The Seattle Seahawks head into the 2024 draft with the 16th overall pick. This Seattle Seahawks 1st round mock draft addresses a major need for them. After a season with some bright spots but overall inconsistency, the Seahawks have several areas they could address. Here’s a look at who they might select in the first round, considering their needs and the current draft landscape.
Seattle Seahawks 1st Round Mock Draft
Don’t miss my full 1st round mock draft where the Seahawks trade back and there is a shakeup at the top of the draft. Check it out here!
Pick 16: Byron Murphy II, DL, Texas
The Seahawks have struggled to generate consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks. While Darrell Taylor remains a force, the rest of the defensive line has been shaky. Enter Byron Murphy, a disruptive defensive lineman from the University of Texas.
Murphy is a versatile player who can line up at both defensive end and defensive tackle. He possesses a strong combination of size (6’3″, 280 lbs) and athleticism, allowing him to overpower blockers with his strength or use his quick first step to get around them. In 2023, he recorded 5 sacks and 8.5 tackles for loss, showcasing his ability to create havoc in the backfield.
Why This Makes Sense
Seattle Seahawks 1st Round Mock Draft: Other Options Considered
Analysis
While the Seahawks could use help on the offensive line and in the secondary, addressing the defensive line takes priority in this mock draft. With Murphy, they get a player who can be a difference-maker right away, providing much-needed pressure on opposing quarterbacks. His versatility allows him to fit seamlessly into their defensive scheme, offering Mike Macdonald flexibility in how he utilizes his defensive linemen. This pick might not be flashy, but it fills a critical need with a player who has the potential to be a cornerstone of the Seahawks’ defense for years to come.
It’s important to remember that the draft is a fluid event, and teams often make surprise selections based on how the board falls. The Seahawks could go in a different direction depending on what transpires before their pick. However, taking Byron Murphy fills a major need and gives them a player with the potential to be a game-changer on defense.
Don’t miss my full 1st round mock draft where the Seahawks trade back and there is a shakeup at the top of the draft. Check it out here!