Recent rumors have suggested that the Seattle Seahawks are preparing to offer running back Marshawn Lynch a "huge" contract. Yet until Lynch signs on the dotted line, that's all it is, a rumor.
We still remember the offseason in which Lynch held out for more money and the contentious vibes the two sides sent out early in the regular season. As a running back approaching 30 years old who's had at least 280 rushing attempts in four straight seasons, it wouldn't be too shocking to see Lynch playing elsewhere in the coming years, regardless of how valuable he is to the team.
Even more credence is lent to that theory when you consider who the Seahawks could get to replace Lynch. ESPN NFL Draft Insider Todd McShay projects Seattle to take Georgia running back Todd Gurley with the 32nd pick in his Mock Draft 2.0.
"It's been rumored recently that the Seahawks could sign Marshawn Lynch to a long-term deal this offseason (he's entering the final year of his contract, but I'll believe that when I see it," McShay wrote. "If Lynch isn't with Seattle beyond the 2015 season, Gurley is a perfect replacement. He was a top-15 talent in this class prior to tearing his ACL this season, a powerful downhill running who also has excellent speed - the best NFL comparison I can come up with for Gurley is Lynch. The Seahawks would have to be comfortable with his health situation, but he could be an ideal successor to Lynch."
A running back has not been chosen in the first round of the NFL draft since Trent Richardson in 2012. That did not end well.
But Gurley to Seattle would be a much better situation and fit. The Seahawks' offensive line came together after a shaky start this season and quarterback Russell Wilson has improved every year. Gurley would not be expected to carry the load by himself in Seattle.
Gurley carried the ball 123 times for 911 yards (7.4 average) and nine touchdowns in six games this past season.
