The Seattle Seahawks are navigating an intriguing offseason, having lost several key players to free agency. But don't worry, Seahawks fans-general manager John Schneider has crafted a roster with impressive depth. With the 2026 NFL Draft on the horizon, Seattle's focus is on bolstering the safety position, as evidenced by their interest in LSU's AJ Haulcy and South Carolina's Jalon Kilgore.
Both Haulcy and Kilgore are set for top 30 visits with the Seahawks, signaling that Seattle might be considering a different direction than relying solely on Ty Okada, who is poised to step in for the departed Coby Bryant. Okada showed promise last season, but with no long-term guarantee of his performance, exploring additional options makes sense.
Seattle Seahawks Eye Safety Reinforcements in 2026 NFL Draft
Selecting either Haulcy or Kilgore could potentially place them as Week 1 starters alongside veteran Julian Love. What's captivating here is the contrasting styles these two safeties bring to the table.
AJ Haulcy, despite having shorter arms for a strong safety, compensates with solid tackling technique and a knack for creating turnovers-attributes head coach Mike Macdonald values highly. His college career showcased his ability to make plays, recording eight interceptions and a forced fumble over two seasons. However, his 4.52 40-yard dash time suggests he might not offer much positional flexibility, limiting his appearances at cornerback.
On the other hand, Jalon Kilgore stands at 6'1" and 210 pounds, with longer arms that could make him a versatile option in the slot. His comfort in playing downhill and a lower missed tackle rate enhance his appeal. Kilgore's physicality and ability to handle tight ends and running backs could provide the Seahawks with the flexibility they crave.
As the draft approaches, the decision for Schneider and Macdonald may hinge on whether they prioritize a pure strong safety in Haulcy or a player like Kilgore who offers more versatility. Both prospects bring unique strengths, making either a valuable addition to Seattle's defensive backfield.