The Seattle Seahawks released rookie linebacker Michael Barrett from the practice squad on Tuesday in order to make room for wide receiver Ty Scott. It was somewhat of a surprising decision considering Barrett was acquired by general manager John Schneider via trade during training camp. Fear not, the rookie off-ball linebacker should re-join the practice squad fairly soon.
Schneider consistently churns the bottom of his practice squad as required. The Seahawks traded cornerback Michael Jackson to the Carolina Panthers in exchange for Barrett in August. We wouldn’t be surprised if there’s a handshake agreement to bring Barrett back to the practice squad shortly.
This actually marked the second time the Seahawks released Barrett from his contract. He was waived after failing to initially make the 53-man roster, and quickly re-signed to the practice squad. Schneider has likely explained to Barrett that this is simply procedural, and the organization would like to continue developing him.
And Barrett will likely accept that offer. Where would you rather be? He’s familiar with head coach Mike Macdonald and special teams coordinator Jay Harbaugh via their shared connections with The University of Michigan. Unless Jim Harbaugh and the Los Angeles Chargers come calling, Seattle is far and away Barrett’s best overall fit as he continues acclimating to professional football.
If you were confused by Barrett’s release on Tuesday, you should expect him to quickly resurface on the practice squad.
