With the NFL’s new league season starting on Wednesday, several Wildcats in the NFL will experience change this fall, highlighted by 10-year veteran Tyler Lockett being released by the Seattle Seahawks.
Tyler Lockett, WR, Free Agent
After spending a decorated decade with the Seahawks, the third-round pick in 2015 was released last week. The 32-year-old came off his least productive season since 2017, and Seattle saves $17 million by parting ways.
“I really enjoyed being in Seattle, I met so many great people and captured so many great memories,” Lockett said in a social media post. “The 12s [fans] really make this place meaningful! Although my time on the Seahawks may have run its course, I’m thankful for everything! God gets all the glory forever!”
Lockett quickly shined in Seattle as a kick returner, making the Pro Bowl and being named first-team All-Pro as a rookie. In 2018, he made noise as a receiving threat, hauling in 965 yards and 10 touchdowns. He cleared 1,000 yards for four consecutive seasons after. His 45 touchdowns since 2018 ranked fourth among NFL receivers.
Lockett accomplished a lot in Seattle, but now he must move on to a new franchise.
One team that is a solid landing spot for Lockett is the Las Vegas Raiders. If Lockett were to come to Vegas, he’d be reunited with his former head coach, Pete Carroll. Lockett would also be reunited with quarterback Geno Smith, who he caught passes from last season in Seattle.
The Houston Texans aren’t a bad spot for Lockett either. The Texans could potentially lose wide receiver Stefon Diggs in free agency and fellow wide receiver Tank Dell will miss time next season because of a knee injury. Lockett could be a solid and temporary WR2 option for Houston if given the chance.
D.J. Reed, CB, Detroit Lions
After proving to be one of the league’s best cornerbacks on the New York Jets this last season, Reed will move on to another chapter in his career. Reed signed a three-year contract worth $48 million that includes $32 million guaranteed.
This will be a big change for Reed, as he goes from a team that was far from the playoffs to a legitimate contender. Last season with the Jets, the 2018 fifth-round pick had 11 pass deflections, 64 combined tackles and four tackles for loss.
Cornelius Lucas, OT, Cleveland Browns
After spending five years with the Commanders, Lucas signed a 2-year contract worth 10 million to play for the Cleveland Browns. Lucas started seven games for the Commanders, playing both right and left tackle.
In Cleveland, Lucas may be able to earn a permanent starting role or could continue as a solid rotational piece for the Browns’ offensive line.
Nae’Qwan Tomlin, F, Cleveland Charge
After Tomlin earned a 10-day contract with the Cavaliers and made his NBA debut, the former Wildcat forward signed a two-way contract with the team.
Two-ways allow teams to roster two extra players who can play for the NBA team and its G-League affiliate. Tomlin did not disappoint in his return to the G-League, tallying a 33-point outing against the Maine Celtics last weekend.
Tomlin shot the ball well, going 14-16 from field goal range. He finished the night with 11 rebounds, giving him a double-double. This was Tomlin’s 11th double-double of the season. The Charge beat the Celtics 127-123 in an overtime thriller.
Dean Wade, F, Cleveland Cavaliers
Wade shot a perfect three for three from the perimeter in the 112-100 win over the Milwaukee Bucks. The Kansas State legend had nine points, all from beyond the arc, with three rebounds and one assist.
One of the most consistent role players in the NBA, Wade recorded a game-high +23 point differential in the win, meaning the Cavaliers outscored the Bucks by 23 when Wade was on the floor.
The Cavaliers are playing phenomenal basketball, as the team is on a 15-game winning streak and is the current No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference.