In the lead-up to free agency, the Seattle Seahawks were strongly linked to Baltimore Ravens standout linebacker Patrick Queen.
The connection made sense for several reasons, particularly because the Seahawks’ new coach, Mike Macdonald, had served as the Ravens’ defensive coordinator for the past two seasons. Additionally, the Seahawks had a significant need at linebacker, making Queen a logical target.
However, fate intervened. On Tuesday, Queen reportedly signed a three-year contract worth $41 million with the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Ravens’ bitter rivals. This move instantly cast Queen as a traitor in the eyes of many Ravens fans.
While the Ravens are undoubtedly the most affected by Queen’s decision, the Seahawks are also disappointed by the outcome.
As previously mentioned, the Seattle Seahawks entered free agency facing a significant need at linebacker. Both Jordyn Brooks and Bobby Wagner, who were among the team’s top three tacklers and started all 16 games last season, entered free agency this week. Brooks quickly signed a three-year, $30 million deal with the Miami Dolphins on Monday, while Wagner remains unsigned, with his return to the Seahawks appearing unlikely.
Devin Bush, who started three games and recorded 37 total tackles last season, is also a free agent.
With these departures, the Seahawks find themselves even thinner at middle linebacker, with few options available who have significant starting experience.
While it’s possible that Queen’s contract with the Steelers was beyond the Seahawks’ budget, especially considering its value compared to Brooks’ deal with the Dolphins, the team now faces the challenge of addressing this pressing need with most of the top free agent linebackers off the market.
