Free agent Russell Okung to represent self in contract negotiations

Free-agent tackle Russell Okung says he will represent himself in contract negotiations.

Free-agent left tackle Russell Okung announced Tuesday he will represent himself in contract negotiations.

Okung is entering free agency after six years with the Seattle Seahawks, who drafted him No. 6 overall in the 2010 draft.

“The days of the oblivious athlete are over. Long gone are the days of the traditional sports figure, now replaced by a sharper and smarter candidate,” Okung said in a statement on Facebook. “I must reiterate that I'm not against sports agencies. I bear no animosity towards them ... In the spirit of trailblazers like Creighton Miller, Gene Upshaw, and Reggie White; I am pro-option. I chose to accept this challenge. I'm studied, diligent, and prepared to continue this journey.”

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Okung started 13 games for the Seahawks last season, the final year of a six-year, $48 million deal he signed as a rookie. Okung, 28, is expected to command a sizeable contract as a free agent.