NFL free agency: Seahawks host Gerald Hodges after Chiefs

The Seattle Seahawks have joined the teams linked to free agent linebacker Gerald Hodges.

The Kansas City Chiefs had their first free agent visit of the 2017 offseason with inside linebacker Gerald Hodges, formerly of the San Francisco 49ers. He left without a contract offer, but he might garner one soon enough as other teams begin to host him—the latest being the Seattle Seahawks.

Earlier this week, Hodges mentioned that he would love to return to play for the Minnesota Vikings, who traded him two years ago to the Niners in exchange for guard Brandon Thomas and a draft choice. Hodges could help Minnesota replace retired linebacker Chad Greenway.

For the Chiefs, the need at inside linebacker remains with Derrick Thomas returning from a serious Achilles injury and the loss of Josh Mauga in free agency. Ramik Wilson stepped in admirably last season, but Dorsey might be looking to upgrade on one side next to DJ while ensuring he has a replacement in case the veteran can’t return to the player he was before the injury.

Hodges would help the team’s linebacker depth behind Bobby Wagner, and would compete with the newly signed Arthur Brown for playing time. Hodges had a nice year for the Niners in 2016 with 80 tackles, 3 sacks and 2 interceptions