 18, 2012
Schneider was part of Packers front office that overdrafted Brohm and had a fourth-round grade on Flynn. Knew the deal had to make$ sense.— SC_DougFarrar (@SC_DougFarrar) March 18, 2012
The Seahawks did work out Flynn before agreeing to a deal, a source confirmed.— Adam Caplan (@caplannfl) March 18, 2012
Carroll mini-statement: "We are really excited to bring Matt in here to compete with Tarvaris."— SC_DougFarrar (@SC_DougFarrar) March 18, 2012
Welcome Matt Flynn QB to the @Seahawks just reached a three year deal great job @PeteCarroll John Schneider !!— Paul Allen (@PaulGAllen) March 18, 2012
For more on the Seahawks, head to Field Gulls, where we've already broken down the deal in detail and have absurdly in-depth scouting reports to check out.
The Seattle Seahawks slow-played the NFL Free Agent market this year, first signing DT Jason Jones to a reasonable 1-year, $4.5 million contract after his market narrowed a bit and St. Louis signed Kendall Langford. The next day, Seattle took advantage of a fluid quarterback situation - Alex Smith in Miami interviewing with the Dolphins, Peyton Manning still out there looking at the Titans, Broncos, and potentially the 49ers, and a weak deal offer for Flynn in Miami, and offered Flynn a deal he figured he couldn't turn down. So, for 3-years, and up to $26 million with performance incentives, Matt Flynn becomes the newest Seahawk.
Filed to ESPN: Matt Flynn has agreed to terms witj Seattle on a 3-yr contract worth up to $26M w/$10M guaranteed.— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 18, 2012
This is a fair deal for the Seahawks. Flynn still has a lot to prove before one can be certain he's a capable NFL starting quarterback, and only ten million guaranteed isn't crippling if he doesn't work out. Flynn has had strong games with the Packers and has proven he can run the offense quite effectively in his few stints replacing Aaron Rodgers in the starting lineup. How he fits with in Seattle's offense remains to be seen, but it definitely feels like Seattle is upgrading at the position.
Pete Carroll has announced that there will be an open competition at quarterback for the Seahawks this year between Matt Flynn, Tarvaris Jackson, and/or a draft pick, so the upcoming preseason just got a little bit more interesting.
To discuss Flynn and the Seahawks, head on over to Field Gulls.
The Seattle Seahawks are looking to make some moves through free agency to improve their team. While there may be a few larger questions looming for the club, a team can never have too much depth on the offensive or defensive lines. The Seahawks know this and added DT/DE Jason Jones on Saturday, signing the talented lineman to a one-year deal. His agent, Mike McCartney, broke the news earlier today.
Our great Seahawks blog, Field Gulls, has a bit of information on Jones and what he may bring to the team in 2012:
He's a pretty solid interior pass rusher that moved to defensive end last year and struggled. It will be very interesting to see how the Seahawks use him - my guess is that he'll be a rotational 3-tech that can bounce to the outside in certain sets and hopefully play with efficiency in multiple spots . With Brandon Mebane, Alan Branch, Red Bryant, and Clinton McDonald - plus Pep Levingston currently on the roster, the depth on the Seahawks line looks pretty nice, especially pre-Draft.
Jones, 25, is a 6'5, 275 pound physical beast that had 27 tackles and three sacks and one forced fumble in 2011 and has 112 career tackles and 15 1/2 sacks in his career. He'll be here on what's essentially a 'prove-it' deal and it's a very low-risk, potentially high reward deal for the Seahawks.
As Field Gulls mentions, this really does seem like a solid, low-risk move for the Seahawks. At the very worst they are out a few million bucks next season, and they could very well be getting a talented lineman at a cheaper cost because of the way St. Louis handled him last year. A move like this may not grab headlines across the country, but it is a move that is potentially a very large step forward to returning to the playoffs in 2012.
For more on the team and even more reaction to the Jones signing, head over to Field Gulls.
The Seahawks' search for a QB reportedly won't include Matt Flynn.
The great John Wooden once said, "Be quick, but don't hurry," to a group of his followers. The Seattle Seahawks should probably follow this as the free agency frenzy arrives this week. The search for a quarterback in the NFL can become a hectic experience and Seattle could certainly use an upgrade under center.
While a few are holding out hope for Peyton Manning, it is looking more and more likely that he will not be choosing the Seahawks. The impact of not landing the future Hall of Famer may be felt for a bit, but there are other capable quarterbacks on the free agent and/or trade markets, most notably Matt Flynn.
The Dolphins were eliminated from the Manning sweepstakes earlier in the week and the team wasted no time contacting Flynn, just as the Seahawks did. Here is the latest update from The Palm Beach Post.
Flynn, the Dolphins' top free agent priority now that Peyton Manning has eliminated them from contention, is in South Florida this morning to meet with Dolphins officials and get checked out by the team's medical staff, his father, Alvin Flynn, said by phone Saturday morning from Texas.
Flynn was in Seattle yesterday visiting with the Seahawks, the Dolphins' top competition for his services, and flew to South Florida after it finished, landing here around 5 or 6 this morning after some delays, his father said.
The Dolphins had planned to let Flynn rest this morning after the long flight and three-hour time change, but instead had to get going with the tests because of a small window to work with the medical staff. Flynn's meetings with the football staff will then proceed after the medical tests.
And as for which team may have emerged as the favorites for the former Green Bay Packer?
"He said it was a really nice place, and he enjoyed it, but he wanted to look at both of them. That was the way he felt going in," Alvin Flynn said.
But now that he's in South Florida, he may not leave. The Dolphins are considered by many experts as the logical landing spot for Flynn, given his connections with Philbin and the team's desire to find a franchise quarterback.
"Logic would tell me he would do something this weekend or thereabouts," Alvin Flynn said. "He doesn't want to drag this out."
The Seahawks should be doing everything in their power to lure a quarterback to Seattle and Flynn seems to be down to two finalists. Should they miss out on him, their next-best options would be via a trade (Alex Smith, Matt Hasselbeck and Tim Tebow could become available depending where Manning goes) or through the draft, with Ryan Tannehill being the odds-on favorite.
For more on the Seahawks and their pursuit of a quarterback, check out Field Gulls.
The Peyton Manning saga may be nearing an end, according to league sources and a report. While most believe the finalists to land No. 18 are the Seattle Seahawks, Denver Broncos, Tennessee Titans and San Francisco 49ers, anything could happen over the weekend as teams a last-minute attempt to lure the Hall of Famer to their franchise. There is, of course, always the chance that Manning prolongs his search, but that seems like a pretty uncharacteristic thing for him to do.
Here are a few more details:
Per league sources, Peyton Manning has informed clubs that he plans on making a final decision on his future on Monday or Tuesday. ...— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) March 17, 2012
And another:
... People involved aren't convinced he'll stick to that, partially because the process has been lengthy already. We'll see what happens.— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) March 17, 2012
It seems like most folks are with the belief that the Broncos and Titans are the two teams to beat, but the 49ers have emerged in the last day and the Seahawks appear to be the dark horse in all of this. No one is talking about them, but they provide Manning with just about everything he is looking for.
The weekend should be very interesting and we will surely get updates coming in left and right. We'll keep you updated. Peyton Manning is kind of a big deal.
For more on the Seahawks, check out Field Gulls.
The Seattle Seahawks had no real intention of re-signing backup quarterback Charlie Whitehurst in the offseason. While the QB situation in Seattle is not exactly pretty at the moment, Whitehurst was not going to see much playing time unless injuries affected those ahead of him. On Friday afternoon, the 29-year-old signed with the San Diego Chargers, ending his stint with the Seahawks.
Whitehurst appeared in three games with Seattle in 2011, throwing for 298 yards and a touchdown pass on 56 attempts. He was originally drafted by the Chargers in the third round and his primary role will be to backup Phillip Rivers in case he were to get injured.
This move certainly is not surprising, but a team can never have too much quarterback depth, especially when there is not a clear-cut starter within the organization.
For more on the Seahawks and to talk free agency with other fans, head on over to Field Gulls.
The Seattle Seahawks may be closing in on signing free agent quarterback Matt Flynn, but according to sources he will not make a decision before he meets with the Miami Dolphins on Saturday, leaving Seattle to twiddle their thumbs and hope for a positive answer.
Per ESPN Wisconisin's Jason Wilde:
#Packers UFA QB Matt Flynn won't immediately sign with @Seahawks; will leave to take scheduled visit to @MiamiDolphins, per @NFL source.— Jason Wilde (@jasonjwilde) March 16, 2012
Just because he's hearing other offers doesn't mean he isn't fond of the Seahawks, Flynn is simply doing his due diligence. Aside from the talent in which he will play, moeny will also be a factor for the 4th year QB, though don't look for Miami to drop any extra dough just because Peyton Manning told them no.
For those thinking Peyton Manning turning down Miami will make Matt Flynn's offer increase a couple million a year, you're wrong.— Omar Kelly (@OmarKelly) March 16, 2012
With the quarterback market dwindling, Flynn is certainly a hot commodity right now. Hopefully he'll have his decision in the next few days.
For more on the Seahawks, make sure you check out Field Gulls. For the Dolphins side of life, head on over to The Phinsider.
With Peyton-mania still in full force around the league, many teams are looking for viable second options for when No. 18 likely signs somewhere else. One of the most popular second options this offseason has been Matt Flynn, who spent Thursday and part of Friday with the Seattle Seahawks as they try to woo him to the Emerald City.
Flynn could sign with Seattle as soon as today if they present him with an offer he feels worth signing, but the Dolphins are said to be heavily in the mix for Flynn as well, brining him in this Saturday to see if he could fit their system. Unfortunately for them, he could be taken by then already, leaving the fins in the proverbial cold in South Beach when it comes to a new quarterback.
Flynn has played sparingly in his first four years in the league, seeing time in 5 games in 2011. He certainly impressed in that short amount of time, completing 33 of 49 passes for 6 TD's 2 interceptions and a 124.8 passer rating last season.
For more in depth discussion and analysis of the Seahawks, make sure you head over to Field Gulls to get in on the action.
The Seattle Seahawks are looking around a lot in the free agent market and there are a lot of players that are going in and out of the team headquarters. Let's take a look at some of the players Seattle has been looking into this year.
Seattle is looking for a quarterback somewhere (most likely through free agency), and had one of the most prominent candidates visiting. It looks like Flynn might be looking elsewhere though.
Filed to ESPN: Dolphins have arranged for Matt Flynn to visit Miami after his visit to Seattle. Miami's chances of landing Peyton dwindling.— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 15, 2012
With the Dolphins looking at Flynn, it's likely his price is going further up, meaning Seattle will probably not be signing him. Mike Sando doesn't believe Seattle will offer him starter money.
The Seahawks never showed interest in Mario Williams. He was not a priority for them. His signing in Buffalo has no impact on how Seattle proceeds in free agency. I do think the Seahawks will make an offer to Flynn. It will be a modest offer, most likely, probably for not much more than Tarvaris Jackson is making. We'll then find out how much Flynn wants to be in Seattle, and what market exists for him elsewhere. I don't think there's a huge market for him. Perhaps that changes if Peyton Manning goes somewhere other than Miami, which seems likely.
Defensive end Jason Jones is still being pursued by Seattle though.
#Seahawks confirm Jason Jones is in town. That's all I got. Back to the tourney. Bye!— Liz Mathews 710 ESPN (@Liz_Mathews) March 15, 2012
David Hawthorne could also be looking around, and it appears the Saints want him.
With both Curtis Lofton and David Hawthorne scheduled to visit with the #Saints I would imagine one of the LBs doesn't leave w/o a contract.— Jeff McLane (@Jeff_McLane) March 15, 2012
Safe to say that Seahawks free agency is far from settling down.
To discuss Flynn, Jones, Hawthorne with Seahawks fans, check out Field Gulls.
In a move that surprised no one this morning, the Bills have announced that they've signed DE Mario Williams to a 6-year, $96 million contract. Williams was rumored to be a target for the Seahawks, but the connection was never verified nor did he make a trip to Seattle.
Another player linked to the Seahawks was OG Steve Hutchinson, a key cog in the Seahawks' 2005 run to the Super Bowl. Hutch visited the VMAC on Wednesday night to meet with team officials and to tour the facility, but ultimately decided to take a three-year deal with the Titans today. This move furthers speculation that the Titans are the leaders for QB Peyton Manning, as the team attempts to build a serviceable offensive line to protect the future hall-of-famer.
If Manning is signed by the Titans, it's been speculated that they will release or trade another former Seahawk, QB Matt Hasselbeck. From everything that I've read, a reunion tour in Seattle for Hass is highly improbable, and instead it's more likely that he'd either look for a trade to or sign with the Cleveland Browns and Mike Holmgren.
In the last couple of weeks and days, the Hawks have re-signed RB Marshawn Lynch, RT Breno Giacomini, DE Red Bryant, G/T Paul McQuistan, LB Heath Farwell, and have released LG Robert Gallery and CB Marcus Trufant. They're hosting QB Matt Flynn, TE Visanthe Shiancoe, and DT/DE Jason Jones today.
Make sure you head to Field Gulls for more on the Seahawks and NFL Free Agency.
Seattle Seahawks offensive lineman Steve Hutchinson was a Pro Bowl player from 2003-05 with the Seattle Seahwaks before being designed as a transition player. Hutchinson was signed by the Minnesota Vikings in 2006 to a seven year, $49 million deal. Hutchinson made a few more Pro Bowls before being released this offseason.
Could this mean Hutchinson returns to Seattle this year? Eric Williams of the News Tribune has the report.
And now he's in Seattle checking out the team's new digs in Renton. Hutchinson's role with Seattle is undetermined. Currently, the Seahawks are projected to have Robert Gallery starting at left guard and John Moffitt starting at right guard. But Moffitt is coming off major knee surgery that cut his season short last year, and Gallery suffered through an injury-plagued season last year
Seattle could use more offensive line help up front if they want to unleash the power running attack of Marshawn Lynch, and a guard like that is one of a kind. However, Hutchinson is probably past his prime at 34 years old and might struggle producing at an All-Pro level like he used to. It'll be interesting to see if the offensive guard decides to return to his first stomping grounds.
To discuss Hutchinson potentially joining back up with the Seahawks, check out Field Gulls.
It's the first day of NFL free agency, and the Seattle Seahawks are getting more than they bargained for. Lots of things are going down, and many players could be on the move in and out of Seattle.
Two free agents are taking a look up at Pete Carroll's team. Quarterback Chad Henne is taking a trip to the Pacific Northwest.
You can add another team to Chad Henne's tour: He'll also visit the Seahawks, a source tells me. He already has a visit scheduled with Jags.— Jeff Darlington (@JeffDarlington) March 13, 2012
Getting a quarterback like Henne could be critical to the Seahawks overall quarterback depth, as Seattle doesn't really have anyone behind Tarvaris Jackson.
Defensive end Jason Jones (who last played with the Tennessee Titans) will also be taking a look.
Jason Jones will also visit the Seattle Seahawks.— Terry McCormick (@terrymc13) March 13, 2012
Two former Seahawks are also being pursued. Tight end John Carlson is getting plenty of offers from everywhere
In addition to his visit with the Chiefs, TE John Carlson receiving interest from several teams: Bucs, Colts, Cowboys and a few others.— Adam Caplan (@caplannfl) March 13, 2012
Might be tough for Seattle to keep Carlson around.
The New Orleans Saints are going after one of the Seahawk linebackers.
Saints are sniffing for LBs as well: Hearing they have some interest in MLB/WLB David Hawthorne.— Adam Caplan (@caplannfl) March 13, 2012
To discuss Carlson, Jones, Henne and Seahawks fans, head on over to Field Gulls.
The Seattle Seahawks have signed Red Bryant to a $35 million deal for five years.
Rumors, rumors, rumors. And visits, visits, visits. That's what the first day of free agency is all about.
Free agent defensive end Mario Williams plans to visit the Buffalo Bills tonight.— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 13, 2012
There seems to be a popular belief among NFL analysts that the Seahawks will be major players in the race to obtain former Houston Texans defensive end Mario Williams, but it appears they'll have to wait for him to go to Buffalo first. At 6'6" and 283 pounds, and as the 2006 NFL Draft's #1 overall selection, there's no wonder that Mario Williams would be a spectacular addition to any NFL team.
With the Seahawks desperately in need of a pass rush, many NFL experts seem to think that they will be in strong contention to sign Williams. ESPN's John Clayton asked teams within the NFC West about the Seahawks pushing for Mario Williams. Clayton was convinced that the teams of the NFC West believe the Hawks will aggressively pursue Williams.
"This is from teams in the division," John Clayton said. "They think that Seattle is going to be one of the main teams [pursuing] Mario Williams. They really do."
Now that NFL free agency period is officially underway, let's hope that the experts are correct and the Seahawks make smart moves to obtain the physical, pass-rushing force that they desperately need.
Stay with this StoryStream for NFL Free Agency news today and make sure you head over to Field Gulls for the latest on Seahawks football.
The Seattle Seahawks have some free agent issues, and defensive tackle Red Bryant figures to be one of the top guys they want to keep it up. However, it's not certain they would want to risk that much money on him. Bryant had a solid season, finishing with 32 tackles, a sack and two interceptions, but he has been inconsistent in his playing time before the 2011 regular season.
Naturally, other teams are willing to pounce and grab, particularly the New England Patriots and the Green Bay Packers.
I've also been told that Green Bay has targeted cornerback Brandon Carr and defensive end Red Bryant in free agency— Shawn Zobel (@ShawnZobel_DHQ) March 13, 2012
[LISTEN] @ClaytonESPN tells @BrockandSalk the #Patriots have strong interest in DE Red Bryant: mynw.me/A440e3— 710 ESPN Seattle (@710ESPNSeattle) March 13, 2012
Another Red Bryant development: Just heard the Seahawks are pessimistic about re-signing him. But is he worth $7M per? bit.ly/wjLkOK— Ian R. Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 13, 2012
It figures that Bryant would be pursued by the Packers and the Patriots. Bryant would provide interior depth for each team, neither of whom were dominant defensively last season, and ranked among the worst in the nation. It'd make sense to take a risk on Red to try and improve things.
To discuss Bryant on the Seahawks, check out Field Gulls. To talk about Bryant and the Patriots, hit up Pats Pulpit. To discuss Bryant and how he'd fit in with the Packers, go to Acme Packing Company.
NFL free agency officially opens in three days on March 13 which means teams don't have much time left to re-sign their own players before they are able to test the market. The Seattle Seahawks have a few players that they would likely be happy to keep on the team, especially on defense. In fact, NFL.com's Steve Wyche listed two Seahawks defensive players in the top few players at their positions. Those players are defensive lineman Red Bryant and linebacker David Hawthorne.
Wyche believes that Red Bryant is the third best defensive lineman in this years class of free agents behind Mario Williams and Paul Soliai, and ahead of John Abraham and Jason Jones. Wyche believes that Bryant may be one of the better kept secrets in the NFL.
A combo end-tackle, Bryant is a huge part of a nice defensive front in Seattle. He is a very good player few people recognize.
Wyche then lists Hawthorne as the fourth best linebacker in this year's class of free agents behind Curtis Lofton, Stephen Tulloch and London Fletcher. Wyche wrote that Hawthorne's price tag should allow the Seahawks to keep him around.
He's been productive and solid for the Seahawks as their defense has really come together. Hawthorne probably won't command top dollar, which is why Seattle should be able to retain him.
For more on the Seahawks, head to Field Gulls, and for more on free agency rumors, follow SB Nation Seattle's StoryStream.
Former Seahawks middle linebacker Lofa Tatupu was in Atlanta today, working out for the Falcons as he continues his quest to break back into the league after sitting out in 2011. Tatupu rejected the Seahawks attempts to restructure his contract prior to last year, instead asking for his release. He then sat out while rehabbing both of his knees and trying to get in a place, physically speaking, where he could come back and contribute for a team.
LB Lofa Tatupu had impressive workout in ATL today, worth noting LB Curtis Lofton may leave ATL as a FA. Lofa worked out before for NO— Jason La Canfora (@JasonLaCanfora) March 9, 2012
Tats is a three-time Pro Bowler and was named All-Pro in 2007. His knees have been his biggest issue in the past few seasons, and he also missed most of 2009 with a torn pectoral muscle. He's also met with the Saints, but the Falcons are a likely candidate if they're unable to re-sign their starting MLB Curtis Lofton.
For more on the Seahawks, head over to the offseason StoryStream and check outField Gulls.
It's that time of year again where NFL teams purge their older players in order to save in cap space and get younger, and the Colts and Giants made steps today to do that. The Colts released a bevy of veterans that follow the release of Peyton Manning, terminating the contracts of RB Joseph Addai, LB Gary Brackett, DB Melvin Bullitt, and TE Dallas Clark. The Giants also announced that they will release RB Brandon Jacobs after failing to come to terms on contractual disagreements.
The immediate question on your mind is probably - Would the Seahawks have any interest in these players? The short answer is probably 'no'. One player that might be considered would be linebacker Gary Brackett - who at 32 sat out all but one game last season with a shoulder injury. Brackett, though, was a durable contributor on the Colts defense, and between 2005-10, started at Indianapolis' middle linebacker spot and averaged 106 tackles per season in that time period. His age and injury from last season though probably dictate that the Seahawks will look elsewhere for youth and speed.
Dallas Clark will be 33 before the season begins and endured injuries and ineffectiveness last season. DB Melvin Bullitt is younger at only 27, but too went through injury issues in 2010 and 2011 and has only started five games the past two years, so might not be at the top of any teams' lists.
Addai is 28 and Brandon Jacobs is 30. Both were very effective running backs in their prime but now must look for teams that are hoping to bolster their backfield with an experienced veteran on an inexpensive deal. I don't see the Seahawks having any interest there as they continue to build their young roster, though I suppose as stop gap options they could be in play.
For more on the Seahawks, head over to the offseason StoryStream and check out Field Gulls.
The Seattle Seahawks officially announced on Wednesday that they released long-time cornerback Marcus Trufant, which was a move many were expecting the team to make. Trufant played nine seasons with the Seahawks after he was drafted in the first round of the 2003 draft. He has made 610 tackles, 100 passes defensed and 21 interceptions in his career so far.
One of the major reasons for the team's decision to release Trufant is the fact that he was due a fairly decent chunk of change in 2012 and because of the emergence of other starting cornerbacks on the team.
From the Everett Herald's John Boyle:
John BoyleTrufant's release no surprise considering he was scheduled to make $7.2 million in 2012, and #Seahawks see Browner/Sherman duo as the future 7 minutes ago via TweetDeck · Reply · Retweet · Favorite · powered by @socialditto
Trufant only played in four games in 2011 before he went on IR due to a back injury. According to Brian McIntyre of Mac's Football Blog, this move will free up quite a bit of room for the Seahawks in regards to their cap space.
By releasing Trufant, the Seahawks free up $7.3 million in cash ($7.2 million base salary plus a $100,000 workout bonus) and clear $4.4666 million in room under the salary cap.
For more on the Seahawks, head to Field Gulls, and for more on the Seahawks offseason, follow SB Nation Seattle's StoryStream.
The Seattle Seahawks, to the delight of their fans, have signed star running back Marshawn Lynch to a four-year contract extension, avoiding needing to use the franchise tag on the dynamic rusher.
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Adam Schefter of ESPN reports that the $31 million dollar deal includes a guaranteed $18 million, slightly higher than the initially-reported $17 million guarantee. The final number may fall somewhere in between, so that detail is splitting hairs.
Schefter does also report that the figures on this deal were agreed to by Lynch's representatives over a month ago, but Lynch did not sign the contract to make the deal official until today. Seahawks officials were probably doing some not-so-gentle prodding as the March 5 franchise tag deadline kept getting closer.
Finally, the always-helpful Darren Rovell figured out that the candy-loving running back's deal over the next four years would equal 5.1% of total Skittles sales during that time. Good to know.
For all news and information regarding the Seattle Seahawks, please visit Field Gulls.
The Seattle Seahawks made it a priority to resign Marshawn Lynch this offseason. Lynch helped open up the Seattle offense this year and made it easier for Tarvaris Jackson to be a competent starting quarterback without taking too much off the table. Defenses always had to guard hard against Lynch. He provided bruising, tough yards that forced defenders to defend the box hard, and made sure the Seahawks could get one-on-one matchups with their receivers and not worry so much about Jackson throwing bad interceptions to roving zone defenders. Marshawn definitely earned a good contract for himself with his production this offseason.
It appears Seattle has come to terms with their physical running back to try and make sure he sticks around for the long-term. Here are more details about the deal.
According to Jay Glazer of FOXSports.com, the deal is worth $31 million over four seasons with $17 million guaranteed.
Had a multi-year extension not been reached by 4pm ET on Monday, the Seahawks were prepared to use the franchise tag. With Lynch signed, they can now use the tag on run-stopping defensive end Red Bryant, which would cost a projected $10.595 million, which would be guaranteed once signed.
Seahawks fans have to be happy to know that Beast Mode is back. Time to make moves!
To discuss the Lynch deal with Seahawks fans, hit up Field Gulls.
There has been some speculation that tight end John Carlson may be trying to reunite with Mike Holmgren out in Cleveland, as some reports are claiming that the Browns have a serious interest in picking up Carlson this offseason.
There's been some buzz of #Seahawks free agent TE John Carlson re-uniting with Holmgren; per @OmarKelly "word is" #Browns will sign Carlson.— Dion Caputi (@nfldraftupdate) February 29, 2012
As Cleveland continues to retool, some folks see this as a great move for the Browns inept offense, when coupled with the right draft picks might have a much improved offense next season:
If Browns go with Flynn then take Richardson and Floyd they'd potentially have a HOT offense.Plus, word is they'll sign Carlton from Seattle— Omar Kelly (@OmarKelly) February 29, 2012
Flynn, Richardson, Floyd, Carlton sure makes a lot of sense for Browns, especially since alternative is RGIII and plenty of money to spend.— Omar Kelly (@OmarKelly) February 29, 2012
He meant Carlson.
If Carlson does end up walking, that leaves Seattle with a bit of a hole in the TE department behind starter Zach Miller. Right now they have Cameron Morrah and Anthony McCoy backing Miller up, but with their heavy use of two tight end sets, if they're not confident in their depth they could possibly begin looking to fill that void in the upcoming draft or through another free agent available on the market.
For more on the Seahawks, head over to Field Gulls.
Seattle has several major needs to fill this off-season and Fred Davis could give security to the position that Zach Miller was unable to.
The Seattle Seahawks are considering making a big run at one of the better pass rushers in the National Football League. After the pass rush unit struggled mightily in 2011, many in the organization want to spend big in the offseason and at a top-tier defensive end through free agency. Mario Williams, the No. 1 pick in the 2006 Draft, is a free agent and will likely command more money than the Texans will be able to provide.
Here is the latest update with the Seahawks and Williams, courtesy of 710AM ESPN Radio:
"This is from teams in the division," John Clayton said. "They think that Seattle is going to be one of the main teams [pursuing] Mario Williams. They really do."
Clayton said he asked coach Pete Carroll at the scouting combine whether the Seahawks would consider adding a high-priced free agent to address their pass-rush woes. Carroll's answer, Clayton said, was ultimately yes.
The cash-strapped Texans appear unlikely to be able to afford Williams, whose resume and relative youth could put him in line for one of the richest deals for a defensive end in NFL history. Williams, 27, has 53 sacks over a six-year career.
He would come with health concerns, though. The former No. 1 overall pick has missed 14 games over the past two seasons with injuries, including a torn pectoral that limited him to five games in 2011.
If healthy, there are few defensive ends in the league better than Williams. He has the size, strength and speed to cause havoc in the backfield on a weekly basis. Despite his talents, there are still plenty of question marks with Williams, most notably the injury concerns, as the article mentioned.
This would be a considerable risk for Seattle, but the upside is undoubtably tremendous. A big factor in all of this may be whether or not the front office can find a pass rusher or two in the upcoming draft that they would consider instead of adding the expensive free agent.
For more on the Seahawks and to discuss the possibility of Williams coming to the team, head over to Field Gulls.
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