RENTON, Wash. (AP) — Cornerback Justin Coleman is remaining with the Seattle Seahawks after signing his restricted free agent tender with the club.

Coleman was a breakout performer for the Seahawks in 2017 after being acquired from New England in exchange for a seventh-round pick just before the start of the season. Coleman signed a second-round tender on Wednesday that is expected to pay him $2.9 million for the 2018 season. Coleman could have signed an offer sheet with another team but Seattle would have the option to match. With the departure of Richard Sherman and Seattle not expected to bring back Jeremy Lane, Coleman could have an even more prominent role in 2018.

Coleman became Seattle’s primary nickel cornerback, a role that has grown in importance. He finished last season with 35 tackles, nine passes defensed and two interceptions, both of which he returned for touchdowns.