No. 5 Overall Pick Devon Witherspoon Signs 4-Year, $31.86M Fully-Guaranteed Deal with Seahawks
The Seattle Seahawks have officially locked in their first-round pick from the 2023 NFL Draft, Devon Witherspoon. The No. 5 overall pick out of Illinois agreed to a 4-year, $31.86 million fully-guaranteed deal, according to sources. Witherspoon’s signing solidifies the Seahawks’ investment in bolstering their secondary with a player widely regarded as one of the best cornerbacks in the draft class.
This agreement ends any lingering uncertainty about contract negotiations and allows Witherspoon to focus on the upcoming season. For the Seahawks, this is a major step toward rebuilding the Legion of Boom-era dominance in their secondary.
Devon Witherspoon’s journey to becoming a top-five pick in the NFL Draft is a testament to his talent, work ethic, and determination. Hailing from Pensacola, Florida, Witherspoon was initially overlooked by many major programs. However, his time at the University of Illinois transformed him into one of the most feared cornerbacks in college football.
In his final college season, Witherspoon earned unanimous All-American honors, showcasing elite coverage skills, physicality, and instincts that set him apart. He recorded 41 tackles, three interceptions, and 14 pass breakups in 2022, becoming a cornerstone of Illinois’ defense. Scouts praised his ability to read plays, his quick reaction time, and his willingness to deliver punishing hits despite his 6-foot, 181-pound frame.
Seattle’s decision to draft Witherspoon at No. 5 reflects their commitment to shoring up a defense that has struggled in recent years. Once known for their fearsome secondary led by Richard Sherman, Kam Chancellor, and Earl Thomas, the Seahawks have been searching for the next generation of defensive stars.
Witherspoon joins a young and promising secondary that already includes standout cornerback Tariq Woolen, who had a breakout rookie season in 2022. The pairing of Witherspoon and Woolen gives Seattle a dynamic duo that can challenge any receiving corps in the NFL.
Head coach Pete Carroll, known for his expertise in defensive backs, expressed excitement about Witherspoon’s potential to make an immediate impact. “Devon brings a level of competitiveness and playmaking ability that we value highly. He fits our style perfectly,” Carroll said in a press conference.
Witherspoon’s 4-year, $31.86 million deal is fully guaranteed, ensuring financial security for the young cornerback. The contract includes a $20.2 million signing bonus, which he will receive upfront.
For the Seahawks, the fully-guaranteed nature of the deal underscores their confidence in Witherspoon’s ability to deliver as a foundational piece of their defense. While the financial commitment is significant, it aligns with the market value for a player of Witherspoon’s caliber and draft position.
Witherspoon is expected to step into a starting role from day one, lining up opposite Woolen in the Seahawks’ secondary. His aggressive style of play and ability to disrupt passing games will be key as Seattle looks to contend in the highly competitive NFC West.
Beyond his on-field contributions, Witherspoon’s fiery personality and leadership qualities have the potential to galvanize the Seahawks’ defense. His physicality and swagger are reminiscent of the Legion of Boom era, a comparison that Seattle fans are eager to see play out on the field.
One area to watch will be how Witherspoon adjusts to the speed and complexity of NFL offenses. While his college tape shows a player who thrives under pressure, transitioning to the pros comes with challenges. However, with Carroll and defensive coordinator Clint Hurtt guiding his development, Witherspoon is well-positioned for success.
With the addition of Witherspoon, Seattle’s defense is shaping up to be a force to be reckoned with. The secondary, anchored by Witherspoon and Woolen, is complemented by a talented linebacker corps led by Bobby Wagner and an improving pass rush featuring Uchenna Nwosu and Darrell Taylor.
If Witherspoon lives up to his billing, the Seahawks could return to their defensive glory days, making them a legitimate contender in the NFC. His ability to lock down receivers, force turnovers, and make game-changing plays will be pivotal to Seattle’s success.
The signing of Devon Witherspoon marks a significant moment for both the player and the Seahawks organization. For Witherspoon, it’s the culmination of years of hard work and the beginning of what promises to be a stellar NFL career. For Seattle, it’s the acquisition of a cornerstone piece who can help lead the team back to defensive dominance.
As the 2023 season approaches, all eyes will be on Witherspoon to see how he adapts to the NFL and how he contributes to a resurgent Seahawks defense. One thing is clear: with Witherspoon in the fold, the future of Seattle’s secondary looks incredibly bright.