Fifth-year options are always interesting, aren't they? The Seattle Seahawks picking up Jaxon Smith-Njigba and Devon Witherspoon's fifth-year options tells me exactly what I've been sensing from this front office: a quiet, confident commitment to the core talent they've drafted and developed. We’re not blowing things up, not by a long shot. This isn't a rebuild. This is about solidifying the foundation, especially with that impressive 14-3 season we just had. It’s smart, measured growth, the kind that lets you walk from Cafe Hue to Lumen Field feeling like the pieces are truly coming together, not just being patched over.

Now, if you're asking me who has folks most excited, it's Devon Witherspoon, hands down. You hear the buzz down at Shorty's in Belltown whenever his name comes up. His energy, his playmaking — he’s a true 12th Man favorite, a defensive spark plug we haven't seen in a while. Jaxon Smith-Njigba is a fantastic receiver, no doubt, and his option being picked up is logical, but Witherspoon feels like a new cornerstone of the defense, someone who embodies that Legion of Boom swagger. My expectations for next season? These moves reinforce that we're aiming for the top of the NFC again. No more 'just making the playoffs' talk.

What do we still need? Even with these options exercised, I'm looking at the interior offensive line. We always need more depth there, especially to truly run the ball consistently. And while our defense is stout, another veteran presence on the edge, a true pass-rushing menace, would be the cherry on top. This team is built to win now, and these moves reflect that. We're not just filling holes; we're fortifying strongholds.

From the International District to Lumen Field — 12 strong, 12 always, 12 forever.

You can hear Keith and the team discuss all these developments bright and early, every weekday, over at mornings.live.