Seahawks Weigh Trading $45 Million Super Bowl Star

Uchenna Nwosu's hefty contract could prompt Seattle to explore trade options this offseason.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The Seattle Seahawks are considering trading Uchenna Nwosu, one of their standout pass rushers from their recent Super Bowl win. Nwosu's three-year, $45 million contract gives the team an opportunity to clear over $12 million in cap space by moving him, though they could also opt to keep the 29-year-old edge rusher.

Why it matters

The Seahawks have a deep defensive line, which could make Nwosu expendable despite his strong Super Bowl performance. Trading him would allow the team to free up significant salary cap space, though they'd have to weigh that against losing a key contributor from their championship squad.

The details

Nwosu tied the Seahawks' team lead with 7 sacks in 2025, but he also missed a combined 22 games over the previous two seasons due to injuries. With the Seahawks' interior defensive line featuring stars like Byron Murphy and Leonard Williams, the team may feel they can afford to part with Nwosu and his hefty contract.

  • Nwosu is entering the second year of his three-year, $45 million contract.
  • The Seahawks have an out in Nwosu's deal that would save them over $12 million in cap space by releasing him.

The players

Uchenna Nwosu

A 29-year-old pass rusher who was a key contributor to the Seahawks' Super Bowl win, recording a pick-six against the Patriots.

John Schneider

The Seahawks' general manager, who head coach Mike Macdonald praised for having a 'very clear vision' for the team.

Mike Macdonald

The Seahawks' head coach, who spoke highly of GM John Schneider's leadership and decision-making abilities.

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What they’re saying

“Don't be fooled by his aw-shucks personality, he's as sharp as they come. He seems like he's young because of his energy and his enthusiasm, but he's seen a lot of football, he's seen a lot of great organizations operate. He's got a very clear vision of what he wants to achieve.”

— Mike Macdonald, Seahawks Head Coach (Seahawks.com)

What’s next

The Seahawks will have to decide whether to keep Nwosu and his $45 million contract or explore trade options that could clear over $12 million in cap space.

The takeaway

The Seahawks' championship-caliber roster gives them flexibility to make tough decisions this offseason, including potentially parting ways with a Super Bowl standout like Uchenna Nwosu if the financial implications make sense for the team's long-term outlook.