See, that's not the emphasis I'm getting from others, though I appreciate your qualifications. Other posters sound like it's some sort of game show and they can save the team money and find an all pro DE easily.
To me, I would look to lock up our most outstanding players if possible. If that's not likely, or Seymour wants a trade, the I'd proceed from there.
The first steps, to me would be do we want to sign him long term? What will it take to get it done.
Granted, I think Sey is one of the top two or three cogs in the machine (Wilfork being another).
Also, have you looked at contracts for top 10 rookies lately?
I'll take the bird in the hand myself. I think if he doesn't sign, they'll just let him go, that does happen.