The Seattle Seahawks have made early offseason roster adjustments by releasing defensive end T.J. Jackson and linebacker Jackson Woodard, both of whom were signed as undrafted free agents following the 2025 NFL Draft.
Background on T.J. Jackson and Jackson Woodard
T.J. Jackson, a defensive end from West Virginia, was among the 17 undrafted free agents signed by the Seahawks. His addition aimed to bolster the defensive line depth, particularly after an offense-heavy draft. Jackson’s college career showcased his potential as a pass rusher, but he faced stiff competition in a crowded defensive end group during the Seahawks’ rookie minicamp.
Jackson Woodard, a linebacker from UNLV, had a notable college career, earning accolades such as Mountain West Defensive Player of the Year in 2024 and being a two-time First-team All-MW selection. He began his college career at Arkansas before transferring to UNLV, where he had a breakout season in 2023 with 116 tackles, including nine for a loss, and continued his strong performance into 2024.
Implications for the Seahawks
The release of both players indicates the Seahawks’ commitment to refining their roster ahead of the upcoming season. With a new coaching staff and a focus on reshaping the team’s identity, these moves suggest a strategic approach to building a competitive roster.
The Seahawks’ decision to part ways with Jackson and Woodard also reflects the challenges undrafted players face in securing a spot on the final roster. Despite their college achievements, transitioning to the NFL requires not only talent but also the ability to adapt quickly to professional-level playbooks and competition.
Looking Ahead
As the Seahawks continue their offseason preparations, further roster changes are anticipated. The team’s front office and coaching staff will evaluate talent through upcoming training camps and preseason games to finalize the roster. For Jackson and Woodard, opportunities may arise with other NFL teams seeking to add depth and potential to their defensive units.
The Seahawks’ early roster adjustments underscore the dynamic nature of NFL team-building, where continuous evaluation and strategic decisions are essential to assembling a successful team for the regular season.
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