Seahawks decline trade offers for Mafe, Woolen; Bengals' Wilson requests trade amid injury

The Seattle Seahawks are facing inquiries about their standout players Boye Mafe and Riq Woolen, but the team remains resolute in retaining both talents amid ongoing trade discussions across the league.

Why it matters: The future of Mafe and Woolen is critical for the Seahawks as they navigate a transitional phase in player contracts and performance evaluations.

• Both players, who have shown flashes of brilliance in past seasons, are entering pivotal moments in their careers, with their rookie contracts set to expire after this season.
• Retaining them could play a significant role in Seattle's defensive schemes as they aim to rebound from a sluggish start.

What’s new: Despite receiving trade inquiries, the Seahawks are committed to holding onto Mafe and Woolen.

• Mafe has recorded 15 sacks over the previous two seasons; however, his current season has been lackluster, with zero sacks and just one tackle for loss in seven games.
• Similarly, Woolen, who tied for the league lead with six interceptions during his rookie year, has yet to find the same success this season.

Yes, but: The Seahawks decision to keep these players may not come without challenges.

• As both Mafe and Woolen struggle with performance, their perceived value might decrease, making negotiations complex as the offseason approaches.
• The Seahawks also face the reality of managing several significant contracts, including key players such as Jaxon Smith-Njigba and Charles Cross.

What to watch: Keep an eye on Trey Hendrickson's status with the Cincinnati Bengals, as he has also been involved in trade talks while nursing a hip injury.

• Currently, Hendrickson has four sacks in six games this season, but his health may affect his trade market value.
• Concurrently, Logan Wilson's recent trade request adds another layer of intrigue, especially with teams like the Buffalo Bills and Dallas Cowboys expressing interest.

What’s next: The Vikings are actively seeking an experienced backup quarterback for J.J. McCarthy, which could lead to further shifts within their roster.

• Kirk Cousins remains a name to watch in potential trade scenarios, particularly if the Vikings choose to pivot away from him.
• The Cleveland Browns, having made several trades recently, are reportedly on the lookout for young talent, a move that could affect the broader market as the deadline approaches.

The bottom line: As NFL teams assess their strengths and weaknesses ahead of the trade deadline, the focus will be on how these decisions impact team dynamics and player futures.

• For the Seahawks, maintaining key defensive assets like Mafe and Woolen becomes essential, while teams like the Bengals and Vikings contemplate strategic moves to bolster their rosters in pursuit of playoff contention.