Pete Carroll: Marshawn Lynch contemplating return to NFL

PHOENIX -- Seattle Seahawks coach Pete Carroll says he talked to Marshawn Lynch about 10 days ago and the running back is at least considering a return to the NFL.

"He came through the office and had a good visit," Carroll said Wednesday. "I know that he is somewhat entertaining the thought of it. I can't tell you how strong it is. You've got to talk to him. And that chance isn't happening."

ESPN reported earlier this month that the Oakland Raiderswould have interest in Lynch should he decide to come out of retirement.

Lynch officially went on the reserve/retired list in May 2016. If he filed for and was granted reinstatement, he would be under contract with the Seahawks for two more years.

Asked if Lynch could play for the Seahawks again, Carroll responded, "He's retired."

For Lynch to play for the Raiders, the Seahawks would have to release or trade him. Lynch would be due a salary and cap hit of $9 million in 2017, and he would be in line for a base salary of $7 million in 2018, along with a $3 million roster bonus.

Carroll was asked whether the Seahawks would release or trade Lynch if he came out of retirement.

"I don't know," Carroll said. "We'll talk about that if the time comes."

Lynch turns 31 in April. He last played in 2015, averaging 3.8 yards per carry in seven games.

Carroll was asked whether Lynch could still be effective at this point in his career.

"I don't know," Carroll said. "It depends on how he's approached this offseason. He looked OK. The mentality that it takes to play this game the way he plays this game, he has to really be invested and ready because he goes deep when he plays. Whether or not that's still in him, the burn is still there, I couldn't tell that from talking to him. I know that he was playing with the idea."