Seahawks GM John Schneider unsure if Marshawn Lynch will return
The Seattle Seahawks could be without star running back Marshawn Lynch next season.
Lynch has been the anchor of the Seahawks' offense for the past few seasons, but is reportedly considering retirement.
General manager John Schneider candidly provided a glimpse into the team's offseason plan in a press conference Tuesday.
"Whether or not he wants to play next year, I can't answer at this point. I don't think he knows yet," Schneider said of Lynch. "Obviously we would like a decision as soon as possible so we can make a decision and move on if we need to."
Schneider on Marshawn Lynch: He knows we want him back, but he won’t be playing at “the number he’s scheduled to make.” #Seahawks
— Stephen Cohen (@scohenPI) February 10, 2015
Lynch is one of the league's best running backs, leading the NFL in broken tackles and rushing for 1,306 yards and 13 touchdowns in 2014. He reportedly wants a contract extension that would make him one of the highest-paid backs in the NFL, and is due $5 million for next season.
Seattle's star led the team to a second consecutive Super Bowl appearance, where they were narrowly defeated 28-24 by the New England Patriots.
The Seahawks have attempted to groom Robert Turbin as Lynch's replacement, but there likely would be a significantly drop off if Lynch were to retire, or demand a trade to another team.
Lynch, along with Russell Wilson, propelled the Seahawks' top-ranked rushing attack.