The Seattle Seahawks made a massive move earlier in the season to acquire linebacker Ernest Jones IV from the Tennessee Titans. Seattle had a dire need at linebacker, as Jerome Baker and Tyrel Dodson were simply not getting it done. So enter Jones, who made an immediate impact in improving the Seahawks run defense.
Trading for Jones was always going to be a risk, because similar to Leonard Williams last season, he is on the final year of his contract. The expectation has been both sides will figure out an extension, as the team and Jones want to get something done. Seattle clearly wants to keep a stud linebacker in the fold and Jones has a desire to remain a Seahawk.
However, it appears contract negotiations have come to a standstill. As reported by Ian Rapoport, both sides have decided to pause negotiations.
The #Seahawks and standout LB Ernest Jones IV, who were engaged in extension talks, have amicably paused discussions, per agents @agentturner1 and @Agentbutler1. While the sides could pick it back up at any time and he would love to return, Jones appears set to hit the FA market. pic.twitter.com/2w3IppafJU
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 4, 2025
The initial reaction online from fans has been sharp, as the 12’s are not thrilled at the possibility of Jones leaving. My take on the situation is general manager John Schneider has never given an in-season extension before, and when two sides have a desire to get something done, it will be done eventually.
Still, if Jones does decide to take meetings elsewhere there is always the risk a team in a much better cap situation blows him away with an offer he cannot refuse. Should this be the case, and the Seahawks lose out on keeping a playmaker at linebacker, it will be a considerable blow to this organization.
Ultimately, to the 12’s I would say have faith in Schneider being able to get something done. As I mentioned earlier, this was the case with Leonard Williams last year and even Geno Smith the year prior to that.
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