In a significant development in the NFL, teams are going to have to invest heavily if they wish to acquire star wide receiver DK Metcalf from the Seattle Seahawks. The Seahawks are reportedly seeking a hefty price that includes a combination of first- and third-round draft picks. This comes in the wake of Metcalf's trade request, which has stirred considerable interest among several franchises. According to The Athletic, the talented receiver is also looking for a new contract that would pay him at least $30 million per season.
While Metcalf's trade request has generated buzz, it's important to note that the Seahawks had already engaged in discussions regarding Metcalf with other teams prior to his official request, as reported by ESPN. A source close to the organization indicated, “We will do what’s best for the Seahawks,” highlighting the team's commitment to making strategic decisions for their future.
Last season marked a transitional phase for the Seahawks, with Jaxon Smith-Njigba, a former first-round pick, stepping up as quarterback Geno Smith’s primary target. Smith-Njigba finished the season with impressive stats, recording 137 targets, 1,130 receiving yards, and six touchdowns. In contrast, Metcalf's performance dipped, yielding only 108 targets, 992 yards, and five touchdowns. Notably, these five touchdowns represent the fewest in Metcalf's six-year career, and for the first time in three seasons, he did not surpass the 1,000 receiving yards mark.
As he seeks a new team, Metcalf aims to join a contender where he can be recognized as the clear No. 1 receiving option. His current contract has one year remaining, worth $18 million from the extension signed previously. If he secures a new deal averaging $30 million per year, it would position him among the highest-paid receivers in the league.
Several teams are seen as potential trade partners for Metcalf. The New England Patriots, for example, are in dire need of a playmaker to support emerging quarterback Drake Maye. However, parting with the No. 4 overall pick may prove to be too steep a price. Meanwhile, the Green Bay Packers are also in search of a No. 1 receiver for Jordan Love, though their history suggests they are reluctant to part with high-value assets.
The Los Angeles Chargers are another potential suitor, needing a receiver to complement rookie sensation Ladd McConkey. They hold the No. 22 pick, but head coach Jim Harbaugh has typically favored a run-first offensive strategy. In addition, teams considering a trade for Metcalf must weigh the potential cost against pursuing other available options, like free agent Davante Adams, who would only require a financial investment.
If the Seahawks decide to proceed with trading Metcalf, they will need to fill the void left by his departure. The team has also recently released veteran receiver Tyler Lockett, further emphasizing the need for new talent in their receiving corps. Last season, Seattle finished with a record of 10-7 and secured second place in the NFC West, although they ultimately missed the playoffs under the leadership of coach Mike Macdonald, who took over from Pete Carroll.
