Mike Wahle could be the answer at left guard that Seattle has been searching for since letting Steve Hutchinson walk. Greg Fiume/Getty Images

By Bucky Brooks, SI.com

Veteran left guard Mike Wahle has agreed to terms with the Seahawks, a source told SI.com.

After being released in a cost-cutting maneuver by Carolina on Monday, the one-time Pro Bowler traveled to Seattle and met with Seahawks brass on Wednesday. The two parties came to an agreement on Thursday, but financial terms of the contract were not disclosed.

Although NFL free agency doesn't officially start until next month, Wahle can sign with any team now because he was released and does not have a contract that is expiring.

The 6-foot-6, 304-pounder is a 10-year NFL veteran who was originally selected in the second round of the 1998 supplemental draft by Green Bay. The durable 30-year-old has only missed three regular-season games over the course of his career.

Left guard has been a trouble spot for the Seahawks ever since the loss of Pro Bowler Steve Hutchinson, who left for Minnesota via free agency prior to the 2006 campaign. Wahle will replace second-year pro Rob Sims, who started every game of last season.