Seattle Seahawks: Predictions for key contracts that expire in 2021

3. K.J. Wright, OLB

The Seahawks signed Wright to a two-year, $14 million deal this past offseason, probably with the intention of not re-signing the veteran after that time. However, with the way Wright played in 2019, Seattle may find out that the former Pro Bowler is still a better option than whoever they can find in the draft or free agency.

After appearing in only five regular-season games in 2018, Wright started every game in 2019. He set career-highs with 132 tackles, three interceptions and 11 passes defensed. While Wright is vulnerable in some passing situations, he’s still performing at a very high level.

With Mychal Kendricks, Seattle’s other starting outside linebacker hitting free agency this spring, the Seahawks cannot afford to lose Wright in 2021. Considering the team’s other defensive needs, Seattle should ride Wright’s success until the wheels start falling off.

Predicted action – Re-signed

2. Shaquill Griffin, CB

Griffin improved by leaps and bounds in his third season in the NFL. In his first two years, Griffin struggled, and it looked like Seattle might abandon the third-round pick when his contract expired. Griffin’s 2019 performance proved he’s deserving of a new deal.

However, Seattle should still search for a starting cornerback. While Griffin headed in the right direction this past season and Tre Flowers is a valuable player considering where the Seahawks drafted him, the team still needs a true shutdown cornerback.

All of the standout teams in the NFL feature at least one star defensive back. For Kansas City, that man is Tyrann Mathieu. Richard Sherman fills that role in San Francisco. The Seahawks need a player with that caliber of talent to stabilize their secondary. Griffin can be a starter on a winning team, but he cannot be the superstar.

Predicted action – Re-signed