The Seattle Seahawks are gearing up for a pivotal offseason, with their sights set on crafting a roster that can take them back to Super Bowl glory. As free agency looms on March 11, the team faces crucial decisions regarding several key players. Running back Kenneth Walker III, wide receiver Rashid Shaheed, edge rusher Boye Mafe, safety Coby Bryant, and cornerbacks Riq Woolen and Josh Jobe are all set to test the market.
The Seahawks' approach to these decisions could be influenced by the talent pool available in the upcoming NFL Draft, kicking off on April 23. Former NFL quarterback Brock Huard, during his Blue 88 segment, highlighted the draft's alignment with Seattle's needs.
According to Huard, "Reading the tea leaves and chatting with draft analysts, it seems this draft's strengths lie in edge rushers, wide receivers, and cornerbacks. These positions dominate ESPN’s top 100 board, each boasting 13 players." Offensive tackle is the only position with more representation, featuring 14 players.
NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah, a regular on Brock and Salk, echoes this sentiment, listing 11 wide receivers, eight edge rushers, and five cornerbacks among his top 50 prospects.
Huard pointed out, "With three top-100 picks, the Seahawks are in a prime position to address these needs. While they focus on selecting the best talent available, the draft’s depth in these areas could work in their favor."
Seattle will need to act swiftly if they aim to bolster their roster with top-tier wide receivers, edge rushers, and cornerbacks. Beyond their top 100 selections at Nos. 32, 64, and 96, the Seahawks hold only a sixth-round pick. Their fourth- and fifth-round selections were traded to New Orleans for Shaheed, and their seventh-rounder went to Cleveland for center Nick Harris in 2024.
Huard noted, "The Seahawks understand the draft landscape. Trading their fourth and fifth-round picks reflects the steep drop-off in talent after the top 100. The difference between fifth and seventh-round grades is minimal this year."
Ultimately, finding impactful players in these key positions during the top 100 picks will be crucial for the Seahawks' draft strategy. The team’s success in navigating this draft could set the stage for another championship run.