Just 3 Hours After Being Released by the Seahawks, the Former DT With Over 445 Career Tackles Expresses His Desire to Return

Seattle, Washington – 12/06/2025

The Seattle Seahawks believed they had closed the book when they officially parted ways with veteran defensive tackle Johnathan Hankins through a non-injury settlement. But less than 24 hours later, the 33-year-old delivered a message that stunned Seahawks Nation — a plea filled with humility, determination, and the relentless spirit that has carried him through 12 NFL seasons.

Released after missing the entire year due to a lingering back injury, Hankins made it clear he is not ready to let his time in Seattle end this way. Once a stabilizing force in Mike Macdonald’s defensive front, Hankins now stands outside the roster, yet his heart remains firmly tied to the Seahawks locker room.

In a candid, emotional moment shared with reporters, his message resonated instantly across the fanbase and league.

“If there’s even one chance left, I’ll take it — any role, any spot. I’m willing to go to the practice squad, to push through every drill, every rep. I just want one more opportunity to wear that Seahawks blue and prove I still belong out there.”

Seattle enters Week 14 at 9–3, leaning on Byron Murphy II, Leonard Williams, and Mike Morris to power a defensive line that has exceeded expectations all season. Hankins’ absence hasn’t halted the Seahawks’ momentum, but his presence — his experience, leadership, and steadying voice — has always been valued inside the building.

Hankins’ plea arrives at a moment when playoff urgency is rising and roster depth becomes more valuable than ever. As Seattle battles the Rams for control of the NFC West, the possibility of a late-season reunion has quietly grown into a storyline worth watching.

For Hankins, the motivation is entirely personal. After playing for five franchises over more than a decade, he found a sense of belonging in Seattle last year, appearing in all 17 games and earning praise for his durability and toughness. Walking away — or being forced to — without another snap is something he refuses to accept.

Whether the Seahawks reopen that door remains uncertain. But one thing is clear: Hankins’ message wasn’t about money, pride, or status. It was the voice of a veteran fighting for one last chance under the lights at Lumen Field.

And sometimes, in the unforgiving month of December football, that kind of heart is the thing teams remember most.