Ernest Jones IV Finds His Groove: Seahawks’ New Defensive Leader Sparks Hope for a Long-Term Fit

Ernest Jones IV Finds His Groove: Seahawks’ New Defensive Leader Sparks Hope for a Long-Term Fit

 

 

When Ernest Jones IV met the Seattle media on October 24, he expressed hope that his third team this year would be his last for a while.

I’d love to stay in Seattle, he shared, mentioning his wife’s enthusiasm for the city. I’m committed to doing everything I can to be part of this team long-term, if that’s how they see me fitting in.

 

 

 

Just three weeks later, with Seattle’s defense showing marked improvement and a significant win under their belt, the mutual interest is evident.

 

 

 

Jones, who made his third start at middle linebacker in Sunday’s game, will become a free agent at the end of the season when his rookie contract expires.

 

 

 

 

Earlier this year, he entered Rams training camp aiming to secure an extension, but when talks fell apart, the team traded him to Tennessee in late August. The Titans, amidst a rebuild, sent him to Seattle in late October in exchange for a 2025 fourth-round pick, likely unsure of his fit in their long-term plans.

 

 

 

 

Jones wasted no time proving his worth, racking up 14 tackles and spearheading a 20-17 upset over the 49ers. Seahawks coach Mike Macdonald expressed enthusiasm for Jones’ future with the team, stating, We’re really excited about Ernest, and I hope there’s a chance to keep him here long-term.

 

 

 

While the Seahawks typically handle contract extensions after the season, Jones’ performance is positioning him as a priority. Despite earning a base salary of $3.116 million this year, OvertheCap.com estimates his value to be over $7.9 million, a figure Jones may exceed as he enters his prime at 25 years old.

 

 

 

 

After Sunday’s win, Jones conveyed his optimism, saying, I think we can be something special. I’m excited about what we can achieve as things start to click.

 

 

 

Macdonald praised Jones’ impact on the defense, particularly in Sunday’s victory, which showcased Seattle’s ability to contain the 49ers’ formidable rushing attack, even with Christian McCaffrey back in the lineup.

 

 

 

 

Further cementing their defensive overhaul, the Seahawks recently waived linebacker Tyrel Dodson and promoted rookie Tyrice Knight to start alongside Jones. The duo’s seamless chemistry was evident as Knight contributed 10 tackles and a quarterback hit, helping limit San Francisco to just 131 rushing yards on 27 carries.