Introduction
The Seahawks’ move to acquire Rashid Shaheed for a half-season rental wasn’t just a review of his impact talent. It spoke volumes about this draft class too.
It’s a thin draft. The fourth and fifth round picks they gave New Orleans, both at the end of each round, possibly would’ve been used on players with priority UDFA grades. It’s that kind of class.
It’s not much better at the top-end. The best three players are, arguably, a safety (Caleb Downs) a linebacker hybrid (Arvell Reese) and a running back (Jeremiyah Love). There are only seven ‘legit’ first round prospects on my horizontal board, with 185 players graded so far. I have an additional 15 players I’d be willing to consider drafting in round one.
Many teams in the second half of the first frame are going to be scrambling to find value. Several are probably going to draft players they otherwise wouldn’t be comfortable taking in the top-40 per their grading.
It’s the main reason why both Adam Schefter and Ian Rapoport have predicted in the last few days that we’ll see a red-hot trade market, with contending teams willing to move their draft assets to acquire proven talent, rather than take their medicine on reaching for players at the back-end of round one.
We’re living in a different NFL world these days. Look at the trade deadline. You didn’t see players like Sauce Gardner and Quinnen Williams dealt in the past. There’s a generation of GM’s in the league who are prepared to make moves. Several deals will come to life at the combine this week.
Possible storylines
It’ll be thin gruel for the media. Fernando Mendoza isn’t throwing and the rest of the quarterback class are unlikely to make headlines. Increasingly the top prospects don’t do any of the on-field workouts or testing.
What happens with the EDGE class could be the main story. It’s described as deep in the media but I think it’s more a case of quantity not quality. There are a lot of players, yes. But so many of them have unorthodox builds, lack elite burst and twitch, have shorter than ideal arms or struggle defending the run.
Rueben Bain Jr and Akheem Mesidor both had highly successful years for Miami but are they going to do anything at the combine, given there’s a chance neither will be able to improve their stock by weighing, measuring and testing?
Can smaller players like R Mason Thomas and Cashius Howell perform well enough to convince teams to overlook the fact they are both so small and unsuited to playing a high percentage of downs?
Is David Bailey actually worthy of all the hype he’s getting? He’s another who might not test, with the internet already convinced he’s the real deal despite the fact he doesn’t have the body of your typical star EDGE.
This is where a lot of the attention could be focused.
How different will things be in 2026?
For a short time the combine appeared to be refining certain aspects of the event. They adjusted schedules and were reportedly looking at better ways to time the athletes. This all seemed to stop a year ago and there’s no news on any changes for 2026.
It’s a shame. Once again we’ll see the day drag on late into the evening with fewer and fewer players doing agility testing. We get so few short shuttle and three cone results because of this. These are important tests, let’s find a way to get the players to participate.
The bench press also remains, despite it being a preposterous waste of time. All this test does is show you how good someone is at benching. It’s always been ridiculous that a player weighing 190lbs and a player weighing 320lbs both have to bench the same 225lbs weight. It’s no test of power or strength. It’s a test of how much time you spend on the bench press or for the big guys, how much stamina you’ve got.
We’re long overdue a powerball toss or something similar, a better measure of explosive power.
I get the impression the NFL has basically started to shrug its shoulders about the combine. The teams get their medical checks. They get to do the whole legal tampering thing. They get their interviews. If a few players run a forty and a few people watch it on the TV, they’re happy.
It used to be so much better than this though — and that’s why it’s hard not to reminisce about what it used to be. Oh for the days when we had a nearly full list of agility testing results.
Do combine meetings matter?
Every year beat writers go to the combine and spend most of their time going to the various player press conferences just to ask whether they met with the team they cover. Not only does it ruin every interview session, it means absolutely nothing.
Don’t fall into the trap of caring if players meet with the Seahawks. If you are a beat writer who happens to be reading this, please resist the temptation to ask players who they met with. It just leads to people reading into things too much.
Teams typically meet with virtually everyone through the Senior Bowl, Shrine Bowl, combine and official-30 visits. They aren’t tipping their hand by meeting with players specifically at the combine. Official-30 visits are a bit different, they are worth tallying. So are more discrete visits, done in unusual settings like the American Bowl, simply because those players are not attending the other All-Star games.
Workout schedule
All of the details are in the graphic below. The start times for the on-field drills are 3pm Eastern on Thursday and Friday, then 1pm Eastern on Saturday and Sunday.
Horizontal board
Here is my latest updated board going into the combine. This is how I grade the players I’ve studied in this draft. I still have many players to cover and this is an ongoing process.
Click the image to enlarge:
Arrival: Sunday 22nd February
Team interviews: Monday 23rd February
General medical exam: Tuesday 24th February
Media & NFLPA meeting: Wednesday 25th February
Measurements, on-field drills: Thursday 26th February
Bench press: Friday 27th February
Defensive tackle
A big factor in Seattle’s Super Bowl success was the play of the defensive tackles. The rugged intensity and power of Jarran Reed, the brilliance of Leonard Williams, the development of Byron Murphy. Rylie Mills even came to the party in the final game.
Possessing depth and talent in the trenches gave the Seahawks a platform to win big. Retaining that for the long term will be the best way to enjoy continued success.
The Murphy pick in 2024 highlighted a key difference compared to the defensive tackle selections under Pete Carroll. Under Carroll, seven of the nine defensive tackles they drafted had +33 inch arms. The two who didn’t were both late round picks.
Length wasn’t a big priority for the Ravens, Mike Macdonald’s former team. In his final year in Baltimore they even had a nose tackle with 31.5 inch arms. Murphy’s arms were measured at 32 3/8 inches.
You always want good length on either side of the line but it doesn’t appear to be a deal-breaker for the current regime in Seattle. Further highlighting this was the Grey Zabel pick as he has 32-inch arms.
Key tests
Short Shuttle, Vertical, 10-yard split
Ideal size
+6-2, 300-310lbs, +33 inch arms, 4.50-4.65 ss
Positional assessment
It’s one of the stronger positions. I currently have 16 players with draftable grades. I had 24 a year ago, though. Three of the better players in the class, at least in terms of upside, are Ohio State’s Kayden McDonald, Florida’s Caleb Banks and Clemson’s Peter Woods. It’ll be interesting to see if they go through testing and drills. There’s also a thick middle tier, with talented players who will likely be available on day two. This includes Lee Hunter, Domonique Orange, Darrell Jackson Jr, Tim Keenan, Zxavian Harris, Gracen Halton and Christen Miller. If the Seahawks wanted to add to this position, they will have opportunities to do so.
Interesting note
In 2016, the Seahawks traded down to the 31st pick. They had a high grade on Jarran Reed but opted to take Germain Ifedi instead due to a big glaring right tackle need. When Reed lasted to the 46th pick, they decided to trade up and get him. I thought Reed was a top-20 talent that year. I just wonder if we might see something similar this year. I don’t think McDonald, Banks or Woods should last to #32 (or beyond). If they do, and the Seahawks still possess the #32 pick by draft time, there could be an opportunity — once again — to capitalise on the fall of a talented defensive tackle?
Best drills to watch
I like to watch the figure-eight drill for ankle flexion, bend, and quickness. The ‘pass rush’ drill where they have to get in and out of the bags and then change direction will make it clear who the best athletes are at the position. I also like to watch how they get in-and-out of the bags with their footwork and how they punch and move. Who plays with violence, even in this setting?
Five names to watch
Kayden McDonald, Caleb Banks, Peter Woods, Lee Hunter, Gracen Halton
Potential standout
According to Bruce Feldman, Peter Woods bench pressed 490lbs and did 34 reps of 225lbs last year. He squatted 700lbs and power cleaned 385lbs, ran a 4.86 40-yard dash and vertical jumped 33 inches. He has the potential to repair his stock this week after a disappointing 2025 season on tape.
Importance to the Seahawks?
It’s not a striking need but if the opportunity arises to add to the position, it’s worth remembering that Jarran Reed and Leonard Williams turn 34 and 32 respectively this year. You win in the trenches. Securing your future here will not be a bad thing.
DE’s, inside/out rushers or 5-techniques
There seems to be almost a renewed focus on this kind of player these days. Or at least, players who can defend the run at a high level, play with great power and intensity and feature in any situation.
DeMarcus Lawrence was a revelation in 2025, Derick Hall has really emerged as a similar type of player. They seem to be more central to Seattle’s system than, say, Boye Mafe — who is more of a speed rusher they use situationally.
With Lawrence’s future unclear, per Brady Henderson, Mafe likely departing as a free agent and questions about Uchenna Nwosu’s $20m cap-hit, the chances are the Seahawks will address this position, or EDGE, in some form this off-season.
In Schneider’s history with the Seahawks, they’ve often looked for great athletes.
Malik McDowell was 6-6 and 295lbs with outstanding length (35-inch arms), agility (4.53 short shuttle) and great speed for his size (4.85 forty plus a 1.69 10-yard split). His explosive testing, however, was relatively poor (28.5-inch vertical).
Rasheem Green was 6-4 and 275lbs. He also had good length (34-inch arms), great agility (4.39 short shuttle) and a strong performance in the sprints (4.73 forty, 1.65 10-yard split). Before drafting McDowell or Green, they selected Quinton Jefferson in 2016. At 291lbs he ran a 4.37 short shuttle plus a 4.95 forty with a 1.69 10-yard split.
Dre’Mont Jones, a big free agent signing, had a profile that included great length (34 inch arms), agility (4.53 short shuttle) and explosive traits (31.5 inch vertical, 9-2 broad).
The one time they didn’t take a top athlete early it backfired. LJ Collier ran a mediocre 4.91 forty and a 4.78 short shuttle. He was relatively explosive but a 30 inch vertical and 9-10 broad jump is not eye-catching. They’re unlikely to repeat that error.
Key tests
Short Shuttle, Forty, 10-yard split
Ideal size
DL — +6-2, 275-295lbs, +33 inch arms, 4.35-4.50 ss
Positional assessment
It’s thin, albeit with some big names. Auburn’s Keldric Faulk has outstanding tools and is seen as a culture-setter — yet his production was so poor in college. If he tests well, he could be a top-15 pick based on upside. Miami duo Rueben Bain Jr and Akheem Mesidor will be two players to watch — if they compete. I suspect, and it’s just a hunch, they’ll wait until pro-day. Missouri’s Zion Young is a fireball of passion for the game but there are concerns about his speed. He also had a recent DWI arrest that’ll need checking out. It’ll be interesting to see how Penn State’s Dani Dennis-Sutton tests.
Interesting note
The Seahawks have selected a defensive lineman with one of their first two picks in eight of the last eleven drafts (Byron Murphy, Boye Mafe, Darrell Taylor, L.J. Collier, Rasheem Green, Malik McDowell, Jarran Reed, Frank Clark). In 2023 they also took edge rusher Derick Hall with their third pick. So there’s a reasonable chance they will take a defensive lineman before the end of day two.
Best drills to watch
As with the defensive tackles, I’ll be watching the figure of eight closely — where a player has to run around two hoops, pick an object up within the first hoop and place it down in the second. I’ll also study the ‘pass rush’ drill because it’s the absolute best for checking on bend, quickness and who just looks naturally athletic.
Five names to watch
Keldric Faulk, Rueben Bain Jr, Akheem Mesidor, Zion Young, Dani Dennis-Sutton
Potential standout
Keldric Faulk was listed at #9 on Bruce Feldman’s freaks list for 2025, noting he can squat 700lbs and bench 415lbs. Explosive testing results will be good for him — but can he show off some quickness too?
Importance to the Seahawks?
They have to start planning for life after DeMarcus Lawrence, even if he continues to play in 2026. It’s a thin group to try and add youth for this position in the draft, though. Will they need to look at the veteran market? If Lawrence doesn’t retire, it’d be a big boost.
Edge rushers
Twitch and length was the name of the game under Carroll and Schneider. They drafted five edge rushers in the first two rounds. Darrell Taylor couldn’t test due to injury but we can well imagine he would be in a similar range to the other players listed below for the forty yard dash, 10-split and short shuttle times:
Bruce Irvin — 4.50 (40), 1.55 (10), 4.03 (ss)
Frank Clark — 4.68 (40), 1.58 (10), 4.05 (ss)
Boye Mafe — 4.53 (40), 1.56 (10), DNP (ss)
Derick Hall — 4.55 (40), 1.59 (10), 4.20 (ss)
Free agent signing Uchenna Nwosu ran a slightly slower 4.65 forty and a 1.63 10-yard split. He also ran a 4.27 shuttle. All of the players here had +33 inch arms aside from Boye Mafe who was a shade below.
Macdonald’s use of Kyle Van Noy in Baltimore (31.5 inch arms) suggests length might be less of a deal-breaker.
They didn’t draft an edge rusher in 2024 or 2025 to give us a feel for what Macdonald might look for at this position in the draft. It’s interesting that he had success in Baltimore with Van Noy and Jadeveon Clowney, then had further success in Seattle with DeMarcus Lawrence. Perhaps he values experience here?
Typical preferences for NFL pass-rushers include 10-yard splits in the 1.5’s, shuttles in the 4.0-4.2 range and explosive testing in the vertical/broad jumps.
A 10-yard split in the 1.5’s is considered elite. Cliff Avril famously ran a 1.50. If you’re running a short shuttle in the 4.00’s with the size of an EDGE or defensive end, that is remarkable. Anything in the 4.2’s or 4.3’s is really good too.
Even Seattle’s former later round picks all performed relatively well in the shuttle. Cassius Marsh (4.25), Obum Gwacham (4.28) and Alton Robinson (4.32) all excelled.
Key tests
Vertical, Broad, Short Shuttle, Forty, 10-yard split
Ideal size
6-4, 250lbs, +33 inch arms, 1.50-1.59 10-yard split, +35-inch vertical, 4.0-4.3 shuttle
Positional assessment
It’s certainly one of the deeper positions. I currently have 15 EDGE rushers with draftable grades. If you want to combine the bigger ‘DE’ types it’s 23 overall. I just think it’s a group overall that has a lot of question marks. Non-ideal arm length, size, twitch, ability to bend, a lack of speed-to-power. You can pretty much run through every player and find a fatal flaw or two. Or, you can point to their body type and simply say, ‘how many top players look like this guy?’ Even so, these players will come off the board early and often. I’m interested to see how Michigan’s Jaishawn Barham gets on. He plays with such a physical violence versus the run and has some skill as an OLB/EDGE. UCF’s Malachi Lawrence has arguably the most aesthetically pleasing bend and straighten of the group. Tennessee’s Joshua Josephs does have some of the physical traits and motor the Seahawks like. Oklahoma’s R Mason Thomas plays like a hurricane but he’s just undersized. Illinois’ Gabe Jacas’ speed testing at the Senior Bowl was a surprise but it has ended up making me see him in a different light. If he can show quickness and twitch at the combine — to go with the clear power he shows on tape — he could be an option for the Seahawks.
Interesting note
We haven’t seen many elite 1.5 10-yard splits recently. Last year, two players ran a 1.5 (James Pearce Jr and Shemar Stewart). Only two players managed it in 2024 — Chop Robinson and Mo Kamara. In 2023, five players got into range (including Derick Hall). Three pass-rushers, including Boye Mafe, ran in the 1.5’s in 2022.
Best drill to watch
For the reason noted above, it’s probably the forty for the 10-yard splits. Seeing how the players change direction and whether they play with aggression and heavy hands in the bag-drills will also be key.
Five names to watch
Gabe Jacas, Jaishawn Barham, Joshua Josephs, Malachi Lawrence, R Mason Thomas
Potential standout
Bruce Feldman reported David Bailey is capable of running at 22.2mph. If that’s accurate, let’s see it with a fantastic 10-yard split. Keep an eye on Gabe Jacas. He was sneakily the second fastest defensive lineman at the Senior Bowl, running a top speed of 18.29mph. Only he and Quintayvious Hutchins (who weighs about 225lbs) topped 18mph.
Importance to the Seahawks?
Important enough that if they make contact with the Raiders about Maxx Crosby again, it won’t be a surprise. At the very least it seems likely they’re going to have to replace Mafe. The depth is there so even if they don’t use their top pick on a pass rusher, they could make a move on day two.
Linebackers
The Carroll-era Seahawks tended to look for two types of player at linebacker — freakish athletes and players with great short-area quickness and agility. The Mike Macdonald Seahawks might be more led by playing style.
Nothing about Tyrice Knight’s testing stood out. He wasn’t bad in any area, he was just fairly average in terms of size (6-0, 233lbs) speed (4.63 forty), explosive testing (34.5 inch vertical) and agility (4.40 short shuttle). His playing style was distinct though — very active and aggressive, sometimes to his detriment in college.
Ernest Jones only ran a 4.71 forty at 230lbs at his pro-day. He was explosive (38.5 inch vertical) but his short shuttle was not spectacular for his size (4.38). What he showed on tape, however, was an aggressive and physical playing style.
Drake Thomas was only 5-11 and 223lbs at his combine. He ran a 4.70, jumped a 36-inch vertical and ran a 4.31 short shuttle. He’s shown in the NFL that he has a very aggressive playing style too.
Therefore, it might not be the most useful thing to focus on how linebackers run. Are they explosive and do they play the game with a high level of physical toughness? This might be a position where tape is far more useful than testing as a clue for possible targets.
On the theory that explosive testing is important at this position — I will be tallying weighted TEF scores for each linebacker this year. Weighted TEF calculates a score using vertical and broad jumps, the bench press and a players weight.
Key tests
Forty yard dash, short shuttle, vertical
Ideal size
+6-0, 230-240lbs, 4.4-4.5 forty, 6.70 three-cone, +10’ broad, 4.00-4.20 short shuttle
Positional assessment
Again, there is depth. It’s just how highly you want to rate the overall talent pool. For me it’s a very solid group — with players who you can add in rounds 2-4 that can become reasonable starters. Ohio State’s Arvell Reese might be the best player in the draft but he could shift to the EDGE. His team-mate Sonny Styles will be one of the top testers in Indianapolis. There’ll be plenty of intrigue around Georgia’s CJ Allen, Pittsburgh’s Kyle Louis, Texas Tech’s Jacob Rodriguez, Missouri’s Josiah Trotter, Cincinnati’s Jake Golday and Texas’ Anthony Hill. I’ll also be keeping an eye out for Oklahoma’s Kendal Daniels, Michigan’s Jimmy Rolder and Oregon’s Bryce Boettcher.
Interesting note
For a long time the Seahawks have not had much depth at the linebacker position. Eight years ago they talked about needing to lighten the load on Bobby Wagner and KJ Wright, who were basically playing 100% of the snaps. They spent a high pick on Jordyn Brooks but then insisted on playing three linebackers in base early in his career. Thus, they’ve never achieved the depth they said they wanted. Considering how important this position seems to be for Macdonald’s defense, it felt like that would change in 2025 but they pretty much went through the year banking on Jones and Thomas, supported by Knight and Patrick O’Connell. Will they add to their depth this year? Do they need to?
Best drill to watch
Due to the importance of the short shuttle — look how the players work in space, backpedal and read/react. Quickness and change of direction is vital at linebacker.
Five names to watch
Sonny Styles, Kyle Louis, Jacob Rodriguez, Jake Golday, Jimmy Rolder
Potential standout
I think everyone expects Sonny Styles to be the big winner here. A converted safety, Bruce Feldman ranked him 10th on his freaks list. Apparently he can jump an 11-0 broad and a 40-inch vertical. His top speed is said to be 22.8mph.
Importance to the Seahawks?
They’ve been pretty relaxed about their depth here so I’m hesitant to say it’s anything like an off-season priority. Drake Thomas is a restricted free agent but you’d imagine they’ll bring him back. It might come down to their board. If a player is too good to pass-up on day two, they might pick a linebacker.
Defensive backs & tight ends
Arrival: Monday 23rd February
Team interviews: Tuesday 24th February
General medical exam: Wednesday 25th February
Media & NFLPA meeting: Thursday 26th February
Measurements, on-field drills: Friday 27th February
Bench press: Saturday 28th February
Cornerbacks
For years, everyone knew what the Seahawks liked in a corner. You had to have 32 inch arms. You had to be long and lean. In 2021 things changed. They drafted Tre Brown in round four. He was small (5-10, 186lbs) and had 30 3/8 inch arms. Carroll and Schneider talked about shifting their approach, after experiencing the success of D.J. Reed before he joined the New York Jets in free agency. They also took Coby Bryant with 30 5⁄8-inch arms in the fourth round, before he moved to safety, then spent a top-five pick on Devon Witherspoon with his 5-11, 181lbs frame and 31 1/4 inch arms.
They went on to select Nehemiah Pritchett (31.5 inch arms) and DJ James (31 inch arms) in 2024.
Macdonald in Baltimore did a tremendous job fitting players in at corner. While he had Marlon Humphrey for all of 2022 and 10 games in 2023, he had to make-do otherwise and was able to convert safeties into cornerbacks, developing no-name players and having a lot of success. He has continued this work with Josh Jobe in Seattle. However, James was cut as a rookie and Pritchett has not been convincing when given an opportunity. It’ll be interesting to see if Macdonald can continue to find solutions at this position or whether the Seahawks want to make more of a splash with a high pick or free agent signing. They might need to with Jobe and Woolen reaching free agency.
Key tests
Forty, Vertical, short shuttle
Ideal size
+5-10, 195lbs, +32-inch arms, 4.30-40 forty, +35-inch vertical
Positional assessment
I think you have a group of four at the top (Avieon Terrell, Jermod McCoy, Colton Hood and Mansoor Delane) and then a decent list of players slated for day two. It’s a real mix. You have highly athletic players in need of technical development, like Brandon Cisse (likely top-50) and Daylen Everette and Davison Igbinosun (will be available later). Malik Muhammad and Chris Johnson were expected to take the Senior Bowl by storm but failed to do so. D’Angelo Ponds is extremely competitive but so small, you have to ask that question again on how many cornerbacks look like him and succeed in the NFL? Keionte Scott is one of the most aggressive, tone-setting defensive backs you’ll ever see attacking the LOS but his coverage ability and age create issues.
Interesting note
The Seahawks only drafted one cornerback between 2018 and 2021. They’ve since selected five in the last four drafts, although they didn’t select one a year ago. There are certain positions where you need quality depth and cornerback is definitely one of them. They look light at the position currently and that will need to be addressed one way or another.
Best drill to watch
The backpedal drill. Watch to see how the cornerbacks transition and whether it looks effortless. Do they have loose hips and do they explode out of their breaks? Is the footwork smooth or clunky? Are they laboured in any way or do they look natural?
Five names to watch
Avieon Terrell, Colton Hood, Brandon Cisse, Daylen Everette, Davison Igbinosun
Potential standout
None of the key names feature on Bruce Feldman’s freaks list for 2025. Players might actually standout for what they aren’t able to achieve. For example, how fast is Mansoor Delane? There have been some concerns in the past about his long speed. Will he run a forty? What about Colton Hood? He was only the 11th fastest defensive back at the Senior Bowl.
Importance to the Seahawks?
Along with the EDGE position, it feels like the most important given what is expected to happen in free agency and who they might lose. Marlon Humphrey’s cap-hit in Baltimore could make his departure inevitable — and bizarrely he attended the Seahawks’ Super Bowl parade. He could come in and provide, if nothing else, a very useful hedge or fill-in for a year or two. Maybe he could be the 2026 answer to D-Law? Even then, it feels distinctly possible that the Seahawks will use draft stock on a cornerback — possibly at #32.
Safeties
After hitting on Earl Thomas and Kam Chancellor in 2010, Seattle didn’t have much success at the safety position under Carroll. Ryan Murphy, Winston Guy, Mark LeGree, Tedric Thompson, Delano Hill and Marquise Blair came and went. Jamal Adams was an unmitigated disaster. Quandre Diggs was an inspired trade initially but his play fell off and he became extremely expensive towards the end (prior to returning recently).
Then came the highly successful conversion of Coby Bryant, the free agent signing of Julian Love, the inspired trade-up to select Nick Emmanwori and the development of Ty Okada. All is well once again in the world of the Seahawks and the safety position.
If Bryant departs in free agency, fans should have faith in Macdonald and his staff to find the right solutions. They would need to add depth though, you’d imagine.
Key drills
Forty yard dash, short shuttle, vertical
Ideal size
+6-0, 200-220lbs, 4.4 forty, +39-inch vertical, +10-5 broad jump
Positional assessment
Ohio States’ Caleb Downs might be the best player in the draft. People seem to have forgotten that as they bend over backwards to diminish the importance of his position, 12 months after the Seahawks selected a safety who was able to elevate their entire defense with his presence. Oregon’s Dillon Thieneman is an outstanding talent who can do a bit of everything, including play single high. I’m not as high on Emmanuel McNeil-Warren and I’m interested to see if he runs after reported speed concerns allegedly led to his no-show at the Senior Bowl. Arizona’s Genesis Smith is a talent and TCU’s Bud Clark has some Seahawk to him (not to mention massive production). Overall it is not a deep group of safeties.
Interesting note
Two years ago I spoke about being underwhelmed by Kam Kinchens’ tape, while acknowledging his 11 interceptions in two seasons was impressive. I felt the same way about Notre Dame’s Xavier Watts. His 13 picks in two years stood out but it was difficult to get a gauge on his upside. Both players have played reasonably well but here’s the thing — their production has translated. Kinchens has six interceptions in two seasons for the Rams, while Watts had five picks as a rookie. There’s a lesson for me there — and it perhaps lends weight to Bud Clark’s 15 interceptions in four years for TCU.
Best drill to watch
Any of the drills requiring the safeties to close in space and show off their open-field quickness and range. I also like the ‘W’ drill for this position.
Five names to watch
Caleb Downs, Dillon Thieneman, Genesis Smith, Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, Bud Clark
Potential standout
Again, none of the players feature on Bruce Feldman’s freaks list. There’s been talk that Dillon Thieneman is a really top tester and I would expect he will have a great showing. I’m also going to repeat what I said for the cornerbacks. The headlines might be based around who doesn’t perform that well. If Emmanuel McNeil-Warren runs and times poorly, don’t be surprised based on the reporting from Mobile. It’s also worth noting that Josh Downs, brother of Caleb Downs, only ran a 4.48 at 171lbs. Caleb is listed at 205lbs. If this is any indicator, he might not run a fast time (or run a forty at all). Keep an eye on Davison Igbinosun who was the fastest runner at the Senior Bowl at any position (21.12mph).
Importance to the Seahawks?
I think it comes down to opportunity. If you love Dillon Thieneman and he’s there for you, there’s no reason to not do it. Likewise if you’re really sold on Genesis Smith, for example, on day two, fair enough. Yet Ty Okada played well enough to cover for Coby Bryant and there’s at least a chance Bryant returns, making this a moot point.
Tight ends
The Seahawks have drafted seven tight ends under John Schneider, while also trading for Jimmy Graham in 2015 and signing Zach Miller to a big contract in 2011. In the last five years they also signed Greg Olsen, Gerald Everett and Pharaoh Brown to one-year deals and brought in Noah Fant as part of the Russell Wilson trade.
One thing links 12 of the 13 players — agility testing.
Here’s the short shuttle and three cone times for each:
Luke Willson — 4.29 (ss), 7.08 (3c)
Will Dissly — 4.40 (ss), 7.07 (3c)
Nick Vannett — 4.20 (ss), 7.05 (3c)
Anthony McCoy — 4.57 (ss), 6.99 (3c)
Zach Miller — 4.42 (ss), 7.01 (3c)
Jimmy Graham — 4.45 (ss), 6.90 (3c)
Greg Olsen — 4.48 (ss), 7.04 (3c)
Colby Parkinson — 4.46 (ss), 7.15 (3c)
Gerald Everett — 4.33 (ss), 6.99 (3c)
Noah Fant — 4.22 (ss), 6.81 (3c)
Pharaoh Brown — 4.46 (ss), 7.24 (3c)
AJ Barner — 4.41 (ss), 7.02 (3c)
The one player not mentioned here is Elijah Arroyo, who didn’t do any pre-draft testing due to injury. I think it’s quite easy to assume, based on his tape, that he moves well.
Short-area quickness and agility appear to be important for any prospective Seahawks tight end so it’s always worth paying close attention to the short shuttle and the three-cone times.
This is an understandable approach to the position when you consider the best tight ends in the league all excel here. They generally all have the same thing in common — strong agility testing and a good 10-yard split.
Rob Gronkowski — 1.58 (10), 4.47 (ss)
Travis Kelce — 1.61 (10), 4.42 (ss)
George Kittle — 1.59 (10), 4.55 (ss)
Mark Andrews — 1.54 (10), 4.38 (ss)
T.J. Hockenson — 1.63 (10), 4.18 (ss)
Sam LaPorta — 1.59 (10), 4.25 (ss)
David Njoku — 1.61 (10), 4.34 (ss)
In case you were wondering, Brock Bowers also did no pre-draft testing due to injury.
Key tests
Short shuttle, three cone, 10-yard split
Ideal size
6-5, 250-265lbs, +33-inch arms, +10-inch hands
Positional assessment
There are a bunch of names but I’ve clumped them all together in day three. I think they are players who you take in rounds four or five and the chances are one or two work out. It’s not beyond the realms of possibility to imagine Max Klare, Will Kacmarek, Marlin Klein, Josh Cuevas, Oscar Delp or Jack Endries forging a career in the NFL. None, I would expect, are going to be star tight ends. Kenyon Sadiq will be the first taken but I have a lot of reservations about his route running, inconsistent performance and tweener size. Vanderbilt’s Eli Stowers will be a big-slot type of receiver.
Interesting note
In 2017 the Seahawks needed a tight end and were presented with a strong looking class. Unexpectedly, they passed on the position. They drafted seven players before George Kittle was selected in round five by the 49ers — despite his good combine and dynamism as a blocker. Seattle used five picks in rounds 3-4 without taking Kittle, who felt like a great fit for them. It was a huge error, on a par with selecting Rashaad Penny instead of Nick Chubb. In the past I used to point these two mistakes out because both Kittle and Chubb were big blog favourites. I used to say it was a key reason the Seahawks had gone a decade without appearing in a NFC Championship. This will be my final year of mentioning it because I’m led to believe the Seahawks are once again Super Bowl Champions.
Best drill to watch
Catching technique is always important so look for how a player uses his hands. Is he cupping them to the ball? I always like to see TE’s who can move naturally on seam routes and change direction during drills. Who’s running their routes at full speed then tracking the deeper pass over the shoulder? Too many TE’s jog their on-field deep routes to make sure they catch the pass.
Five names to watch
Kenyon Sadiq, Eli Stowers, Josh Cuevas, Will Kacmarek, Jack Endries
Potential standout
It’s Oregon’s Sadiq. For a long time people have been tipping him to have a legendary combine performance. He’s said to be able to jump a 41.5-inch vertical and his speed is meant to be off the charts. Let’s see if he can deliver. He needs it after a hit-and-miss final year for the Ducks.
Importance to the Seahawks?
Zero importance. AJ Barner has emerged as a quality starter, while Arroyo will be looking to take a step forwards in year two. Eric Saubert has already agreed a new contract and Nick Kallerup was protected all year. They have their guys.
QB, WR, RB
Arrival: Tuesday 24th February
Team interviews: Wednesday 25th February
General medical exam: Thursday 26th February
Media & NFLPA meeting: Friday 27th February
Measurements, on-field drills: Saturday 28th February
Bench press: Sunday 1st March
Quarterbacks
I would highly recommend reading Curtis Allen’s recent article on John Schneider’s approach to quarterbacks.
I’ll add this. Twelve months ago the Seahawks still had Geno Smith. Various sections of the media were rallying behind the idea of Smith getting a new contract and that he was a top-10 quarterback in the league.
Imagine going back in a time machine and telling someone about the set of events that were about to unfold. Smith being traded to the Raiders to reunite with Pete Carroll, as they lead Las Vegas to the worst record in the NFL and the #1 overall pick. The Seahawks pivoting to Sam Darnold before going on to win the Super Bowl. Stunning.
A lot of fans wanted the Seahawks to start taking shots at quarterbacks and they did that in round three last year, selecting Jalen Milroe. With Darnold, Drew Lock and Milroe, the Seahawks appear set — for the short-term at least — with their quarterback room. They can afford to wait for players to come to them. You better believe though that if Schneider sees a quarterback he likes in any upcoming draft, he won’t be shy in selecting them.
Key tests
Deep throws, Forty
Ideal size
+6-2, 220lbs, +9.5 inch hands
Positional assessment
It’s another mediocre year at the position. Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza will go first overall and it could work out given he’ll be operating in an offense that has enabled a variety of players to succeed (Matt Ryan, Jimmy Garoppolo, Brocky Purdy and Sam Darnold have all gone to Super Bowls in the Shanahan system). However, there is no quarterback in this draft I would bang the table for. Expect many teams to kick the can down the road and see what 2027 has to offer. There is plenty of noise that Alabama’s Ty Simpson will go in the first round (Tom Pelissero and Todd McShay have both talked about this). I think Arkansas’ Taylen Green has tools worth taking a flier on later on and there’s a player in Garrett Nussmeier (albeit his frame and small hands are a concern). Truth be told, this might be a class that produces more future offensive coordinators than starting NFL quarterbacks. Mendoza has announced he will not throw at the combine.
Interesting note
When you study college quarterbacks it’s amazing how few of them ever take a snap under center. People don’t realise how these players basically have to learn this from scratch when they declare — and it’s not easy.
Five names to watch
Ty Simpson, Taylen Green, Garrett Nussmeier, Miller Moss, Carson Beck
Potential standout
Based on his enormous size, gazelle-like running ability and big arm — it has to be Arkansas’ Green. As an athlete there’s some Colin Kaepernick to him. But there’s a lot of ugly turnovers and mistakes on tape.
Importance to the Seahawks
Again, zero. The Seahawks just won the Super Bowl with Darnold under center and he is under contract. They’ve taken a developmental flier on Milroe. There’s no pressure to add to this position in 2026.
Wide receivers
Speed has always, seemingly, been important to the Seahawks here. Not necessarily with every player (I’m not sure anyone mistook Cooper Kupp for Tyreek Hill in 2025) but for draft prospects, it has been key.
Schneider has drafted these players:
Paul Richardson — 4.40
Golden Tate — 4.42
Tyler Lockett — 4.40
Kris Durham — 4.46
Kevin Norwood — 4.48
Amara Darboh — 4.45
David Moore — 4.42
D.K. Metcalf — 4.33
Freddie Swain — 4.46
Dee Eskridge — 4.38
Bo Melton — 4.34
Dareke Young — 4.44
Tory Horton — 4.41
They also took Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who didn’t run at his combine but reportedly ran anywhere between a 4.49 and a 4.52 at his pro-day. He also ran a 3.93 short shuttle and a blistering 6.57 three-cone, which also needs to be noted.
Basically it would be a departure for the Seahawks to go out and draft a player running firmly in the 4.5’s or slower.
Positional assessment
As with most years, there’s plenty of receiver depth coming out of college. I currently have 25 players with draftable grades and I’m nowhere near close to grading every prospect. USC’s Makai Lemon, Arizona State’s Jordyn Tyson and Ohio State’s Carnell Tate are in a tier of their own. I think we could see Texas A&M’s KC Concepcion, Tennessee’s Chris Brazell II and Washington’s Denzel Boston go in the top-40. Then, I fully expect we’ll see a significant list of players drafted in rounds 2-4. Many, many receivers will be drafted early and often. For all the talk of the deep EDGE class, this might be the strongest position in terms of talent.
Interesting note
The Seahawks under Schneider have been prepared to draft receivers at any point in the draft. Smith-Njigba was their first pick in round one (if you don’t include the Percy Harvin trade). They’ve drafted four players in round two (Tate, Richardson, Metcalf, Eskridge), two in round three (Darboh, Lockett), three in round four (Norwood, Harper, Durham), one in round five (Horton), one in round six (Swain) and five in round seven (Moore, Lawler, Ursua, Melton, Young). They’ve always taken this position seriously.
Key tests
Forty, vertical, catching drills (proper technique)
Ideal size
Just run a 4.4 forty or faster
The best drill to watch
Any drill that clearly shows catching technique. It’s extremely important. You want to see a receiver cupping his hands while presenting to the ball. No alligator arms, no fighting the ball or snatching at it. Watch the downfield throws and see who is good at high pointing the football, showing body control and tracking over the shoulder. Who is a natural hands catcher?
Five names to watch
Denzel Boston, Harrison Wallace, De’Zhaun Stribling, Omar Cooper Jr, Kaden Wetjen
Potential standout
I think he’s being a bit overrated in draft media as we approach the combine but Mississippi State’s Brenen Thompson has reportedly been timed at 23.7mph. He’s expected to run a great forty.
Importance to the Seahawks
I feel like this is important to keep mentioning here — the Seahawks just won a Super Bowl with Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Cooper Kupp and Rashid Shaheed as their main receiver targets, with Tory Horton chipping in before going on injured reserve. They don’t need to go and make some big splashy addition where they put pressure on themselves to get that player targets. Provided they retain Shaheed, I don’t think it’s very likely this is a top priority unless their grading shifts them in that direction. You’ve started to build a monster led by the way you win in the trenches. Don’t go back to finesse unless you’re staring at an incredible can’t-miss opportunity.
Running backs
The Seahawks had a type at running back in the Carroll/Schneider era. Their runners were about 210-220lbs and they produced explosive testing results (good vertical & broad jump). Since 2016 we were able to pretty much figure out who they might like. Here are the players we identified between 2016-23 after each combine as a possible target. Players in bold became Seahawks:
2016:
C.J. Prosise — 6-0, 220lbs, 35.5 inch vert, 10-1 broad
Kenneth Dixon — 5-10, 215lbs, 37.5 inch vert, 10-8 broad
2017:
Chris Carson — 6-0, 218lbs, 37 inch vert, 10-10 broad
Brian Hill — 6-0, 219lbs, 34 inch vert, 10-5 broad
Alvin Kamara — 5-10, 214lbs, 39.5 inch vert, 10-11 broad
Joe Williams — 5-11, 210lbs, 35 inch vert, 10-5 broad
2018:
Saquon Barkley — 6-0, 233lbs, 41 inch vert DNP broad
Kerryon Johnson — 511, 213lbs 40 inch vert, 10-6 broad
Bo Scarborough — 6-0, 228lbs, 40 inch vert, 10-9 broad
Nick Chubb — 5-11, 227lbs, 38.5 inch vert, 10-8 broad
John Kelly — 5-10, 216lbs, 35 inch vert, 10-0 broad
Lavon Coleman — 5-10, 223lbs, 33 inch vert, 10-0 broad
Rashaad Penny — 5-11, 220lbs, 32.5 inch vert, 10-0 broad
Royce Freeman — 5-11, 229lbs, 34 inch vert, 9-10 broad
2020:
Jonathan Taylor — 5-10, 226lbs, 36 inch vert, 10-3 broad
Cam Akers — 5-10, 217lbs, 35.5 inch vert, 10-2 broad
Deejay Dallas — 5-10, 217lbs, 33.5 inch vert, 9-11 broad
AJ Dillon — 6-0, 247lbs, 41 inch vert, 10-11 broad
Zack Moss — 5-9, 223lbs, 33 inch vert, DNP broad
James Robinson — 5-9, 219lbs, 40 inch vert, 10-5 broad
Patrick Taylor — 6-0, 217lbs, 34 inch vert, 10-3 broad
2022:
Breece Hall — 5-11, 217lbs, 40 inch vert, 10-6 broad
Brian Robinson — 6-2, 225lbs, 30 inch vert, 9-11 broad
Dameon Pierce — 5-10, 218lbs, 34.5 inch vert, 9-11 broad
D’Vonte Price — 6-1, 210lbs, 34 inch vert, 9-11 broad
Isaiah Pacheco — 5-10, 216lbs, 33 inch vert, 9-10 broad
Jerome Ford — 5-10, 210lbs, 31 inch vert, 9-10 broad
Ken Walker — 5-9, 211lbs, 34 inch vert, 10-2 broad
Kevin Harris — 5-10, 221lbs, 38.5 inch vert, 10-6 broad
Snoop Conner — 5-10, 222lbs, 29.5 inch vert, 9-10 broad
Rachaad White — 6-0, 214lbs, 38 inch vert, 10-5 broad
Tyler Allgeier — 5-11, 224lbs, 33 inch vert, 10-0 broad
Tyrion Davis-Price — 6-0, 211lbs, 30 inch vert, 9-9 broad
Zamir White — 6-0, 214lbs, 33.5 inch vert, 10-8 broad
2023:
Tank Bigsby — 5-11, 210lbs, 32.5v, 9-11b, 4.56 forty
Chase Brown — 5-9, 209lbs, 40v, 10-7b, 4.43 forty
Zach Charbonnet — 6-0, 214lbs, 37v, 10-2b, 4.53 forty
Tiyon Evans — 5-9, 225lbs, 30.5 v, DNPb, 4.52 forty
Evan Hull — 5-10, 209lbs, 37v, 10-3b, 4.47 forty
Bijan Robinson — 5-10, 215lbs, 37v, 10-4b, 4.46 forty
In 2021 the combine was cancelled and in 2019 we identified Alex Barnes, Damien Harris, Alexander Mattison, LJ Scott, Miles Sanders, Dexter Williams and Tony Pollard as possible options. Running back was an unlikely target that year with the depth they had at the position.
The two players they selected outside of the size ideal were Travis Homer — a sixth round pick with special teams value — and Kenny McIntosh — a talented but undersized player selected in the seventh round. We did name McIntosh as ‘one to watch’ in our 2023 combine preview due to his running style.
The Seahawks had no need to add a running back in 2024. Last year there were an incredible 17 players who fit the size/testing parameters — highlighting the depth of the class. They selected Damien Martinez from the list below in round seven:
Quinshon Judkins — 5-11, 221, 38.5, 11-0
Omarion Hampton — 5-11, 221, 38, 10-10
DJ Giddens — 6-0, 212, 39.5, 10-10
Bhayshul Tuten — 5-9, 206, 40.5, 10-10
TreVeyon Henderson — 5-10, 202, 38.5, 10-8
RJ Harvey — 5-8, 205, 38, 10-7
Damien Martinez — 5-11, 217, 35, 10-4
Dylan Sampson — 5-8, 200, 35, 10-4
Montrell Johnson — 5-11, 212, 35.5, 10-3
Ollie Gordon II — 6-1, 226, 34.5, 10-0
Jarquez Hunter — 5-9, 204, 33.5, 10-0
LeQuint Allen — 6-0, 204, 35, 10-0
Tahj Brooks — 5-9, 214, 35, 10-0
Woody Marks — 5-10, 206, 35, 9-11
Ja’Quinden Jackson — 6-1, 229, 32, 9-11
Kyle Monangai — 5-8, 211, 34.5, 9-9
Raheim Sanders — 6-0, 217, 36.5, DNJ
I think it’s pretty likely that if the Seahawks need to replace Ken Walker this off-season, it could be someone who fits the profile they’ve tended to go after. Yet the NFL has shifted recently and we’re seeing the likes of De’Von Achane, James Cook and Jahmyr Gibbs all succeeding at a high level. We’ll see if that perhaps influences the Seahawks in any way.
Key tests
Vertical, Broad, size
Ideal size
5-10, 220lbs, +35 inch vertical, +10 broad
Positional assessment
There’s nowhere near as much depth as a year ago. Notre Dame due Jeremiyah Love and Jadarian Price are RB1 and RB2 and for me, both are among the top-20 talents in this draft. Mike Washington Jr from Arkansas has a great combination of size and speed and reminds me of another Razorback, Knile Davis. I’m a big fan and think he can be effective in outsize zone and as a tackle-breaking interior enforcer. Nebraska’s Emmett Johnson is smaller but had major production and looked interesting in 2025. Penn State’s Nicholas Singleton had an awful 2025 season but his testing profile should make him interesting as a project.
Interesting note
The Seahawks preferred explosive traits over straight line speed for some time. Christine Michael (4.54), C.J. Prosise (4.48), Robert Turbin (4.50) and Chris Carson (4.58) were better explosive testers than runners. Things then shifted a little. Rashaad Penny wasn’t quite as explosive but ran a 4.46. They admitted after the 2022 draft that they thought there were two top-level running backs — Ken Walker (who they drafted) and Breece Hall. Walker ran a 4.38 and Hall a 4.39. The pick of Charbonnet was a return to the past. He ran a 4.53 but was highly explosive (37-inch vertical) with ideal size and a tough running style. He screamed ‘Seahawks’ for two years at UCLA and it wasn’t a surprise they took him. We’ll see if speed matters more for the outside zone going forward.
The best drill to watch
It’s nice to see the running backs cutting against pads while showing body control and quickness in the open field. You can tell who has it and who doesn’t in these drills and it’s where Walker really excelled four years ago — changing direction despite having a very muscular, thick frame.
Five names to watch
Jeremiyah Love, Jadarian Price, Mike Washington Jr, Emmett Johnson, Nicholas Singleton
Potential standout
Per Bruce Feldman’s freaks list, Nicholas Singleton can run in the 4.3’s. His shuttle time has been tested at a 4.18 and his max velocity is 23.5mph. He broke Saquon Barkley’s Penn State record in the squat in 2024 at 665lbs. His broad jump is said to be in the 10-5 range and he can bench 435lbs. He’s a special athlete and can recover his stock in Indianapolis, if he tests. He picked up an injury at the Senior Bowl so we’ll see. I’m fascinated to see what Jadarian Price runs because his acceleration on tape is incredible. Plus, Mike Washington Jr was the second fastest player at the Senior Bowl (21.02mph) behind Davison Igbinosun, who is 28lbs lighter than he is.
Importance to the Seahawks
Suddenly, quite high. Ken Walker is a free agent and Zach Charbonnet is recovering from a serious knee injury. Walker returning would take the pressure off but if he moves on, this becomes a high priority position for the Seahawks.
O-line
Arrival: Wednesday 25th February
Team interviews: Thursday 26th February
General medical exam: Friday 27th February
Media & NFLPA meeting: Saturday 28th February
Measurements, on-field drills: Sunday 1st March
Bench press: Monday 1st March
Offensive linemen
Every year I re-introduce ‘TEF’ — the formula we created to calculate explosive testing. In the past it helped us identify potential O-line targets for the Seahawks successfully, using data points recommended by Tom Cable during his time coaching in Seattle.
I’ll still do a full TEF breakdown for the 2026 class because explosive testing is important. For example, here are the top-10 explosive testers from the 2025 draft:
Armand Membou — 3.45
Luke Kandra — 3.42
Luke Newman — 3.26
Bryce Cabeldue — 3.25
Grey Zabel — 3.23
Nash Jones — 3.22
Jalen Travis — 3.21
Garrett Dellinger — 3.20
Donovan Jackson — 3.19
Tate Ratledge — 3.10
As you can see, the Seahawks selected the fourth and fifth most explosive testers.
Generally there is value in explosive testing. Most of the top linemen in the league are explosive testers, as I detailed in this article four years ago.
Combining explosive traits with the ability to function in outside zone will be a useful way to project potential targets. Zabel’s zone-blocking grade was an 84.8, with Cabeldue at 81.0. They both performed well.
If you want to learn more about TEF, click here.
I will be looking for offensive linemen at the combine this year who perform in these ranges:
40-yard dash: 5.00-5.10
10-yard split: 1.73-1.76
Short shuttle: 4.50-4.55
Vertical jump: 30-32 inches (or above)
These are all of the offensive linemen in the 2026 draft who graded 70 or over for zone blocking:
Emmanuel Pregnon — 93.0
Keagen Trost — 91.6
Beau Stephens — 89.5
Brian Parker — 89.4
Travis Burke — 88.7
Austin Barber — 87.1
Gennings Dunker — 86.6
Evan Beerntsen — 85.3
JC Davis — 83.9
Kadyn Proctor — 83.6
Carver Willis — 81.8
Jake Slaughter — 81.7
DJ Campbell — 81.2
Sam Hecht — 79.8
Spencer Fano — 79.4
Matt Gulbin — 79.2
Keylan Rutledge — 77.4
Garrett DiGiorgio — 77.3
Fernando Carmona — 76.8
Blake Miller — 76.6
Ar’maj Reed-Adams — 75.8
Dametrious Crownover — 74.9
Francis Mauigoa — 74.3
Logan Jones — 74.0
Pat Coogan — 72.8
Billy Schrauth — 72.3
Olaivavega Ioane — 72.2
Logan Taylor — 71.3
Markel Bell — 71.3
Jude Bowry 70.6
Chris Adams — 70.6
It’s worth noting that Chase Bisontis, Parker Brailsford, Jalen Farmer, Monroe Freeling, Max Iheanachor, Caleb Lomu and Caleb Tiernan all had a zone-blocking grade below 70.0.
Key tests
Vertical, Short Shuttle, Forty, 10-yard split
Ideal size/testing
OT — +6-4, 305-320lbs, +33 inch arms, 4.90-5.00 forty, 4.40 ss
OG — 6-2/6-5, 300-320lbs, +33 inch arms, +3.00 TEF
OC — 6-0/6-2, 295lbs, 4.50 ss
Positional assessment
If you want a tone-setting lineman, Miami’s Francis Mauigoa and Utah’s Spencer Fano will provide that. How they measure will determine the likelihood of them sticking at tackle rather than moving inside to guard. I think both Caleb Lomu of Utah and Blake Miller of Clemson have a good chance of being selected in round one. At guard, Penn State’s Vega Ioane could easily go in the top-20. Alabama left tackle Kadyn Proctor will probably also kick inside and he too could be a first round pick. There’s not amazing depth at the top end but given the long list of players with good or reasonable zone-blocking grades above, the Seahawks might find a few players they’re willing to try and draft or sign and develop. I did really enjoy watching Iowa’s Gennings Dunker meanwhile centers James Brockermeyer and Sam Hecht both impressed at the Senior Bowl.
Interesting note
The average short shuttle time for the best centers in the league is a 4.56. When I interviewed Juice Scruggs three years ago he said he’d been working hard on his short shuttle times, following advice that it was viewed as an important test within league circles. It’s something to keep an eye on if you want the Seahawks to pick a center. Drew Dalman, a top-five player at the position and a free agent last year, ran a 4.51. Tyler Linderbaum, who is a big-ticket free agent this year, ran a 4.57.
The best drills to watch
The mirror drill and kick-slide. In the mirror, two linemen used to stand opposite each other, with one acting as ‘the rabbit’. He’d move around and change direction and it’s up to the participant to stick. Now they don’t use the ‘rabbit’. It’s an important test of footwork, agility, mobility, balance, control and stamina. It’s also a good gauge of pass protection skills. In the kick-slide, it speaks for itself. How well do the offensive tackles get into position, how athletic do they do it, what’s the footwork like? I also like to watch the linemen move around the field from side-to-side so we can see who are the more fluid athletes. Abe Lucas looked so smooth out there four years ago. You also want to look at how players bend — whether it’s at the waist or in the knees — and you want to see violent strikes on the pads, not high-fives. Overall though you aren’t drafting a big, gnarling offensive lineman based on what he does in shorts on the field at the combine. Tape, testing and attitude/violence is king here.
Five names to watch
Logan Jones, Brian Parker, Emmanuel Pregnon, Gennings Dunker, Keylan Rutledge
Potential standout
It’s unclear why Iowa’s Logan Jones didn’t attend the Shrine or Senior Bowl. If it’s injury related he might not test. However, Bruce Feldman ranked him seventh on his freaks list for 2025, noting he can jump a 37-inch vertical and run a 1.53 10-yard split and a 4.09 shuttle. If he gets those numbers in Indianapolis, look out. Francis Mauigoa was at #16 and can reportedly run a 1.57 10-yard split. Parker Brailsford was at #20 with a touted 33-inch vertical, a 9-5 broad and 19.5mph on the GPS.
Importance to the Seahawks
Both tackles are signed to extensions and Grey Zabel just completed his first year as a starter. There will be many fans clamouring for a right guard replacement but that doesn’t necessarily have to be another high draft pick. It could even come from within the existing roster, whether that’s Christian Haynes, Bryce Cabeldue or Mason Richman. It’s not a major priority to add another center but there are some interesting ones in this draft. I think it really comes down to how the grades match-up. Could they go O-line early? Sure, why not. But they have other things to address first. Right now this is not the same caliber of needs as EDGE, cornerback and potentially running back is.
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