The Seattle Seahawks’ season took a sharp turn after a promising start under new head coach Mike Macdonald. Now sitting at 4-5, the team opted for some significant changes following their bye week.
On Monday, November 11, the Seahawks surprised many by releasing linebacker Tyrel Dodson. Dodson, who joined Seattle from the Buffalo Bills in the offseason as a key free-agent signing, had started all nine games and led the team with 71 tackles.
Following the announcement, Dodson reached out to Seahawks fans on X, saying, “12s! I appreciate you so much, thank you for welcoming my family and I! @seattlechildren So happy we had to connect and change lives! Keep it going!”
While fans processed the news, the decision highlighted Dodson’s struggles to fit within Seattle’s defense. Dodson, who logged 98% of the team’s defensive snaps, initially started at middle linebacker but later shifted to weakside linebacker. His debut in the new role against his former team, the Bills, saw Buffalo rush for 164 yards in Week 8.
Dodson signed a one-year, $4.26 million deal with Seattle but was released before hitting $550,000 in incentives, which may have influenced the decision, according to Michael Ginnitti of Spotrac.com.
Head coach Macdonald called it a “tough” choice but noted the move opens opportunities for younger players and allows Dodson to seek a new team.
Should the Bills Consider Bringing Tyrel Dodson Back?
After Dodson’s release, Bills fans quickly voiced their hopes for his return. However, Dodson must clear waivers before any team can sign him, and Buffalo sits 30th in line, according to Sal Capaccio of WGR 5550.
Adding depth behind linebackers Terrel Bernard and Dorian Williams could be beneficial, especially with Baylon Spector recently placed on injured reserve. The Bills have shown a willingness to welcome former players, as seen with defensive tackles Jordan Phillips and Quinton Jefferson. Currently, Buffalo has an open spot on their 53-man roster.
Still, the team may want to keep that position available, with linebacker Matt Milano recently starting his 21-day practice window after recovering from a bicep injury.
Financially, Buffalo’s options are limited, with just over $1.6 million in cap space.
Tyrel Dodson’s Career Year in Buffalo Before Joining Seattle
Before signing with Seattle, Dodson enjoyed his best NFL season with the Bills. Initially joining Buffalo as an undrafted free agent in 2019, Dodson stepped up as a full-time starter in 2023 after Matt Milano was sidelined. Over 17 games and 10 starts, he logged 74 tackles, 2.5 sacks, 2 passes defensed, and a forced fumble.
Sports Illustrated’s Corbin K. Smith praised the 6-foot, 237-pound Dodson, noting his elite 86.8 coverage grade on Pro Football Focus, placing him among the top three linebackers in 2023 and ahead of Ravens All-Pro Roquan Smith.
Additionally, Dodson’s 10.6% run-stop rate ranked in the top 10 for linebackers, and he recorded 11 pressures and 2.5 sacks on only 41 blitzes, achieving a 26.8% pressure rate as an extra rusher for the Bills.
