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USA Today Sports Media Group
USA Today Sports Media Group
Sport
Justin Melo

Seahawks WR DK Metcalf heaps Tyler Lockett with praise amidst uncertain future

Seattle Seahawks veteran wide receiver Tyler Lockett the team’s longest-tenured player. Having spent his entire career to date in Seattle, Locket will conclude his 10th campaign with the organization in Sunday’s Week 18 regular-season finale with the Los Angeles Rams. Doing so, he’ll continue cementing himself as one of the most notable talents in franchise history.

Uncertainty awaits Lockett in the offseason. He’s had to accept a smaller role this season, totaling 47 receptions for 572 receiving yards and two touchdowns with one game remaining. That represents Lockett’s fewest catches, scores, and yards since his third campaign (2017). Meanwhile Jaxon Smith-Njigba continues to develop, establishing himself alongside DK Metcalf as Geno Smith’s go-to weapons.

With unknown looming, Metcalf stepped to the podium on Wednesday, accepting a moment to heap praise on Lockett in front of local reporters. “He’s a Hall of Famer in my book, on and off the field,” Metcalf said.

Lockett is technically under contract with the Seahawks through next season. But there’s no guaranteed money remaining on his agreement, and general manager John Schneider could clear a sizable $17 million in cap savings by releasing him, per OverTheCap. Lockett’s scheduled cap charge is $30.8 million, an unfathomable, unrealistic amount given his declining production. At minimum, a vastly reworked contract would be required.

The writing is on the wall, just like it was for Quandre Diggs and Jamal Adams last season. If Lockett’s career with the Seahawks concludes versus the Rams in Week 18, it’s been a pleasure. Lockett deserves the biggest send-off the organization can muster, whenever his time arrives.

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