Seahawks Releasing Marcus Trufant, Long-Time Cornerback

A re-occuring back injury limited the 2003 first round draft pick to just four games in 2011 before going on injured reserve.The Seahawks are expected to announce the release of longtime CB Marcus Trufant today.

The Tacoma native was a first round draft pick by the Seahawks out of Washington State in 2003.

Danny O'Neil wrote in today's Seattle Times:

Trufant met with team officials Wednesday before the transaction would be announced. Indications are that Trufant is fine to resume playing, and he plans to continue his career. Trufant was scheduled to make more than $7 million, according to the database at the NFL Players Association. It was the fifth year on a contract he signed with the team in 2008 after making the Pro Bowl.

Finances did not necessarily predicate his release, though. Trufant took a paycut last year and remained a starter entering the season. This year, his role would likely be different after the emergence of other defensive backs.

Brandon Browner made the Pro Bowl in his first year in the NFL, and rookie Richard Sherman also showed a bright future. The team also has Walter Thurmond entering his third year and Byron Maxwell, also a promising player entering his second season.