The first waves of free agency and the 2020 NFL Draft are well past at this point, but the Seattle Seahawks certainly aren’t done trying to add pieces to the roster. However, it appears the team has struck out with a potential free agent . . . for now.
It was reported on late Wednesday morning by NFL insider Adam Caplan the Seahawks offered a deal to former Atlanta running back Devonta Freeman. Freeman, who is still a free agent after being released by the Falcons in mid-March, has apparently turned down Seattle’s offer.
Man, @caplannfl is on fire @FantasyPts. Just said #Seahawks have made an offer to Devonta Freeman because they don't think Rashaad Penny will be ready for Week 1.
Freeman is asking for more than the offer. Seahawks holding their position.
— Joe Dolan (@FG_Dolan) May 20, 2020
The Seahawks faced devastating cluster injuries at the running back position late last season, losing their starter, primary backup and third-string option. For a team that focuses on establishing the ground game, the Seahawks offense was crippled heading into the playoffs.
Adding a proven veteran running back to help bolster depth in their running back stable is a savvy move for the Seahawks, especially considering Chris Carson, Rashaad Penny and C.J. Prosise all have considerable health concerns.
Although, it’s not as if Freeman is a beacon of durability, either. Freeman was once considered one of the better backs in the league after posting back-to-back 1,000+ yard seasons in 2015 and 2016, with 11 touchdowns on the ground each year. He also added over 1,000 receiving yards and five more touchdowns combined during this span.
Unfortunately, injuries have started to catch up to Freeman in a big way. His numbers dipped in 2017, and in 2018 he only played in two games due to knee and groin issues. He returned in 2019, but only gained 656 yards and only found the end zone twice.
Should Freeman agree to Seattle’s terms, he could still provide value to the Seahawks offense. But the team shouldn’t break the bank for him, especially with Jadeveon Clowney still unsigned.
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