Seattle Seahawks Inside Slant
by Sports Xchange
From Engram's point of view, he was paid only $1.7 million last season -- half of what Deion Branch and Nate Burleson were earning -- but had 94 receptions for 1,147 yards, both career best and franchise records.
Engram didn't want his contract restructured as much as he wanted an extension to give him some security as he heads into the twilight of his career.
From the Seahawks' perspective, they rewarded Engram with a multi-year contract after 2006 even after he missed half the season with a thyroid condition. They have said that they will be willing to discuss an extension, but only after this season.
Engram threatened to hold out of training camp to further his point, but recently said he would report on time.
"I'll be ready to go," Engram told the Seattle Times. "I'm going to be me. I'm going to be ready to work hard, because I don't hold any bitterness. I'm not going to be upset about something that didn't happen. Everybody has to handle his business individually, but I realize nobody is bigger than the team."
It is a big relief for the Seahawks because Engram actually had some leverage. Branch is out with an injury. Burleson is unproven as a top receiver. And everyone else on the roster is young and inexperienced. The Seahawks desperately need their veteran to have a solid season.
Had he not been there for training camp, it would have put the team in a bind. As it is, the team now has him in a position where he has to perform to be rewarded with a fresh contract.
CAMP CALENDAR: Camp opens July 25 in Kirkland, closes Aug. 21. Intrasquad scrimmage at Qwest Field on Aug. 2. Teams moves to its new facility in Renton on Aug. 17.
advertisement
