End of an Era: Seahawks Part Ways with Veteran WR Tyler Lockett

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Seattle’s offseason took a dramatic turn on Wednesday as the Seahawks announced the release of veteran wide receiver Tyler Lockett. The decision marks the end of a decade-long tenure for one of the franchise’s most beloved and consistent playmakers.

Lockett, 32, had been Seattle’s longest-tenured player, and had become a staple of the offence since he was selected in the third round of the 2015 NFL Draft after working his way up from the special teams squad. The move comes as part of the Seahawks’ broader cost-cutting strategy, allowing the team to spend elsewhere ahead of the 2025 NFL Draft and free agency. Lockett was set to earn $17 million in the upcoming season, but with the release, Seattle absorbs a $13.895 million dead cap hit.

Despite appearing in all 17 games during the 2024 season, Lockett’s production dipped and had been on the decline for the last couple seasons. Not due to lack of ability; the kid still has some juice in those legs, but more likely due to scheme and personnel changes in the coaching department. He recorded 49 receptions on 74 targets for 600 yards and two touchdowns in 2024/25.

Lockett leaves the Seahawks with an impressive résumé, with franchise records like the most receptions in a single season (100 in 2020), and even earned a 1st Team All-Pro nod his rookie year- albeit as a return specialist. Over his 10-year career, he totaled 661 receptions for 8,594 yards and 61 touchdowns in 161 games.

In a heartfelt statement, Lockett reflected on his time in Seattle, expressing gratitude for the relationships he built within the organization.

“It’s very difficult to do, just being able to play in the NFL, and so for me, I don’t take it lightly,” Lockett said. “I think I’ve had so many great relationships with not just the players, but everybody that’s been inside of the building—from people on the second floor to people on the third floor, to our nutritionist, to the strength and conditioning coaches—they need to get a raise too, by the way, both of them—but yeah, I just think overall, man, that’s what makes coming into the building fun.”

Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald, who took over the team this offseason, also praised Lockett’s professionalism and character.

“You think about Tyler and his career, the arc of his career, and to have that mentality—just the humility, putting the team first—what else can you ask for?” Macdonald said. “And he loves ball. That guy comes out here, and he’s been doing it for such a long time, but the enthusiasm, the attitude, the productivity, man. The city knows Tyler, shoot, better than I do, but coming to know him this year has been a blessing for me personally too. I mean, this guy, he’s just one of one. We absolutely love him.”

As for Lockett, his future remains uncertain. While he could seek a new opportunity elsewhere, there’s also the possibility of retirement, but like I mentioned before- he can still be a very productive NFL receiver, just not in Seattle at his current cap hit.

The Seahawks lost a good one today, but we’ll always remember the toe-taps and touchdowns from #16.

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