The Seattle Seahawks saved about $17 million dollars when they jettisoned defensive end Frank Clark to the Kansas City Chiefs in exchange for a 2019 first-round pick, a second-round pick in 2020 and swapped third rounders in April.
While the majority of that money will almost certainly be used to extend star middle linebacker Bobby Wagner, not to mention defensive tackle Jarran Reed, the Seahawks could certainly use some of that extra dough to add a free agent or two.
With a pressing need at defensive end, perhaps Seattle will find a cheaper veteran alternative to Clark? If they choose to go that route, the Seahawks have a handful of options.
The team recently visited with three different free agents: Allen Bailey, Corey Liuget and Al Woods. Woods and Liuget are primarily interior defensive tackles, although the transition of Nazair Jones to the outside does help ease the loss of Clark and creates a need on the inside.
Bailey is more of a straight-up replacement for Clark, should Seattle pursue him.
Other options who remain on the open market include Ezekiel Ansah, Nick Perry, Danny Shelton and a reunion with Dion Jordan.
The Seahawks could use one of their first-round picks on a young, impact edge defender, while also using some of their extra cash to sign a veteran.
It may not create a perfect replacement for Clark, but it saves Seattle money while allowing coach Pete Carroll to develop another budding star.
