NFL Notes: Seahawks turn attention to free agents

Just as Marshawn Lynch became the Skittles-loving face of the Seattle Seahawks, he could just as quickly be leaving town.

Or he could remain part of the foundation that led to the Seahawks’ turnaround in the second half of the season.

Lynch tops the list of 18 unrestricted free agents that the Seahawks must make decisions on this offseason. The list features seven starters from Seattle’s season finale last Sunday in Arizona, plus a few former starters who missed all or parts of the season with injuries.

“Our first concern is to take care of our team and take care of the guys that are unrestricted on our football team and fit that back together,” coach Pete Carroll said this week.

It starts with Lynch.

Coming off the finest season of his career, Lynch is at the peak of his NFL financial prospects. He’s 25, has just rushed for 1,204 yards and 12 touchdowns and embodies the attitude Carroll wants the rest of his roster to emulate.

Not far behind on Seattle’s priority list is locking up Red Bryant. Before Carroll took over in 2009, Bryant appeared to be on his way out of the NFL, unable to find his way as a defensive tackle. But Carroll and defensive coordinator Gus Bradley shifted Bryant to defensive end and he’s become the anchor of a Seattle defensive line that’s been successful each of the past two seasons at stopping the run with Bryant starting.

There are other players on the next tier who are just as important for the Seahawks.

Fullback Michael Robinson was a first alternate to the Pro Bowl and the one Lynch gave plenty of credit to for his breakout season. Robinson added 15 pounds last offseason knowing he would be a true fullback for the first time.

Around the league

Detroit dodged a potential problem after running back Kevin Smith and tight end Tony Scheffler collided during the team’s workout. “Both guys finished practice,” Detroit coach Jim Schwartz said. … Cincinnati rookie quarterback Andy Dalton missed practice with the flu but is expected to be ready for a playoff game in Houston. … Buffalo wasted no time addressing its depth at receiver this offseason after free agent David Clowney agreed to a contract with the team. … Indianapolis won’t bring back special teams coordinator Ray Rychleski next season. … Jacksonville officially transferred ownership from Wayne Weaver to Shahid Khan.