The Seattle Seahawks’ offensive line struggled this past season. Not just that! Mike MacDonald’s defensive unit also dipped in the later games after a solid start. Although they were able to register 10 wins in the season, it wasn’t enough to clinch a spot in the playoffs. But the past is the past! So, at present, the question is: will the Hawks make some noise this offseason? Hmm…with recent updates on their linebacker, it seems things aren’t falling into place anytime soon for them.

According to Underdog NFL on X, “LB Ernest Jones IV underwent knee surgery; potential negotiations with teams could be delayed, per @BobCondotta.” Interesting! The Eagles just re-signed Zack Baun, which gave Jones a market boost. But then came his offseason knee surgery.

Although the reports suggested that it was just a “clean up” procedure and nothing too serious, the delay might cause concerns for Mike MacDonald’s team. So, that means if all goes well, he could be back by June. Still, teams will want to check him out before making any move. And that could slow down plans for Seattle.

Negotiations are opening on Monday at 9 a.m., but physicals and visits will have to wait till Wednesday (1 p.m.) when the new league year kicks off. However, meanwhile, the reports are coming up showing Mike MacDonald’s team’s interest still in their LB. Yes! The Seahawks, who traded for Jones in October 2024, are keeping an eye on him. This is also evident in Seahawks’ General Manager John Schneider’s statement made last week. During an interview, he expressed, “We’ve had positive talks with this group ever since we traded for him, and we’ll continue that.”

Jones has dealt with knee concerns before, missing some practices with his former teams. But it’s true that whenever it was time to play, he showed up. In Seattle, he played nearly every snap in all 10 games after being traded. He stacked up 94 tackles, a forced fumble, an interception, and half a sack. So, if he’s good to go, Seattle might just want him back, especially after trading linebacker Jerome Baker to the Titans for a 2025 fourth-round draft pick. After all, it doesn’t matter if he is labeled as the “locker room cancer.” 

But, the fact is: Mike MacDonald’s player’s future has been delayed due to this surgery. Nevertheless, on the other hand, they took a strong decision on their veteran player, Tyler Lockett.

Mike MacDonald’s team parts ways with Tyler Lockett

Yes! Mike MacDonald and the Seahawks released veteran wide receiver Tyler Lockett. Why? Well, it was obviously because of the salary cap issues—a $31 million salary cap. Hence, by doing so, the franchise saved $17 million in cash and cap space. However, that doesn’t mean they won’t take any dead money. They will, and it’s $13.895 million. This separation ended his 10-year marriage with the team. To the people who are unaware, Lockett was the second-most-prolific pass catcher in franchise history.

Bidding goodbye to the franchise, 32-year-old Lockett on social media quoted, “I really enjoyed being in Seattle! I met so many great people and captured so many great memories! The 12’s really make this place meaningful! Although, my time on the Seahawks may have run its course I’m thankful for everything!!God gets all the glory forever!!!!”

As per reports, Lockett already knew that he might be cut by Mike MacDonald’s team soon. And the day finally came on Wednesday!