Seattle Seahawks make significant roster moves as the team gears up for the second half of the season.

The Seattle Seahawks have made a surprising move, waiving linebacker Tyrel Dodson, one of their key offseason signings. This decision comes just months after Dodson joined the team on a one-year, $4.26 million deal. Despite a solid start to the season, where Dodson recorded 71 tackles and made significant contributions in several defensive categories, the Seahawks have opted to move in a different direction.

A Tough Decision for Seattle’s Defense

Tyrel Dodson, a 26-year-old linebacker, was an undrafted free agent out of Texas A&M in 2020, and he quickly earned recognition for his impressive play with the Buffalo Bills. Last season, he was Pro Football Focus’ top-rated linebacker. In his nine games with Seattle, Dodson was a key figure, contributing two sacks, five tackles for loss, and even forcing a fumble. His versatility on the field, however, was not enough to keep him on the roster, as the Seahawks’ defensive scheme under new head coach Mike Macdonald has placed a premium on physicality and hitting power.

Despite his solid individual performances, Dodson, standing 6 feet tall and weighing 237 pounds, was considered undersized by some analysts for a linebacker in the Seahawks’ system. This lack of physicality could have played a role in the decision to part ways with the young linebacker, especially after the team traded away Jerome Baker to the Tennessee Titans, further reshaping their linebacker corps.

The Seahawks Move Forward with New Faces

In addition to releasing Dodson, the Seahawks made further moves to bolster their roster. Cornerback Josh Jobe has been signed from the practice squad to take Dodson’s spot on the 53-man roster. On the practice squad, tight end N’Keal Harry has also been added, providing additional depth to the Seahawks’ offense.

As the team enters a crucial phase of the season with a 4-5 record, head coach Macdonald will continue to evaluate his lineup. Rookie Tyrice Knight and second-year undrafted player Drake Thomas are now expected to compete for Dodson’s vacated linebacker position.

What’s Next for the Seahawks?

Seattle will look to bounce back from the roster shake-up with an important road game against the San Francisco 49ers. With playoff hopes still alive, the Seahawks will rely on a stronger defensive unit and renewed energy to close out the season with a much-needed win.

As the trade deadline has now passed, the Seahawks will focus on chemistry and consistency, hoping that their latest roster adjustments help propel them back into contention in a competitive NFC West. The team’s next opportunity for redemption comes Sunday against the 5-4 49ers, a matchup that could have major implications for Seattle’s playoff push.