Seahawks Could Be Ideal Fit for Recently Unretired Ex-Ravens Safety
As the Seattle Seahawks prepare for their first season under new head coach Mike Macdonald, formerly of the Baltimore Ravens, there’s growing interest in how the team will evolve. Macdonald, who spent eight of the last nine seasons with the Ravens, could bring in familiar faces to bolster the Seahawks’ roster.
Recently, veteran safety Tony Jefferson announced his intention to return to the NFL after retiring a year ago, according to Bleacher Report’s Jordan Schultz. Jefferson, who played for the Ravens, Cardinals, 49ers, and Giants, worked with Macdonald during his time as Baltimore’s defensive backs coach in 2017.
At 32 years old, Jefferson’s extensive experience, particularly with Macdonald, could be invaluable for the Seahawks. Despite starting only one game since an ACL tear in 2019, Jefferson might have to accept a backup role if he wishes to join an NFL team for the 2024 season.
Seattle’s current safety roster is relatively young, with six of the seven safeties aged 26 or younger. Jefferson’s experience could aid in developing these younger players and provide a seasoned backup ready to step in if needed.
Jefferson, an undrafted free agent from Oklahoma in 2013, has 67 career starts, including 35 with the Ravens while Macdonald was on staff from 2017-19. His 2018 season, with 74 tackles, six pass breakups, and an interception, earned him a solid defensive grade from PFF, ranking 36th out of 99 safeties.
Given Jefferson’s recent lack of starts and age, he may not attract widespread interest, making it easier for Seattle to sign him without a bidding war. Adding Jefferson could be a low-risk move for the Seahawks, potentially benefiting the development of their defensive backfield in 2024 and beyond.
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