The Seattle Seahawks soared to victory in Super Bowl 60, overpowering the New England Patriots. Yet, this offseason has seen some significant departures from their roster.
Key players like Kenneth Walker III, Coby Bryant, Riq Woolen, and Boye Mafe have moved on to new teams. This is partly due to the classic "Super Bowl tax," but there are other strategic reasons at play.
The Seahawks are eyeing the future with looming contract negotiations for Jaxon Smith-Njigba and Devon Witherspoon. ESPN's Bill Barnwell has projected that the combined annual value of these deals could reach around $76 million, with each player potentially commanding nearly $40 million per year.
Smith-Njigba, fresh off an All-Pro season where he racked up 1,793 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns on 119 receptions, is in line for a top-tier contract. His performance has set him up for a payday that matches the best in the league.
On the defensive side, Witherspoon continues to impress. With three Pro Bowl selections in as many seasons and a second-team All-Pro nod this year, he's proven his worth. Considering Trent McDuffie's $124 million deal with the Los Angeles Rams, Witherspoon could reset the market with a contract north of $31 million per year.
Investing $76 million annually in a top receiver and cornerback is no small feat. However, given their exceptional talent and the seasons they've just completed, the Seahawks seem poised to make these investments in their 2023 first-round draft picks. It's a bold move, but one that could secure their success for years to come.