One day after news emerged that linebacker Julian Peterson refused a pay cut, the Seahawks have reportedly traded him to the Detroit Lions for defensive tackle Cory Redding and a fifth-round pick.At 28 years old, Redding is younger than the 30-year-old Peterson and is no doubt the replacement for defensive tackle Rocky Bernard, who signed with the New York Giants.
In six seasons with the Lions, the 295-pound Redding had 16 sacks, with a career-high eight in 2006.
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In fact, Redding has had a similar career arc to Bernard. In a contract year in 2006, Redding put up career-high numbers in tackles and sacks, more than doubling the sack output of any previous season.
The Lions rewarded Redding with a seven-year $49-million deal. However, he only managed one sack in 2007 and finished 2008 on injured reserve after 13 games.
Selected in the third round of the 2003 draft, Redding started his career as a defensive end. The shift to tackle in 2006 beared immediate results, but he has failed to show the same ability since.
According to Alex Marves at FOXsports.com, Redding has agreed to restructure his contract.
At his best, Redding has an explosive first step with great strength for his size. He is a player who thrives in one-on-one situations and knifing into the backfield.
He does not have the size to consistently hold up against the run and was part of the league's worst run defense last season.
UPDATE: D.D. Lewis and Lance Laury re-sign undisclosed deals with the Seahawks.
Reach Jeff Richards at nextseasonsports@gmail.com
