The Seattle Seahawks have rescinded a restricted free agent tender on veteran safety Ryan Neal. As a result, Neal entered the free agent market and can now sign with other teams.
The move was reportedly motivated by the Seahawks’ need to clear salary cap space. By withdrawing the tender, the team has cleared $2.67 million off their books.
Neal proved as a dependable piece of the Seahawks’ secondary in recent seasons, playing 43 games since 2020. He had a career campaign in 2022, making 66 tackles alongside 1.0 sacks, eight passes defended, one interception, and one forced fumble. The 27-year-old was especially lauded for his coverage ability, which made him the top-ranked safety by Pro Football Focus.
But despite this, Neal would be a luxury for the Seahawks in 2023, especially after the team signed Julian Love in free agency. Seattle also has Pro Bowlers Jamal Adams and Quandre Diggs on their depth chart.
Neal, who also spent time with the Philadelphia Eagles and the Atlanta Falcons early in his NFL career, is not expected to remain unsigned for a long time. Despite the safety market taking a hit this year, teams will probably jump on a chance to add the Southern Illinois product, especially if he is available for cheap.
