The curious case of Marshawn Lynch continues as the Seattle Seahawks running back could be retiring or he could just be pushing the team for more money. The Seahawks might be trying to negotiate a new contract with the running back who is a heavy cap hit in 2015 or they might be willing to just let the situation play out. Several teams are keeping an eye on what happens with the running back as the Oakland Raiders could make him a priority if available.
According to Seattle head coach Pete Carroll, the Seahawks are doing all they can when it comes to Lynch. Rumors continue to swirl that Lynch is dealing with chronic back pain and could retire instead of returning to Seattle in 2015. The only issue is that Lynch has toyed with retirement before, putting the Seahawks in a tough spot. Carroll insists they have offered the running back some nice contracts, but Lynch is hesitant to commit.
"We're always preparing for the future with him," Carroll said, via ESPN.com. "We've never thought of the future without him. Hopefully, it will work out."
Lynch will be 29 in April and is scheduled to make $7 million this upcoming season in the final year of his contract. NFL Insider Ian Rapoport has noted that the Seahawks have already attempted contract negotiations that would give the running back a nice raise, but that might not be satisfying to Lynch who wants more for his work on the field. Lynch's agent denied a report saying the running back and Seattle had agreed on a new contract. Jason La Canfora of CBS Sports reports there has been no agreement between the two sides and Lynch's future is still unknown.
If available, teams will make a move. The Oakland Raiders continue to get linked to the running back for several reasons. Lynch is originally from Oakland and is very committed to his hometown. The Raiders also have a significant amount of cap space and could easily take him on in a trade if needed. The Raiders plan to let Darren McFadden test free agency while releasing Maurice Jones-Drew which would open the door for Lynch. If they cannot get the Seattle running back, chasing someone like DeMarco Murray, CJ Spiller or potentially Frank Gore could be a solid option.