Seattle’s decision to designate linebacker Leroy Hill as its franchise player surprised some. But it was a well thought-out position that resulted largely from failed contract talks between the two sides.

Seattle decided to designate Hill with the $8.304 million franchise tag only after the Seahawks linebacker turned down a more lucrative deal from the team.

Seattle offered a six-year, $36 million deal that Hill rejected, leading Seahawks president Tim Ruskell to say this week that the two sides remained far apart on their differences.

Still, with Julian Peterson and Lofa Tatupu tied to long-term, lucrative contracts, and with Hill now franchised, the Seahawks have more than $20 million against their salary cap tied only to their linebackers.

Posted in: Adam Schefter  | comments  |