This is an offseason of transition for the Seattle Seahawks, but the back end of their secondary may remain in place. Earl Thomas is expected to return in 2018.
According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Media, the All-Pro safety is “firmly in [Seattle’s] plans” and the team would like to strike a long-term deal with Thomas.
It’s highly unlikely the Seahawks will keep tight end Jimmy Graham, who reportedly has “a bunch of” interested teams.
They’ve also been exploring trades for defensive end Michael Bennett and at least entertained the possibility of moving cornerback Richard Sherman.
Thomas will provide a little more stability to the defense, especially if Seattle loses Bennett from the front. Last season, for example, Thomas collected 56 solo tackles. He finished the year with seven pass defenses and two interceptions, as well.