Johnathan Hankins agrees to join the Seattle Seahawks.
In FRISCO, Texas, the Dallas Cowboys have experienced yet another departure in this offseason’s free agency frenzy, as seasoned defensive tackle Johnathan Hankins has opted to sign with the Seattle Seahawks, marking the end of his two-year stint with Dallas.
Hankins will reunite with former Cowboys defensive line coach Aden Durde, now serving as the Seahawks’ defensive coordinator under new head coach Mike MacDonald.
Originally acquired midway through the 2022 season in exchange for a sixth-round pick, Hankins contributed in 19 games over two seasons for the Cowboys, tallying 37 tackles, three tackles for loss, and three sacks. His playing time was interrupted only by an ankle injury in December 2023, causing him to miss three games. His absence was keenly felt by the Dallas defense, as they lost two of those games while yielding an average of 160.7 rushing yards per game.
Given the evident impact of Hankins on the Cowboys’ run defense, it would have been logical for Dallas to consider re-signing him.
Since his arrival via trade in October 2022, the experienced nose tackle has showcased the importance of having an interior lineman who can draw double teams and effectively stymie running plays. This significance led the Cowboys to invest a first-round pick in Mazi Smith, underscoring the value they place on this role.
Hankins demonstrated a resurgence in 2023, including a standout performance with two sacks, showcasing his ability to apply pressure on opposing quarterbacks. Despite expressing his desire to continue with Dallas for another season, the 31-year-old will now pursue opportunities elsewhere, opting for greener pastures.
Hankins becomes the seventh Cowboys free agent to find a new team this offseason, joining the likes of Dorance Armstrong (Commanders), Tony Pollard (Titans), Tyler Biadasz (Commanders), Dante Fowler Jr. (Commanders), Neville Gallimore (Dolphins), and Tyron Smith (Jets). Dallas has retained three free agents: Jourdan Lewis, C.J. Goodwin, and Trent Sieg, and they’ve acquired linebacker Eric Kendricks from outside.
