The Earl Thomas holdout puts the Seahawks into a situation they find themselves increasingly familiar with. Just a few seasons ago another defensive icon, Kam Chancellor, ended his holdout with no new contract. Seattle’s recent history of contract negotiations indicates that the Thomas’ holdout will likely end no differently.
If anything, Earl Thomas’ holdout has actually put Seattle in a more powerful position. He declared “give me an extension, or trade me.” Seattle responded by stating they would not address his contract. It makes sense. The holdout has given the Seahawks more room to capitalize on avoiding an expensive contract.
Let’s start by assessing Seattle recent contract negotiations. More specifically, the “third-contract curse” Seattle should be fearful of. Three players have entered into their third contracts the past few seasons. Marshawn Lynch retired at the beginning of his extension before returning and being traded to Oakland. Kam Chancellor, sadly, was injured going into his extension period which ultimately ended in retirement. Most recently, Michael Bennett was traded going into his extension period due to some other factors.
In conclusion: the Seahawks have a bad track-record of third contracts.
It’s also important to take into account the environment of the next few seasons. The Seahawks are no longer strong playoff contenders. It’s a fact. With Wilson as the centerpiece, Seattle is looking to retool with a younger core. Will Earl Thomas give Seattle a strong few seasons? Not a doubt in my mind. However, the Seahawks don’t need now as much as they need later.
Why invest major money into a 29-year-old, when they can acquire younger, cheaper talent?
Whether it be for more draft picks or high potential talent in the league, a trade is the most efficient option for the Seahawks. The “Legion of Boom” was built on that same premise: capitalizing on the cheap, overlooked talent. A trade will give Seattle more valuable long-term assets to build on.
Addressing the Earl Thomas holdout also doesn’t make sense in the context of those already on the team. Players like Tyler Lockett, K.J Wright, and Frank Clark have expiring contracts. Heck, Russell Wilson may become the highest paid quarterback in a few seasons. Given the value of these major playmakers, it doesn’t make sense to rush into another extension with an aging Thomas.
What is important during this holdout is that Earl is staying involved with the team. There are multiple reports that Thomas is still staying in contact with and is mentoring the younger DB’s during camp. Evidently, Thomas is not holding out to hurt this team, but to receive the recognition he deserves. Unfortunately, he’ll have to wait to receive it from the Seahawks–or whatever team gives them the best offer.
~Go Hawks