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The Seahawks’ handling of the nickelback position has been odd since Justin Coleman signed a big-money deal with the Lions last spring. Following Coleman’s exit, Jamar Taylor was signed, Ugo Amadi was drafted, and Akeem King joined the competition.
All three saw playing time during the 2019 season, as Seattle played more base defense than nickel, a move that stood in contrast to the rest of the NFL. Now, King is a free agent while Taylor was cut mid-season. Pete Carroll suggested at the Scouting Combine that Amadi would be favored to takeover the spot full-time, but competition would surely be added.
The Seahawks may do just that, with free agency days away from opening:
Former #Browns CB/S T.J. Carrie is expected to visit the #Seahawks this week, source said.
— Adam Caplan (@caplannfl) March 11, 2020
Carrie started 14 games during his 2 seasons with the #Browns.
Team is looking to boost their nickel position. They played mostly 3 LBs in nickel last season instead of an extra DB.
Carrie, a six-year veteran, began his career with the Raiders. After four seasons, he signed a four-year, $31 million contract with the Browns. Following two seasons, Cleveland moved on—and attempted to during this past season’s trade deadline. Though Carrie played well in his first season with the Browns, it fell apart for him in 2019. The slot corner allowed 8.2 yards per target and a completion percentage of 68 percent—both well above league-average. If Seattle can get him back to his form prior to 2019, however, they may unearth value at the slot corner position.
For whatever it's worth:
— Alistair Corp (@byAlistairCorp) March 11, 2020
Justin Coleman in 2018 - 53.4% completion allowed, 5.4 yards per target, 7 PBUs, 1 INT
T.J. Carrie in 2018 - 54.1% completion allowed, 6.6 yards per target, 8 PBUs, 1 INT
Since Carrie was released by Cleveland a month ago, he is free to visit and sign with a team whenever. If Carrie’s visit with the Seahawks goes well, the team may add a nickel before free agency even opens.