RENTON, Wash. — RENTON, Wash. (AP) — The Seattle Seahawks released veteran defensive linemen Shelby Harris and Quinton Jefferson on Tuesday, clearing more than $13 million in salary cap space before the start of the new league year.
Seattle announced the moves a day after reaching agreement with free agent defensive lineman Dre'Mont Jones on a three-year deal that is worth up to $51 million. Jones' deal can't be announced until the new league year begins on Wednesday, but is the first move in what's expected to be an overhaul of Seattle's defensive front this offseason.
Harris and Jefferson both played well for Seattle last year but their combined salaries made them obvious candidates to be released. Harris was part of Seattle's return in the trade that sent Russell Wilson to Denver last offseason.
Harris, 31, started 15 games, had 44 tackles and two sacks, and had the chance to participate in the playoffs for the first time in his career. The release of Harris saves Seattle $8.9 million against the cap.
Jefferson, 29, played nearly 50% of the defensive snaps in his second stint with Seattle despite not being a starter. Jefferson finished the season with 29 tackles and 5½ sacks. His released saved nearly $4.5 million in salary cap space.