The Seattle Seahawks have placed an original-round tender on defensive end Quinton Jefferson, according to a report by NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero. That will likely keep the versatile defensive lineman in the fold for the 2019 season.
Jefferson was originally a fifth-round pick, meaning any team that wants to sign Jefferson away from Seattle would have to forfeit a fifth rounder of their own. While Pelissero notes that he could be a target of some teams, it most likely means Jefferson will begin the 2019 season with Seattle.
The 25-year-old is coming off a career season, where he started 12 games on the outside and recorded 25 combined tackles, three sacks and two passes defended. His transition to the outside went quite well, as he showed a strong ability to pinch in and close gaps as a run-stopper, while still getting to the quarterback.
Seattle is expected to pursue more pass rushing options this offseason, which could limit Jefferson to a reserve role next year. Even if that is the case, he will still have nice value for Seattle as a big five-tech who can defend the run and the pass.
