It's Combine week, and while scouts are laser-focused on draft prospects, the real action is buzzing behind the scenes in Indianapolis. Last year, John Schneider made waves by trading DK Metcalf and Geno Smith after entertaining offers, pivoting to Sam Darnold and Cooper Kupp in a whirlwind start to free agency.
This year, the drama might not be as intense, but don't count Schneider out just yet. He's likely to revisit talks with the Raiders about Maxx Crosby, a player he previously targeted.
Beyond potential trades, Schneider is mapping out the future for players like Kenneth Walker III and Rashid Shaheed. Last year, Schneider and Joey Laine, the team’s contract guru, successfully re-signed Ernest Jones IV and Jarran Reed before the league year kicked off. They're hoping for similar success this time around.
Kenneth Walker III: What's the Market?
Schneider seems hesitant to break the bank for Walker. When asked about Walker’s playoff performance on 710 AM, he praised running backs coach Justin Outten and also highlighted George Holani's contributions. It’s clear that the Seahawks are exploring their options at the Combine to gauge Walker's market value.
With the running back market moving slowly-Javonte Williams just signed for $8 million a year in Dallas-Walker’s agents might be eyeing Breece Hall’s potential transition tag value of $11.7 million as a benchmark. Seattle faces a dilemma with Zach Charbonnet sidelined until at least November due to an ACL injury, but Schneider seems confident in the team's ability to develop talent rather than splurge on one player.
Rashid Shaheed: The Priority
Shaheed should be Schneider's top focus, but the question is at what price. While $12 million seems fair, there's buzz that Klint Kubiak’s Raiders might offer $15 million or more.
Schneider traded a fourth and a fifth-round pick for Shaheed, whose explosive playmaking abilities transformed Seattle’s special teams and offense. Schneider has a knack for retaining midseason acquisitions, so expect him to make a strong push to keep Shaheed.
Maxx Crosby: What's the Cost?
Crosby is a hot commodity, and some speculate it might take two first-round picks to pry him from the Raiders. If other teams are willing to pay that price, Seattle might be out of the running.
However, a package including this year's first, a 2027 second, and perhaps Uchenna Nwosu could intrigue the Raiders. ESPN’s mock trades suggest this is the type of offer Vegas might entertain, keeping Seattle in the mix.
Coby Bryant: A Tough Negotiation
Coby Bryant is seeking double what the Hawks offered last summer, a gap widened by the Super Bowl premium that inflates free agent values. With Bryant’s market projected at $14 million, Seattle values him at about half that. If a deal can't be reached, Ty Okada and other options are available to fill the void.
Draft Prospects to Watch
As the Combine unfolds, Seattle's focus is on cornerbacks, edge rushers, and safeties. It's not a strong draft for running backs or interior linemen, but defensive talent abounds. Here are some names to keep an eye on:
- CB Brandon Cisse, South Carolina
- CB Colton Hood, Tennessee
- S Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, Toledo
- S Dillon Thieneman, Oregon
- DT Lee Hunter, Texas Tech
- Edge Zion Young, Missouri
- CB Chris Johnson, San Diego State
- CB Keionte Scott, Miami
- Edge Derrick Moore, Michigan
- CB Devon Moore, Florida
The Seahawks are poised for a strategic offseason, balancing potential trades, key re-signings, and a draft full of defensive promise. Stay tuned as the action unfolds in Indianapolis.