Why Did the Seahawks Release Noah Fant? Inside His Contract Details and 5-Year Stats Decline

The Seahawks cut tight end Noah Fant, parting ways ahead of training camp to save cap space. The decision ends Fant's three-season run in Seattle, raising questions about performance, value and what comes next for the former first-round pick.

Seahawks Release Noah Fant Ahead of Training Camp

The Seattle Seahawks announced the release of tight end Noah Fant on Sunday, 20 July 2025. The move comes just days before the team opens its training camp, marking a surprising yet financially driven decision that clears significant salary cap room.

Fant, 27, was set to enter the final year of his deal. According to reports, the release will save the Seahawks approximately $8.9 million (£6.6 million) in cap space. According to the team's official statement, the decision 'will also mean more opportunities for second-year tight end AJ Barner, rookie Elijah Arroyo and veteran free-agent addition Eric Saubert'.

Inside Noah Fant's Contract: High Salary, Low Guarantee

Fant signed a one-year, $8.49 million (£6.3 million) contract for the 2025 season with an additional $510,000 (£380,000) in per-game roster bonuses. Crucially, none of the deal was guaranteed, making it easier for the Seahawks to release him without incurring dead money.

The tight end was originally acquired in 2022 as part of the blockbuster Russell Wilson trade with the Denver Broncos. At the time, Fant's contract was considered reasonable for a player with strong receiving potential. However, as tight end salaries escalated and Fant's output remained flat, his deal became harder to justify.

Fant was set to be the 12th highest-paid tight end in the league, despite finishing outside the top 15 in key production metrics last season.

Reviewing Noah Fant's Stats Over 5 Seasons

A first-round pick in 2019, Fant began his NFL career with the Broncos, earning PFWA All-Rookie honours after posting 40 receptions and 562 yards in his debut season. In three seasons with Denver, he compiled 170 receptions for 1,905 yards and 10 touchdowns.

Since joining Seattle in 2022, Fant made 48 appearances with 42 starts. Across his three seasons with the Seahawks, he recorded 130 catches for 1,400 yards and five touchdowns. In 2024, he logged 48 catches for 500 yards and a single score — his highest single-season yardage total since joining Seattle, though still below his Denver output.

Despite consistent availability, Fant never reached a breakout level of performance. His red-zone involvement was limited, and he was not widely regarded as a strong blocker, with low Pro Football Focus grades in both pass and run protection.

Why Fant Didn't Fit the Seahawks' Future

Seattle's decision to release Fant was rooted in financial efficiency and roster development. With several promising young tight ends on the roster, including second-year player AJ Barner and rookie Elijah Arroyo, the club is shifting towards a more dynamic and cost-effective group.

Veteran Eric Saubert and undrafted rookies from the 2025 class also stand to benefit from the open depth chart. By moving on from Fant, the Seahawks signal a commitment to reshaping their offensive approach with younger talent.

As reported by Sports Illustrated, Fant's cap hit no longer matched his on-field value, and the front office opted to invest in upside rather than experience.