In a startling development, the Seattle Seahawks have waived inside linebacker Tyrel Dodson, the team’s leading tackler through the first nine games of the season. The move comes as the Seahawks return from their bye week, sitting at a disappointing 4-5 record and in last place in the highly competitive NFC West division.
Seahawks Searching for Answers
Seattle’s defense has struggled mightily in recent weeks, giving up an average of 28.5 points per game over their last six contests, five of which resulted in losses. Head coach Mike Macdonald, in his first year at the helm, indicated that everything would be “on the table” as the team conducted a thorough self-evaluation during the bye week.
The decision to part ways with Dodson, who signed a one-year, $4.26 million contract with the Seahawks in March after spending his first five seasons with the Buffalo Bills, is a clear signal that the team is willing to make bold moves in an attempt to right the ship.
Dodson’s Impact in Seattle
During his brief tenure in Seattle, the 26-year-old Dodson quickly established himself as a key contributor on defense. In nine starts, he racked up a team-high 71 tackles, along with 2.0 sacks, five tackles for loss, a forced fumble, and two passes defended.
Tyrel came in and immediately made his presence felt. He’s a high-motor guy who never takes a play off. This is a tough loss for our defense.
– A Seahawks teammate who wished to remain anonymous
Linebacker Corps in Flux
The Seahawks have already made several changes to their linebacker group this season. In late October, they traded former starter Jerome Baker to the Tennessee Titans in exchange for Ernest Jones IV and a fourth-round draft pick. Jones IV has since taken over the middle linebacker role, with Dodson shifting to the weak side.
Dodson’s departure opens the door for increased playing time for rookie fourth-round pick Tyrice Knight and second-year player Drake Thomas. Both young linebackers will have an opportunity to prove themselves as the Seahawks look to solidify their defensive unit for the stretch run.
Looking Ahead
As the Seahawks prepare to return to action in Week 11, the pressure is on Coach Macdonald and his staff to find solutions to the team’s defensive woes. With seven games remaining in the regular season, Seattle will need to quickly regroup and find a way to climb back into contention in the NFC West.
The decision to waive Tyrel Dodson serves as a stark reminder of the ever-changing landscape in the NFL, where even the most productive players can find themselves suddenly looking for a new home. As the Seahawks move forward, all eyes will be on the team’s young linebackers to step up and fill the void left by Dodson’s unexpected departure.
