The Seattle Seahawks have lost another key piece of their defense as edge rusher Boye Mafe has agreed to a three-year, $60 million deal with the Cincinnati Bengals, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN.
Mafe, a former second-round pick out of Minnesota, spent his entire four-year rookie contract in Seattle, where he developed into one of the team's most consistent defensive threats. During his time with the Seahawks, he totaled 164 tackles and 20 sacks, including a breakout season that helped propel Seattle to a Super Bowl LX victory last month. His departure marks a significant blow to a defensive unit that is already seeing several starters test the open market during the NFL's legal tampering period.
The move to the Bengals represents a major addition for the Cincinnati front as they look to bolster their pass rush for the 2026 season. For the Seahawks, Mafe is the latest high-profile departure of the day, following reports that star running back and Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III intends to sign with the Kansas City Chiefs. Seattle general manager John Schneider elected not to use the franchise tag this offseason, allowing both Mafe and Walker to hit unrestricted free agency.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
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