Bruce Irvin: Latest News, Rumors and Speculation on Seahawks LB

The Seattle Seahawks' trademark for success in their four straight playoff appearances has been defense, but that unit could have a very different look next year, as many on that side are eyeing free agency—chiefly, linebacker Bruce Irvin. 

Continue for updates.

---

Irvin Comments on Potential Return to Seattle

Monday, Jan. 18

"I would definitely come back if [Seahawks] matched or if it was a little less," Irvin told reporters Monday.

---

Irvin Not a Lock to Return to Seahawks

Monday, Jan. 19

Irvin is expected to test the market this March, according to Bob Condotta of the Seattle Times, after the Seahawks did not exercise his contract option for an extension last spring. The former first-rounder is coming off a four-year, $9.3 million deal, per Spotrac, signed before his rookie year, and he should command much more on the open market.

---

Irvin Has Eyed Potential Falcons Move in the Past, Clouding Future With Seahawks

Irvin was irked last spring when the team didn't exercise his fifth-year option for $7.8 million in 2016, sending off some NSFW tweets in frustration. He then went so far as to say he not only wouldn't be back, but that he'd be joining the Atlanta Falcons. 

"I'm going to be in Atlanta next season," Irvin told Black Sports Online in May (h/t Terry Blount of ESPN). "I'm ready."

Irvin grew up in Atlanta and expressed a desire to play again for head coach Dan Quinn, who was the Seahawks' defensive coordinator from 2013-2014, per Blount.

After switching from defensive end to outside linebacker after his rookie year, Irvin burgeoned into Seattle's most athletic defender. His sack numbers dwindled, albeit only slightly, but he proved to be a viable option in pass coverage when needed. 

The Falcons desperately need help on defense, and improved personnel is the only way they'll get better. That Quinn improved Atlanta from dead last to 17th in total yards allowed in only one year is a credit to his defensive prowess, but he needs help.

Atlanta last year drafted defensive end Vic Beasley with the eighth overall pick, but he didn't live up to the immediate hype. Adding Irvin should create a more even pass rush that Atlanta greatly needs in a division that houses two great mobile quarterbacks in Cam Newton and Jameis Winston. 

Obviously, Irvin won't be able to make any moves until March, and his rant about leaving the Seahawks was months ago. But he has the roots and Atlanta has the need, which could certainly yield a possible union.