Seattle Seahawks star Tyler Lockett weighs in on dramatically reduced role on offense

2024 was a year of change for the Seattle Seahawks. The biggest differences have been on the sidelines, where Pete Carroll has been swapped for Mike Macdonald, but there is also a major overhaul in the passing game. Over the past five years, DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett have dominated this Seahawks division, but both have been overshadowed by Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who has emerged as a bona fide star and one of the NFL’s best slot receivers this season.

Metcalf has seen his target count shrink dramatically in recent weeks, but the reduction in Lockett’s role has been far more pronounced. This season, Lockett has not had more than 75 yards receiving in any game and has totaled two scores in the last two weeks.

As you would expect, Lockett handles his reduced role with his usual class and calm. Here’s what 16 said, according to Gregg Bell of the Tacoma News Tribune.

Tyler Lockett on shrinking target share

“Of course it’s very different than previous years, but I can’t really control the situation, you know? You just have to keep putting wins on film, and really do that. “I think the most important thing is that sometimes things change as you get older – and you have to be able to make the most of it.”

Lockett is likely dealing with a lingering leg injury, although it no longer appears on the injury report. He was severely limited in training earlier this season and given the brace he wears every week, it’s not an exaggeration to think that this is still bothering him.

While the leg issue is undoubtedly a factor, Lockett’s demise appears to be simply due to Father Time winning, as always. For many years, Lockett was one of the league’s best receivers at creating separation, but this year he’s getting on offense far less often than we’re used to.

Looking forward, it is impossible to justify paying Lockett the nearly $19 million in cap hit he will receive in 2025 given his production. So there’s a real chance he’ll fall victim to the salary cap. The move would cost the team around $14 million in dead money, but would also free up $17 million in cap space.

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