Ex Seahawks LB joins Commanders practice squad

Former Seattle Seahawks linebacker Nick Bellore is signing with the Washington Commanders’ practice squad. The Commanders made the announcement via social media on Monday morning. Bellore was a cap casualty earlier this offseason, having been released by general manager John Schneider in March.

Bellore, a former undrafted free agent out of Central Michigan in 2011, initially joined the Seahawks in 2019. He would play five seasons for Pete Carroll and Schneider in Seattle, reaching the pinnacle of his professional career. Bellore became a special teams captain and qualified for two Pro Bowl appearances (2020, 2023) for his coverage work on special teams.

Schneider released Bellore from his contract earlier this offseason with one year remaining on his deal. The cost-cutting move cleared nearly $3 million in cap space for the Seahawks. It was a no-brainer decision given Seattle’s cap situation, and Bellore’s advancing age and limited role.

Schneider and the Seahawks recently finalized their initial practice squad. The current list features two off-ball linebackers, including rookie defender Michael Barrett, who was acquired in a trade with the Carolina Panthers in August. The other practice squad linebacker is Patrick O’Connell, a special teams ace that was released from the active roster during initial cuts.

Best of luck to Bellore moving forward!