The Seattle Seahawks have signed veteran edge rusher Dante Fowler Jr. to a one-year deal, potentially worth up to $5 million. This move fills the team’s need after losing Boye Mafe in free agency and not adding any edge rushers during the recent draft.
Fowler, who is 31, previously visited Seattle before the draft. It’s important to note that any free-agent signings after the draft won’t impact the team’s compensatory pick formula for 2027. According to OverTheCap.com, the Seahawks might still gain four picks next year.
Last season, Mafe played over 550 snaps as part of Seattle’s linebacker rotation with DeMarcus Lawrence, Uchenna Nwosu, and Derick Hall. Although the defensive front had experienced players, the Seahawks’ roster was one of the youngest in the league. Now, with Fowler, Lawrence (34), Nwosu (29), Jarran Reed (33), and Leonard Williams (31), their defensive line is gaining some veteran experience.
Fowler was drafted third overall by the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2015 but missed his rookie season due to a torn ACL. Since then, he has recorded 58.5 sacks, peaking his career with 11.5 sacks in 2019 while with the Los Angeles Rams. Most recently, he played for the Dallas Cowboys, where he started 11 of 17 games last season, yet recorded only three sacks.
Interestingly, Fowler hasn’t missed a game since 2021. Over his 10-year career, he has tallied 74 tackles for loss and 97 quarterback hits.
This signing highlights the Seahawks’ strategy of blending youth with experienced players. The hope is that Fowler’s presence will bolster their defense as they prepare for the upcoming season. The dynamic nature of the NFL means that teams often need to adjust quickly, and Fowler’s well-rounded experience may be just what Seattle needs.
For insights on the overall state of NFL signings post-draft, you can check the NFL’s player statistics on NFL.com.
