When considering the key roster needs for Minnesota, securing a strong defensive tackle ranks quite high. Is there a possibility that a solution could be found through trades? If so, a significant trade target from Seattle might be viable.
Earlier this week, a PFF article highlighted the salary cap dilemma facing the Seattle Seahawks. The combined cap numbers for QB Geno Smith, WRs Tyler Lockett and D.K. Metcalf, along with DT Leonard Williams, place the team in a challenging situation: “these four players account for over $135 million against the cap — about 50% of the total.” Would it be worthwhile to inquire about Williams’ availability?
After a somewhat disappointing 10-7 season (missing the playoffs), Seattle will need to make some adjustments. Timo Riske from PFF notes, “It’s difficult to build a competitive roster with such a significant portion of cap space dedicated to only four players.” This is certainly true. While cutting or restructuring contracts could help alleviate the situation, trading players is another option to free up cap space. The added benefit is that it also brings an asset back to Seattle.
Trading Williams would save Seattle $12.5 million in cap space for 2025. However, the drawback is that they would absorb $16.6 million in dead money. It’s important to note that Over the Cap currently reports the Seahawks as having negative $27.5 million in cap space, meaning tough choices will have to be made.
The Vikings’ defensive tackle position is currently led by Harrison Phillips, a tough run stuffer who isn’t particularly effective against the pass.
He serves as a solid leader and teammate but is limited to a specific role. Pairing him with someone who can apply pressure on the quarterback would significantly enhance Minnesota’s defense. Standing at 6’5″ and weighing 300 pounds, Williams has just come off an exceptionally strong season. Over sixteen games, he recorded 64 tackles, 11 sacks, 28 quarterback hits, 16 tackles for loss, 1 interception (which he returned for a touchdown), and 3 passes defended. Despite being 30 years old, Williams is still performing at a high level. Having been in the NFL since 2015, acquiring Williams isn’t about securing a long-term solution at defensive tackle. Instead, it’s about strengthening a weakness for the next season or two as Minnesota aims to compete during J.J. McCarthy’s rookie contract period.
Leonard Williams is currently under a three-year contract he signed in 2024, which will extend through 2025 and 2026. The fact that some of his salary would still count against Seattle’s budget makes him more affordable for the Vikings. Last season, Williams achieved the highest PFF grade of his career at 87.1, showcasing his effectiveness as both a run defender and a pass rusher.
He was utilized in various positions, which is appealing to the Vikings. He spent 130 snaps lined up wide, 241 snaps over the offensive tackle, 349 snaps in the B-gap, and 27 snaps in the A-gap. Just think about the possibilities for Brian Flores with a talent like Williams. While acquiring the standout defensive tackle may be a long shot, it’s worth considering, especially given Seattle’s challenging financial situation and the Vikings’ need to strengthen their roster as they aim to compete in 2025. To make a trade possible, the Vikings might need to consider using some of their 2026 draft picks.
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