The NFL is on the cusp of a major cornerback market explosion. Three cornerbacks from the 2023 NFL Draft are in line to sign extensions with their original teams, and the expectation is that all three will eventually get deals done. That doesn’t necessarily mean the process will move quickly, though. Seattle Seahawks cornerback Devon Witherspoon has now joined his classmates in what has become a frustrating round of negotiations.
An ESPN report indicates that a deal between Witherspoon and the Seahawks is not imminent. In fact, the report described the negotiations as not going well at all.
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“Those negotiations haven’t gone as smoothly, with no deal yet despite the fact that Seattle made its initial offer three months ago. All signs have pointed to Witherspoon becoming the league’s highest-paid corner when his extension is completed. For now, he’s set to make $5.1 million in 2026, then $21.2 million on his fifth-year option in ’27.” Brady Henderson reported.
Seattle Seahawks cornerback Devon Witherspoon (center right) forces a fumble by New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye (10) during the fourth quarter in Super Bowl LX at Levi’s Stadium. Credit: Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images
It’s somewhat surprising that, as June comes to a close, all three members of the 2023 cornerback class remain without extensions. The fact that Seattle made its initial offer three months ago suggests the organization wanted to get a deal done quickly. Even so, Witherspoon remains unsigned.
Well worth the extension
Witherspoon has been an instrumental piece of the Seahawks’ defense. He also watched Seattle hand 2023 draft classmate Jaxon Smith-Njigba a massive contract extension in March. It’s fair to assume Witherspoon will expect a market-setting deal of his own.
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Since the Seahawks selected him fifth overall in the 2023 NFL Draft, Witherspoon has earned three consecutive Pro Bowl selections and two All-Pro honors. He has established himself as not only an outstanding cover corner but also an excellent blitzer and run defender.
Feb 8, 2026; Santa Clara, CA, USA; Seattle Seahawks cornerback Devon Witherspoon (21) warms up before playing against the New England Patriots in Super Bowl LX at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Witherspoon’s 4.42-second 40-yard dash speed consistently shows up on film. Through three seasons, he has recorded 4.5 sacks and 16 tackles for loss. He has developed into one of the NFL’s best all-around cornerbacks and remains a true defensive weapon in Seattle’s secondary.
Will Witherspoon be the player who kicks off the cornerback payday fireworks?