Drake Thomas: Everything you need to know

Thomas signed a two-year, $8-million contract with the Seahawks on Thursday, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports. The starting inside linebacker has a chance to make $9 million in total, per Rapoport. Thomas took over a starting role early in the 2025 season for Tyrice Knight and broke out, recording 96 tackles (47 solo), including 3.5 sacks, and eight pass breakups, including an interception, and then 18 tackles (seven solo) in three playoff games. He appears to have earned a starting role for 2026 as well.

Thomas finished the 2025 season with 96 tackles (47 solo), 10.0 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, eight pass breakups and an interception through 17 regular-season games. He added 18 tackles (seven solo) through three playoff games. Thomas didn't begin the year as a starter, but he quickly overtook Tyrice Knight (concussion) for the top strongside linebacker job after just a couple of weeks. A third-year pro our of NC State, Thomas averaged 44.6 defensive snaps per game and finished second on the team in tackles and second in tackles for loss. Thomas is poised to be a restricted free agent this offseason.

Thomas (shoulder) doesn't have an injury designation ahead of the Super Bowl LX matchup against the Patriots, John Boyle of the Seahawks' official site reports. Thomas has been a full participant in four consecutive practice sessions dating back to last Friday. The starting strongside linebacker is ready to play in Sunday's winner-take-all contest and build on his NFC Championship Game performance, where he logged six tackles on the way to a victory over the Rams.