ESPN's Brady Henderson reports that the Seahawks will be releasing LB Tyrel Dodson. The veteran has started all nine Seattle games this season and come off the field for just 10 total snaps. But he also ranks 70th in Pro Football Focus run-defense grade among 78 LBs who have played at least 200 snaps. Dodson has fared much better in coverage (10th). But the Seahawks apparently either disagree or don't care.
What They're Saying
Henderson: "This move clears the way for either rookie fourth-round pick Tyrice Knight or Drake Thomas to play weak-side linebacker, with newly-acquired Ernest Jones IV now playing middle linebacker."
2024 Fantasy Football Impact
Knight has played 125 defensive snaps to Thomas' 32 so far this season, while trailing Thomas by 97 special-teams snaps.
Knight worked as the fill-in when LB Jerome Baker missed three games early this season, playing 57-74% of snaps in each of those contests.
Knight and Thomas both played sparingly over the past four games.
I'm guessing Knight will step in again. But if Henderson's not sure which guy will play, then we shouldn't be too certain.
Dynasty Impact
Knight's easily the more interesting candidate. He delivered a 65th-percentile speed score as a prospect vs. 19th for Thomas, who measured 2 inches shorter and 10 pounds lighter.
Knight delivered some cross-category production across four years at UTEP, including these senior-year stats:
- 140 tackles
- 16 tackles for loss
- 4.5 sacks
- 7 passes defensed
He also forced five fumbles and recovered four across his college career.
Knight's worth a stash in dynasty leagues right now -- especially if he re-joins the lineup this week.