Seahawks re-sign key starting defender to $9 million contract extension

There are a lot of big question marks the Seattle Seahawks have to address this offseason. Most revolve around their outgoing free agents this offseason.

While Kenneth Walker III and Rashid Shaheed are big names to watch, the defensive side of the ball is the area suffering the most damage. Multiple starters are set to hit free agency.

But, ahead of free agency, according to NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport, the Seahawks are in agreement on a $9 million extension with a key starting defender. Seattle is bringing back Drake Thomas, their starting linebacker, on a two-year deal.

Seahawks re-sign starting LB to $9M deal

"The Seahawks and starting LB Drake Thomas have agreed to terms on a new 2-year deal worth $8 million base with a chance to make $9M, sources say," Rapoport reports.

This is a big signing for the Seahawks, as it guarantees that one of the key starters for a Super Bowl defense that dominated the competition all year long is coming back.

Thomas is 26 years old and has played in three seasons for the Seahawks as an undrafted free agent. He made 14 starts this past season and played very well for Seattle.

He finished the year with one interception, eight passes defended, one fumble recovery, 3.5 sacks, 96 total tackles (47 solo), 10 tackles for loss, and six quarterback hits.

More: Rashid Shaheed projected to land $30 million contract in free agency

In pass coverage, Thomas allowed a passer rating of 81.8, which is a solid mark for any defender, especially a linebacker.

Thomas started all three playoff games for the Seahawks, and he recored 18 total tackles, or six per-game, and also had one tackle for loss en route to a Super Bowl title.

The Seahawks extending Thomas on a two-year deal worth at least $4 million per-year, and up to $4.5 million per year, is a very nice contract to get done this offseason.

A key defender is guaranteed back in Seattle for the next two years, which is big since Riq Woolen, Josh Jobe, Coby Bryant, and Boye Mafe are all hitting free agency this offseason.

More Seahawks news:

• Jake Bobo let go after Super Bowl run
• Kenneth Walker III not franchise tagged, will hit free agency
• Kenneth Walker III poised for big payday after Breece Hall's franchise tag
• David Montgomery being traded to Texans makes RB market very expensive for Seattle
• Rashid Shaheed might join Klint Kubiak in leaving Seattle for Raiders
• Alontae Taylor would be perfect free agent CB to pair with Devon Witherspoon
• 49ers WR Jauan Jennings projected to sign with Seahawks