The countdown is on for the Seattle Seahawks as they gear up for one of their most crucial NFL Drafts in recent memory. Armed with a treasure trove of five picks within the top 100, thanks to savvy trades involving Geno Smith and DK Metcalf, the Seahawks have set the stage to strategically sculpt their roster under head coach Mike Macdonald’s vision. With these draft picks, Seattle has the prime opportunity to plug some critical gaps, particularly along the interior offensive line.
Now, the big question looms: who will the Seahawks target with their 18th overall pick, assuming general manager John Schneider doesn’t throw us a curveball with a trade? Let’s dive into the crystal ball of recent mock drafts and see who the experts are projecting for Seattle’s first-round selection.
Matthew Golden, WR, Texas
First up is Texas wideout Matthew Golden, a name echoing across multiple mock drafts. ESPN’s Matt Miller envisions Golden entering a revamped Seahawks offense that now features Sam Darnold at the helm and Cooper Kupp as the primary receiving target.
With DK Metcalf traded and Tyler Lockett no longer in the mix, Golden could inject some much-needed firepower. Known for his long-distance connections at Texas – including an FBS-best 23 receptions beyond the 20-yard mark – and a scorching 4.29-second 40-yard dash at the combine, Golden is the epitome of a big-play threat.
What makes him truly tempting is his well-rounded skill set: excellent route running, reliable hands, and sheer athleticism.
Kyle Crabbs from The 33rd Team also weighs in, highlighting Seattle’s aggressive offensive overhaul. With players like Darnold and Kupp already onboard, Golden’s explosiveness could be the “go” on their “go-route.” While Texas’s offensive scheme in 2024 might have been complex, Golden’s contribution stood out, making him an attractive asset.
Pro Football Focus’ Josh Liskiewitz also puts Golden in the spotlight, emphasizing his versatile abilities – from defeating press coverage to showcasing nimble footwork and after-the-catch tenacity. Don’t forget his kick-return skills, which add an extra layer of value for a team eyeing a WR2 with a knack for turning the tides.
Grey Zabel, OG/C, North Dakota State
CBS Sports’ Josh Edwards points to Grey Zabel as a potential pick, addressing Seattle’s unmet need for interior line fortification. Though Seattle eyed Teven Jenkins, his move to the Browns left a gap that could be filled by the versatile Zabel.
The Athletic’s Ben Standig elaborates on the need-versus-best-player dialogue with Zabel, noting that Seattle’s bold Darnold acquisition only raises the stakes for improved protection. Zabel’s strength and position flexibility could be precisely what Seattle requires at guard.
Tyler Booker, OG, Alabama
Eric Edholm from NFL.com suggests Tyler Booker, as Seattle seems to lean towards a ball-control offense. With an open spot at guard, Booker, known for his power and tenacity in the run game, could cement himself as a foundation for future offensive drives.
Kelvin Banks Jr., OL, Texas
According to FOX Sports’ Rob Rang, the Seahawks, amid their significant offensive overhaul, still battle old issues up front. Kelvin Banks Jr., who shone at left tackle for the Longhorns, could seamlessly transition to left guard, thanks to his robust frame and play style.
Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State
Yahoo Sports’ Charles McDonald throws a curve with Tyler Warren, a tight end who could fit seamlessly into coordinator Klint Kubiak’s system. Warren’s athleticism and skill set would make him a vital component of Seattle’s offensive equation.
Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona
Finally, Chad Reuter from NFL.com proposes Tetairoa McMillan, following Metcalf’s trade. At 6-4 1/8 and 219 pounds, McMillan presents the physical attributes Seattle needs to stretch the field alongside talents like Jaxon Smith-Njigba and offseason additions Cooper Kupp and Marquez Valdes-Scantling.
As the draft day approaches, the Seahawks stand poised at the intersection of possibility and potential, with a draft position that could be pivotal in shaping the team’s future trajectory. Whether solidifying the trenches or amplifying its offensive arsenal, Seattle’s choices in this draft will undoubtedly be watched with great intrigue.
