Seattle Seahawks veteran safety Early Thomas published an article on The Player's Tribune today titled, "Here's What's Actually Going On," in which he issues the team an ultimatum: pay me, or trade me. Thomas, 29, is set to enter the final season of a four-year, $40 million extension he signed with the Seahawks in 2014, but he has not appeared at training camp thus far.
According to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, the Seahawks have been "specific and clear" in telling Thomas they will not address his contract situation. As part of his current deal, Thomas is due to make $8.5 million in the upcoming season.
In his Player's Tribune article, the All-Pro safety referred to recent examples of why it's important for players to get as much money as they can while they're still able, especially when teams can rip up their contracts at any point. Thomas addressed his current situation with the Seahawks with the following: "I'm asking the Seahawks to do one of two things: Offer me an extension. Or trade me to a team that wants me to be part of their future."
He continued (H/T The Player's Tribune):
"In the end, it's like I said: If the Seahawks don't intend on having me around for the long-term, then I understand," Thomas wrote. "And if they want to start over and rebuild, then that's their right -- it's part of the business. It's not what I want ... but I get it. All I ask, though, is that if that's the case, and they don't want me anymore -- just please trade me to an organization that does.
"Please trade me to a team that wants me, so I can give my all to them for the rest of my career."
Thomas writes that he loves Seattle but added, "I also have learned why I need to take care of this business side of things. In the NFL, no matter what you've done or what you've accomplished, teams are constantly reminding you that you don't matter."