As NFL training camps have started, the Seattle Seahawks have a dilemma on their hands. Six-time Pro Bowl Free Safety Earl Thomas has given the Seahawks an ultimatum according to his Instagram page to extend him or trade him.
Thomas is holding out from all team activities until his situation is squared away. The 29-year-old is entering the final year of a four-year, $40 million extension. He is currently set to make 8.5 million which ranks sixth among safeties. The Seahawks haven't made progress on an extension, and there are rumors a trade to Dallas is still in play. Thomas has missed games with injuries the last two seasons, but there's been no drop off from his All-Pro form. Thomas is targeting $12 million annually on his next deal.
Why Seattle Is In A Tough Situation
The Legion of Boom was nicknamed due to many defensive players that Seattle had. They were loud, unafraid and wanted to be heard. It was a swagger, an attitude, a fire that the players played with. Over the last four seasons, players that included Richard Sherman, Cliff Avril, Kam Chancellor, Bobby Wagner, Michael Bennett and others, were a defense to be wrecking with. This group accomplished the goal players dream of and won Super Bowl XLVIII at Metlife Stadium during the 2012-13 season.
RELATED: SEAHAWKS SIGN BRANDON MARSHALL
Seattle missed the playoffs in 2017 for the first time since 2011. However, the Seahawks organization over the last two offseasons, have let go of a bunch of those talents that modeled that unit. With Seattle now rebuilding, Thomas and Wagner are the only defensive players from that SB team. According to CBS Sports, the All-Pro safety is prepared to hold out even during the 2018-19 season. For every day Thomas misses training camp he loses 40,000 per day. The potential fines could take up to 25 percent of his signing bonus.
Suitors for Thomas:
The price that Seattle has set for Thomas is by no means a low one. Teams will have to possibly give up a first-round pick or a few day two picks. Plus, factor in the contract extension that Thomas would want. However, these two teams come to mind that could land him.
Dallas Cowboys
This one is obvious due to the fact that Thomas is from Texas and played college for the University of Texas. Dallas must factor in how far they are from competing in the NFC and have to also consider they’re long-term contracts and cap space. They would, of course, need to know if Thomas would willing to sign a long-term deal with them.
Pittsburgh Steelers
Pittsburgh is desperate to add a playmaking safety. In 2017, the Steelers were tied for third worst in the league, allowing 13 passing plays of 40 yards or more. Acquiring Thomas would fill one of the biggest holes in the Steelers defense. Pittsburgh is looking to contend and win right now. Who knows how long their window is open. Thomas would give Pittsburgh a shot at coming out of the AFC in 2018.