What happened: Williams enters the final year of a three-year, $64.5 million contract. He said Tuesday that he is keeping the negotiations from affecting his preparation for the 2026 season.

Why it matters: Jalen Carter's four-year, $152 million extension reset the position's pay ceiling at $38 million annually. Seattle is also negotiating with Devon Witherspoon, creating the possibility of two major defensive extensions.

By the numbers: Carter's $38 million annual average is $16.5 million, or 76.7%, above Williams' current $21.5 million average. Williams earned second-team All-Pro honors last season.

What to watch: Watch whether Seattle reaches terms with Williams before the 2026 season and completes a separate extension with Witherspoon.

Sources