Author: Rob Staton (Page 1 of 413)

A lot of mocks have the Seahawks taking a receiver at #18.

I’m not sold. I’ll explain why, then discuss why it might happen anyway.

The first reason why I’m not convinced is the way the Seahawks say they want to build their team. They’ve talked about being aggressive, physical and trenches-focused. It makes you think they’re more likely to adopt Jim Harbaugh’s ‘over my dead body’ approach to picking receivers before linemen.

Like the Chargers last year, taking a receiver on day two seems to make more sense. Let’s not forget, they’ve already invested a high pick on Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Do they really need two?

The second reason involves the players being discussed. I think Matthew Golden is WR1 but he isn’t a home-run pick. I suspect he will be off the board before #18 because the Cowboys seem hell-bent on drafting a receiver in round one and Golden is the best available.

I don’t think Tetairoa McMillan is worth #18 in the slightest. There’s also an issue of personality fit.

For the last few years we’ve talked about the Seahawks doubling down on character. It’s why they were never going to draft Jalen Carter, despite his talent. It’s why they’ve focused on people like Devon Witherspoon, Byron Murphy, Boye Mafe, Derick Hall and Smith-Njigba. Character and reliability is a big part of their process.

Here are quotes from anonymous scouting sources, per Bob McGinn, about McMillian:

“He was in protection mode this year. There’s stuff on film this year that’s just gross. The lack of competitiveness is just disturbing at times. Very undisciplined route runner. Big-play potential but too many times it didn’t happen. Not overly physical for a big guy but he’s got natural ball skills. His feet are awesome for a 6-4 dude. He’s a real smooth operator. He’s slippery in run-after-the-catch and he’s got pretty good speed. It’s just, which guy are you going to get? He’s a really immature kid. He’s a poster child for this NIL shit. They kiss his ass to get him to stay and then they do what they want.”

You don’t have to take this as gospel but it’s not exactly the description of a player the Seahawks have taken early in recent drafts. Based on what John Schneider said on Seattle Sports yesterday, I can’t imagine this kind of review — if accurate — is going to have him rushing to pick McMillan.

Golden gets a far more positive review:

“He is a great kid and he could rise because of who he is.”

Out of the two, Golden is more likely to be on Seattle’s radar if they believe in the player and the person. Like I said though, I don’t think he’ll be available.

It all just seems a little bit lazy to me. The Seahawks traded away DK Metcalf, therefore they’ll use their top pick on a pass-catcher.

If they trade down first, I think it’s more likely. Moving down the board for extra day-two stock would be appealing. Recently Todd McShay pitched a trade with the Giants moving up to #19, giving the Buccs the 65th pick and a 2026 third rounder in return.

I think that would be an attractive move for Seattle too. The Giants have potentially set themselves up to attack a plan like this. By signing Russell Wilson, they are at least somewhat covered. They can take Travis Hunter (or Abdul Carter) at #3. They can then try to trade up from #34 to get a quarterback, possibly Shedeur Sanders or Jaxson Dart, jumping the Steelers at #21.

Deion Sanders, who once touted the possibility of picking his son’s eventual NFL destination, today said he’s happy for Shedeur to go to ‘any of the teams needing a quarterback’. That’s the biggest hint yet that Shedeur is not going to be taken in the top-three picks.

If the Seahawks were to move down to #34, while gaining pick #65, this could bring a receiver into play. They might prefer to target Mason Taylor or Elijah Arroyo at tight end instead — but there is a receiver I do think they’ll like.

Emeka Egbuka is exactly the type of character they want. He’s been a consistent target for Ohio State. He grew up a huge Seahawks fan and adding players ‘who want to be here’ seems to be a focus for Seattle at the moment.

There was a question mark about his athletic testing. He ran in the 4.4’s at his pro-day and jumped a 38-inch vertical. That answered any of those questions.

Nobody expects Egbuka to be a big-time X-factor in the NFL. I do think you’re going to get a lot of consistent production though — particularly on third downs and key moments. He’s also physical and gritty with a high football IQ. Egbuka might be a receiver but he’s tough. The kind of tough Seattle seems to want. We’ve seen these types of player excel in San Francisco and LA. He could be a long-term replacement for Cooper Kupp, acting initially as the #3 receiver.

You might say, ‘why would they want another player who operates in a similar way to Smith-Njigba?’ I suppose you could say the signing of Kupp is evidence they don’t mind having multiple versions of this type of player. They have plenty of picks to add some deep speed later on and might feel they already have it in Marquez Valdez-Scantling.

Whether people like Seattle’s approach or not — this is the type of player they’ve drafted in recent years.

Could they take him even without a trade-down? There are two things to consider.

Firstly, it’s the BPA approach. Egbuka is 26th on Todd McShay’s big board ahead of Zabel (#33) and Malaki Starks (#34),

Lance Zierlein gave Egbuka a 6.37 grade. That’s better than Zabel (6.34), Kenneth Grant (6.36), Jihaad Campbell (6.34), Starks (6.34), Omarion Hampton (6.33) and Shedeur Sanders (6.30).

Based on my own rankings, I think he is the second best receiver in the draft behind Golden and worthy of being considered between the 16th and 23rd best player in the draft. You can view my horizontal board here.

It’s not that unrealistic to imagine the Seahawks have Egbuka ahead of some other popular alternatives. It’s not necessarily what I would do — but as with the Tyler Shough article yesterday, I wouldn’t rule anything out.

Secondly, there’s this from Tony Pauline today:

“People at the (Ohio State) pro-day believe that the run on receivers will begin with the Seattle Seahawks, who own the 18th selection and run through the 26th pick owned by the Los Angeles Rams.”

Pauline also noted that Egbuka’s pro-day showing cemented a first round placing, “likely in the middle part of the first frame.”

A lot of people like to criticise Tony. I’ve known him for a long time and consider him a friend. I think it’s important to note a couple of things. He’s an information gatherer from a variety of sources. He passes on rumours and sometimes speaks a little bit too matter-of-factly about what are essentially rumblings. If you’re willing to accept that’s what it is, you can have fun with it. Over the years some of those rumours have been true. He has been right on several stories, including some big ones. Just a year ago he said Byron Murphy was the guy the Seahawks wanted but they didn’t think he’d last.

He’s also had some whiffs. He famously passed on info from a source who thought the Seahawks were going to draft Trevor Penning and Desmond Ridder in 2022.

The point I’m making is this. Take all of this with a pinch of salt. Just don’t assume it’s all wrong. There may well be a feeling within the league — rightly or wrongly — that the Seahawks will take a receiver at #18. Plenty of people are mocking it.

Again, I’m not convinced they will. However, if you’d asked me a year ago whether I thought they’d take a cornerback at #16 I’d have also said ‘no’. Yet if Murphy hadn’t been available, we’ve since discovered the chances are Quinyon Mitchell or Terrion Arnold would’ve been Seattle’s choice.

If they did use their top pick on Golden or Egbuka, how would they fix the offensive line? I’m going to keep stressing this — there are plenty of options throughout this draft. It’s not Grey Zabel or bust. They might not see a big difference in grade between Zabel and others. Tate Ratledge, Donovan Jackson, Charles Grant or Marcus Mbow in round two, for example. Dylan Fairchild or Wyatt Milum in the middle rounds. The excellently violent Chase Lundt who is a personal favourite. Logan Brown or Jack Nelson. Or later round options such as Bryce Cabeldue and Connor Colby. All of these players graded well in zone.

I also wouldn’t completely rule out Tyler Booker, purely for the fact he’s plug-and-play, safe as houses, physically brilliant and carries A+ character marks. It might not be at #18. They might trade down first. But I don’t think he’s totally out of the equation, especially since the 49ers drafted Aaron Banks for the same scheme and Green Bay just paid him $19.25m a year to play for Matt LaFleur.

I think Zabel or Booker would be a very good top pick. If they decide to go in a different direction, they can still address their offensive line. The options are there and they have plenty of stock to work with.

We know the Seahawks are bringing in Tyler Shough for an official-30 visit. Now, here’s a nugget from Tony Pauline following the Louisville pro-day this week:

“Some believe he could end up in round one, an opinion I do not share, with the Pittsburgh Steelers and Seattle Seahawks whispered around league circles as interested.”

I’m not convinced the Seahawks will use #18 on a quarterback. However, I wouldn’t rule it out. Not in the slightest. I don’t think anyone should be that surprised if it happens either.

Let’s look at Shough. He’s tall, athletic, has a good arm and big hands. He’s shown a lot of grit and character to fight to be relevant in the draft. He was told a year ago he was basically finished in football. He’s not accepted that, he’s dragged his way towards a pro-career and now he’ll be, at worst, a second round pick.

Todd McShay highlighted this throw earlier in the week:

Just finished Dart’s “Vs. Pressure” tape (There’s some Josh Allen-lite stuff in there, man!). But now I’m on to Tyler Shough’s cut up. This throw stood out early. pic.twitter.com/h2dy4xetsx

— Todd McShay (@McShay13) March 25, 2025

That is an arm John Schneider can get behind. He’s always looked for physical tools — whether it was with Russell Wilson, the apparent interest in Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen, and even the less successful acquisitions in Drew Lock and Charlie Whitehurst.

There are no physical limitations with Shough’s arm. He can get the ball downfield with accuracy and timing and he can deliver ‘wow’ throws from different arm angles. He’s fearless both in the pocket and sometimes, recklessly, as a runner.

He threw a +13 ‘big time throw’ versus ‘turnover worthy play’ differential last season — the exact same number as Cam Ward.

In terms of traits — Shough is 6-5, 219lbs and he has 10-inch hands. He ran a 4.63 forty and jumped a 32-inch vertical and a 9-9 broad. Along with his arm talent, this is a high-quality athlete for the position. He’s not the most creative, elusive player when it comes to extending plays. Nor is he a difference maker as a runner. He’s not a cement-footed plodder either and with this profile, there’s a degree of athletic upside on offer.

We know the Seahawks are placing a huge emphasis on character in recent drafts. Shough is pretty much everything they are looking for. They want a player who is absolutely determined to make a success of himself. Who refuses to be beaten down. Someone who has battled adversity and come through the other side. When you listen to his interviews there’s no BS with Shough. He is extremely likeable, humble and honest — with a competitive fire in his belly.

Why did he run and throw at the combine? His answer was, ‘Why the heck not? I wasn’t supposed to be here. I’m going to go and compete’.

I would highly recommend watching this interview to get a feel for why teams will really take to him as a person.

Think about how uptight everyone is at the combine? To the point that a lot of players don’t do anything now through fear of damaging their stock. Here’s Shough’s reaction to merely beating his first run in the forty:

Tyler Shough runs a 4.64u on his second try and is FIRED UP 🗣️

📺: #NFLCombine on @NFLNetwork
📱: Stream on @NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/Z0qqr2dq9J

— NFL (@NFL) March 1, 2025

There is zero entitlement here, zero arrogance. He’s making things happen.

At his pro-day he spoke after the workout saying: “I feel like I add value, whatever the situation I’m going to be in. Whether it’s a backup role or a starter, I feel like I’m ready to go and compete.”

Todd McShay put it well on his Ringer show today (watch the full episode here):

 
I get the sense that the whole NFL has been surprised by his draft process which has — unquestionably — been the best among any player at any position. Nobody has done more to elevate his stock.

Schneider made a point of saying after the combine that there were QB’s they were surprised by and needed to do more work on. I was convinced he was talking about Shough. His throwing session in Indianapolis was excellent. His interviews with the media were among the best, so it was probably the same with teams.

He came into the 2024 college season probably not on a lot of radars. He’s made teams do the extra work, including the Seahawks. Thus, the official visit.

Again, this doesn’t mean they will draft Shough at #18. It’s possible they like him a lot, really respect everything he’s achieved and simply accept they’re probably not going to be the ones to take him. There are two things to consider though:

1. Sam Darnold’s contract

It’s been a weird day with OverTheCap and Spotrac posting conflicting information on Darnold’s deal in Seattle. If OverTheCap are correct, the Seahawks can easily get out of the contract after this season. If they designated him as a post-June 1st cut they could save $26.5m in cap space in 2026. The dead hit to trade him to someone else or cut him before June would be $25.6m but that’s not the end of the world given how much money they have to play with.

Essentially, all the Darnold signing has done is cover them for 2025. They won’t go into the draft desperately needing to select a quarterback. Neither will they start the season with a totally inadequate, replacement-level starter. They’ve created a situation where the worst case scenario is they fall-in behind Darnold this year. However, they aren’t financially committed to him. If they want to draft a quarterback and either create a competition or set someone up to potentially start in 2026, there is no financial constraint stopping them from doing this.

2. John Schneider won’t be waiting for perfection

There’s an inaccurate assessment of Schneider that he never drafts a quarterback because he’s waiting for the perfect player who may never come. This ignores just how many ‘shots’ he’s taken over the years. The Whitehurst trade was expensive. They signed Tarvaris Jackson and then Matt Flynn (at great cost).

Once they drafted Russell Wilson, in the same year they signed Flynn, they didn’t need to keep turning over stones because they had a franchise passer. Since Wilson, they’ve re-signed Geno Smith, added Drew Lock, traded for Sam Howell and now signed Sam Darnold. This is not inaction. This is a GM who is being extremely active to find the next long-term solution.

He probably doesn’t need to see the next Mahomes, Allen or Wilson in the draft to be prepared to take a shot. This is a GM, after all, who reportedly wanted to draft Andy Dalton in 2011.

If he likes Shough, believes he can start in the NFL and doesn’t have anyone with a significantly higher grade at #18, I don’t think it’s out of this world that the Seahawks could take him. This is a quarterback league. If you find one you like, who lasts to a range where you can actually pick them for a change, you don’t turn that opportunity down.

What’s the alternative? Keep waiting for the next brilliant passer? Then what? Hope you can trade the crown jewels for that player? Hope someone else drops to day two and, as with Wilson, you’re the one who has the foresight to act? That’s not easy to do once, let alone twice.

Is #18 a reach for Shough? Here’s something to note. Todd McShay has him ranked 32nd on his big board. That’s one place above Grey Zabel. You don’t have to take McShay’s word as gospel — but at least based on his evaluation, drafting Shough in round one is no more of a reach than drafting Zabel.

There are concerns with Shough. He’s an older player (25) with an injury history. None of the injuries are long-term concerns though, they were all freak accidents without longer term consequences. His age isn’t ideal but it’s also not a reason to avoid drafting someone. If you think he’s a franchise quarterback, you don’t pass because he might only have a 10-year career instead of a 12-year career.

I do think at some point they’re going to draft a quarterback next month. It might be later on. They might invest their high picks in other positions. That would certainly create a more structured camp situation — with the pieces in place to help Darnold and everyone knowing who the starter is. If you draft a quarterback at #18 the conversation about when that player takes over starts immediately.

Maybe that would bring the best out of Darnold? Maybe their hope is he starts this year, excels and they end up in a similar situation to Minnesota — having to decide whether to stick with Darnold or trade him and go with the rookie? I can think of worse dilemmas.

I can definitely see why the Seahawks might have a lot of time for Shough and why they might decide to take the plunge in round one. I can also imagine a scenario where he’s liked but not quite enough to make a top-20 pick. There’ll be plenty of players the Seahawks admire but not enough to draft in round one.

Schneider has been waiting patiently for the opportunity to draft a quarterback though. When he finds his guy, he’s going to do it. He’s going to draft him. In a month we’ll find out whether Shough, Jaxson Dart, Quinn Ewers or any of these other 2025 quarterbacks are that individual. I suspect we’ll see a young signal caller on the roster by May, it might just be a question of ‘who?’

If you missed my latest show on Puck Sports earlier, please check it out below:

Brock Huard made an interesting observation on Seattle Sports this morning:

“I was told very early, this is going to be in the image of Mike Macdonald. This free agent is going to be in the image of Mike Macdonald, this draft class is going to be in the image of Mike Macdonald. And you know what he wants? Baltimore tough. You know what he wants? Baltimore physical. You know what he wants? Baltimore bully.”

Most people will enjoy reading these words. The Seahawks need a greater physical edge to be the team they say they want to be. As Macdonald puts it, a team ‘nobody wants to play’.

I had the philosophy described by Brock above in mind when I wrote my latest mock draft yesterday. The players paired with Seattle were tough, physical and they play with violence.

I wanted to refine things today. These are the players I think best encapsulate a bullying, physical style…

Alabama linebacker Jihaad Campbell just hits differently. His tackles are jarring and forceful. He is the most impactful tackler in this class. When you also consider his size and closing speed he has immense physical talent. The labrum surgery could keep him on the board longer than he otherwise would be. Any team who takes him will benefit from his presence if he makes a full recovery.

The three offensive linemen I’d consider the most violent are Tyler Booker, Grey Zabel and Chase Lundt. Armand Membou would be squarely in the mix but he’s unlikely to be in range. Marcus Mbow wouldn’t be far behind.

Booker is a dominating tone-setter up front who loves nothing more than punishing opponents. It’s a well-worn debate over whether he’s a scheme-fit for zone-blocking but his playing style fits the mentality Seattle is looking for. Zabel is a stone-cold finisher and loves to bury opponents. His sheer number of pancakes and finished blocks is impressive. He’s usurped though by Lundt which is no mean feat. I haven’t seen a more violent offensive lineman in this draft. If you want someone who is going to sprint at full speed to the second level, reach up and connect on a block in space and absolutely level someone, Lundt is your man.

Here’s the video I posted earlier in the week as evidence (he’s the right tackle):

 
Meanwhile, if the Seahawks want to provide a physical disposition to the center position combined with athleticism and finishing, Purdue’s Mbow could be an option at the end of round two.

At tight end, Elijah Arroyo plays with the greatest edge. There’s a nasty streak to his game to go with the gliding, effortless ability to find space. He can box-out with his body and he competes for everything. The other tight end to mention is Jackson Hawes. He’s a no-nonsense block-first, think-later type who wants to help establish dominance at the line of scrimmage, acting like an extra lineman.

The most aggressive defensive player I’ve watched is Ty Robinson by far. Every snap is treated like his last. He doesn’t take no for an answer when he’s engaged at the point of attack and he plays relentlessly through the whistle. He embraces run defending with a passion and he combines explosive power, size and quickness to punish anyone who gets in his way. When I interviewed him there was a glint in his eye when I told him he looked like a classic, old-school AFC North defender. If there’s anyone who encapsulates the kind of bullying physicality Seattle craves it is Nebraska’s Robinson.

Not far behind is South Carolina linebacker Demetrius Knight. He was consistently the player who set the tone for their excellent defense. He continuously made plays on the field and always seemed to be flying to the ball-carrier and delivering a jarring tackle. His attitude and intensity fit the bill.

There are three defensive backs to mention. Jonas Sanker has a pop to his tackling, flies downfield in run support and he seems to enjoy doing it. Andrew Mukuba similarly just levels people despite a lack of ideal size. Upton Stout is also undersized but his run defense is excellent and there are examples of some big hits versus the run.

The running back class is loaded with tough, physical runners — led at the top by Ashton Jeanty and Omarion Hampton. Everyone knows about Cam Skattebo. His ability to break tackles and finish runs like his life depended on it is unique. I’m just not sure he has the lateral quickness to be truly effective at the next level. Bhayshul Tuten, Ja’Quinden Jackson and Tahj Brooks finish a lot of their runs. Kyle Monangai has a few mini-Beast Mode efforts. There are others I could mention too in a deep group of very talented runners.

Aside from the physical toughness of the players named here, I think there are several obvious character/profile fits — including Malaki Starks, Donovan Ezeiruaku, Jack Bech, Jahdae Barron, Kelvin Banks Jr and potentially Nick Emmanwori.

I think there’s a good chance some of these players end up in Seattle. We could easily see one or all of Zabel, Mbow and Lundt (such is the offensive line need). We could see Arroyo at #50 (would they even trade up for him?). I think if I was going to put money on any player ending up with the Seahawks (an unwise move before anyone does it) I’d pick Robinson.

Round one

#1 Tennessee — Cam Ward (QB, Miami)
I don’t think any quarterback in this draft is worth the #1 pick. All power to Tennessee if they go in this direction but they keep cycling through young quarterbacks and nothing is changing because the roster isn’t good enough.

#2 Cleveland — Abdul Carter (EDGE, Penn State)
Despite chatter last week that Shedeur Sanders could be the #2 pick, part of me wonders if that was planted to try and provoke the Giants into trading into the top-two. Carter and Myles Garrett together would be something to witness.

#3 NY Giants — Shedeur Sanders (QB, Colorado)
The Giants probably won’t have a ton of faith in Sanders being the answer to their prayers. Yet the GM and Head Coach are in a self-inflicted nightmare where they have no choice but to take a quarterback and hope for the best.

#4 New England — Travis Hunter (WR/CB, Colorado)
There are three legitimate ‘blue chip’ players. Abdul Carter, Ashton Jeanty and Travis Hunter. The Pats take Hunter.

#5 Jacksonville — Tyler Warren (TE, Penn State)
With an offensive-minded Head Coach and a young GM, I think the Jaguars will opt for excitement with this pick. Warren can be Trevor Lawrence’s best friend on the field.

#6 Las Vegas — Armand Membou (T, Missouri)
It’ll be seriously tempting to take Ashton Jeanty but this is a loaded running back class. Therefore, they take Membou to complete their offensive line and wait on the runners.

#7 NY Jets — Colston Loveland (TE, Michigan)
The Jets would love Tyler Warren to fall to them but if he doesn’t, I think they’ll just pivot to Loveland. He can be the dynamic X-factor they need at the position. Some teams will have Loveland graded ahead of Warren.

#8 Carolina — Jalon Walker (LB, Georgia)
Carolina needs to rebuild its defensive front. Walker could be a permanent EDGE and a poor-man’s Micah Parsons.

#9 New Orleans — Mason Graham (DT, Michigan)
The Saints let the board come to them in this scenario. Graham’s tape is really good but non-ideal measurables and a lack of testing could sink his stock a little.

#10 Chicago — Ashton Jeanty (RB, Boise State)
The Bears will rejoice if Jeanty falls here. It’d be another critical piece in Ben Johnson’s overhaul on offense. Pound-for-pound he’s the best talent in the draft.

#11 San Francisco — Jahdae Barron (CB, Texas)
They need pass rushers and speed on the back end. Barron’s ability to play anywhere in the secondary, his toughness and elite character will appeal to teams.

#12 Dallas — Matthew Golden (WR, Texas)
They seem to be gearing up to take a receiver here. The Cowboys have had a very odd off-season so far.

#13 Miami — Malaki Starks (S, Georgia)
As predicted, the draft pundits are now starting to reflect on his stock and push him back up the boards. He is a fantastic talent to play deep safety with A+ character. Teams will love his mental makeup.

#14 Indianapolis — Jihaad Campbell (LB, Alabama)
The labrum injury is a concern but provided teams are comfortable with the situation, Campbell is one of the 10 best players in this draft and should still go early. He’s a crunching tackler and can rush the edge.

#15 Atlanta — Mykel Williams (DE, Georgia)
Williams’ stock is really difficult to work out. He had injury issues in college, he was inconsistent but he also showed flashes of quality.

#16 Arizona — Will Campbell (T/G, LSU)
I struggle with Campbell. His tape wasn’t very good in 2024, he doesn’t play with enough aggression, he has short arms and he’s too upright to play guard. Still, everyone seems to think he’s better than I do, so I guess he’ll go in the top-20.

#17 Cincinnati — Mike Green (EDGE, Marshall)
The concerning character rumblings from his time at Virginia are out there but the Bengals frequently turn a blind eye to such flags.

#18 Seattle — Grey Zabel (G/C, North Dakota State)
The Seahawks want someone who can run to the second level and hammer people. That’s what Zabel does. A perfect scheme fit and they’ll possibly see him as a guard or center.

#19 Tampa Bay — Maxwell Hairston (CB, Kentucky)
The more you watch of Hairston the more you like. He has a ton of talent. He’s so smooth in transition, he’s long limbed and he can take the ball away.

#20 Denver — Omarion Hampton (RB, North Carolina)
The Broncos regularly get tagged with a running back here. They might actually prefer TreVeyon Henderson because of his pass-catching and pass-pro ability.

#21 Pittsburgh — Jaxson Dart (QB, Ole Miss)
Aaron Rodgers would only be a short-term fix. They have to set up a longer-term vision. Would they trade into the top-15 to make sure they get their guy? Maybe.

#22 LA Chargers — Will Johnson (CB, Michigan)
The injury issues (and therefore lack of testing) could really hamper Johnson. He’s talented but he might fall.

#23 Green Bay — Donovan Ezeiruaku (EDGE, Boston College)
Just a great combination of production, agility and character.

#24 Minnesota — Nick Emmanwori (S, South Carolina)
I think Emmanwori’s testing — which everyone knew about before the combine — is being counted twice in some mocks. I think he goes in this range.

#25 Cleveland (v/HOU) — Tyler Shough (QB,Louisville)
The Browns fear the Rams at #26 and therefore do a deal with an obliging Texans (who fleeced them over DeShaun Watson) to move up and get a guy who would be expected to start right away.

#26 LA Rams — TreVeyon Henderson (RB, Ohio State)
With Shough off the board and the top cornerbacks gone too, the Rams pivot to a dynamic ball-carrier who can provide the X-factor qualities they currently lack in the backfield.

#27 Baltimore — Tyler Booker (G, Alabama)
This feels like an excellent plug-and-play fit for the Ravens, not to mention his playing style suits the AFC North to a tee.

#28 Detroit — Shemar Stewart (DE, Texas A&M)
The physical profile is enticing, the total lack of any production in college is not. Plenty of players like this don’t succeed.

#29 New England (v/WAS) — Kelvin Banks (T/G, Texas)
The Patriots trade up from #38 to claim a tackle to help protect Drake Maye.

#30 Buffalo — Tetairoa McMillan (WR, Arizona)
I just don’t think there’s anything that exciting about McMillan — a 4.5 runner who admits he hasn’t got a good vertical jump in him.

#31 Kansas City — Kenneth Grant (DT, Michigan)
Grant’s testing wasn’t quite as impressive as his ranking on Bruce Feldman’s ‘freaks list’ indicated. But the Michigan guys always get pumped up on that list.

#32 Philadelphia — James Pearce Jr (EDGE, Tennessee)
The character concerns are well known but if there’s one team that has shown it can manage players like this it’s the Eagles.

Round two

#33 Houston (v/CLE) — Emeka Egbuka (WR, Ohio State)
Trading down and reuniting CJ Stroud with Egbuka could be a perfect situation for the Texans.

#34 NY Giants — Donovan Jackson (G, Ohio State)
They have to fix their offensive line.

#35 Tennessee — Luther Burden (WR, Missouri)
They have hardly any weapons and need more at receiver.

#36 Jacksonville — Derrick Harmon (DT, Oregon)
In an alternative mock I suppose they could go for Mason Graham and then Mason Taylor rather than Warren and Harmon.

#37 Las Vegas — Quinshon Judkins (RB, Ohio State)
After passing on the running back position at #6 they get a player who had a tremendous combine.

#38 Washington (v/NE) — Jaylin Noel (WR, Iowa State)
The Commanders need another receiver even after adding Deebo Samuel. Noel is such a dynamic talent and feels very much like a top-45 pick.

#39 Chicago (v/CAR) — Mason Taylor (TE, LSU)
He can be Ben Johnson’s Chicago answer to Sam LaPorta.

#40 New Orleans — Jayden Higgins (WR, Iowa State)
The Saints need to bring in another outside threat at receiver.

#41 Chicago — Bradyn Swinson (EDGE, LSU)
He led the NCAA for pressures during the regular season. Swinson has outstanding potential.

#42 New York Jets — Tyleik Williams (DT, Ohio State)
He has a ton of upside and can be even better if he slims down a little.

#43 San Francisco — Walter Nolen (DT, Ole Miss)
There are a few character concerns with Nolen but the 49ers take a shot here.

#44 Dallas — Quinn Ewers (QB, Texas)
There’s been talk the Cowboys could look at Ewers and it’d go along with a slightly barmy off-season in Dallas.

#45 Indianapolis — Elijah Arroyo (TE, Miami)
The Colts need a playmaking tight end.

#46 Atlanta — Azareye’h Thomas (CB, Florida State)
The lack of speed he showed at his pro-day might be a concern for some teams.

#47 Arizona — Landon Jackson (DE, Arkansas)
He lacks twitch and agility but he’s built like a terminator.

#48 Miami — Josh Simmons (T, Ohio State)
Concerns about his maturity are an issue but the Dolphins are said to be expecting Terron Armstead to retire.

#49 Cincinnati — Tate Ratledge (G, Georgia)
He’s the type of lineman Cincy tends to like a lot.

#50 Seattle — Jack Bech (WR, TCU)
I think they’d love one of the two second round tight ends Taylor or Arroyo to fall here but if not, Bech would be an outstanding consolation. He could remind John Schneider of Jordy Nelson.

#51 Denver — Tre Harris (WR, Ole Miss)
Running in the 4.5’s won’t help his stock but Sean Payton might be able to turn him into Michael Thomas, who also fell after running in that range.

#52 Seattle (v/PIT) — Ty Robinson (DT, Nebraska)
He fills the void left by Roy Robertson-Harris. Robinson ticks every box for the Seahawks. He’s an absolute warrior against the run, his seven sacks were second most by interior defenders in 2024, he produced a brilliant testing profile and his character is A+.

#53 Tampa Bay — Xavier Watts (S, Notre Dame)
They say they’re after ball-hawks and Watts collected interceptions for Notre Dame.

#54 Green Bay — Trey Amos (CB, Ole Miss)
Needs at the position could push Amos into the top-45.

#55 LA Chargers — Oluwafemi Oladejo (EDGE, UCLA)
Jim Harbaugh will love ‘The Mayor’.

#56 Buffalo (v/MIN) — Carson Schwesinger (LB, UCLA)
He might be a one-year wonder but what a season he had in 2024.

#57 Carolina (v/LAR) — Nic Scourton (DE, Texas A&M)
If the Panthers use Jalon Walker as a linebacker who reduces down, they could draft another EDGE defender.

#58 Houston — Darius Alexander (DT, Toledo)
He had a fantastic Senior Bowl and he’s explosive and powerful but it would’ve been nice to see twitchier speed and agility.

#59 Baltimore — Andrew Mukuba (S, Texas)
Mukuba is a fearless player who fits the Baltimore mentality.

#60 Detroit — Demetrius Knight (LB, South Carolina)
Knight just feels like a Lion.

#61 Washington — Josh Conerly (T, Oregon)
I struggle to work out what Conerly is but filling in for Sam Cosmi might be his best bet.

#62 Buffalo — Benjamin Morrison (CB, Notre Dame)
He has a lot of talent but the injury recovery keep him on the board.

#63 Kansas City — Shavon Revel (CB, East Carolina)
As with Morrison, he would’ve gone earlier but for the injury.

#64 Philadelphia — TJ Sanders (DT, South Carolina)
His lack of lower body bulk is a concern but he’s quick and can disrupt.

Notes on the options for Seattle’s first three picks

#18 — I don’t think this is a reach for Grey Zabel. His tape is excellent and his testing profile compares to Tristan Wirfs (#13 overall, 2020). The Seahawks could see him as an option at guard or center. There’s a chance the Colts (#14), Cardinals (#16) and Bengals (#17) take him. If that’s the case, in this mock draft I think they’d pivot to another position with cornerback Maxwell Hairston and EDGE Donovan Ezeiruaku two players who perfectly fit Seattle’s character and physical profile desires. I don’t think the Seahawks will force anything at #18 and will feel comfortable knowing there’s O-line depth in this draft. If Malaki Starks lasts to #18, he would be a big-time option too. But Zabel is the pick that makes the most sense if he’s available.

#50 — I suspect the Seahawks would like it if one of the second-tier tight ends lasted to this pick (Mason Taylor and Elijah Arroyo). There are some medical concerns around Arroyo though. If they’re both gone, I think Jack Bech would be an outstanding selection. His body control, ball-tracking, ability to compete for the ball in the air, versatility to run a full route tree and make clutch and big plays is exactly what they need. He might remind John Schneider of Jordy Nelson, a favourite of his from Green Bay. If Bradyn Swinson lasts to #50 he would be another excellent option. I also think if Quinn Ewers is available with either of Seattle’s two second round picks, there’s a chance Schneider will take him.

#52 — If more than one of the players mentioned for pick #50 are available, they also cross over to this selection. However, draft media is seriously sleeping on Ty Robinson in general but in particular he makes a ton of sense for the Seahawks. They need to add another defensive lineman and he has experience playing right across the line for Nebraska. He’s a tremendous run defender, he can rush the passer (seven sacks in 2024) and he carries a relentless spirit. His character is outstanding and I’ve personally interviewed him so know he ticks that particular box that is very important to the Seahawks. He also ran a 4.83 forty and a 4.50 shuttle. People might scratch their head if they take him here but they’ll love it when they see him play. If they don’t get Grey Zabel at #18, keep an eye on William & Mary’s Charles Grant or Purdue’s Marcus Mbow in this range.

Seattle’s remaining picks

R3 — Riley Leonard (QB, Notre Dame)
I think the Seahawks will draft a quarterback at some point. Leonard requires some technical development as a passer but he’s a difference-maker with his legs and his character and attitude is appealing.

R3 — Jonas Sanker (S, Virginia)
A safety who plays with intensity and force. He can fly around the field and deliver crushing blows. He’s the kind of defensive back Seattle lacks at the moment. He can be an ideal replacement for Rayshawn Jenkins.

R4 — Chase Lundt (G, UConn)
Perhaps a must-have pick for a team focusing on zone-blocking. Lundt is an outstanding scheme fit and he plays with speed and violence. The Seahawks could theoretically slot him in at left guard and use Grey Zabel at center. If they did, they’d have a very aggressive interior line, which I’m sure we’d all love to see. Perhaps the most violent interior duo in the league — they’d at least rival Landon Dickerson and Cam Jurgens for that honour.

R5 — Chandler Martin (LB, Memphis)
An all-action, thumping linebacker who reads-and-reacts well and feels like the kind of player the Seahawks will show interest in. They need more depth at this position.

R5 — Nazir Stackhouse (DT, Georgia)
A classic space-eater and block-absorber but the combine showed a player in good shape with a well proportioned frame. There’s potential here for Stackhouse to emerge as a really decent early-down defender.

R7 — Robert Longerbeam (CB, Rutgers)
Undersized and in need of some work and development but Longerbeam has good speed and he’s well known for his leadership and strong character.

R7 — Josh Williams (RB, LSU)
Wore the respected #18 jersey at LSU as a player of great character. He did an underrated job for the Tigers and there’s talent to harness here.

You put on the tape. Immediately you know you’ve found someone interesting. He’s sprinting up to the second level and hammering opponents. He’s aggressive. He combo-blocks efficiently. He’s shoving the line to create running lanes. He looks a lot like Will Fries on tape. It’s exciting to watch and you know this player fits a team running a lot of outside zone.

This isn’t Grey Zabel or any other player projected to go in round one. It’s a right tackle from Connecticut who will need to kick inside to guard, just as Fries did. The name of the player is Chase Lundt. He has a zone blocking grade (88.2) that is better than Armand Membou’s.

There’s every chance he will be on Seattle’s radar.

See for yourself:

 
Some people are going to hate what I’m about to write. The Seahawks might wait to draft for their offensive line. And I think it might be the best thing to do.

There’s almost a desperation within the fan base to see a big move to fix the interior O-line. I understand that. It’s important, though, to view the draft not through the lens of one pick at #18. It’s about your collection of picks and maximising your ability to improve your roster.

It might mean selecting players later on who expertly fit the zone blocking system. It might mean sticking to best player available at #18 and going in a different direction with your first pick. Perhaps even your second and third pick too.

Think of it like this. If you are Klint Kubiak, John Benton and the rest of the staff — you might think you can turn Chase Lundt above into a similar level of performer as Grey Zabel. I’m not predicting that, just imagining this as a scenario.

Fans would tear their hair out through the first two or three rounds. However, you could add a dynamic defensive player at #18 — Malaki Starks, Maxwell Hairston and Donovan Ezeiruaku all seem like viable options. I don’t think there’s any chance of Colston Loveland lasting to #18 but others do. You can still invest in a top tight end (Elijah Arroyo) or receiver in round two. You can maybe bring in Bradyn Swinson if he’s available. If you want to draft a quarterback early you can. There are all sorts of best player available options.

You could seriously elevate Seattle’s roster with your top picks. But you wouldn’t have addressed your most pressing need. You’d be relying on scheme fit and the depth available to max out the totality of your draft class. The thing is, the zone-blocking depth in this draft is good and at its strongest beyond the first two rounds.

The Seahawks are going to draft for their scheme. The players they target will either have good zone blocking tape and/or the profile suited to the system.

I don’t think it’s unreasonable to project a player like Lundt as being as likely as anyone to become a great interior zone blocker. He’s not alone though. Here are the zone blockers in the draft with a PFF grade above 80:

Charles Grant — 93.0
Willie Lampkin — 90.4
Wyatt Milum — 90.0
Chase Lundt — 88.2
Armand Membou — 87.4
Jack Nelson — 86.4
Logan Brown — 85.2
Clay Webb — 84.9
Grey Zabel —- 84.8
Cam Williams — 84.0
Kelvin Banks Jr — 81.5
Hollin Pierce — 81.5
Marcus Mbow — 81.3
Connor Colby — 81.3
Bryce Cabeldue — 81.0

Of this list only three players — Membou, Zabel and Banks Jr — are projected to go in the first round. Membou will be long gone by Seattle’s pick. I wouldn’t rule it out but I’m not convinced they’d draft Banks Jr at #18 to move him inside.

Ultimately they need to decide whether Zabel is that much better than the options available on day two or three, where they have a ton of picks, to shirk a best player available approach in round one. Unless of course they view Zabel as the best player when they pick.

This is always how you have to view a draft. It’s about looking at combo picks and determining what is best. Is it better to take Starks at #18 if he’s available and take Lundt in round four? Or Zabel in round one and whatever defensive player would be available at #137?

Let me be clear — I think there’s a chance they will view Zabel as best player available at #18. Yet it’s no guarantee. If they have other players graded higher, perhaps considerably so, they might consider waiting on the O-line.

That will be unpalatable to many. It is, however, a possibility. For at least the last three drafts the Seahawks have stuck to their board and picked best player available early. It’s hard to imagine that changing.

We should also consider the possibility of Zabel not being available. Daniel Jeremiah had him going 16th to Arizona in his latest mock. The Colts at #14 might be sniffing around too, or the Bengals at #17.

Going back to the importance of ‘fit’ in zone — look at Seattle’s free agency so far. They only made one big move, to try and get the one player who was not only a tremendous athlete but had fantastic zone-blocking tape from 2024. When they missed out on Will Fries, they didn’t pivot to other free agents.

It speaks to a desire to only add specific scheme-fit types.

Fries ticked the tape, fit and physical profile boxes. A lot of the names above tick those same boxes.

The Seahawks are using an official-30 visit on Kansas tackle Bryce Cabeldue (81.0) who had an outstanding BIG-12 pro-day. It wouldn’t be a surprise if his team mate Logan Brown (85.2) also comes in — especially given his departure from Wisconsin after hitting a team mate.

Charles Grant’s 93.0 grade might’ve come at the FCS level but he has attractive transferable traits. He could be an excellent developmental prospect with the tools to emerge as a top-level zone-blocker.

Marcus Mbow (81.3) could be seen as a center prospect worthy of one of their two second round picks. Jared Wilson (78.9) graded just outside the 80-range and could be another center option on day two.

Wyatt Milum (90.0) had a disappointing Senior Bowl but he looked a lot sharper at his pro-day. There’s potential there and again, his grading is excellent. Jack Nelson (86.4) is highly underrated with multi-position flexibility. He could go in the same range as Cam Williams (84.0) whose technique at tackle was disastrous at Texas but he could kick inside and excel.

Clay Webb (84.9), Hollins Pierce (81.5) and Connor Colby (81.3) could all be day three fliers. As fun as Willie Lampkin’s (90.4) tape is I’m not sure anyone will draft a 5-10, 270lbs center or guard.

Then there’s Lundt (88.2), who I’ve given a round three grade but anticipate he’ll be available later on.

It’s a real shame the Iowa duo of Gennings Dunker (92.3) and Logan Jones (84.5) opted not to declare.

If the Seahawks draft a position that isn’t the offensive line at #18 and decide they’ll get better value tapping into the scheme fits later on, there will be panic. I don’t think there should be. With a lot of the top zone-blockers you can clearly see on tape how they would fit in Kubiak’s system and potentially excel.

I do think it could come down to Zabel, Starks, Hairston and Ezeiruaku at pick #18, plus any unexpected fallers like Loveland. The Seahawks arranging a visit with Nick Emmanwori speaks to a level of intrigue there too. I’m not sure the other linemen, barring an unpredictable fall for Membou, will come into contention.

A final point — the more I’ve studied Starks and Hairston over the last few days, the more exciting they are. There is a lot of upside potential here, more so than some of the other names being projected to go early. Starks, Zabel, Ezeiruaku and Hairston are among the best 15 players in this draft class for me.

One of these trade scenarios can be taken more seriously than the other.

Let’s start with that one.

In Todd McShay’s latest mock draft the Giants trade up from #34 to the 19th pick in a deal with Tampa Bay. They jump above the Steelers to get Jaxson Dart.

In return, the Buccs get the #65 pick and a 2026 third-rounder.

McShay added in his podcast that his expectation is the Giants will aggressively try to get back into the first round to select a quarterback, if needed. So the question is, if this was a realistic offer — would you be open to the Seahawks saying to the Giants, ‘why don’t you give us that deal for the 18th pick instead?’

The value in this draft will come on day two. The Seahawks would have #34, #50 and #52 in the second round, plus #65, #82 and #92 in the third round.

Would I want to be in that situation? Yes, absolutely. 100%.

Six selections in the meat of this draft would be unbelievable. You’d still have a shot to improve your interior O-line (Donovan Jackson will probably be there at #34 for example). You’d have a very good chance to land one of Mason Taylor or Elijah Arroyo. You’d have absolutely no issue if you wanted to spend one of the six picks on a quarterback. You could transform your roster.

Furthermore, the player you take at #18 is probably going to have a similar grade to the players between #30-40 anyway.

This would be a no-brainer for me. If such a scenario presents itself, I hope the Seahawks would intercept Tampa Bay’s arrangement and allow the Giants to pick one spot earlier to get their guy.

The second scenario is pitched by a very different source. A bloke called Brian on Twitter, with the grand total of zero followers, who himself only follows two accounts (Dan Viens and the English Premier League’s official account) speculated the Seahawks would like to trade up for Tyler Warren.

Let’s just park the source of this idea for a moment and consider it. Would it be a good move? And how much would you be willing to give up?

Let’s say he falls beyond the Jets at #7 — which I think is unlikely. Would the Panthers at #8 or Saints at #9 be open for business?

If they were, it would probably cost #50 and #92 to do it per the trade chart — and you’d likely get a fifth rounder back. It’d be expensive but not in an obscene way. You’d still have a second and third round pick to spend.

The upside would be getting one of the few players in the draft carrying a legit first round grade. Warren could be the X-factor addition Seattle needs after losing DK Metcalf. Within Seattle’s new offense it’s easy to imagine him having a George Kittle-level impact — perhaps even more so as a receiver (and a little less so as a blocker).

You’d have to weigh-up the benefit of getting one top-graded player against three others taken between #18-92. It’s a gamble on greatness versus having three lottery tickets instead of one.

I think you could make arguments for and against. It’s an interesting idea though.

Finally today, I was reading an article on ESPN where a series of questions were posed. One was, ‘Which sleeper team is your favorite to watch for targeting a QB in the first two rounds?’

Matt Miller of ‘Russell Wilson is the worst pick in the entire 2012 draft’ fame suggested the Seahawks. He said the flexible nature of the Sam Darnold contract positions the team to emulate what Atlanta did with Michael Penix Jr a year ago, just on day two instead of day one. He suggests Quinn Ewers is the name to watch.

We’ve talked about this a lot. This exact scenario and the player in question. There’s nothing else to say about Ewers at this point. I feel like we’ve done a better job than most breaking down the pro’s and the con’s, while also embracing the possibility that he could be someone John Schneider likes.

It’ll depend on how things fall. It was interesting to see speculation this week about the Cowboys potentially showing interest in Ewers in round two. I doubt the Seahawks would force a pick there — but if he lasts to the 50’s, he could be in play. It’s not unrealistic.

The same article also pairs Tetairoa McMillan at #18. Please, stop. Just because the Seahawks traded away DK Metcalf doesn’t mean they’re going to take a receiver at #18. They have Jaxon Smith-Njigba and Cooper Kupp. They will draft someone but not at #18. Too many mocks are falling into this trap.

We’ve talked a lot about non O-line picks for the Seahawks at #18. It’s possible, depending on how the board shapes out. An early run on linemen won’t send Seattle into desperation mode. They’ll be forced to play the hand they are dealt.

Some fans will react badly to this suggestion, just as the foaming of the mouth started during free agency. Team building isn’t easy. ‘Just get it done’ sounds good in a tweet. It’s harder to apply in the business of signing and drafting players.

I wanted the Seahawks to sign Will Fries but not at any cost. Ditto Drew Dalman. I don’t blame them for not signing Fries given the contract he signed in Minnesota, without a medical. It seems like Dalman had his heart set on the Bears early in the process. I never once petitioned the Seahawks to pivot aggressively to what was left in free agency and I won’t take that position in the draft either.

I didn’t want them to sign Teven Jenkins or Mekhi Becton after studying them closely. They were not going to be part of a future great offensive line in Seattle. The aim is to build a top-10 line, however difficult that may be. Not sign the O-line version of Tyrel Dodson and Jerome Baker.

Daniel Jeremiah’s new mock draft had Grey Zabel going 16th overall to Arizona. He had Tyler Booker falling out of round one, presumably because of his testing. If Zabel isn’t available and if the Seahawks don’t see Booker as a fit, the odds increase that the 18th pick won’t be a lineman. For what it’s worth, Mel Kiper and Todd McShay also didn’t include Booker in their updated first round projections.

Jeremiah had Seattle taking Colston Loveland. I’d be stunned if he lasts to #18 and don’t anticipate any chance of that happening. Tyler Warren won’t last to #14 and the Colts in that slot feel like Loveland’s floor. Both tight ends are among the tiny pool of legit first round talents this year and will likely be taken before any of the receivers. If Loveland did last to #18 they should probably run to the podium.

We’ve discussed Donovan Ezeiruaku as a possibility for Seattle. His production, character, agility testing and length all fit the Seahawks perfectly. However, signing DeMarcus Lawrence and re-working Uchenna Nwosu’s deal means they’d probably have to ‘love’ Ezeiruaku to take him at #18.

I do think there’s a very real chance they select Malaki Starks. McShay paired Seattle with Nick Emmanwori, an increasingly popular pick in mocks. They’re having Emmanwori in for an official 30 visit too. I suspect this will be an important ‘getting to know you’ meeting. I think the testing numbers are turning too many heads at the moment though.

That isn’t to say Emmanwori is bad. Far from it. I do think the Kyle Hamilton comparisons are a bit much. He might be able to positionally operate in the same role but he lacks Hamilton’s physical playing style. Watching South Carolina, I thought there were four other players on their defense who set the tone and impacted games more than Emmanwori.

Starks is a very talented player. He can hit, he can cover. He’s not as versatile as perhaps some think — but as a deep cover safety I think he’s completely at home. His personality and character are elite level and teams will love him. Listen to my segment on Seattle Sports yesterday with Bump & Stacy (click here) for a story reflecting Starks’ professionalism and application. With the right guidance (eg Mike Macdonald) he has a chance to be an exceptional safety.

I also think Maxwell Hairston could be a sleeper option. I thought initially he wouldn’t be based on sloppy 2024 tape especially when it came to tackling. He had a 27.3% missed tackle rate, 20th worst in the NCAA. On run plays alone he had a 44.4% missed tackle rate.

However, I did a bit more digging. He only played seven games due to a nagging injury. He basically had three bad games against Georgia, Texas and Louisville and all of his missed tackles occurred in those games.

The year before when he played a full season his missed tackle rate was only 8.2%. It would’ve been even better but for two bad games at the end of the season where he missed a third of his tackles vs Louisville and a quarter against Clemson.

If that 8.2% rate over a healthy full season is a better reflection of who he is, it compares favourably. Devon Witherspoon had an 11.4% missed tackle rate in his final year at Illinois. Denzel Ward, who he mirrors physically (more on that in a second) had a 16.7% missed tackle rate in his final year at Ohio State. Quinyon Mitchell’s 2023 rate was 11.8%. Terrion Arnold’s was 3.6%.

Ward and Hairston are physical replicas. They are both 5-11 and both weighed 183lbs at their combines, Ward’s arms are a quarter of an inch longer and Hairston edged Ward in the forty (4.28 vs 4.32) and vertical (39.5 vs 39).

We know the Seahawks had interest in the cornerback position a year ago if Byron Murphy wasn’t available. Hairston could be a player to monitor. Character wise he ticks that box — he’s a great talker and full of energy. His production is excellent with six interceptions and three pick-sixes in 20 games. He’s fluid in transition, has long limbs, his backpedal is smooth and he plants his foot to accelerate quickly. All his body movements are controlled. He has excellent instinct to read the quarterback and act on telegraphed throws. He can climb the ladder to bat away lofted passes. He’s a very capable blitzer. He had one of the best box drills you’ll ever see at the combine and his change of direction is electric.

If they did end up taking one of Starks or Hairston — and they’re yet to make any significant additions at either position in free agency — they’d have to look at day two and three for offensive linemen as discussed.

Jeff Simmons made a good point to me this week. He noted the importance of aesthetics for John Schneider and needing to be seen to be actively fixing the O-line. They can justify Zabel at #18 and if he’s not there, maybe they just pivot to Kelvin Banks Jr — who won’t have a dramatically lower grade, if at all. That would make some sense, even if I’m not 100% sure on Banks’ fit inside.

It’d be hard to wait on the O-line but the coaching staff might be pointing to the best zone blockers in this draft not being early round picks.

For example, as bad as Wyatt Milum was at the Senior Bowl, he was the top graded zone blocker per PFF (90.3) in this class. They might feel they can develop him as a third round pick to work within their system. I watched all of his drills at the BIG-12 pro-day yesterday and thought he looked far more sharp and athletic than he did in Mobile.

Armand Membou had the second best zone blocking grade and sadly he won’t be available. After that, it was Jack Nelson (86.4) and Logan Brown (85.2). I really like both players and am intrigued by their ability to kick inside. I’d happily take either in rounds 3/4. Marcus Mbow (81.3) also graded well in zone and he’s slated to go in the late second round.

If you can’t get to Membou or Zabel, there would be some method to this approach. As I keep saying, it’s not really what anyone wants. The accusation will be this is what the Seahawks always do and it never works. In reality — the problem is nothing has worked. The higher picks — James Carpenter, Germain Ifedi, Ethan Pocic — haven’t been roaring successes. Russell Okung didn’t get a second contract. Charles Cross has only been OK so far. Even Justin Britt, who did get a second contract, was hardly a champagne pick.

I’d suggest the success or failure of Seattle’s line going forwards will be on development as much as drafting. That’s been badly lacking. They now have a very experienced staff. If they think they can draft and develop the likes of Milum, Nelson, Brown or Mbow — you might have to trust them. It’d be a better plan than forcing anything in round one.

I suspect it’ll be a moot point and they may well just draft Zabel at #18 and address their biggest need with their top pick. If he’s gone, as Jeremiah suggests, you might have to resort to Plan B. Or let’s be right — if you give Starks a 6.50 grade and Zabel’s a 6.38 — I’m not sure you can turn down Starks. Ditto if it’s Hairston instead (although I think his grade will be closer to Zabel’s).

Ideal world’s don’t exist in the NFL. Look at the New York Giants and their situation at quarterback, both in terms of the veteran market and the draft. I hope over the next few weeks that as a fan base we can learn to accept the following:

1. ‘Best player available’ over ‘need’ matters if the grading difference is significant between prospects

2. There will be O-line options on day two, where Seattle has four picks

3. Ideally they address their biggest need at #18 but if they don’t, a meltdown isn’t necessary

4. Only five of the top-15 guards in the NFL in 2024 per PFF were taken in round one and only three of the top-15 centers

Meanwhile, there are now four confirmed official-30 visits to Seattle. Nick Emmanwori, Tyler Shough and Savion Williams were previously reported. Today, Tony Pauline revealed Bryce Cabeldue is visiting the Seahawks.

He’s a tackle who projects to guard. He ran a 4.94 forty at 6-5 and 306lbs. He added a 30-inch vertical, a 9-6 broad jump and a 4.60 short shuttle. He managed 30 reps on the bench. His TEF score is a 3.25. That’s a very interesting physical profile so he’s one to keep an eye on.

Today I was invited onto Seattle Sports to talk to Bump & Stacy. Please watch the video below and if you can — head over to YouTube and give the video a like and leave a comment.