Ernest Jones IV has secured a new three-year contract with the Seattle Seahawks worth up to $33 million, including $15 million guaranteed. After a turbulent previous season where he was traded twice, Jones found stability in Seattle, helping to dramatically improve the team’s run defense. His impact was evident as the Seahawks rose from 29th to 7th in run defense rankings following his midseason acquisition. Following a knee procedure, Jones is expected to return to full health, promising a boost for Seattle’s defense moving forward.

Jarran Reed is back with the Seattle Seahawks, signing a three-year contract worth up to $25 million. The defensive tackle completed a solid 2022 season, demonstrating his capability with 4.5 sacks and a notable presence on the field, recording 680 snaps. Reed, drafted in 2016, is a vital piece of the Seahawks' defensive line, having previously played for the Kansas City Chiefs and Green Bay Packers after leaving Seattle in 2021. Now, at 32, he returns to reinforce a defense that still has echoes of the legendary 'Legion of Boom' era.

Milton Williams showcased his talents during Super Bowl LIX, sacking Patrick Mahomes twice, making a strong case for a lucrative free agency move. As the NFL values pass rush from the interior, Williams stands out alongside other top free-agent defensive linemen. Other notable names include B.J. Hill from Cincinnati, who offers steadiness; Jarran Reed from Seattle, a dependable veteran; and Levi Onwuzurike from Detroit, who may be a late bloomer. Poona Ford from the Chargers is also noteworthy for his run defense capabilities.

The Seattle Seahawks face a pivotal offseason after the conclusion of Super Bowl LIX, which saw the Philadelphia Eagles claim victory over the Kansas City Chiefs. The team’s focus now shifts to navigating a challenging cap situation, as they sit approximately $13 million over the cap. General Manager John Schneider must weight decisions regarding 15 key players, including pending free agents like Ernest Jones IV and Jarran Reed, alongside veterans seeking new contracts, such as Geno Smith and DK Metcalf.

The recent hiring of Klint Kubiak as offensive coordinator adds to the urgency, as Seattle must determine who fits into their future plans amidst a potential roster overhaul. With significant decisions looming, the Seahawks could part ways with well-known players like Tyler Lockett and Uchenna Nwosu, who are seen as candidates for release.

The NFL offseason is heating up as teams are starting to identify key players in the upcoming 2025 free agency. Among the top interior defenders available are Osa Odighizuwa of the Dallas Cowboys, who has shown flashes of brilliance despite inconsistent sack production. Milton Williams from the Philadelphia Eagles has also risen, with a career-high six sacks this past season. Levi Onwuzurike of the Detroit Lions has become a coveted pass-rusher, while B.J. Hill from the Cincinnati Bengals provides veteran stability. Calais Campbell, nearing 40 years old, continues to impress with his performance for the Miami Dolphins. Notable mentions also include Jarran Reed of the Seahawks, Poona Ford from the Chargers, and Tershawn Wharton of the Chiefs, all contributing to a competitive defensive free agency market.

This year's free agency looks promising for teams seeking to bolster their defensive lines. As injuries impacted many teams during the season, players like Odighizuwa and Williams have gained attention for their significant contributions. Managing contracts for stars like Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins might affect the Bengals' ability to retain Hill, further intensifying the competition for talent. The free agency period promises to be filled with strategic moves as franchises gear up for the next season.