Noah Fant, the veteran tight end who joined the Seattle Seahawks through a trade with the Denver Broncos, is facing a critical moment in his career. Since his arrival, the expectations for Fant to replicate his first-round draft potential have not materialized, as evidenced by his performance over the last three seasons. With only 130 receptions for 1,400 yards and a mere five touchdowns, his contributions to the team have been limited.
In 2023, Fant did not score a single touchdown, and his only scoring opportunity in 2024 came during the last game of the year. He has only surpassed 50 receptions once during his tenure with the Seahawks, reaching that milestone in 2022. Despite his best output in 2024, where he recorded 500 receiving yards, it raises questions about his role in the upcoming season.
Fant’s statistics for 2024 indicate that he was ranked 26th among tight ends in targets, 21st in receptions, and 18th in receiving yards. Although he managed a modest average of 10.4 yards per reception, it is a significant dip compared to other elite tight ends. His Pass Protection and Run Block Grades from Pro Football Focus also highlight ongoing concerns regarding his blocking ability, which could jeopardize his position under new offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak’s scheme that heavily relies on tight ends.
Despite showcasing his strengths as a route runner and ability to gain yards after the catch (ranking 9th among tight ends), Fant struggles with high-impact plays, especially in red-zone situations. His physical stature and athletic capabilities have not translated into the dominant performances expected from a player of his caliber.
With upcoming salary cap considerations, it is worth noting that the Seahawks could save $13.4 million against the salary cap if they were to move on from Fant. Potential trade partners could include teams like the Carolina Panthers, Jacksonville Jaguars, Cincinnati Bengals, and Washington Commanders, all of whom currently lack a standout tight end.
Given these challenges, Fant’s future with the Seahawks remains uncertain. There is a possibility for him to remain on the roster with a restructured contract, particularly since the team has not traditionally favored aggressive pay cuts. However, as the new season approaches, Fant’s fit within Kubiak’s offensive scheme will be closely evaluated, and his ability to adapt will ultimately determine his standing with the Seahawks.
While this situation is undeniably challenging, it also presents an opportunity for Fant to either revitalize his career or find a new team that can better utilize his talents. The hope remains that he can tap into his potential, delivering impactful performances that justify his place in the league.