The Seattle Seahawks, already reportedly dangling both Richard Sherman and Earl Thomas as trade bait, are reportedly shopping defensive end Michael Bennett as well.
ESPN’s Brady Henderson reports Seattle is working to move Bennett, hoping to get some of his $7.4 million cap hit off the books.
“Bennett is set to count almost $7.4 million against Seattle’s salary cap next season. By trading or releasing him before June 1, the Seahawks would save roughly $2.2 million against the 2018 salary cap while incurring around $5.2 million in dead money charges. A trade or release of Bennett would likely come before March 18, when he’s owed a $3 million roster bonus.”
Last year, Bennett tallied 8.5 sacks and appeared in all 16 games for Seattle. He’s been one of the team’s most effective defensive linemen ever since coming over from Tampa Bay back in 2013, racking up 39 sacks since then. His greatest value is that Bennett can play all over the line, which helps defensive coordinators mix things up.
However, in addition to his big cap figures in coming years, Bennett is getting up there in age (32) and is known for being very outspoken. These two factors could certainly keep some teams from making a move, though Seattle should definitely hear some phone calls on this defensive star.