More Seahawks personnel notes from Schneider’s press conference

RENTON – In addition to saying the Seahawks have yet to decide on picking up linebacker Bruce Irvin’s fifth-year option, general manager John Schneider had a few other noteworthy comments when he met with reporters at team headquarters Wednesday. We’ll pass along the draft-related items in a later blog post. Below are some more personnel notes.

Bennett’s absence. Schneider confirmed that defensive lineman Michael Bennett has been absent for voluntary workouts, which began Monday. Asked if he has felt a need to talk with Bennett, Schneider said: “No. We have a number of guys that aren’t here for specific reasons. It’s voluntary right now, so, he’s one of them that’s not here.” Bennett has indicated some unhappiness with his contract, which is likely a factor in his decision skip the start of voluntary workouts.

Wilson’s contract. As one would expect, Schneider has made it clear he’s not going to discuss the particulars of the team’s contract negotiations with quarterback Russell Wilson. When asked Wednesday how he’d characterize those negotiations, Schneider only said this: “I’m not going to get into specifics on Russell’s situation other than to say that we all love Russell and we want him to be our quarterback for a long time.” Does he believe that feeling is mutual? “I do, yeah,” Schneider said. He declined to comment when asked if the negotiations have been more difficult than anticipated.

T-Jack’s status. Asked about backup quarterback Tarvaris Jackson, Schneider said Seattle would “absolutely” like to re-sign him. So why hasn’t it happened? “I think it’s just a matter of free agency and the timing,” Schneider said. “He’s feeling his way through free agency as we are. He knows we’d love to have him back.”

Rubin’s role. Asked whether Seattle views free-agent addition Ahtyba Rubin as more of a defensive tackle or a five-technique end, Schneider said he could play both. “He was a great guy. We feel real blessed that we were able to get into that negotiation because he’s a big guy, long arms, great instincts. He really sees the ball well. He had played with an injury last year that he had struggled with.”