CHAWK TALK: Everything being said about the Seahawks

CHAWK LINES -- Kam & Doug The departures of Kam Chancellor and Doug Baldwin were expected, but it was nonetheless jarring Thursday to see the line: “The Seahawks parted ways with a pair of franchise icons, terminating the contracts of Doug Baldwin and Kam Chancellor.”

John Schneider said: “These are two of the most iconic players in franchise history, and both were instrumental in establishing our championship culture, great examples of competitiveness and leadership on the field and in the community. These legendary players will always be a part of our Seahawks family.”

Baldwin will go down as one of the four best UDFAs in Seahawks history, along with Joe Nash, Dave Krieg and Eugene Robinson. He also is one of the best undrafted wide receivers in NFL history. He ranks second in team history with 49 TD catches.

Chancellor, whose release had been anticipated since last season ended, was the ultimate Pete Carroll secondary project. He likely never would have been as good anywhere else. But he became the heartbeat of Carroll’s historic, star-studded defense.

The official departures of Baldwin and Chancellor leave only Russell Wilson, Bobby Wagner and K.J. Wright from the team’s 2013 Super Bowl champions. It basically ends a bittersweet era in Seahawks football.

Tributes to Baldwin

Baldwin also ranks third, behind Steve Largent and Brian Blades, in receptions and yards in Seattle history.

Bob Condotta recounts Baldwin’s greatest moments.

Danny Kelly says Baldwin “embodied the soul of Seattle’s dominant run.”

Baldwin, 30, matured a lot during his 20s and has become a major force for societal change, especially in law enforcement.

Larry Stone says: Look for Baldwin’s fire to be redirected, not extinguished.

Cliff Avril said: “Hell of a career to both my guys. Next chapter will be amazing for both! Grateful to call you guys friends!”

Golden Tate, who played with Baldwin for three seasons, called Baldwin “a great player, teammate, friend and competitor” and “the ultimate pro.”

Greatest Competitor I’ve ever known. Mr. Always Open… grateful for who you are as a player, teammate and man. Thanks @DougBaldwinJr . #LetItShine 🙏🏾 pic.twitter.com/SZNocdllcH

— Russell Wilson (@DangeRussWilson) May 10, 2019

Tributes to Chancellor

Chancellor was the heart and soul of a defense that was one of the best in NFL history.

I can go on an on about you bro but I’ll keep it short. The things you taught me has changed my career an I thank you for it.. Luv4eva 🙏🏾 https://t.co/Ff6bWfi0u6

— Bradley McDougald (@BabyLead) May 9, 2019

You’re a Legend. Forever. “321” @KamChancellor #VA #GoHawks pic.twitter.com/4PoRvHfoql

— Russell Wilson (@DangeRussWilson) May 10, 2019

Baldwin highlights

Doug Baldwin was always vocal on the #Seahawks sidelines.pic.twitter.com/ptSZRxOjPj

— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) May 9, 2019

not the most celebrated catch in his career, but never forget that it was doug baldwin’s 2012 TD vs. the 49ers that birthed a thousand memes pic.twitter.com/9V2GfB4MzD

— Danny Kelly (@DannyBKelly) May 9, 2019

@DannyBKelly @hwkbgr Here’s a little video mashup of why you should never, ever, play Cover 0 vs Russell Wilson and Doug Baldwin. pic.twitter.com/D8giy4MF9F

— Parker Lewis (@ParkerLewisJR) December 4, 2017

Doug Baldwin’s route running was always next level. pic.twitter.com/nsNZUi8vqH

— Field Yates (@FieldYates) May 9, 2019

.@DougBaldwinJr made the most ridiculous grabs 😱

End of an era in Seattle. pic.twitter.com/gpujvMQ10L

— NFL (@NFL) May 9, 2019

Character. Strength. Fortitude.

8️⃣9️⃣ will be leaving an incredible legacy in Seattle. pic.twitter.com/KMXiFrouUZ

— Seattle Seahawks (@Seahawks) May 9, 2019

Jan. 5. Fourth and 6. Second half trailing in a playoff game at Dallas. Doug Baldwin makes this catch. In the last game of his career. With three injuries that would then require surgery. #smh #Seahawks https://t.co/toADmQ87L7

— Gregg Bell (@gbellseattle) May 9, 2019