Seattle Seahawks Secure Charles Cross with Historic Contract Extension

The Seattle Seahawks have finalized a significant four-year contract extension with left tackle Charles Cross, valued at $104.4 million. This deal, which includes $75 million in guaranteed money, marks the largest contract for a non-quarterback in the franchise's history. The extension will keep Cross under contract through the 2030 season, as he was already signed through 2026 after the Seahawks exercised his fifth-year option earlier this year.

New York TimesThe News TribuneThe Spokesman-ReviewReports: Seahawks LT Charles Cross agrees to four-year, $104M dealReport: Seattle Seahawks, LT Cross agree to 4-year extensionSeahawks OT Charles Cross gets $104 million extension after securing No. 1 seedESPNNBC SportsCBS Sports

Charles Cross, 25, has been a key player for the Seahawks since being drafted ninth overall in the 2022 NFL Draft. He has started 62 of a possible 68 regular-season games, showcasing his reliability on the offensive line. Despite missing the last three games of the 2025 season due to a hamstring injury, he is expected to return for the Seahawks' playoff opener. His performance has been instrumental in the Seahawks' offensive success, contributing to a total of 483 points scored this season and providing protection for quarterback Sam Darnold, who earned a Pro Bowl selection.

CBS SportsReport: Seattle Seahawks, LT Cross agree to 4-year extensionESPNSeahawks OT Charles Cross gets $104 million extension after securing No. 1 seedThe News TribuneReports: Seahawks LT Charles Cross agrees to four-year, $104M dealNBC SportsThe Spokesman-ReviewNew York Times

The contract extension not only solidifies Cross's position as a cornerstone of the Seahawks' offensive line but also reflects the team's commitment to securing their key players for the future. The average annual salary of $26.1 million places Cross among the highest-paid left tackles in the NFL, ranking him fifth overall. This strategic move follows the recent extension of right tackle Abe Lucas, ensuring that both tackle positions are secured for the foreseeable future.

New York Times

Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald expressed optimism regarding Cross's return, stating, "We're optimistic for next week or the week after for Charles." This sentiment underscores the team's confidence in Cross's recovery and his importance to their playoff aspirations.

CBS Sports

While the extension has been largely viewed as a positive move for the Seahawks, some analysts have raised concerns about the financial implications of such a large contract, particularly in relation to the team's salary cap management. Critics argue that investing heavily in a non-quarterback could limit the team's flexibility in addressing other roster needs in the future.

The News Tribune

As the Seahawks prepare for their playoff run, the focus will be on integrating Cross back into the lineup. The team has secured a first-round bye and will play their first postseason game in the divisional round, scheduled for January 17-18, 2026. The extension of Cross is part of a broader strategy to maintain a competitive roster as they aim for success in the playoffs and beyond.

ESPN

• “Sources: The Seahawks and star OT Charles Cross have agreed to terms on a 4-year extension worth $104.4M — $26.1M average per year. This is the largest non-QB contract in Seattle history. He gets $40.5M in Year 1 in a deal done by agent Saint Omni of Klutch Sports.” — Ian Rapoport, NFL Network

Seahawks OT Charles Cross gets $104 million extension after securing No. 1 seed

• “We're optimistic for next week or the week after for Charles,” — Mike Macdonald, Seahawks Head Coach

CBS Sports

This contract extension not only highlights the Seahawks' commitment to their offensive line but also sets a precedent for future negotiations with other key players as they navigate the complexities of the NFL salary cap.

The News Tribune