The Seattle Seahawks’ 2024 season was a cruel lesson in how unforgiving the NFL can be. Despite finishing with a strong 10-7 record, they didn’t make the playoffs after losing the fifth tiebreaker (strength of victory), to the Los Angeles Rams, who also finished 10-7 and claimed the NFC West crown.
To say it was a frustrating way to end what had often looked like a promising season would be an understatement, and now, the offseason has only delivered more heartbreak.
One of Seattle’s longest-tenured and most beloved players, Tyler Lockett, was recently released. The departure of the veteran wide receiver wasn’t just about money or production—it was the end of an era defined by professionalism, leadership, and unwavering loyalty. And if anyone needed a reminder of why Lockett was so beloved in the locker room, a recently shared story from a Seahawks staffer makes it crystal clear.
Tyler Lockett’s Unwavering Loyalty
Lockett’s greatness wasn’t just measured in yards, touchdowns, or highlight-reel catches. It was in the way he treated people. A Seahawks staff member recently shared a story from the 2021 season that perfectly encapsulates why his teammates and coaches held him in such high regard.
“One of my favorite Tyler Lockett moments happened off the field. After the final game of the 2021 season, in which Quandre Diggs dislocated his ankle, Lockett elected to stay behind with his friend rather than fly home on the team charter to start his offseason.
Lockett, who definitely could have afforded to have a nicer ride pick him up, instead piled into a rental minivan with a member of the PR staff, who was also staying behind with Diggs, and a few digital media/video folk, dropped some of us off at the airport, then went to the hospital to be with his close friend. Lockett also flew with Diggs to Green Bay for his surgery to see him through the whole process.
That’s just who he is: loyal, humble, selfless, plus, of course, one hell of a receiver.”
One of my favorite Tyler Lockett moments happened off the field. After the final game of the 2021 season, in which Quandre Diggs dislocated his ankle, Lockett elected to stay behind with his friend rather than fly home on the team charter to start his offseason. Lockett, who… https://t.co/sBeC2jlcwZ
— John Boyle (@johnpboyle) March 5, 2025
Lockett’s Legacy in Seattle
For 10 straight seasons since being drafted by them in the third round of the 2015 NFL Draft, Lockett was the steady, reliable presence in the Seahawks’ passing game. He leaves Seattle ranked second in franchise history in receptions (661) and receiving yards (8,594), trailing only Hall of Famer Steve Largent in both categories. His 65 career touchdown catches rank him fourth in franchise history behind Shaun Alexander (112), Steve Largent (101), and only one less than Marshawn ‘Beast Mode’ Lynch (66).
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Beyond the numbers, Lockett was the heartbeat of the team’s offense. His chemistry with Russell Wilson was critical for Seattle’s aerial attack for years, and when Geno Smith took over, Lockett quickly became his most trusted target. Whether it was a perfectly timed sideline route, a clutch third-down conversion, or a quiet moment of leadership in the locker room, Lockett quietly delivered time and time again.
A Difficult Player to Replace
Now, the Seahawks find themselves in an impossible position. Not only is Lockett gone, but DK Metcalf has reportedly requested a trade, leaving Seattle’s receiving corps in flux. The offensive line remains a weak spot, and with the Seahawks picking 18th overall in the 2025 NFL Draft, finding an immediate replacement for Lockett is a long shot.
Replacing Locket isn’t just about talent—it’s about trust, chemistry, and continuity. Lockett’s presence in Seattle’s system made life easier for Geno Smith, who already faces enough challenges behind a shaky offensive line. Losing a receiver of Lockett’s caliber, both on and off the field, isn’t just a roster move—it’s a seismic shift for the entire organization.
Unless the stars align and they also get super lucky, replacing Locket is going to be close to impossible for the Seahawks.