The Seattle Seahawks used their franchise tag on defensive end Frank Clark this spring, but the word in NFL circles is he can be had for the right price.
Earlier this offseason, the Kansas City Chiefs used their franchise tag on outside linebacker Dee Ford. He was traded to the San Francisco 49ers for a 2020 second-round pick only weeks later.
The Seahawks could be exploring a similar scenario with Frank Clark.
Multiple league sources have told FanSided they believe Seattle is willing to hear trade offers, provided they include a second-round pick as a starting point.
Clark, 25, was slapped with the franchise tag on March 4. Less than a week later, reports initiated that the former Michigan star would hold out into the summer without a long-term deal in place. The four-year veteran has been extremely productive in his short career. Last year, Clark notched a personal-best 13 sacks and has 32 sacks over the past three seasons.
Clark’s value is significant, but there are questions about his past. While in college, Clark was arrested on charges for assault and domestic violence, resulting in him being kicked off the Wolverines. This came two years after Clark was charged with second degree home invasion, in connection with stealing a computer. He later pled guilty.
For now, the belief is that General Manager John Schneider is focused on getting the Russell Wilson contract done. Wilson’s camp recently levied a self-imposed deadline of April 15 for a long-term pact to be agreed upon, otherwise the Pro Bowler is willing to play out the final year of his deal.
As for Clark, the Seahawks have options. They can act on any potential incoming trade offers, sign him long-term prior to the July 15 deadline or play the tag out and live with the promised holdout.