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Report: Seahawks Fail Jermichael Finley on Physical

According to one report, free agent tight end Jermichael failed his physical with the Seahawks earlier this month.

Last week, we reported that Packers free agent tight end Jermichael Finley hinted at a contract offer from the Seahawks. Given that Finley listed Seattle as a preferred destination, it seemed strange that no agreement materialized if an offer was indeed on the table. Now we know why.

According to Pete Dougherty of the Green Bay Press-Gazette, Finley failed a physical administered by the Seahawks' medical staff during his visit earlier this month.

Given that Finley suggested that Seattle offered him a contract, it seems fair to assume that any deal was contingent upon a passing grade from the doctors. When that didn't arrive, neither did an official offer.

Dougherty mentions the possibility of a medical re-check with the Seahawks. While such is common practice with draft prospects who raised red flags at the NFL Combine, it's usually not granted to veteran free agents six years into their career.

Currently, Seattle has just over $15 million in cap space, though much of that figure is earmarked for contract extensions for Earl Thomas and Richard Sherman. A large chunk of the rest will be spent on the team's incoming rookie class. While that doesn't necessarily prevent the Seahawks from adding Finley, his failed physical combined with Seattle's recent pursuit of free agent defensive end Jared Allen don't bode well for another offer.

Different teams employ different health standards for their players, so it's too early to speculate whether Finley might not find a team to play with in 2014. However, with no reported visits for the veteran tight end lined up, it's becoming harder and harder to find a destination for him.

Jason Hirschhorn covers the Green Bay Packers for Acme Packing Company. He also serves as the Editor-in-Chief for Hook'em Headlines. His work has previously appeared on Beats Per Minute, Lombardi Ave, and College Hoops Net.