On Monday, as the NFL’s free agency legal tampering period began, the Seattle Seahawks secured cornerback Josh Jobe on a three-year, $24 million contract, ensuring a key part of their defense remains intact amid uncertainties. This Josh Jobe Seahawks deal comes after the team watched safety Coby Bryant leave for the Chicago Bears, making Jobe’s return essential to maintaining stability in the secondary heading into 2026.
What Jobe’s Return Means for Riq Woolen’s Future
Josh Jobe’s contract came in below earlier projections, with Spotrac estimating an average annual value of $9.7 million, while Jobe’s deal averages $8 million annually. This development casts doubt over the likelihood of Riq Woolen returning next season, as the Seahawks appear to favor Jobe as their No. 2 cornerback behind Devon Witherspoon. Woolen’s market value is currently projected at $8.19 million per year, but his rare combination of size and speed makes him an appealing target for other teams in need of secondary depth. With Jobe signed at a competitive price, Woolen’s potential departure seems increasingly probable.
Implications for Devon Witherspoon’s Contract and Role
The affordability of Jobe’s contract provides the Seahawks with added financial flexibility to pursue a lucrative extension for Devon Witherspoon, their first-round pick from 2023. Known for his standout performance as a coverage cornerback, Witherspoon commands a premium, and retaining him will likely be a priority for Seattle. The organization’s recent moves—letting go of Kenneth Walker III and Coby Bryant—reflect an intention to allocate more salary cap resources toward securing top young talents like Witherspoon and wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba. This recalibration of funds highlights the team’s focus on extending core players expected to drive future success.
Nehemiah Pritchett’s Prospects Amid Defensive Changes
Nehemiah Pritchett, a fifth-round draft pick from 2024, has seen sporadic defensive playing time but remains unproven as a reliable starter at cornerback. The Seahawks’ choice to re-sign Jobe plays a significant role in limiting Pritchett’s immediate chances to claim a primary role in the secondary. Should Riq Woolen leave, Seattle might still increase Pritchett’s snaps, but that will largely hinge on the team’s selections in the upcoming draft. While this scenario offers a cautious opportunity, Pritchett’s path to becoming a defensive leader remains uncertain.
By locking in Josh Jobe, the Seahawks have fortified a vital position within their defense, aiming to avoid a potential secondary collapse after losing Bryant. This strategic move stabilizes the team’s plans as they prepare for the 2026 season, though it also deepens questions about Woolen’s future and the development timeline for younger players like Pritchett. Looking forward, Seattle’s next steps will be closely monitored, particularly regarding contract negotiations with Witherspoon and their draft strategy to supplement the defensive backfield.
1) Of the Seahawks' top six UFAs, I think Josh Jobe has the best chance of re-signing. He had some of the best coverage numbers of any corner last season (see timeline). A self-made guy who seems to have the mindset/approach they want. My guess: he's back for around $10M/year.
— Brady Henderson (@BradyHenderson) March 9, 2026
