With several key free agents set to hit the market, two big-name wide receivers in Seattle appear to be on their way out. Tyler Lockett, a decade-long Seahawk, was released Wednesday morning after posting his first season under 800 receiving yards since 2017. Just hours later, his longtime running mate, DK Metcalf, requested a trade.
Seattle Seahawks’ Band of Brothers Breaking Up
The trio of Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Metcalf, and Lockett only played together for two seasons, but that was enough time to form a powerful bond. After learning that both of his veteran teammates could be leaving, Smith-Njigba took to X to share his feelings.
Ayooo wtf
— JSN (@jaxon_smith1) March 5, 2025
Metcalf and Lockett combined for seven 1,000-yard seasons, 109 receiving touchdowns, and 1,099 receptions. For nearly a decade, No. 16 and No. 14, respectively, were the heartbeat of Seattle’s offense. Now, it looks like their run as one of the NFL‘s most dynamic duos is coming to an end.
With Lockett gone and Metcalf likely on his way out, Smith-Njigba is set to step into the WR1 role — if he wasn’t already. The former Ohio State standout took a massive leap in his second NFL season.
Jaxon Smith-Njigba Emerges as Seahawks’ No. 1 Receiver
Smith-Njigba became the newest member of Seattle’s 1,000-yard receiver club, proving he’s ready to be the go-to target. In his sophomore season, he was targeted 137 times, catching 100 passes for 1,130 yards and six touchdowns.
Even with two elite veterans alongside him, JSN managed to stand out. He had 34 more receptions than Metcalf and 51 more than Lockett. While Metcalf led the group in yards per catch (15.5), followed by Lockett (12.2), Smith-Njigba still posted a solid 11.3 yards per reception.
But despite having a talented WR trio, the Seahawks’ offense underperformed in 2024. PFSN’s 2024 NFL offense rankings placed Seattle 20th overall, giving them a C- grade (71.2 rating). According to Sterling Xie, the Seahawks have talent at their skill positions, but improvements are needed to maximize their potential.
“Kenneth Walker III has flashed when healthy, and with Zach Charbonnet producing in his absence, it’s easy to project this as a well-balanced offense for years to come.
“However, the offensive line must be fixed in 2025 to help Geno Smith avoid his worst habits. Seattle allowed the third-highest non-blitz pressure rate this season, and Smith responded with the most turnovers under pressure (13).
“That’s a big reason why the Seahawks parted ways with offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb after just one season. Now, new head coach Mike Macdonald faces a huge decision that could define his tenure.”
Seattle will feel the loss of both Lockett and Metcalf. The real question is: Will it be for better or worse?