The Oakland Raiders announced on their Twitter account that defensive lineman Richard Seymour signed his exclusive franchise tender.
Seymour could net nearly $12.398 million this season, but the transaction will not deter him from signing a long-term deal with the Silver & Black if they choose to go that route. After acquiring the veteran before the 2009 campaign, Oakland has made it a priority locking up Seymour.
Recently, the former New England Patriots’ star skipped voluntary OTAs. Head coach Tom Cable stated during those sessions, “I don’t know that at this point,” regarding his future.
Cable did emphasize his value to the team, saying, “He’s come in and showed this young team how you prepare, how you take notes, how you work every week, how you take care of your body, you know, all the things that are really critical to being good for a long period of time. He was fantastic with that.”
In early May, Cable was quoted, “When we first got Richard last year, he jumped right into that role. A guy in the league for quite some time; he’s won the world championship a number of times, been to the pro-bowl a number of times…
“He’s come in and showed this young team how you prepare, how you take notes, how you work every week, how you take care of your body, you know, all the things that are really critical to being good for a long period of time. He was fantastic with that.”
Oakland traded away a first rounder in 2011 for his services and in January, he was named to the All-Decade team with his three-time first team all-pro selections and three Super Bowl titles (XXXVI, XXXVIII, XXXIX) with the New England Patriots.
Back in mid-January, he stated, “I’m in a unique situation where obviously, I played out my contract, I’ve one my time there and I’ve talked to Mr. [Al] Davis before I left and he said he would be getting in contact with my agent to try to work a deal out.”
He continued: “I would like to re-sign out in Oakland, because I think its always, when you can be a foundation piece and help turn an organization around, I think that’s a challenge for me.”
Seymour ended his first season in Oakland with 47-tackles, one forced fumble and 4-sacks.
He said at seasons end, “I’m willing to take on that responsibility and that challenge and help being a part of bringing in some good guys that really can make a difference. I really enjoyed putting on the Silver & Black.”
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Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist
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