Seattle Seahawks Release TE Kellen Winslow

September 1, 2012   ·   Ian Hanford   ·   Jump to comments

NFL teams had to finalize their 53-man rosters on August 31, and the Seattle Seahawks have reportedly released tight end Kellen Winslow in their downsizing effort.

Update: Saturday, September 1 at 6:24 p.m. ET by Ian Hanford

According to Tacoma News Tribune reporter Eric Williams, the Seahawks have officially announced that they’ve cut Winslow:

#Seahawks officially announce that Kellen Winslow has been released.

— Eric Williams (@eric_d_williams) September 1, 2012

—-End of Update—-

ESPN’s Adam Schefter had the news on Saturday:

Seahawks waived TE Kellen Winslow, per league source.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) September 1, 2012

Despite Winslow’s questionable attitude, this is a surprising move for a team that lacks explosive playmakers on offense.

Winslow had three catches for 34 yards and one touchdown this preseason. He outperformed No. 1 tight end Zach Miller, but second-string tight end Anthony McCoy was the team’s second-leading receiver.

The nine-year veteran had 75 catches for 763 yards and two touchdowns with Tampa Bay last season. He has 437 catches for his career, and he is still a vertical threat in the right system.

Despite his athleticism, the Seahawks decided to go in a different direction. Miller is already a very capable target at tight end, and McCoy’s production in the preseason lends optimism to his regular season progress.

The Seahawks will rely on their ground game this season with rookie quarterback Russell Wilson behind center. Winslow could have contributed as a safety-valve option for the young quarterback, but instead he is now looking for work elsewhere.

A few teams could use a reliable tight end. The Oakland Raiders have Brandon Myers and David Ausberry slotted in currently, and the Miami Dolphins lack any real targets for their first-year signal-caller.

Talented pass-catching tight ends are an asset in today’s NFL, but Winslow’s baggage apparently outweighs his value at this point. The Seahawks are a young squad, and he wasn’t a part of their future plans.

Keep an eye out for any team that may swoop in on this former Pro Bowler.

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