— The growing buzz that Grey Zabel might not last to Seattle’s pick feels legit. So what if he doesn’t make it to #18? Perhaps they pivot to Donovan Jackson or Tyler Booker to fill the gaping void at left guard? They are plug-in-and-play types. Would they consider Josh Conerly Jr for that role? He fits the bill athletically with a strong vertical jump and a good 10-yard split. However, it’d feel a bit like they’d drafted Charles Cross again. I graded both players in round two. They both had smaller builds, they were athletic but lacked strength and power. I’m not sure I want two versions of Cross on the left side for 3rd and 1 or the red zone. Conerly for me is best served sticking at left tackle.
— At other positions, they could look at Emeka Egbuka, Matthew Golden, Donovan Ezeiruaku or Malaki Starks — three players who fit everything they look for in a player and person. There’s also Kenneth Grant, who seems to be admired by all of the ex-Michigan coaches. I’m just not sure about using the #16 and #18 picks on defensive tackles in back-to-back years, to have them rotate with Leonard Williams (who also cost a second rounder) and Jarran Reed. That’s a bit much for me, especially in a deep defensive tackle draft.
— A note on Malaki Starks, who is beloved at Georgia. When I spoke to my best source in the league and asked him to give me the names of some players he liked, the first answer was Starks. Here’s what Bob McGinn’s scouting sources said about him:
“Everybody loves him (at Georgia). They think he’s a slam dunk. Can play nickel, safety and, corner, in a pinch. Leader, instinctive, athletic. Everybody stands on the table when they talk about him. Top 20.”
“Kirby Smart loves, loves Malaki Starks. Real great reputation.”
“I still think he’s one of the most valuable defensive players in this draft because he can play safety and/or down as a sub defender. He’s still the best safety. Hell of an athlete, great kid. He’ll know everything there is to know about your defense.”
“It’s hard to find these guys. I don’t really have any negatives. He could be a little more consistent with his tackling technique from a breakdown standpoint but he didn’t miss many. It’s splitting hairs on him. Outstanding young man. Starter since Day 1. Went to (SEC) Media Day for them. A+ across the board. And someone may get crazy and decide they want to try him at corner for a little bit. He’s got the corner movement. I’d rather keep him where he is.”
— Who are some wildcard options? If they stay at #18 or move down, keep an eye on Shavon Revel Jr. He would’ve been a first round pick if it wasn’t for his knee injury. He has a terrific understanding of defensive concepts. He’s a swearer during interviews and there’s a clear fire in his belly. On tape he looks the part — physical, fast and talented. He looks like a Mike Macdonald defender. JT Tuimoloau could be a target after running a 4.37 shuttle and don’t count out the two excellent tight ends — Elijah Arroyo and Mason Taylor.
— One of the reasons I projected Mason Graham to the Jets at #7 is because of a CBS podcast appearance by Rick Spielman last year. He frequently talked about Graham potentially being the best player in the 2025 draft. Spielman now works for the Jets. He doesn’t have final say or anything but I’m guessing that opinion has been voiced and heard.
— Why might the Seahawks be a good trade target for teams like the Giants if they want to move back into round one? Teams are putting a lot of value on day two picks this year. The Falcons (five total picks) and Vikings (four total picks) might want to add to their stash. However, if teams don’t want to give away second, third and fourth round selections — there’s not much they can do. With the Seahawks already having 10 picks this year, including five in the top-100, they can afford to do a deal for 2026 stock. If their grading chart has similar players available at #18 and #40 — and they can get a 2026 second rounder in a trade — that is appealing. Sure, they might lose out on certain players by doing it. You’d still have 10 picks to address your issues. If the Giants don’t want to give up #65 this year to trade up, the Seahawks might be the ideal trade partner.
— Based on Jeremiah’s mock where the Seahawks do trade down, who would I consider taking at #34? Elijah Arroyo, Mason Taylor, Luther Burden, Tate Ratledge, Jared Wilson, Shavon Revel, Benjamin Morrison, Bradyn Swinson and if Schneider is eyeing a quarterback, that’d be an option too. I’m not a big fan of his but I know people who like Jonah Savaiinaea in the late first or early second round range. Depending on the medicals, Will Johnson is an option too.
— Character really matters to the Seahawks. Here are some players I think are unlikely to be drafted by Seattle as a consequence, based on reported concerns: James Pearce Jr, Mike Green, Walter Nolen, Nick Emmanwori, Josh Simmons, Maxwell Hairston and Shemar Stewart. Fit also matters and I don’t think Shedeur Sanders is a fit for Schneider and Macdonald.
— The following players reportedly have injury flags: Jihaad Campbell, Will Johnson and Derrick Harmon. These players are also still recovering from pre-existing injuries: Colston Loveland, Josh Simmons, Abdul Carter, Shavon Revel, Benjamin Morrison, Kevin Winston Jr.
The plan for today is an open thread throughout round one. When (if?) the Seahawks make a pick at #18 I will post an instant reaction video to my YouTube channel and post it on here too. As soon as round one finishes, I will be doing a live stream with Robbie Williams. When that concludes, I’ll be writing an article for the blog.
Here’s a reminder of my final mock draft. Shout-out to Sea Mode for the graphics:
#1 Tennessee — Cam Ward (QB, Miami)
The consensus top pick for some time but I know one talent evaluator in the league who only gave him a third round grade.
#2 Cleveland — Travis Hunter (WR/CB, Colorado)
All the talk in the last 24 hours has been about a team (maybe Dallas?) trying to trade up for a shot at Hunter. I doubt anything happens.
#3 NY Giants — Abdul Carter (EDGE, Penn State)
The Giants don’t take a quarterback here and will need a plan for their second pick to address the need.
#4 New England — Will Campbell (T, LSU)
I don’t like this pick. Campbell’s tape wasn’t very good in 2024 and he will struggle at tackle in the NFL. But this is where the buzz is.
#5 Jacksonville — Ashton Jeanty (RB, Boise State)
In my stream on Sunday I put Jeanty with the Jaguars and it has now become the betting favourite pairing. It makes sense, he’s the pound-for-pound best player in the draft.
#6 Las Vegas — Jalon Walker (LB, Georgia)
The Raiders need a culture-setter. That’s Jalon Walker. He’ll come in, contribute to the pass-rush, play linebacker and set the tone for Pete Carroll.
#7 NY Jets — Mason Graham (DT, Michigan)
There’s plenty of chatter that the Jets plan to give their defensive-minded Head Coach the opportunity to add a top defender here. Graham had dinner with the Jets, an official visit and they’ve shown a lot of interest.
#8 Carolina — Mykel Williams (DE, Georgia)
With Walker unavailable, the Panthers pivot to his Georgia team-mate to fill a need.
#9 New Orleans — Armand Membou (T, Missouri)
Ryan Ramczyk is retiring and they’re not taking up the fifth-year option on Trevor Penning.
#10 Chicago — Tyler Warren (TE, Penn State)
Warren or Colston Loveland will be tremendous in Ben Johnson’s offense.
#11 San Francisco — Walter Nolen (DT, Ole Miss)
I know a talent evaluator who loves Nolen. Without the character concerns he would’ve been a top-10 pick.
#12 Dallas — Tetairoa McMillan (WR, Arizona)
I’m not a McMillan fan but I was told by a good source he’ll be the first receiver taken and I’m sticking with it.
#13 Miami — Kelvin Banks Jr (T/G, Texas)
Jahdae Barron makes a lot of sense but there’s a lot of smoke around the Dolphins wanting Banks Jr.
#14 Indianapolis — Colston Loveland (TE, Michigan)
One of the legit top-10 players in the draft, it wouldn’t be a surprise if Loveland goes higher than this — leaving the Colts to go O-line instead.
#15 Atlanta — Mike Green (EDGE, Marshall)
They need sacks and Green had 17 last season.
#16 Arizona — Jahdae Barron (CB, Texas)
It feels like O-line and cornerback are the likely options here.
#17 Cincinnati — James Pearce Jr (EDGE, Tennessee)
The Bengals rarely worry about character concerns. If they make this pick, could they trade Trey Hendrickson shortly after?
#18 Seattle — Grey Zabel (G, North Dakota State)
The Seahawks have a gaping void at left guard and need to fill it. Zabel’s testing profile being comparable to Creed Humphrey, Frank Ragnow and Zach Tom makes him a justifiable top-20 pick. The key question is — will someone else take him before #18?
#19 Tampa Bay — Donovan Ezeiruaku (EDGE, Boston College)
They like to add pass rushers and Ezeiruaku can provide real burst and agility off the edge.
#20 Denver — TreVeyon Henderson (RB, Ohio State)
Sean Payton apparently wants a ‘joker’ weapon on offense and he showed last year he’ll take the guys he wants and isn’t bothered what anyone thinks.
#21 Pittsburgh — Shedeur Sanders (QB, Colorado)
It’s difficult to work out whether Pittsburgh’s interest is legit but at the moment they only have Mason Rudolph on the roster and Aaron Rodgers seems to be waiting for the Vikings.
#22 LA Chargers — Kenneth Grant (DT, Michigan)
The Michigan coaches and staff seem to have a real belief in Grant, so expect him to land in Seattle, LA or Baltimore.
#23 Green Bay — Matthew Golden (WR, Texas)
The Packers finally draft a receiver in the first round.
#24 Minnesota — Donovan Jackson (G, Ohio State)
He has explosive traits, strong character and he feels like a needed plug-in starter at left guard.
#25 Houston — Emeka Egbuka (WR, Ohio State)
‘The guy’ at Ohio State will go earlier than people realise. Character, production, athleticism, reliability and talent. He has it all. He’d reunite with CJ Stroud here.
#26 LA Rams — Omarion Hampton (RB, North Carolina)
The talk is they’ll go O-line (most of the options are gone) or an offensive skill player (the receivers are gone). Hampton could be a demon in this offense.
#27 Baltimore — Malaki Starks (S, Georgia)
I’m a huge fan of Starks and this could be an ideal home.
#28 Detroit — Tyler Booker (G, Alabama)
They replace Kevin Zeitler with a player who fits the Lions like a glove.
#29 Washington — Shemar Stewart (DE, Texas A&M)
Aside from the lack of production, there’s talk he could fall due to poor representation and the way he’s handled the draft process — including a shoddy and quite unprofessional exit from the Senior Bowl, which included telling Field Yates (so he can tweet it out) and not Jim Nagy, who reportedly had no idea until he saw it on social media.
#30 Buffalo — Will Johnson (CB, Michigan)
The injury flags are supposedly legit so we’ll see if this sinks Johnson down the board. His testing results won’t help.
#31 Kansas City — Josh Simmons (T, Ohio State)
He’s incredibly talented but lasts this far due to the patellar tendon injury and some maturity concerns. The Chiefs can take their time with him.
#32 Philadelphia — Maxwell Hairston (CB, Kentucky)
Hairston’s tape shows a fluid, exciting talent. He might go earlier than this.
Players not included
Nick Emmanwori (S, South Carolina
Todd McShay reported yesterday: “Reports about his football character and locker room personality are concerning, as are his inconsistent focus on the field and aggressiveness versus the run.” This is the second report about character concerns, following Bob McGinn’s scouting sources who among other things called him “Naturally contrarian to most everything” adding “Just be sure you know, he can probably fray some things. You’ve got to have somebody to deal with the personality. They say this guy is so strong-willed, if you get him onto your side he’ll save the world. If he is opposed to your views he’ll burn the world down.”
Jihaad Campbell (LB, Alabama)
I think Campbell is one of the best players in the class. However, labrum surgery meaning he starts the year on the PUP list is a concern. His team pushing a video of him running on a treadmill to the media this week hinted at some concern about what they’re hearing. For a potential non-contributor in year one, I think that impacts his stock.
Derrick Harmon (DT, Oregon)
There have been some late reports about medical issues with Harmon that could mean he lasts into day two.
What happens if Grey Zabel isn’t available?
This is the scenario to consider. If Kelvin Banks Jr comes off the board before Miami picks at #13 — it’ll be interesting to see whether they pivot to Zabel or go with a different position. The Colts at #14 and Cardinals at #16 could also take him.
Yesterday Adam Schefter said the Dolphins had to improve their O-line with their top pick. He might be assuming in that scenario that Banks Jr is available. A few people have touted Zabel to Miami, including Mike Mayock. Albert Breer and Todd McShay have talked about #18 being Zabel’s floor. It’s a reality that he might not last to Seattle.
If this happens — I can see why they might be keen to trade down. The 18th pick would be a tricky place to sit. They’d probably rather get more stock and put themselves in a range where they can let the board come to them, given the players at #18 might have the same grade as the players at #32.
A deal might be incredibly difficult to execute. If so — I think they’d pivot to the next best available O-liner (that could be Donovan Jackson, Tyler Booker or Josh Conerly Jr) or go with another position — bringing Emeka Egbuka, Kenneth Grant, Donovan Ezeiruaku, Malaki Starks, Matthew Golden and some others into play.
If either of the top-two tight ends come into range, they also need to be monitored. I still think Warren, Loveland, Arroyo and Taylor could all be on their radar.
Seahawks thoughts for day two
Given Adam Schefter’s significant hints recently, I’m going to assume there’s a decent chance the Seahawks will select a quarterback in round two. There’s no smoke without fire and all that. A few people have suggested this is merely one big ruse to try and convince teams to trade into Seattle’s #18 spot. I’m not buying that. For starters, a rumour about the Seahawks eyeing quarterbacks would probably just make it easier for Atlanta (#15) and Arizona (#16) to trade down. You don’t wait until Seattle’s on the clock and deal directly with them if you really want a player at the most important position in the sport, knowing the Seahawks would have all of the leverage if you fear they’ll take your guy.
It’s much more likely Schefter knows something, just as Chris Mortensen did when he famously told Russell Wilson before the 2012 draft that he was going to be a Seahawk. It’s also possible the player Seattle is eyeing goes off the board before they get into range and this ends up leading to nothing. That might be why Schefter is being cagey with any further details. He is, however, dropping seriously big hints that the Seahawks are eyeing an early-round signal caller and my guess is he knows which one.
As we talked about yesterday, it wouldn’t be a surprise if they copied the Baltimore Ravens and traded up for Jalen Milroe — or took him in the late second. There are mixed views on his range. Some think he’s a fringe first rounder having been invited to the draft. Others think rounds 2/3. With so much ammunition, the Seahawks can make sure they get Milroe (or anyone else) if they really want him.
It’s also worth noting that Mike Mayock also tentatively brought up the idea that the Seahawks might move up in round two recently. It’s something to prepare yourself for.
Here’s another thing to keep in mind. The Seahawks aren’t going to copy the Ravens just because Mike Macdonald happens to be the Head Coach. However, this is what Baltimore did in the 2018 draft:
— Traded down from #22 to #25, gaining a fourth rounder for a sixth
— Took a tight end — Hayden Hurst — at #25
— Traded up from #52 to #32 to draft Lamar Jackson
Is it preposterous to think the Seahawks might trade down from #18, then move up to draft Jalen Milroe — effectively copying the Ravens’ strategy from seven years ago?
Of course they might not be eyeing Milroe. It could be another quarterback. We’ve been saying for a long time that Schneider could have interest in Quinn Ewers. We’ll see if there was ever anything in that.
If they go O-line at #18, aside from quarterback their second rounders could be reserved for a weapon (receiver/tight end) or it could be the best defender available. Or even another O-liner.
So there we go. Another mock sent off to the Huddle Report for scoring. Thank you to everyone who has followed along with our coverage of the 2025 draft, which began last summer. This is a long process and has become a second full-time job, rather than a hobby. I wouldn’t change anything about it though.
The blog started in 2008 and I appreciate the community we’ve built, particularly everyone who helps with the running costs through Patreon and YouTube.
Tomorrow I might do a pre-draft live stream with some final thoughts. We will have an open thread to discuss the first round and I’ll do an instant reaction video on Seattle’s first pick. At the end of round one Robbie and I will do an immediate live stream and then I’ll have a full article on the blog.
Stick with us over the next few days — we’ll have loads of content. Here’s to a great draft for the Seahawks. ✌️
My final mock draft is being finalised and will be published today. In the meantime, check out my latest Puck Sports show discussing what the Seahawks might do in the draft:
Well, we have been saying for a while that the Seahawks will draft a quarterback this year. Check the video out for the details. Few written thoughts below too:
I’ve had a chance to reflect on this a little and perhaps the idea here is it could be Jalen Milroe. Firstly, there’s been a bit of chatter about why he was invited to the draft. It would make sense for someone like Adam Schefter to dig around to find out more information and maybe he’s discovered, one way or another, that the Seahawks have a keen interest.
Secondly, Mike Macdonald was in Baltimore when the Ravens traded up from #52 to #32 to acquire Lamar Jackson. I’m not suggesting the Seahawks will make that kind of jump up. They might not need to trade up at all. However, Macdonald saw how the Ravens developed Milroe after selecting him to initially sit behind Joe Flacco. His dynamic athleticism and physical tools were harnessed to create a NFL MVP level player. There’s no guarantee Milroe will ever reach anywhere near those heights — but he is a similarly dynamic physical talent. As the defensive coordinator in Baltimore, Macdonald will know how Jackson’s running ability tested opponents week-to-week.
We also know John Schneider values tools and mobility. Milroe ticks both of those boxes. Between them, they may have decided this is a guy they want to bring in to try and develop. That it’s worth rolling the dice on his upside.
Some other things to consider. Milroe is from a military background and handles his business in a serious and professional way. That will likely appeal to Macdonald. He’s also well liked and considered to be of strong character. This is something the Seahawks put a lot of emphasis on.
As soon as Klint Kubiak was hired, people speculated about the Seahawks potentially adding Taysom Hill when he recovers from injury because of the fondness Kubiak had for Hill. Milroe could initially feature in that kind of role as he develops as a passer.
The Seahawks brought him in for an official visit, as they did Tyler Shough. That is worth noting. Plus, I just get the sense the Seahawks and Schneider are ready to take shots at the position. Part of their motivation to move on from Geno Smith was his desire for commitment. I think the team preferred a more open relationship because they want to try and find a long-term solution.
These are just some thoughts. I can still well imagine them equally showing interest in Shough. Just because he’s older likely won’t dissuade them, especially if their intention is to push Darnold from the off. How far will Jaxson Dart fall? After all this time, has the hunch about interest in Quinn Ewers been accurate? Would they take him earlier than some are suggesting?
Either way I’m convinced that Adam Schefter knows something and is subtly informing his audience that the Seahawks are probably going to draft a quarterback in the first two rounds.
The Seahawks say they want to be tough and physical up front, win in the trenches and be a team nobody wants to play against.
If they get the opportunity, they should put that into action this week.
I say ‘if they get the opportunity’ because it’s never as simple as having a desire to do something. It doesn’t matter how much you want a great offensive line, an elite edge rusher or a franchise quarterback. The players have to be there.
It’s possible on Thursday the options aren’t there. Plenty of tuned-in media types are reporting a potential run on offensive lineman. Grey Zabel, the player most tipped to be Seattle’s pick at #18, has been connected to the Dolphins at #13 and even the Cowboys at #12. The Cardinals at #16 are also a team to watch.
If he joins Will Campbell, Armand Membou and Kelvin Banks Jr in leaving the board before pick #18, the Seahawks could face a dilemma. They’d have to decide whether they want to go O-line anyway and take someone like Donovan Jackson or Tyler Booker. Or they could pivot to another position, which might be the better move in that scenario. There are really good high-character, highly talented players at other positions.
You also have to be ready for players who drop unexpectedly and for non-medical or character reasons. It happened a year ago with Byron Murphy. Could it happen with Tyler Warren or Colston Loveland this year? I highly doubt it but it would be a situation you probably couldn’t pass up.
There are two prevailing thoughts I have:
— After not signing a single interior offensive lineman in free agency, I have to believe they’ve had a plan. All along, I think they knew there were going to be options at #18 that they really liked. They know they have to fix the O-line and to be so restrained during free agency suggests they knew reinforcement were coming in the draft.
— If Zabel lasts to #18 he could and probably should be Seattle’s choice. He has excellent tape showing clearly his fit in a zone blocking scheme. He can pull with ease, he reaches up to the second level comfortably, his combo-blocking is good, he subtly shifts defenders to open running lanes and he targets second-level defenders well when on the move. His PFF zone-blocking grade was an 84.8.
From a character stand point he’s considered an A+. He can help set the tone in Seattle and create a new O-line identity.
When the Seahawks pass on players like this, people tend to complain. A lot. Taking Zabel and just feeling good about it would be a step in the right direction. He can operate at left guard as a rookie and fill the gaping hole left by Laken Tomlinson (who needed upgrading anyway).
If Zabel isn’t available, to develop the thought of the Seahawks having a plan, perhaps this is a solution? I put a lot of faith in explosive traits translating to success at the next level. Look at the list in this article. Almost all of the top O-liners in the league have explosive testing results.
Donovan Jackson’s TEF score of 3.19 is highly impressive and only a notch below Zabel. Given Seattle’s need to fix the O-line, I do think they should just consider pulling the trigger on Jackson if ‘Plan A’ isn’t available. I would also consider Tyler Booker still, given his 4.65 short shuttle offsets some of the weirdness about his appalling testing everywhere else. But he’s not explosive. Zabel and Jackson are.
There are also a bunch of tackles who could be moved inside to guard.
If the O-liners are coming off the board quickly in round one, I’m not sure you can afford to wait this out. This isn’t reaching for need. So many of these players are going to be grouped together closely. It’s possible Zabel, Jackson and others are going to carry grades similar to players taken at #14 and #40.
I wouldn’t stop there.
At #50 and #52 I would seriously consider drafting Tate Ratledge or Jared Wilson if they are available. I tweeted immediately after the combine that it’d be quite a thing to have Zabel and Ratledge at guard. That would revolutionise your line. You’d be bigger, tougher, more explosive, more athletic and the attitude of the entire unit would jolt into life. With Abe Lucas at right tackle too, you’d have a legit tough-guy approach up front. It would feel positively Eagles-esque.
Wilson could be an alternative. His testing profile is so reminiscent of Erik McCoy’s you’d be foolish not to consider bringing him in, given how well McCoy played for Klint Kubiak and John Benton in New Orleans.
Two high O-line picks. A statement of intent. You want to be tough and physical up front? This would be it.
With the other pick in round two I would consider being aggressive. Can you move up from #50 to the 30’s to land one of the top-four tight ends (Elijah Arroyo or Mason Taylor)? Do you move up for a defensive lineman — tackle or edge — to further bolster the other side of your line?
You’ve got to come away with a bolstered offensive front, at least one dynamic target needs to be added to the offense (tight end or receiver), they should take advantage of the deep D-line class and use depth at other positions to fill out their roster. For example, there’s enough safety depth in this class to feel like you can find a Tyrice Knight-type starter later on.
It all starts in round one with a move up front though. If Zabel’s there, take him. And then seriously consider one more high pick — Ratledge or Wilson — to make the O-line a focal point of your roster.
Here is my final Horizontal Board ahead of the 2025 NFL Draft. I have scouted, reviewed, discussed and revised 308 players in total, with work starting last summer.
Click the image below to enlarge:
What the board shows
You can see I have only eight ‘legit’ round one grades (would go in round one any year) and 31 grades in the second tier. This emphasises the point a lot of people have made about this class. Once you get to about pick #8-11 — the grading difference to the player at #35 is going to be minimal. As such, we might see teams lean on need and/or focus on premium positions once we get out of the top-10.
This is also important when you consider trading up. For example, can the Seahawks move up a few spots from #18 to get to one of the few legit first round talents? Alternatively, if their board was anything like mine, can they go from #50 to an area around #35-38 where they can secure a player in the second tier?
I have 56 players graded in the first two rounds. This doesn’t include any quarterbacks. Therefore, the chances are the Seahawks can get reasonable value with their selections. As noted though, it’s whether they can get even more value with a little bit of aggression in the trade market.
In total I have 131 players graded in the first three rounds. This highlights why so many people are saying picks in the rounds 2-4 range are valuable. A note of caution though — I don’t take players off my board for character or medical reasons. Teams do. We might be talking about 20-30 players who don’t pass medicals or have character red flags. For example, I wouldn’t draft the likes of Mike Green, Walter Nolen or James Pearce Jr. There are legit injury concerns surrounding Jihaad Campbell’s labrum surgery, while others — such as Kevin Winston Jr — haven’t played much football due to injury.
Here’s the breakdown in grading:
Legit R1 grades — 8 R1/2 — 31 R2 — 17 R2/3 — 27 R3 — 47 Day three — 119 Late round — 46 Total players on the board — 308
Positional breakdowns
Quarterbacks
This isn’t a group where you rush to take anyone early. It’s another class of second or third rounders at best that will likely get bumped up. That said, there’s going to be a middle class. There are going to be players between #50-100 where you can justify bringing them in and seeing if you can develop them. We haven’t had that for a while. I do think the Seahawks will likely draft a quarterback this year but I wouldn’t expect it to be a high pick. I wouldn’t draft any of these QB’s in round one.
I think Will Howard will go earlier than people expect. His analytics are aligned with going early, he was nearly flawless in the college football playoffs and I think some teams will fall for his pro-readiness, application and above-average physical tools. I think he could easily go in round two.
There are no obvious future franchise quarterbacks this year.
Running backs
It’s undoubtedly a deep class but I don’t think it’s as good at the top-end as people have made out. Ashton Jeanty might be the pound-for-pound most talented player in the draft. Omarion Hampton is a justifiable top-40 pick. After that, I’m not sure there’s much to get excited about. This is more about value, where players can be taken in the middle or later rounds and legitimately contribute to your roster. I don’t think it’s a star-studded group.
There’s a chance the Seahawks will take someone later on but truth be told, they can perhaps wait until the very end of the draft or even UDFA. They’ve invested in the position and I’m not sure anyone here is going to knock their guys down the depth chart.
Wide receivers
There isn’t anyone I’d draft in the top-10. I think Emeka Egbuka is the best in the draft with the potential to be Amon-Ra St. Brown or Chris Godwin at the next level. He is regarded as having elite character and being ‘the man’ at Ohio State, despite playing on a loaded roster. I would imagine he is in contention at #18. Matthew Golden could also be on Seattle’s radar but I’m underwhelmed by Tetairoa McMillan.
Round two might be limited to Jack Bech and Jayden Higgins (I really like Bech and think he could be a good alternative to the top tight ends if you want a chess-piece target). The middle round options are attractive, with the likes of Kyle Williams, Tory Horton, Tai Felton and others potentially providing value. There’s also a decent collection of day three picks.
The Seahawks do need to add a pass-catching weapon in this draft. Whether it’s a receiving tight end or a wide receiver, they need more.
Tight ends
You have two excellent prospects at the top end in Tyler Warren and Colston Loveland. They are different players but I think you can funnel your passing game through both players. They need to improve their blocking but it won’t be down to a lack of effort. In this draft class, which is significantly light on blue-chippers, I think they both deserve to be taken in the first ten picks.
The #3 and #4 tight ends also carry a lot of appeal. I think Elijah Arroyo and Mason Taylor could find a home in the late first round. Arroyo has dynamic receiving qualities and can be a true mismatch weapon. He can be one of the better players to come out of this class in my opinion. Taylor is more conventional in his approach but he’s smooth, consistent and extremely solid.
There is some depth at the position and I’m sure you can make a case for a Terrance Ferguson in round three but I think the Seahawks would be better served targeting the top-four if they can, with trading up an option. If not, add to the group on day three where there’s depth to be had.
It is worth noting that over the years tight ends who excel in agility testing and the 10-yard split tend to have good careers. Many of this class didn’t test. The following did and worked their way into the ideal category for profile: Jalin Conyers, Harold Fannin Jr, Thomas Fidone, Mason Taylor.
Offensive tackles
I don’t think this is a good offensive tackle class. For that reason, we might see players come off the board quickly to avoid missing out — with teams using the D-line depth to their advantage on day two.
Josh Simmons is the best left tackle prospect but he has injury and character concerns. Armand Membou’s maturity has been questioned by multiple people recently, although his explosive testing results speak to his upside. I was not excited by Kelvin Banks Jr or Will Campbell. We might see the surprisingly athletic Aireontae Ersery go in round one. Josh Conerly Jr could also land in the first frame if there’s a rush, although you have to battle with some great moments on tape and some clear examples of a lack of size and playing strength putting him at a disadvantage.
The Seahawks might draft a college tackle to kick inside to guard but I think they’re fairly content with their two starters.
Guards
This is also not a deep group and speaks to an underwhelming O-line class in general — and why the best options might go quickly so teams avoid missing out.
Grey Zabel’s testing profile is comparable to Creed Humphrey and Frank Ragnow. He is worth taking a chance on in the top-20 to see if he can provide a solution to Seattle’s annual interior O-line woes. The big question for the Seahawks is whether he’ll be available. There are teams ahead of them at #18 who might pull off a surprise and take him. If that happens, they might be forced to pivot to other positions.
I am a big admirer of Tyler Booker. I like alpha O-liners with size who finish. However, he presents a weird challenge for teams. His testing profile in terms of explosive traits is awful and his foot-speed is also poor. Yet he ran a 4.65 short shuttle at 325lbs and also moved well during combine during drills and at his pro-day. None of this really makes sense — but there’s a 50/50 chance he goes before Seattle’s pick due to the character, size and movement positives we just raised.
Donovan Jackson and Tate Ratledge are both very solid second round options, although Ratledge’s injury-riddled 2024 season could push him into round three. After that you’re basically looking at Dylan Fairchild, Garrett Dellinger and a bunch of tackle converts. There are options here — but I don’t think the Seahawks will want to wait until rounds three or four to address this need. My guess is they’ll make two O-line picks in the first four rounds.
Centers
It’s a woeful center class where the options simply don’t exist. Jared Wilson compares physically to Erik McCoy and deserves to go in the same range (48th overall). After that you’ve got a bunch of players who tested physically for a day three grading. Some players, such as Jake Majors, played well enough to warrant consideration in that range with a shot to start at the next level. But this isn’t a center class that will have teams eyeing multiple starters.
The Seahawks had Wilson in for an official visit and he makes a ton of sense for them in round two if he’s available. He’s an ideal scheme fit with the physical profile to become a top-level starter. He might go earlier than people realise simply because of the lack of appealing alternatives.
Edge rushers
Abul Carter will be a top-five pick but my main interest is in Donovan Ezeiruaku and Bradyn Swinson. They both led the NCAA during the regular season with 66 pressures. Swinson in particular has shown he can win with power and speed and I think he’s only scratching the surface of his potential. I would personally be very excited if they were able to land Swinson on day two.
Two of the better talents — James Pearce Jr and Mike Green — carry huge character flags and are unlikely to be drafted by Seattle. A name to keep an eye on for round three could be Josaiah Stewart. He lacks ideal size and his recent testing session was underwhelming. However, he’s said to be loved by Wink Martindale at Michigan and he led college football in pass-rush win percentage last season. He’s a warrior who could be the heir-apparent to Uchenna Nwosu.
JT Tuimoloau is another name to monitor. He ran a 4.37 short shuttle at his pro-day which was better than expected. He’s a powerful run defender with good length. Some teams may feel they can get more out of him as a pass-rusher, although he performed well in the playoffs. He could go in the top-40.
The Seahawks need another pass-rusher and will likely try to add one in the first three rounds. This could be a position where they aggressively pursue a particular target, potentially with a trade-up in round two.
Defensive ends
This is a group full of gambles. How good is Mykel Williams? You’ll have to bet on the upside and it’s impossible to know if he’ll become more consistent and stay healthy at the next level. Shemar Stewart has a physical profile comparable to Jadeveon Clowney but he’s a nearly man with plenty of issues on tape. For every player like this who works out, there are many more who amount to nothing.
Jordan Burch might be a similar pick at a better value, while Landon Jackson will not provide much flash but he’ll give you a hell of an effort every week. I think Nic Scourton is overrated but LSU’s Sai’vion Jones is slightly underrated.
The signing of Demarcus Lawrence lessens the need to draft a player for this role. If they do take a bigger end early, it’ll be because the grading is so good that they can’t turn the option down.
Defensive tackles
It was put to me recently that in a few years time we’ll be impressed with how many defensive tackles from this draft class are starting in the league. It’s said to be the strength of the draft. However, I don’t think there’s a truly great player who deserves to go very early. I think we have a bunch of very solid players who can play for a long time.
Walter Nolen is the big question mark. He has the talent to go in the top-10 but might not go in the first round at all due to major character question marks. I’ve spoken to people who think he is an outstanding talent. In many ways he resembles a Diet Coke version of Jalen Carter. The Seahawks are not going to dabble here and will focus on reliability.
They’ll have good intel on Kenneth Grant, who could emerge as a Dexter Lawrence type player with the right guidance (Mason Graham won’t be an option because he’ll go too early). Tyleik Williams, Alfred Collins and Derrick Harmon could all go in the top-40.
Keep an eye on Ty Robinson for the Seahawks on day two — plus they will almost certainly look to add a nose tackle at some point. There’s a good chance they will attempt to replace both Johnathan Hankins and Roy Robertson-Harris in the draft, given how strong the class is at this position.
They moved up in the 2016 draft for Jarran Reed, one of their better decisions over the years. Is there another defensive lineman they really want this year? Would they be prepared to pull off a similar trade from #50? Perhaps.
Linebackers
This has turned out to be a reasonable linebacker crop. Jalon Walker leads the group and it’s worth noting that the peerless Brady Henderson said on Seattle Sports on Friday that he could be a potential trade-up target for the Seahawks if he lasts into range. His versatility and ability to pressure from anywhere would be an exceptional fit for Mike Macdonald, plus his character marks are through the roof. Some believe he’s better than Abdul Carter. Mike Mayock has voiced that opinion publicly.
Jihaad Campbell could’ve been a top-10 pick but for his labrum tear. It’s one of the big unknowns as to how that will impact his stock. On tape he is forceful, violent and impactful. If he can’t play as a rookie though he could last deep into round one.
Carson Schwesinger is getting a lot of late first round buzz. Could he be a target for the Rams or Commanders? You’ve then got a handful of day two players and a whole bunch of potential contributors on day three. There are several high-character, all-out linebackers who, if nothing else, can be a good special teamers. Players like Jackson Woodard, Jeffrey Bassa, Chandler Martin, Nick Martin, Cody Simon and Shemar James. There are others.
The Seahawks have no depth at the position and given its importance to the defense, I’m pretty sure they’ll draft a linebacker. It’s just a question of how early they do it.
Cornerbacks
You’ve got a cluster of players who will go early and then decent depth reaching into day three. I’ll be stunned if the Seahawks aren’t able to draft at least one cornerback they really like from this class.
This could be an option at #18 given how willing they were to draft Quinyon Mitchell or Terrion Arnold a year ago. Will Johnson’s apparent fall could present an opportunity, depending on how they view his medicals and lack of good testing. Shavon Revel also attended for a recent visit and if he passed a physical as he recovers from a knee injury, he’s exactly the type of player you can imagine Macdonald liking.
There are a lot of options here.
Safeties
I really like Malaki Starks and see him as a first round talent. I can imagine he will be an option at #18. I’m less excited for Nick Emmanwori despite his testing profile. For me he’s the kind of player I let someone else draft and if it works out, good for them. Character concerns have been raised and I just didn’t see enough violence on tape for his size.
I like Billy Bowman Jr a lot as someone who can almost be Earl Thomas-lite. He’s quick, he gets his hands on a lot of footballs and he packs a punch. He’s going to go at 100mph every game. I’d be prepared to take him at any point on day two.
Jonas Sanker, Andrew Mukuba, Lathan Ransom, Kitan Crawford, Maxen Hook, Marques Sigle and others all provide various combinations of speed, physicality and reliability. The Seahawks should have no problem finding a safety they like in this class and they will likely draft one.
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