The Seattle Seahawks have finalized a two-year contract extension with inside linebacker Drake Thomas, solidifying their defense through the 2027 season. The deal, reported on March 5, 2026, by ESPN, is valued at $8 million with potential earnings up to $9 million, ensuring Thomas remains a key part of the team’s top-ranked defense.
Drake Thomas’s Journey to Becoming a Defensive Starter
Thomas, 26, initially entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2023. After a brief stint with the Las Vegas Raiders, who waived him before the 2023 season, Thomas was claimed by the Seahawks. Despite suffering a season-ending knee injury that November, he made a significant comeback in 2024, playing in all 17 regular-season games and leading the team in special teams snaps.
By 2025, Thomas had earned the starting weakside linebacker position outright, sharing the role early in the season with Tyrice Knight before becoming the primary starter due to his strong performance.
Significant Contributions During the 2025 Season and Playoffs
In the 2025 regular season, Thomas recorded 96 tackles, including 10 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, an interception, and eight passes defensed over 17 games. His first career interception was secured in Week 18 against the San Francisco 49ers, contributing to a 13-3 victory that clinched the NFC West title and the conference’s top seed for Seattle.
During the Seahawks’ playoff run, Thomas added 18 more tackles, including a tackle for loss across three games, reinforcing his role as a defensive playmaker and vital asset to the team.
Implications of Thomas’s Contract for Seahawks’ Defense
With this extension, the Seahawks have retained a developing talent critical to their defensive success following their Super Bowl championship. Thomas’s rise from undrafted rookie to starting linebacker underscores the team’s commitment to maintaining depth and continuity on defense. His presence will be key as the Seahawks aim to defend their top-ranking defense in the coming seasons.
The NFL Network was the first to report the agreement between Seattle and Thomas, adding to the offseason moves shaping the Seahawks’ roster.
