Seahawks linebacker Bruce Irvin is set to become a free agent and said recently that he’s open to taking less money to remain with the team rather than signing with the highest bidder on the open market.
The concept of a hometown discount is less appealing to one of his teammates whose hometown qualifications run a bit deeper than his time with the Seahawks. Wide receiver Jermaine Kearse is from Lakewood, Washington and went to the University of Washington, but told Adam Schefter of ESPN that he’s not approaching free agency with the idea of taking less to stay at home.
“I love my hometown, but I’ve put in too much hard work to give a discount,” Kearse said. “My number one priority is to take care of my family’s future, so I will consider all opportunities.”
Kearse closed out his season with a flourish by catching 11 passes for 110 yards and two touchdowns in last Sunday’s 31-24 loss to the Panthers. He had 49 catches for 685 yards and five touchdowns during the regular season, all of which represent career highs for the four-year veteran. If someone other that the Seahawks is interested in adding that production to their offense, it sounds like they won’t have to worry about being underbid for his services.