The Seattle Seahawks kicked off their mandatory minicamp on Tuesday, though one notable name was missing: star wide receiver DK Metcalf. Metcalf, who is reportedly unhappy with the lack of traction made on contract talks with the team, was present for the voluntary workouts earlier this offseason. Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll was asked if Metcalf's absence had anything to do with his contract situation. Carroll's response was an interesting one, per Michael-Shawn Dugar of The Athletic.
Carroll said that the Seahawks “have been communicating on that topic.” The veteran head coach had a smile on his face when he responded, making it seem as if Metcalf's absence is, in fact, contract related.
The Seahawks wideout, who was the subject of trade rumors earlier this offseason, is subject to fines by the team, as his absence is not excused. Metcalf, who is entering the final year of his rookie contract, is due to be paid $3.99 million in salary in 2022.
The Seahawks star had to watch as a bevy of NFL wide receivers cashed in on lucrative contracts this offseason. If he is indeed holding himself out of minicamp in the hopes of spurring contract talks, it's certainly a move that will maximize his value.
However, it could do so at the cost of alienating the Seahawks.