Nwosu’s first year deal was only guaranteed for $14.99 million in 2025. Nevertheless, Reid’s spring-changed deal is now worth in excess of two years and $19.51 million. This strategic play is designed to both relieve the Seattle Seahawks’ salary cap strain and help compensate for Nwosu’s recent injury history.
Before earning recognition Nwosu’s journey all started when he was selected as a second-round pick by the Los Angeles Chargers in 2018. During his tenure with the Chargers, he recorded 15 sacks over his first four seasons primarily in a rotational role. In 2022, he signed with the Seattle Seahawks as a free agent. He made his presence felt immediately, registering a career-high 9.5 sacks (led the team) and 12 tackles for loss.
The linebacker for the Seahawks signed a three-year, $45 million extension in July 2023. Injuries have taken a toll on his play since the 2022 campaign. He’s been able to produce only three sacks and five tackles for loss in 12 contests. In Week 5 of the 2023 season, Nwosu had a significant quadriceps strain. This occurs after that injury landed him on injured reserve for two months and drastically decreased his playing time.
All of this in addition to Nwosu sustaining a sprained MCL from a cut block early in the 2024 preseason. That particular incident featured Cleveland Browns guard Wyatt Teller. Nwosu even called him out for a “dirty play” on his part that resulted in Nwosu being limited for the entire month of September.
"He's nasty. He's a leader. He's all about the work. He's awesome. He's great for the defense." – Schneider
Following the 2024 season, Nwosu underwent an operation. It remains to be seen whether he’ll be able to go for Week 1 of the 2025 season, or if he starts on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list. Even with those losses, the Seahawks remain high on Nwosu. They’ve already remedied his deal in a way that reduces his 2025 salary cap figure.
"Because you saw what he could be — a force on the edge, he's a great game-runner, you feel the toughness, the physicality, the intelligence," – Macdonald
Nwosu’s old deal had two years and $26.5 million remaining on it. It was projected to have a $21.17 million cap hit in 2025. The new agreement provides the team with additional cash flow flexibility. It provides Nwosu with continued protection as he goes through his healing process from the injuries he has suffered.
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