Free agent cornerback Antoine Winfield is heading to Seattle.
Winfield told Josina Anderson of ESPN that he has agreed to terms on a one-year contract with the Seahawks.
The 35-year-old Winfield was released by the Vikings a month ago in a move that saved Minnesota more than $7 million on the salary cap, but the Vikings were still interested in getting him back at a reduced price. Instead, Winfield, who started 15 games for the Vikings last season, has decided to go west.
“It was a very tough decision for me because of the relationships that I have in Minnesota,” Winfield told Anderson. “I’ve been there nine years. I’ve had some really great coaches, teammates and fans there. I’m very grateful to the Vikings organization for my experience.”
Seattle already had an outstanding pair of cornerbacks in Richard Sherman and Brandon Browner. Now they add a veteran who may have lost a step, but who still plays very well against the run and can cover slot receivers in nickel packages. This is another move that demonstrates the Seahawks are serious Super Bowl contenders in 2013.