The Seattle Seahawks made a surprising move on Sunday by releasing veteran tight end Noah Fant, just months after he signed a two-year, $21 million extension with the team. The release of Fant, 27, comes as part of Seattle’s effort to free up cap space ahead of the upcoming NFL season.
Cost-Cutting Move Clears $9 Million in Salary
Fant’s release means that his $8.5 million base salary for the 2025 season is now off Seattle’s books, along with an additional $510,000 in per-game roster bonuses. The move ultimately clears a total of $9 million in salary cap space for the Seahawks, according to NFL Media.
Fant’s Time with the Seahawks
Fant came to Seattle in the high-profile trade that sent quarterback Russell Wilson to the Denver Broncos in 2022. While Fant showed promise in Denver, his production with the Seahawks did not live up to expectations. In 48 games played over three seasons in Seattle, the former Iowa product recorded 130 receptions for 1,400 yards and five touchdowns.
During the 2024 season, Fant was Seattle’s fourth-leading receiver, catching 48 passes for 500 yards and one touchdown. Despite showing flashes of potential, Fant was unable to become a consistent part of the Seahawks’ offense.
Impact on the Seahawks’ Tight End Room
With Fant’s release, the Seahawks’ tight end room is now more open, with AJ Barner and Eric Saubert expected to take on bigger roles in the offense, which will be led by new quarterback Sam Darnold. However, rookie tight end Elijah Arroyo could stand to benefit the most from Fant’s departure.
Arroyo, a second-round pick out of Miami, had an impressive college season, recording 35 receptions for 590 yards and seven touchdowns. His standout performance, which included a tie for the most touchdowns by an ACC tight end, earned him a Second-Team All-ACC selection.
The Seahawks will likely look to Arroyo to contribute significantly in his rookie season, as he fills the void left by Fant.
