Seahawks release former first-round TE before training camp

Fant was drafted within the first spherical in 2019 by the Denver Broncos. He arrived in Seattle through commerce a couple of seasons afterward. In his three years with the Seahawks, Fant was a constant presence within the offense, showing in 48 video games with 42 begins. Throughout his time with the crew, he totaled 130 catches for 1,400 receiving yards and 5 touchdowns. First rate manufacturing, however clearly not sufficient to guide the room. 

Whereas Fant’s departure does open up some cap house, it additionally opens the door for a altering of the guard on the tight finish place. The crew seems to be dedicated to giving youthful gamers an opportunity to play, equivalent to AJ Barner and rookie Elijah Arroyo. Barner, now in his second season, had first rate manufacturing in his rookie yr, with 30 receptions for 245 yards. He additionally confirmed strong play as a blocker. 

The crew additionally added Arroyo on this yr’s draft. Arroyo not too long ago signed his rookie deal and possesses a singular ability set that would considerably improve this offense. Arroyo is a receiving menace who can work downfield and pose a menace to the seams. Pair him alongside shifty wideouts like Jaxon Smith-Njigba and Cooper Kupp, and now the offense turns into fairly troublesome to defend. 

Fant’s launch could come as a little bit of a shock to some followers, particularly given his identify worth and draft standing, however it does align with the Seahawks’ technique of constructing round youthful, cheaper expertise. As coaching camp nears, the crew will likely be carefully watching the tight finish room to see who can step up and lead the room. For now, Seattle is able to flip the web page and put money into the following wave of expertise.