Seahawks Secure Linebacker Drake Thomas with Two-Year Contract Extension
The Seattle Seahawks have solidified their linebacker corps by agreeing to a two-year contract extension with Drake Thomas, a key contributor to their Super Bowl-winning team. The deal is worth $8 million, with the potential to reach $9 million, according to reports from SI.com and ESPN.
From Undrafted to Key Starter
Thomas, 26, joined the Seahawks in 2023 as an undrafted free agent after initially being signed and then released by the Las Vegas Raiders. He overcame a season-ending knee injury in November 2023 to turn into a pivotal player in 2025, earning a starting role and demonstrating significant impact on both run and pass defense. ESPN reports he won the weakside linebacker job outright after initially sharing time with Tyrice Knight.
2025 Season Performance
In 17 regular-season games during the 2025 season, Thomas recorded 96 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, one interception, and eight passes defensed. His performance was instrumental in the Seahawks claiming the NFC West title and securing the conference’s No. 1 seed. He continued to contribute in the playoffs, adding 18 tackles, including one for loss, across three games. SI.com noted that his impact extended beyond statistics.
Contract Details and Team Strategy
The Seahawks opted to sign Thomas to a two-year deal rather than extending a restricted free agent tender, demonstrating their commitment to the young linebacker. General manager John Schneider could have pursued a longer-term contract, but the team likely recognizes Thomas is entering his prime and may command a larger deal in the future if he continues to perform at a high level. SI.com highlights that his $4 million annual average ranks 37th among linebackers league-wide, suggesting a value contract for his production.
Early Career and Background
Prior to joining the Seahawks, Thomas played college football for NC State, where he was a standout linebacker. He was a second-team All-ACC selection in 2022. Wikipedia details his college career, noting he totaled 34 tackles and one interception as a freshman in 2019 and led the Wolfpack in tackles in 2021 with 100 total tackles.
Looking Ahead
With Drake Thomas secured alongside Ernest Jones IV (signed to a three-year, $28.5 million deal ahead of the 2025 season), the Seahawks have established a promising linebacker duo for the foreseeable future. The team will look to build on their Super Bowl success with these key defensive players leading the way.