2012 NFL Free Agents: Marshawn Lynch About to Go Beast Mode in Free Agency

The Seattle Seahawks better get the checkbook out and practice their signatures, because Marshawn Lynch deserves to be paid. 

The time has come to really see how much value Lynch garners on the open market. The star running back is as gifted on the field as he is off it. The man is a draw for fans in the way he plays every single down. 

It's clear that a strong back that gives his all on every carry has become a household entity with every mention of Beast Mode. Essentially, Lynch has become one of the most regarded backs in the business, and he needs to be paid like a star.

The good news for Seahawks fans is that Lynch rather likes life in Seattle. The Tacoma News Tribune reports on Lynch being fine with staying in Seattle:

"

I had relationships with people before I got here. The new relationships that I have made -- we've got great people here. And the offensive line coming together and T-Jack [Tarvaris Jackson] taking control -- there's some real good things going on around here that I like. So it's cool with me.

"

That sentiment should be received rather well in the Seattle area. Let's be honest: the Seahawks don't really have a great deal of star power as it is. 

The other fact—and a much bigger point—is that Lynch has carried this team with his huge runs and ability to continue pushing forward despite behemoth defenders in his way.

Of course, the bad news is that the 'Hawks will indeed have to pay for his presence going forward. There will be no hometown discount. 

Reporter Eric Williams writes that Lynch will be seeking the best possible deal, as he should. Asked about a hometown discount, Lynch said, "Hopefully I don't have to. Hopefully I can get taken care of where I'm at. But I mean, if that's the case, that would be the next step."

And he indeed needs to be rightly compensated and taken care of. It is rare to see a player that invigorates the crowd the way Beast Mode does. If the Seahawks don't get him a great deal, someone else most definitely will. 

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