GLENDALE, AZ - DECEMBER 21: Running back Marshawn Lynch #24 of the Seattle Seahawks looks up to the fans as he stands on the sidelines during the NFL game against the Arizona Cardinals at the University of Phoenix Stadium on December 21, 2014 in Glendale, Arizona. The Seahawks defeated the Cardinals 35-6. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

Surprise contender emerges as possible landing spot for retired star Marshawn Lynch

In nine seasons, Lynch carried the ball more than 2,000 times for over 9,000 yards.

Marshawn Lynch appears ready to end his brief retirement, and the New England Patriots have apparently emerged as a potential landing spot if he doesn't land with the Oakland Raiders

The Seahawks still own the rights to Lynch as he is on the reserved/retired list for them and that means a trade will be needed for another team to bring him on board. Seattle gave permission to the Raiders to speak to Lynch previously, which presumably means they're willing to make said trade, but it's unforeseen what they would want in return.

Seattle could make life difficult by not making any deal with the Raiders, but Lynch would become the highest paid running back in the league in that instance. He would be owed $9 million, but with the Seahawks already paying Thomas Rawls, Eddie Lacy, C.J. Prosise and Alex Collins, allowing a fifth running back to enter the mix wouldn't make sense and they would likely cut him to keep room for everyone else.

In nine seasons, Lynch carried the ball more than 2,000 times for over 9,000 yards. He scored 74 touchdowns while averaging 4.3 yards per carry.