Dre’Mont Jones is happy to be a Seattle Seahawk. The former Denver Broncos defensive end signed a lucrative three-year contract with the Seahawks in free agency, joining the team that he almost got traded to last year.
Jones revealed on Monday that he was part of the trade discussions between the Broncos and the Seahawks for quarterback Russell Wilson in March of 2022. The Seahawks wanted Jones as part of the package, but the Broncos refused to give him up.
“I was included in the trade, and Denver said no,” Jones told reporters via Zoom. “And then, Denver kind of… I don’t want to say that word. But Denver didn’t pay me my proper respects. So, I’m here, because they respected me from the jump.”
Jones said he felt flattered that the Seahawks wanted him so badly, and that he thinks the Broncos should have traded him if they weren’t going to sign him to a long-term deal.
“They should have just traded me from the jump,” Jones said. “But it was cool it kind of came full circle for Seattle a little bit.”
Jones had a breakout season in 2021, recording 10 sacks, 16 quarterback hits and 49 tackles in 16 games. He was one of the few bright spots on a struggling Broncos defense that finished 28th in points allowed and 25th in yards allowed.
The Broncos had a chance to extend Jones before he hit free agency, but they couldn’t agree on terms. They also decided not to use the franchise tag on him, which would have cost them around $17 million for one year.
Instead, Jones hit the open market and found a willing suitor in Seattle, who offered him $17 million per year for three years, with $30 million guaranteed. Jones said he was surprised by the offer, but didn’t hesitate to accept it.
“I was shocked,” Jones said. “I didn’t think I was going to get that much money. But I’m glad I did. I’m glad they saw something in me that they liked.”
Jones joins a revamped Seahawks defense that also added cornerback Shaquill Griffin and linebacker K.J. Wright in free agency. The Seahawks are hoping to bounce back from a disappointing 2021 season that saw them miss the playoffs for the first time since 2011.
Jones said he’s excited to play alongside his new teammates, especially defensive tackle Jarran Reed, who he called “a beast.” He also said he’s looking forward to playing under defensive coordinator Ken Norton Jr., who he praised for his aggressive scheme and his passion.
“I love his energy,” Jones said. “He’s always fired up. He’s always ready to go. He’s always coaching us hard. He’s always trying to make us better.”
Jones also said he’s eager to face his former team twice a year in the NFC West division. He said he has no hard feelings toward the Broncos, but he wants to prove them wrong for letting him go.
“I’m not bitter,” Jones said. “I’m just motivated. I want to show them what they missed out on.”
Jones will get his first chance to do that on Oct. 15, when the Seahawks host the Broncos at Lumen Field. He said he expects a hostile reception from the Denver fans, but he’s not worried about it.
“I’m sure they’re going to boo me,” Jones said. “But I don’t care. I’m going to go out there and play my game.”
Final Thoughts: Dre’Mont Jones Believes Broncos Should Have Traded Him for Russell Wilson
Dre’Mont Jones’ comments about the Broncos’ decision not to trade him for Russell Wilson and their failure to pay him what he believes he’s worth reveal a deep-seated frustration with his former team.
Jones, who had a breakout season with the Broncos in 2021, was one of the few bright spots on a struggling defense. However, the Broncos failed to recognize his value and allowed him to leave in free agency.
Jones’ departure is a significant loss for the Broncos, who now have to fill the void left by his departure. While the team has made some moves in free agency and the draft to address their defensive needs, it remains to be seen whether they can replicate Jones’ production.
Meanwhile, Jones has landed with a new team that recognizes his worth and has rewarded him with a lucrative three-year contract. He is excited to play for the Seahawks and has high praise for his new teammates and coaches. Jones’ comments suggest that he feels valued and respected by the Seahawks in a way that he did not with the Broncos.
Ultimately, Jones’ departure highlights the importance of recognizing and valuing talent in the NFL. The Broncos missed an opportunity to acquire a franchise quarterback in Russell Wilson, and they failed to recognize the value of one of their most productive defensive players. As a result, they may struggle to compete in a competitive AFC West division.
