Earlier this month, the Seattle Seahawks announced that they've agreed to terms with veteran defensive end Chris Clemons.
Clemons is a player who is familiar with Pete Carroll's scheme, having spent four seasons (2010 to 2013) in Seattle. But he's 34 years old, and the details of Clemons' contract indicate that he is not guaranteed a roster spot.
It's a one-year deal with a max value of $1.5 million. But only $150,000 (the signing bonus) is fully guaranteed. The base salary for 2016 is $1 million, and another $350,000 is available through workout and roster bonuses.
The relatively low guarantee means Clemons' role largely is tied to what the Seahawks do in the draft and how he performs this summer.
Given Clemons' experience, he's an option to back up Cliff Avril at the LEO spot and could also compete for playing time at right defensive end, with Bruce Irvin having signed with the Oakland Raiders in free agency.
Frank Clark is the favorite to take Irvin's snaps at right defensive end when the Seahawks are in nickel. Cassius Marsh is also expected to compete for playing time there. The team also brought back Mike Morgan, who started a game at strong-side linebacker last season when Irvin was injured.
Clemons had three sacks in 16 games (seven starts) last season. If he can prove he's still a capable pass rusher, he'll likely stick, but the structure of the contract does not guarantee him a roster spot.
