Best Options to Replace Doug Baldwin in Seattle

In a series of tweets, Doug Baldwin wrote what he described as a letter to his younger self. It was beautiful, but ultimately, it was his way of announcing his retirement from the NFL after eight successful seasons in Seattle.

The two-time Pro-Bowler and Super Bowl champ was seemingly underrated his entire career. From being undrafted to shadowed by the louder, more flamboyant receivers in the league, the media never paid much attention to Baldwin.

However, Baldwin was among the best slot receivers in the league. He reached 1,000 yards twice, played in all 16 games in 6-of-8 seasons, had a 14-touchdown season, and finished third all-time in franchise receiving yards.

Knowing injuries would be ending his playing career, the Seahawks drafted D.K. Metcalf 64th overall. While he’s a physical freak, Metcalf has been looked at as a project for Seattle. And even if he performs well early, he will not be filling the hole Baldwin leaves behind. Tyler Lockett is a candidate to see more snaps in the slot, but the 65% of snaps in the slot that Baldwin played last season is unlikely.

No matter what their plans are with their current group of pass-catchers, Seattle is likely to bring in another body. Here are the best options available for the Seahawks to fill the hole left by Baldwin.