NFL insider projects Seahawks' window for Charles Cross contract extension talks

"The Seahawks picked up Cross' fifth-year option in May, marking the first time they've done that with one of their own first-round picks since John Schneider became their general manager in 2010. That sets up Cross to make an estimated $17.56 million in 2026, though the two sides would surely like to extend his rookie contract before then," ESPN insider Brady Henderson wrote.

"After serving as his own agent early in his career, Cross hired Klutch Sports Group to represent him in negotiations on his second contract.

"The Seahawks typically wait until well after free agency and the draft to extend their own players, so the start of training camp is a realistic time frame for the two sides to get a deal done. The ninth overall pick in 2022, Cross ranked 16th among all tackles last season in pass block win rate while playing in all 17 games for the second time in three seasons."

The Seahawks may want to pay Cross before training camp because if he plays well during the season and continues along his developmental trajectory, he may be worth a lot more money a year from now, which would disallow Seattle to spend that cash elsewhere on the roster.