Shaun Alexander became my instant favorite player to root for the moment he was drafted by my beloved Seahawks. I go by my middle name, Shaun. His is the only jersey I have ever bought other than my "Fan 12" one.
Coincidentally, I am also a Seahawk because my full name is Christophe Shaun Hawkins, and my friends in school would call me "C. HAWK" because the teachers would call out my 1st initial and name on day 1 roll call each year before I corrected them to my preferred middle name. That's also a favorite fantasy football team name of mine, SeaHawkins or CHawks. So that fateful Alexander draft pick fell right into my Seahawkness through-and-through.
In 2013 my wife asked who our Seahawks would take, and I said we already have Marshawn Lynch and Robert Turbin, so whoever he is, he won't be a running back. Then we picked Christine Michael, and that was pretty much the last time she's asked me anything about the draft.
My wife was in labor during the draft. It was meant to be a home birth, but our daughter had other plans. In any event, I watched the entire draft while trying to be of some use. (And failing. Utterly.) The daughter is old enough to vote and go to grad school now.
Also, the Seahawks did have a player named Grant Alden Wistrom...so there's that. Used to stumble on him when I was (very occasionally) hunting my byline to see if stuff was being posted illegally, back in the day.
Two years ago I "made" Mrs. Turtleman watch highlight reels of both Devon Witherspoon and JSN and said that we HAD to take those players if both were available when we picked. I showed her Jalen Carter's and she had seen for herself the vehicular homicide incident he was involved in. She became a bigger cheerleader than I was for these two guys and they both happened!!! The best part was, I was playing Hawkblogger in the background and the one guy she hates (Evan) primal screamed the F word over and over when we took 'Spoon. Granted, I poisoned Carter's well for her, but for that one sweet draft with all of those assets; she was emotionally invested watching this yearly thing with me that she doesn't really care much about.
And in retrospect, maybe we should have taken Carter. But we made the smart pick with what we knew at the time and both look to be long term high level NFL starters.
It'll always be hard to have the Jalen Carter conversation because Devon Witherspoon -- as I always assumed he would be -- is a massive fan favorite. But all things being equal, yeah, Carter is having the career (so far) that his champions said he would have.
But we can’t know if Carter would be having the same career in Seattle that he’s having in Philly. He was surrounded by former teammates who eased his transition to NFL while in Seattle he would have been alone in a distant city. I wanted Carter in the draft, but understand the reluctance and am thrilled with Spoon!
I was helping my now wife a few years ago with a large project for work during the draft and for the first time watched all 7 rounds of the draft, amazing to see so many guys dreams come true!
I sort of miss the days when the draft was an all weekend event. I guess in some ways it still is but when it was all day Saturday morning to Sunday afternoon, I would block out the whole day, grab snacks, and shut off the phone.
So tough due to pick 18. Why I loved the NO trade. Chargers trade down also good. I would likely prefer that 2026 first round with our own. And get more in the sweet spot of the draft for depth. Thanks for info on Banks. I was looking at him as big dude and “pundits” speaking due to measurables. Personally BPA, move down. Thinking Campbell (Jones contract doesn’t prevent a trade) or Warren. Warren drops go for it. Guessing no way that happens. Campbell but he’s not likely dropping that far.
A realistic hope or a desperate hope? Realistically I believe Egbuka will be both available and is purportedly plug and play, and I can believe that because Ohio State has been churning out pro ready WR's at a much higher rate than any other college team. Their coaches are said to be the best, and that is hard to argue with given the evidence.
JSN and Egbuka could give us a hell of a tandem. Any third WR would be ignored mostly.
Loveland could add a lot if he gets used at a higher rate than the previous 5 OC's.
OK. What player instantly makes us a better team, and might reasonably continue to do so well into a second contract?
Not someone on D. As SSJ argued a few days back, we already have a top-5 D, and there are other draft choices. Rather a lot of them, this year.
We don't have a starting LG. Not even on the team depth chart, right? So maybe I've quit caring about positional value. Maybe I just want to buy the best tool I can afford because it isn't going to disappoint me (assuming it's as described, of course). Solve the damn'd problem and draft Grey Zabel. I don't care if he's 31 on the consensus board, I don't care that he plays IOL and all the rest of that. Solve the damn'd problem.
And here's the benefit. If you take Zabel in R1 you don't have to go fishing for guys who might could turn out on day two. That leaves you four draft choices to go after, say, edge, DT, WR, maybe even take a throw at a developmental tackle like the Charles Grant (nice name, btw) from William & Mary, who could be an early day three pick if we're lucky. And we don't have to poke and hope through other teams' castoffs in free agency.
Just solve the problem, quit quibbling about it, and move on.
And, yes, I know that's not what they're going to do.
Highly realistic in my opinion. If both Golden and Egbuka are available, which one do you choose? Me, I'm not certain, but am inclined to take Golden for his speed. Overvaluing speed is everyone's problem, but I'm interested in what you and others think? Tet McMillan doesn't interest me any more than Pickens from Pittsburg. Head cases are always head cases.
Isn’t the knock on Golden that his resume is thin? Huard said something about avoiding guys in the first round whose output amounts to a half season of production.
1. I would only take a WR if there is no Trench player/OLB who's rated higher available
2. The only WR I would take early is Egbuka, not because the others are worse but because I think the combination of JSN and Egbuka if killer, and him being a Seahawks fan should only help
3. If they could trade down slightly and then still select Egbuka it would be even better but waiting for #50 I see no chance he is still there, can't compare him to DK as a prospect in my opinion.
BUT: I am no scout and didn't meet them personally as that would be a big influence for my decision
Tet reminds me a little of Mike Evans how they slow play it and attack at the point and win so many contested catches. But I'm taking Egnuka I think...but I do like Golden. I guess I just see later receivers having similar value..Higgens, Restrepo, Besh, Williams, Williiams, and others.
Great comment, they could be an incredible trio. Only disagree with the possibility that any second contract player is giving a discount. They've been busting their butt for peanuts and are ready to get paid.
Travis Hunter is my favorite player in this draft, but I suspect he will be gone by pick 3. Jeanty and Campbell are probably the next best 2 players at any position, though both play postitions that don't usually go very high. If either lasts until 18, I'm all in. Abdul Carter looks to be legit, but also will surely go early. Egbuka out of OSU is my favorite WR prospect (well, except Travis Hunter) and I would punch air for that pick. Jalen Milroe is my favorite QB in this class to watch, but I have to admit that if both he and Cam Ward were sitting there; I'd take the safe pick if I were a GM. But I wouldn't be surprised to see that guy putting up numbers 10 years from now.
And this is a dick move, but I see all the hype and I have to list them. Least favorites: Tetairoa out of Arizona is the biggest one who I don't get the hype about. He's GOOD and was the focal point of their offense, but I don't see him doing what he does at the next level like everyone else seems to. Same with Shadeur Sanders. Tough as gunleather and has an arm, but similarly I don't foresee him having success in the NFL. Xavier Watts out of Notre Dame is a ball hawk safety, and if you only watch his highlights, you'd think that he's the second coming of ET3. But if you watch 3 Notre Dame games, you'll see that he shies away from contact and is the Woolen of safties, and I don't think MacDonald is looking for that. Nick Emmanwori is both a fine player and not the second coming of Kyle Hamilton. Neither of the big name TE prospects move the needle like Brock Bowers or even Sam LaPorta before him, but I wouldn't cry if Tyler Warren was selected. This is a weird year, and I'm not terribly stoked on almost anyone projected to be around when we pick.
Man I see Warren very differently, think he’s got one of the highest floors in this draft. Very good blocker and no problem carrying the offense on his back.
Quietly been hoping for Will Johnson to drop to 18 even if it’s unlikely…seems like a very polished CB prospect for a room that’s sneaky close to being a need for us. I think Riq won’t play up to what he’ll be asking for in a contract year, so another blue chip CB would be AWESOME. I have full trust in JS to make the right pick though.
Jalon Walker could in theory be the best edge rusher prospect who the Seahawks have drafted since...you know what, he might be the best edge rusher PROSPECT they've ever drafted. The only players even in the conversation would be Bruce Irvin (drafted 15th but not as good of a prospect as Walker) and then you'd have to go back to Jacob Green and Tony Woods in the early 80s.
Joe, you are referring only to first round picks—am I correct?
Anyway, the 1997-1999 starting front four of Michael Sinclair, Cortez Kennedy, Sam Adams, and Phillip Daniels were all Seahawks draft picks. Kennedy and Adams were first-round picks; Daniels and Sinclair were taken in the 4th and 6th rounds, respectively. Tez was past his peak, but still formidable. I started going to Seahawks games in ‘98–what a way to break in! What a terrific DL!
Walker is really raw and rough around the edges as a prospect. His ceiling is All-Pro and I believe our system could get him there. Would love to see him drop to us. I think if he did, BPA would cause us to draft him.
I think he will go at latest #5 or 6, unless some GMs like other QBs. If he's sitting there at 18; I'll be so happy I will moonwalk and film it. Unless we too pass, at which point I will assume there's an injury or somethign we don't know about.
By the way, I haven't tried to moonwalk since Thriller came out so don't expect a smooth glide. But it will be the happiest point of making myself look like an idiot in my 56 years on this planet.
Jahdae Barron would be my top choice, but I have been watching more Walter Nolan tape and really hoping he's on JS radar. I know DT is not top priority but Nolan might be the most disruptive DT in the draft (even ahead of Mason Graham) and I really want a difference maker on D whether it's a CB or DE or DT or even LB.
At pick 18, it would be a dream if Tyler Warren fell to us, or Jahdae Barron, Jihaad Campbell, Shemar Stewart, Kelvin Banks, Will Campbell, Jaylin Walker, Colston Loveland. I would trade up to 6 with LV pick for Carter, Hunter, and maybe Membou.
I'm not as high on Membou as most. I'm actually leaning towards OT ranking Banks, Zabel, then Campbell and Membou. But the more film I watch the more I keep changing my mind. Am I going crazy....
Thankfully we don’t have to decide the Seahawks fate. I am a fan, not a football expert. I like Membou, and I like Banks. I like Campbell and Zabel too. I love looking at and savoring all the picks we have and imagining who we could acquire. I look at prospects in free agency and the draft and have my favorites, (Membou and Banks at OT) but I will get behind whatever they (JS) decide to do. I’m not going to get negative and bemoan what a terrible job JS did. To me, that defeats the purpose and enjoyment of following the Seahawks. Being positive and holding out hope they will outperform what everyone else feels they will accomplish is uplifting. Being pessimistic and negative might prove correct, but then I have a miserable time following the Seahawks. It’s hard enough being exposed to the negativity of others. I’d rather give up on football than join them, even if they prove correct. I firmly admit I am wearing rose colored glasses when looking at the Seahawks. I don’t care if it’s unlikely or unrealistic.
I just look back at losing Fries in free agency. I saw so many people condemning JS for not making it happen. We did come out of free agency without a LG. But then I looked at Fries since his rookie year and I see at best an average guard until 2024. Yes he had 5 games and showed elite play in some of them. But it was just 5 games. He had a broken leg and did not have the injury assessed before signing for $88 million and $40 million (?) guaranteed. Maybe he does play elite this year and those that have condemned JS prove right. But maybe Fries doesn’t play to the level of that short 5 game stretch. Maybe he returns to an average guard and a very expensive average guard at that. Then I look at that $17 million a year and think about how that will pay most of what it takes to extend Cross, who has played above average and played mostly healthy for years vs games. I trust JS knows better than me and I get behind it. That doesn’t mean JS got it right, but who am I to say for sure he did because I know better?
I stand at 12 wins this year. The doubters have the Seahawks regressing to 7.5 wins. Time will tell.
I've been waiting to share a video by Justin Pugh and AQ Shipley where they review this year's tackles and boy did they have me convinced by the end that Kelvin Banks is the sneakiest best tackle in the class.
I wonder, if Lucas had a healthy career to this point, if the team would be considering a Cross trade to move Lucas to LT. Unfortunately, that has not been the case.
Lucas did have a better rookie year, but Cross was very young and he’s still only 24 years old. He may never be a pro bowler, but he is above average and could make the leap to pro bowler with the new system and coaches.
I keep hearing that the 2025 draft is a weak one in overall prospects, if true, would it not make sense to trade back and pick up more 2026 picks? We seem to have enough other ammo to have an impactful draft this year.
I’ve wanted Hawks to draft a QB anywhere between rounds 1-4 ever since Russ got fat and lost that speed. But we never really could take a QB in the first 2 rounds because Wilson would whine like a little girl about it.
JAXSON DART, even if you gotta trade up to get him. I think he could be the next Josh Allen
But I also agree they should not “reach” for all the duds in the past time like Levis or Malik Willis etc etc
Unless you are one of 5-6 teams, don’t you always target a QB in the first round? If the Seahawks give—say—Jaxon Dart a first-round grade and he’s available at #18, they take him, right? At worst, a QB with a first-round grade is a very valuable trade asset in the event Sam Darnold turns out to be a world beater. I’m not saying to overdraft a QB, but if one falls into your lap you have to go for it. Am I missing something here?
I voted to move up to 14 to take any of the names you listed. But if all 5 of them are still on the board, keep our pick bc one of them has to fall to us at 18. Sounds crazy I know but if three QB’s are gone by 14, maybe someone else gets itchy and overdrafts Ewers or Milroe.
Am answering all the survey questions which reminds me yet again how unbelievably difficult it is to be an NFL gm. These are big-ass decisions and the palms sweat, yet we’re just playing around
Based on ESPN depth chart (with one obvious change - Byron Murphy is obviously NT over Cameron Young).
Defense:
DE Jarran Reed Byron Murphy II Q - -
NT Cameron Young Q Brandon Pili Quinton Bohanna -
DE Leonard Williams Mike Morris - -
OLB DeMarcus Lawrence Q Derick Hall Uchenna Nwosu Q Jamie Sheriff
ILB Tyrice Knight Drake Thomas - -
ILB Ernest Jones IV Q Patrick O'Connell Josh Ross -
OLB Boye Mafe Kenneth Odumegwu - -
CB Riq Woolen Q Josh Jobe Shemar Jean-Charles -
S Coby Bryant D'Anthony Bell Michael Dowell -
S Julian Love AJ Finley Ty Okada Jerrick Reed II Q
NCB Nehemiah Pritchett Bump Cooper Jr. - -
CB Devon Witherspoon Tyler Hall Damarion Williams
Offense:
QB Sam Darnold Sam Howell Jaren Hall -
RB Kenneth Walker III Q Zach Charbonnet Kenny McIntosh George Holani
WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba Steven Sims Cody White -
WR Cooper Kupp Jake Bobo Dareke Young -
WR Marquez Valdes-Scantling River Cracraft John Rhys Plumlee -
TE Noah Fant AJ Barner Eric Saubert Brady Russell
LT Charles Cross Josh Jones - -
LG Christian Haynes - - -
C Olu Oluwatimi Jalen Sundell Michael Novitsky -
RG Anthony Bradford Q Sataoa Laumea Christian Haynes -
RT Abraham Lucas Q Michael Jerrell
Who is the easiest to "dethrone" and who might replace them? What's the easiest way we can we improve? By upgrading "blank" we could likely increase out win total? Offense - LG, WR3, RG, C? Defense - any CB and Tyrice Knight or if you believe Murphy is not a NT then we need a NT stat (fingers crossed for Walter Nolan).
I have been watching last season over and over and have come to the realization that we needed a new play caller on offense more than ever (time of possession and dominating play style were deficient), also we need a better Oline scheme or players (or both), stronger Dline especially against the run although more pressure would always be welcome. We upgraded to better linebackers but still need to improve our LB run D and getting quicker to get into coverage on pass attempts. Our corners don't play peeking back watching the play and actually playing the ball. We had so many turnovers in the red zone, DK had fumbles and the Oline was hard to watch at times. New play calling and scheme and moving on from DK and Geno might actually improve our team and especially in the red zone considerably. But the defense wasn't great at times.. Sure it statistically evened out over time but there were games when our defense was not working well - Green Bay, Detroit, etc...and another thing - DK by virtue of his size and strength gets interfered with constantly, but it doesn't get called. The interference still affects his ability to make plays but the perception from refs is that it doesn't affect him so they don't call it. Unfortunately I think DK is going to get more contact than he should and it will ultimately hurt his performance.
In all my mocks I either take BPA (which isn’t IOL/OT) then trade up in round 2 for a IOL/OT vs drafting Zabel or Banks at 18 and then sitting still for the board to come. Not sure unless a top 2 CB, edge (Walker) or TE falls that anyone else is worth the pick and then having to trade up in round 2 for the IOL/T piece we NEED.
If any of these top players slide, Campbell, Walker, Barron or Loveland, take one at 18.
If no sliders Trust in John to take top T/G, i.e. Booker, Zabel, Jackson, or WR Egbuka
I really like the idea of ensuring OL is 1st choice which will completely free up all remaining picks. JS can wheel - deal and snag us some good ballers.
I voted Edge over DT because we drafted Murphy (DT) last year and because there will be nose tackles available in the second round and beyond. And you can never have too many Edges, but we could test that theory if we draft an Edge at 18, and that is why, if Egbuka or Golden are there at 18 I would take the WR over most of the edges likely available at 18.
A tackle intended to go to guard would work, too, if one of the plug and play tackles are available.
If we're talking full-on year 1 starter, I'd be most excited for a trade up to get Tyler Warren if he falls a bit.
If we're talking part-time starter with high ceilings, I'd be happy with Membou/Banks/Walker/Campbell/Barron or trade down and get Grant/Emmanwori/Zabel/Stuart.
The top three tackles (Campbell Membou Simmon) will not be around at 18. And like Kelvin Banks will be gone to, but Grey Zabel should be available. This begs the BPA or need question. In the many mock drafts I’ve done on PFF there are great defensive options at pick 18 which make Zabel look like a “need” reach. At 18 the Hawks will have to choose between O line and defenses. For me Zabel is the best fit at 18, maybe a bit of a reach but a great fit for the entire O line because he plays every position and can start at L Guard. And all of the top tackles/guards will be gone at 50.
1st Rd order of best player available with need considered (that may fall within a trade range exclude top 5, be at 18 or a little later)
Trade up (if any falls within range in order): RB Jeanty, T (Will Campbell or Membou), CBs Johnson or Barron, TEs (Warren or Loveland)
Stay put: any of the above if they fall to 18, WR (Egbuka, McMillian), Edge (Stewart, Williams), LB (Walker or Campbell), T/IOL (Banks then Zabel) S (Starks), Edge (Ezeiruaka)
Trade back: any of the above that falls. T/IOL (Simons, Booker) DT (Grant), S (Emmanworri), WR Golden
I'm not sold on this tackle class. And there isn't a QB in this draft (other than Cam Ward, which almost proves the point) who I would pick before day three.
I think Warren’s value is considerably higher to Kubiak than many think. He was a QB for his high school. He can be an in line TE, split out, FB, shotgun wildcat, and line up under center. Can you imagine a 3rd and 1, or a 4th and one with Darnold backing out from under center and a 6 foot 5 inch 260 pound guy taking his place under center? That’s bigger than Josh Allan and perhaps more physical. I can see our success rate going up in those situations already.
Share your draft stories:
Do you have any Seahawks draft stories you want to share? I would love to read them!
Shaun Alexander became my instant favorite player to root for the moment he was drafted by my beloved Seahawks. I go by my middle name, Shaun. His is the only jersey I have ever bought other than my "Fan 12" one.
Coincidentally, I am also a Seahawk because my full name is Christophe Shaun Hawkins, and my friends in school would call me "C. HAWK" because the teachers would call out my 1st initial and name on day 1 roll call each year before I corrected them to my preferred middle name. That's also a favorite fantasy football team name of mine, SeaHawkins or CHawks. So that fateful Alexander draft pick fell right into my Seahawkness through-and-through.
Wow, I never knew that about your name!
In 2013 my wife asked who our Seahawks would take, and I said we already have Marshawn Lynch and Robert Turbin, so whoever he is, he won't be a running back. Then we picked Christine Michael, and that was pretty much the last time she's asked me anything about the draft.
I wonder if Michael is the most bewildering first pick by the Seahawks of the Pete era.
My wife was in labor during the draft. It was meant to be a home birth, but our daughter had other plans. In any event, I watched the entire draft while trying to be of some use. (And failing. Utterly.) The daughter is old enough to vote and go to grad school now.
….and that is how our daughter, Koren Robinson Alden, got her name. (Kidding…)
Actually, that's Marcus Trufant Alden to you!
Also, the Seahawks did have a player named Grant Alden Wistrom...so there's that. Used to stumble on him when I was (very occasionally) hunting my byline to see if stuff was being posted illegally, back in the day.
Two years ago I "made" Mrs. Turtleman watch highlight reels of both Devon Witherspoon and JSN and said that we HAD to take those players if both were available when we picked. I showed her Jalen Carter's and she had seen for herself the vehicular homicide incident he was involved in. She became a bigger cheerleader than I was for these two guys and they both happened!!! The best part was, I was playing Hawkblogger in the background and the one guy she hates (Evan) primal screamed the F word over and over when we took 'Spoon. Granted, I poisoned Carter's well for her, but for that one sweet draft with all of those assets; she was emotionally invested watching this yearly thing with me that she doesn't really care much about.
And in retrospect, maybe we should have taken Carter. But we made the smart pick with what we knew at the time and both look to be long term high level NFL starters.
It'll always be hard to have the Jalen Carter conversation because Devon Witherspoon -- as I always assumed he would be -- is a massive fan favorite. But all things being equal, yeah, Carter is having the career (so far) that his champions said he would have.
But we can’t know if Carter would be having the same career in Seattle that he’s having in Philly. He was surrounded by former teammates who eased his transition to NFL while in Seattle he would have been alone in a distant city. I wanted Carter in the draft, but understand the reluctance and am thrilled with Spoon!
Great story!
I was helping my now wife a few years ago with a large project for work during the draft and for the first time watched all 7 rounds of the draft, amazing to see so many guys dreams come true!
I sort of miss the days when the draft was an all weekend event. I guess in some ways it still is but when it was all day Saturday morning to Sunday afternoon, I would block out the whole day, grab snacks, and shut off the phone.
I wish it was still this way.
TOP/MOST IMPORTANT QUESTION: FIRST ROUND DRAFT PROSPECTS, PLEASE TELL ME RIGHT AWAY, WHICH PLAYER ARE YOU HOPING FOR THE MOST?
Tyler Warren. All day everyday! OL needs to grow, but I think having a truly versatile player would be a bigger net benefit.
So tough due to pick 18. Why I loved the NO trade. Chargers trade down also good. I would likely prefer that 2026 first round with our own. And get more in the sweet spot of the draft for depth. Thanks for info on Banks. I was looking at him as big dude and “pundits” speaking due to measurables. Personally BPA, move down. Thinking Campbell (Jones contract doesn’t prevent a trade) or Warren. Warren drops go for it. Guessing no way that happens. Campbell but he’s not likely dropping that far.
I'm hoping for Jalon Walker, but if he's gone, Jihaad Campbell, but if he's gone, Donovan Ezeriuaka. Yeah, I've got a type.
Trade out if the first Round. Oddly the only guy I'd want is a trade back and Jeanty. I rather have the 2 1sts in a stacked 2026 draft.
A realistic hope or a desperate hope? Realistically I believe Egbuka will be both available and is purportedly plug and play, and I can believe that because Ohio State has been churning out pro ready WR's at a much higher rate than any other college team. Their coaches are said to be the best, and that is hard to argue with given the evidence.
JSN and Egbuka could give us a hell of a tandem. Any third WR would be ignored mostly.
Loveland could add a lot if he gets used at a higher rate than the previous 5 OC's.
OK. What player instantly makes us a better team, and might reasonably continue to do so well into a second contract?
Not someone on D. As SSJ argued a few days back, we already have a top-5 D, and there are other draft choices. Rather a lot of them, this year.
We don't have a starting LG. Not even on the team depth chart, right? So maybe I've quit caring about positional value. Maybe I just want to buy the best tool I can afford because it isn't going to disappoint me (assuming it's as described, of course). Solve the damn'd problem and draft Grey Zabel. I don't care if he's 31 on the consensus board, I don't care that he plays IOL and all the rest of that. Solve the damn'd problem.
And here's the benefit. If you take Zabel in R1 you don't have to go fishing for guys who might could turn out on day two. That leaves you four draft choices to go after, say, edge, DT, WR, maybe even take a throw at a developmental tackle like the Charles Grant (nice name, btw) from William & Mary, who could be an early day three pick if we're lucky. And we don't have to poke and hope through other teams' castoffs in free agency.
Just solve the problem, quit quibbling about it, and move on.
And, yes, I know that's not what they're going to do.
I'm with you if they believe in him and that he is ready to start. We could probably trade down a few spots and still get him.
Will Campbell
Will Johnson, Tyler Warren or McMillan and in that order
When I read that Emeka Egbuka said he is a Seahawks fan I instantly got hyped up.
I think he is a super polished receiver who together with JSN and CK could form an unbeatable (uncoverable) trio.
Some say he is even better than JSN was coming out of Ohio, and who knows, if he is a true fan maybe he gives a team discount in future contracts.
I will just take whoever they draft but now i know that it could be a Seahawks Fan who's value would match with Seattle's Pick.
Highly realistic in my opinion. If both Golden and Egbuka are available, which one do you choose? Me, I'm not certain, but am inclined to take Golden for his speed. Overvaluing speed is everyone's problem, but I'm interested in what you and others think? Tet McMillan doesn't interest me any more than Pickens from Pittsburg. Head cases are always head cases.
Isn’t the knock on Golden that his resume is thin? Huard said something about avoiding guys in the first round whose output amounts to a half season of production.
Had to think hard about this question...
1. I would only take a WR if there is no Trench player/OLB who's rated higher available
2. The only WR I would take early is Egbuka, not because the others are worse but because I think the combination of JSN and Egbuka if killer, and him being a Seahawks fan should only help
3. If they could trade down slightly and then still select Egbuka it would be even better but waiting for #50 I see no chance he is still there, can't compare him to DK as a prospect in my opinion.
BUT: I am no scout and didn't meet them personally as that would be a big influence for my decision
Tet reminds me a little of Mike Evans how they slow play it and attack at the point and win so many contested catches. But I'm taking Egnuka I think...but I do like Golden. I guess I just see later receivers having similar value..Higgens, Restrepo, Besh, Williams, Williiams, and others.
Great comment, they could be an incredible trio. Only disagree with the possibility that any second contract player is giving a discount. They've been busting their butt for peanuts and are ready to get paid.
That's true, I am still influenced by Tom Brady's contracts.
Travis Hunter is my favorite player in this draft, but I suspect he will be gone by pick 3. Jeanty and Campbell are probably the next best 2 players at any position, though both play postitions that don't usually go very high. If either lasts until 18, I'm all in. Abdul Carter looks to be legit, but also will surely go early. Egbuka out of OSU is my favorite WR prospect (well, except Travis Hunter) and I would punch air for that pick. Jalen Milroe is my favorite QB in this class to watch, but I have to admit that if both he and Cam Ward were sitting there; I'd take the safe pick if I were a GM. But I wouldn't be surprised to see that guy putting up numbers 10 years from now.
And this is a dick move, but I see all the hype and I have to list them. Least favorites: Tetairoa out of Arizona is the biggest one who I don't get the hype about. He's GOOD and was the focal point of their offense, but I don't see him doing what he does at the next level like everyone else seems to. Same with Shadeur Sanders. Tough as gunleather and has an arm, but similarly I don't foresee him having success in the NFL. Xavier Watts out of Notre Dame is a ball hawk safety, and if you only watch his highlights, you'd think that he's the second coming of ET3. But if you watch 3 Notre Dame games, you'll see that he shies away from contact and is the Woolen of safties, and I don't think MacDonald is looking for that. Nick Emmanwori is both a fine player and not the second coming of Kyle Hamilton. Neither of the big name TE prospects move the needle like Brock Bowers or even Sam LaPorta before him, but I wouldn't cry if Tyler Warren was selected. This is a weird year, and I'm not terribly stoked on almost anyone projected to be around when we pick.
Man I see Warren very differently, think he’s got one of the highest floors in this draft. Very good blocker and no problem carrying the offense on his back.
I get the same sense on Watts...I like Andrew Makuba he flashes more of the thumper I think MM looks for.
Egbuka is likely available at 18, at least in the average mock he is.
We don't need another slot reciever.We need a speed deep threat!
Quietly been hoping for Will Johnson to drop to 18 even if it’s unlikely…seems like a very polished CB prospect for a room that’s sneaky close to being a need for us. I think Riq won’t play up to what he’ll be asking for in a contract year, so another blue chip CB would be AWESOME. I have full trust in JS to make the right pick though.
Dream would be Jalon Walker. Maybe more realistic Colstan Loveland. Will Johnson third of realistic options.
Jalon Walker could in theory be the best edge rusher prospect who the Seahawks have drafted since...you know what, he might be the best edge rusher PROSPECT they've ever drafted. The only players even in the conversation would be Bruce Irvin (drafted 15th but not as good of a prospect as Walker) and then you'd have to go back to Jacob Green and Tony Woods in the early 80s.
Joe, you are referring only to first round picks—am I correct?
Anyway, the 1997-1999 starting front four of Michael Sinclair, Cortez Kennedy, Sam Adams, and Phillip Daniels were all Seahawks draft picks. Kennedy and Adams were first-round picks; Daniels and Sinclair were taken in the 4th and 6th rounds, respectively. Tez was past his peak, but still formidable. I started going to Seahawks games in ‘98–what a way to break in! What a terrific DL!
Yeah, I'm referring to players before the draft, how they were rated/graded/ranked.
Walker is really raw and rough around the edges as a prospect. His ceiling is All-Pro and I believe our system could get him there. Would love to see him drop to us. I think if he did, BPA would cause us to draft him.
At what # would you consider moving UP to get him (hypothetically would cost you a 2nd rounder)??
Those are the reasons I think he’ll go in the top 10. But I guess we said the same things about Murphy last year.
I think he will go at latest #5 or 6, unless some GMs like other QBs. If he's sitting there at 18; I'll be so happy I will moonwalk and film it. Unless we too pass, at which point I will assume there's an injury or somethign we don't know about.
Agree I think it would be a miracle if he makes it past Chicago at 8. I think he'd be a beast in McDonald's defense.
Chicago at 10*
By the way, I haven't tried to moonwalk since Thriller came out so don't expect a smooth glide. But it will be the happiest point of making myself look like an idiot in my 56 years on this planet.
So long as you do it in a sparkly jacket and bowling shoes, it won’t matter.
Jahdae Barron would be my top choice, but I have been watching more Walter Nolan tape and really hoping he's on JS radar. I know DT is not top priority but Nolan might be the most disruptive DT in the draft (even ahead of Mason Graham) and I really want a difference maker on D whether it's a CB or DE or DT or even LB.
And I will make a note to spell Walter NolEn correctly...no A
Is Nolan first rounder or available later?
At pick 18, it would be a dream if Tyler Warren fell to us, or Jahdae Barron, Jihaad Campbell, Shemar Stewart, Kelvin Banks, Will Campbell, Jaylin Walker, Colston Loveland. I would trade up to 6 with LV pick for Carter, Hunter, and maybe Membou.
I'm not as high on Membou as most. I'm actually leaning towards OT ranking Banks, Zabel, then Campbell and Membou. But the more film I watch the more I keep changing my mind. Am I going crazy....
Thankfully we don’t have to decide the Seahawks fate. I am a fan, not a football expert. I like Membou, and I like Banks. I like Campbell and Zabel too. I love looking at and savoring all the picks we have and imagining who we could acquire. I look at prospects in free agency and the draft and have my favorites, (Membou and Banks at OT) but I will get behind whatever they (JS) decide to do. I’m not going to get negative and bemoan what a terrible job JS did. To me, that defeats the purpose and enjoyment of following the Seahawks. Being positive and holding out hope they will outperform what everyone else feels they will accomplish is uplifting. Being pessimistic and negative might prove correct, but then I have a miserable time following the Seahawks. It’s hard enough being exposed to the negativity of others. I’d rather give up on football than join them, even if they prove correct. I firmly admit I am wearing rose colored glasses when looking at the Seahawks. I don’t care if it’s unlikely or unrealistic.
I just look back at losing Fries in free agency. I saw so many people condemning JS for not making it happen. We did come out of free agency without a LG. But then I looked at Fries since his rookie year and I see at best an average guard until 2024. Yes he had 5 games and showed elite play in some of them. But it was just 5 games. He had a broken leg and did not have the injury assessed before signing for $88 million and $40 million (?) guaranteed. Maybe he does play elite this year and those that have condemned JS prove right. But maybe Fries doesn’t play to the level of that short 5 game stretch. Maybe he returns to an average guard and a very expensive average guard at that. Then I look at that $17 million a year and think about how that will pay most of what it takes to extend Cross, who has played above average and played mostly healthy for years vs games. I trust JS knows better than me and I get behind it. That doesn’t mean JS got it right, but who am I to say for sure he did because I know better?
I stand at 12 wins this year. The doubters have the Seahawks regressing to 7.5 wins. Time will tell.
I think that's a very wise attitude to have. Keep perspective. Let's go 12's!
Tyler Warren is my dream R1 pick, then release Fant.
Maybe see if you can get a 6th round pick in 2026 for him. But releasing him gets you almost $9 million in extra cap space.
I've been waiting to share a video by Justin Pugh and AQ Shipley where they review this year's tackles and boy did they have me convinced by the end that Kelvin Banks is the sneakiest best tackle in the class.
He’s also able to slide to guard if Lucas can man RT. Or if it’s judged Lucas should move inside for longevity, he can play RT.
That's nice to hear, from the first snap I liked him a lot, but a lot of people seem to be talking him down because of his short arms or whatever...
Given the fact that JS rarely gives 2nd contracts to OL men, If he lets Lucas go but picks up Cross, Banks could be a hedge to that situation.
I wonder, if Lucas had a healthy career to this point, if the team would be considering a Cross trade to move Lucas to LT. Unfortunately, that has not been the case.
Lucas did have a better rookie year, but Cross was very young and he’s still only 24 years old. He may never be a pro bowler, but he is above average and could make the leap to pro bowler with the new system and coaches.
This is true, Cross is very young still. Lucas may have been a first round pick too, but his health could have been a reason for falling to round 3.
For now...Jihaad Campbell would make my draft a great success!
I would not be disappointed either :)
I keep hearing that the 2025 draft is a weak one in overall prospects, if true, would it not make sense to trade back and pick up more 2026 picks? We seem to have enough other ammo to have an impactful draft this year.
I said QB!
JAXSON DART
I’ve wanted Hawks to draft a QB anywhere between rounds 1-4 ever since Russ got fat and lost that speed. But we never really could take a QB in the first 2 rounds because Wilson would whine like a little girl about it.
JAXSON DART, even if you gotta trade up to get him. I think he could be the next Josh Allen
But I also agree they should not “reach” for all the duds in the past time like Levis or Malik Willis etc etc
Take the BPA in the 1st and 2nd rounds as long as they have no character, injury or head case issues. Period!
Unless you are one of 5-6 teams, don’t you always target a QB in the first round? If the Seahawks give—say—Jaxon Dart a first-round grade and he’s available at #18, they take him, right? At worst, a QB with a first-round grade is a very valuable trade asset in the event Sam Darnold turns out to be a world beater. I’m not saying to overdraft a QB, but if one falls into your lap you have to go for it. Am I missing something here?
I voted to move up to 14 to take any of the names you listed. But if all 5 of them are still on the board, keep our pick bc one of them has to fall to us at 18. Sounds crazy I know but if three QB’s are gone by 14, maybe someone else gets itchy and overdrafts Ewers or Milroe.
What an awesome idea!
Am answering all the survey questions which reminds me yet again how unbelievably difficult it is to be an NFL gm. These are big-ass decisions and the palms sweat, yet we’re just playing around
Based on ESPN depth chart (with one obvious change - Byron Murphy is obviously NT over Cameron Young).
Defense:
DE Jarran Reed Byron Murphy II Q - -
NT Cameron Young Q Brandon Pili Quinton Bohanna -
DE Leonard Williams Mike Morris - -
OLB DeMarcus Lawrence Q Derick Hall Uchenna Nwosu Q Jamie Sheriff
ILB Tyrice Knight Drake Thomas - -
ILB Ernest Jones IV Q Patrick O'Connell Josh Ross -
OLB Boye Mafe Kenneth Odumegwu - -
CB Riq Woolen Q Josh Jobe Shemar Jean-Charles -
S Coby Bryant D'Anthony Bell Michael Dowell -
S Julian Love AJ Finley Ty Okada Jerrick Reed II Q
NCB Nehemiah Pritchett Bump Cooper Jr. - -
CB Devon Witherspoon Tyler Hall Damarion Williams
Offense:
QB Sam Darnold Sam Howell Jaren Hall -
RB Kenneth Walker III Q Zach Charbonnet Kenny McIntosh George Holani
WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba Steven Sims Cody White -
WR Cooper Kupp Jake Bobo Dareke Young -
WR Marquez Valdes-Scantling River Cracraft John Rhys Plumlee -
TE Noah Fant AJ Barner Eric Saubert Brady Russell
LT Charles Cross Josh Jones - -
LG Christian Haynes - - -
C Olu Oluwatimi Jalen Sundell Michael Novitsky -
RG Anthony Bradford Q Sataoa Laumea Christian Haynes -
RT Abraham Lucas Q Michael Jerrell
Who is the easiest to "dethrone" and who might replace them? What's the easiest way we can we improve? By upgrading "blank" we could likely increase out win total? Offense - LG, WR3, RG, C? Defense - any CB and Tyrice Knight or if you believe Murphy is not a NT then we need a NT stat (fingers crossed for Walter Nolan).
I have been watching last season over and over and have come to the realization that we needed a new play caller on offense more than ever (time of possession and dominating play style were deficient), also we need a better Oline scheme or players (or both), stronger Dline especially against the run although more pressure would always be welcome. We upgraded to better linebackers but still need to improve our LB run D and getting quicker to get into coverage on pass attempts. Our corners don't play peeking back watching the play and actually playing the ball. We had so many turnovers in the red zone, DK had fumbles and the Oline was hard to watch at times. New play calling and scheme and moving on from DK and Geno might actually improve our team and especially in the red zone considerably. But the defense wasn't great at times.. Sure it statistically evened out over time but there were games when our defense was not working well - Green Bay, Detroit, etc...and another thing - DK by virtue of his size and strength gets interfered with constantly, but it doesn't get called. The interference still affects his ability to make plays but the perception from refs is that it doesn't affect him so they don't call it. Unfortunately I think DK is going to get more contact than he should and it will ultimately hurt his performance.
In all my mocks I either take BPA (which isn’t IOL/OT) then trade up in round 2 for a IOL/OT vs drafting Zabel or Banks at 18 and then sitting still for the board to come. Not sure unless a top 2 CB, edge (Walker) or TE falls that anyone else is worth the pick and then having to trade up in round 2 for the IOL/T piece we NEED.
Pick 18
If any of these top players slide, Campbell, Walker, Barron or Loveland, take one at 18.
If no sliders Trust in John to take top T/G, i.e. Booker, Zabel, Jackson, or WR Egbuka
I really like the idea of ensuring OL is 1st choice which will completely free up all remaining picks. JS can wheel - deal and snag us some good ballers.
I voted Edge over DT because we drafted Murphy (DT) last year and because there will be nose tackles available in the second round and beyond. And you can never have too many Edges, but we could test that theory if we draft an Edge at 18, and that is why, if Egbuka or Golden are there at 18 I would take the WR over most of the edges likely available at 18.
A tackle intended to go to guard would work, too, if one of the plug and play tackles are available.
All other things being equal, I would vote for EDGE over every other position except QB.
If we're talking full-on year 1 starter, I'd be most excited for a trade up to get Tyler Warren if he falls a bit.
If we're talking part-time starter with high ceilings, I'd be happy with Membou/Banks/Walker/Campbell/Barron or trade down and get Grant/Emmanwori/Zabel/Stuart.
The top three tackles (Campbell Membou Simmon) will not be around at 18. And like Kelvin Banks will be gone to, but Grey Zabel should be available. This begs the BPA or need question. In the many mock drafts I’ve done on PFF there are great defensive options at pick 18 which make Zabel look like a “need” reach. At 18 the Hawks will have to choose between O line and defenses. For me Zabel is the best fit at 18, maybe a bit of a reach but a great fit for the entire O line because he plays every position and can start at L Guard. And all of the top tackles/guards will be gone at 50.
1st Rd order of best player available with need considered (that may fall within a trade range exclude top 5, be at 18 or a little later)
Trade up (if any falls within range in order): RB Jeanty, T (Will Campbell or Membou), CBs Johnson or Barron, TEs (Warren or Loveland)
Stay put: any of the above if they fall to 18, WR (Egbuka, McMillian), Edge (Stewart, Williams), LB (Walker or Campbell), T/IOL (Banks then Zabel) S (Starks), Edge (Ezeiruaka)
Trade back: any of the above that falls. T/IOL (Simons, Booker) DT (Grant), S (Emmanworri), WR Golden
Unless Carter, Ward , Hunter, or Graham falls to 6 I would not trade up that high.
Overrated: Which first round position or player is the most overrated as it pertains to the Seahawks using their first pick?
I'm not sold on this tackle class. And there isn't a QB in this draft (other than Cam Ward, which almost proves the point) who I would pick before day three.
TE, for me there's too much talent later into the draft to feel the 'need' to use up capital to get after Loveland or Warren.
Plus, TE is such a tough position to draft. You’d better be awfully sure that the guy is going to produce.
I've heard Warren compared to Dallas Clark, which...look everybody likes Dallas Clark, every team would love to have Dallas Clark. Top-10 though?
I think Warren’s value is considerably higher to Kubiak than many think. He was a QB for his high school. He can be an in line TE, split out, FB, shotgun wildcat, and line up under center. Can you imagine a 3rd and 1, or a 4th and one with Darnold backing out from under center and a 6 foot 5 inch 260 pound guy taking his place under center? That’s bigger than Josh Allan and perhaps more physical. I can see our success rate going up in those situations already.
With Murphy coming in and giving a “little” push?
Tush push 2.0!
Nick Emmanwori
I personally think Will Campbell and Will Johnson are overrated and might slide a little.