Seahawks re-sign key defensive end in much-needed reunion

After releasing him prior to the new league year, the Seattle Seahawks are re-signing defensive end Carlos Dunlap.

The Seattle Seahawks were prepared to enter the 2021 league year with very limited cap space, forcing them to make a rather tough decision. That choice came in the form of edge rusher Carlos Dunlap, who was released from his contract earlier this month with the purpose of freeing up over $14 million in cap space. The split did not last long.

According to his agent Drew Rosenhaus, the Seahawks are re-signing Dunlap to a two-year, $16.6 million contract ($8.5 million guaranteed). Dunlap confirmed the news as well with a tweet.

Seahawks: Carlos Dunlap returning to Seattle on a friendlier deal

A reunion was always in the cards. According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler on Wednesday, the Seahawks and Dunlap “have not closed the door on a reunion.” Based off the numbers of this new deal, the Seahawks wanted Dunlap to return at a cheaper price, and the defensive lineman happily obliged.

Dunlap spent the majority of his career with the Cincinnati Bengals, but he was publicly outspoken about his usage with the team this past season. That led the Bengals to trading him to Seattle in exchange for a 2021 seventh-round draft pick and veteran offensive lineman B.J. Finney. The Seahawks were in desperate need of a pass rusher, and Dunlap was of significant help.

In his eight games with the Seahawks, Dunlap recorded 14 total tackles, 14 quarterback hits, five sacks and two defended passes. Additionally, Dunlap tallied 18 pressures, eight knockdowns and four hurries against the opposing quarterback, per Pro Football Reference.

Dunlap will now join a defensive line consisting of Poona Ford, Benson Mayowa and Kerry Hyder, formerly of the San Francisco 49ers. The defensive end was the spark the Seahawks needed last season, and they are officially bringing him back for two more campaigns.