The Seattle Seahawks continue to adjust their roster amid the intensity of training camp, where competition for every position is becoming increasingly fierce before the 2026 season officially begins.
Shortly after the New England Patriots decided to part ways with an experienced linebacker, Seattle quickly made its move and gave the player a new opportunity on the West Coast.
The move is particularly notable because the Seahawks are always searching for tough, versatile players who can contribute in multiple roles. This is the addition of a linebacker who previously spent time on the Buffalo Bills’ practice squad before joining their AFC East rival, the New England Patriots.
That player is Otis Reese IV, a 27-year-old linebacker looking to prove himself once again in the NFL.
Reese began 2026 training camp in New England with the goal of competing for a roster spot, but the Patriots ultimately decided to pursue another direction at linebacker. Seattle quickly took advantage of the opportunity, bringing in a familiar face around the league to add depth to the defense at an important point in training camp.
This is not a flashy signing, but it fits the way the Seahawks build the final spots on their roster through experience, versatility and the ability to contribute in multiple roles.
Reese entered the NFL in 2023 as an undrafted free agent with the Tennessee Titans and spent two seasons gaining experience at the highest level. He has appeared in 20 NFL games, made 5 starts, recorded 38 tackles and 1 interception, while also taking on multiple responsibilities on special teams.
At the college level, Reese earned Second Team All-MAC honors in 2022 at Western Michigan, one of the most notable individual achievements of his career before entering the NFL.
That versatility is exactly what makes Reese a suitable option for Seattle, as he can provide defensive snaps when needed while also competing for an important role on special teams.
The Seahawks are also entering a period of transition at linebacker after several veterans moved on, making depth at the position a situation worth monitoring.
Rookie linebackers have been making a strong impression during training camp, but Reese’s arrival will create additional competition before the coaching staff makes its final decisions.
Amid doubts about his ability to earn a spot on the 53-man roster, Reese delivered a strong message about his arrival in Seattle.
“I’m not here just because of a transaction. I’m here to help this team win. Wearing this jersey means much more than simply playing football.”
“I will fight with everything I have for this city, help bring a championship to Seattle, and prove to every Seahawks fan that I deserve to wear this jersey.”
The road ahead for Reese will not be easy. Being signed during training camp only gives him an opportunity, while a place on the final roster must still be earned on the practice field.
Special teams could become his most important path toward remaining in Seattle, as the final roster spots are often determined by a player’s ability to contribute beyond a traditional defensive role.
For the Seahawks, this is a low-risk but sensible move, adding a linebacker with NFL experience who can handle multiple responsibilities within the lineup. For Reese, the door in Seattle has opened.
After his journey in New England came to an end, he now has an opportunity to turn this chance into a statement that he still deserves a place in the NFL and can contribute to the Seahawks’ championship ambitions.