NEWSLETTER
The Emerald City is abuzz with anticipation as the Seattle Seahawks head into the 2024 NFL Draft. With new coach Mike Macdonald at the helm, the Seahawks are poised to make significant changes to their roster. While Geno Smith’s resurgence has eased some pressure at quarterback, key questions remain across the board. Will they prioritize bolstering their offensive line or target a defensive anchor to reignite the “Legion of Boom” era swagger? Buckle up, 12th Man, as we dissect the Seattle Seahawks’ first-round draft big board, exploring the most promising prospects who could be drafted by Seattle at the 16th overall pick.
Seattle Seahawks NFL Draft Needs
The Seattle Seahawks have several areas they’d like to address in the 2024 NFL Draft. Here’s a breakdown of their most pressing needs:
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Offensive Line (Guard): While their line improved in 2023, the Seahawks could still use an upgrade at left guard. Finding a reliable blocker to solidify the interior line and protect Geno Smith’s blindside would be beneficial.
Tight End (Depth): Will Dissly and Colby Parkinson are both gone. While they have developmental options, adding a reliable tight end who can contribute in the passing game but more importantly as a blocker is paramount to their offseason.
Seattle Seahawks 3-Round Mock Draft
Interior Defensive Line: This is a major area of concern. The Seahawks lack a dominant presence in the middle of their defensive line. Finding a disruptive tackle who can generate pressure on the quarterback and clog running lanes is crucial for improving the defense.
Linebacker: The Seahawks’ linebacking corps needs an upgrade. Finding a young, athletic linebacker who can cover sideline-to-sideline and contribute in both run defense and pass coverage would be a major boost.
Offense:
Seattle Seahawks Big Board
Byron Murphy – DT, Texas
Nicknamed “The Bulldozer” for a reason, Murphy stands at a stout 6’1″ and weighs in at 297 lbs. Despite lacking ideal height, his exceptional leverage and core strength allow him to anchor against the run and even battle off double teams. But Murphy isn’t a one-trick pony. He possesses surprising explosiveness off the snap, translating into disruptive pass rush potential and the ability to clog running lanes.
His heavy hands and relentless motor help him shed blockers and get after the quarterback. While his pass-rush repertoire might need some refinement, Murphy’s blend of power, athleticism, and versatility make him a potential starter who can contribute immediately in both run defense and pass-rushing situations.
Jared Verse – Edge, Florida State
A terror off the edge, he would be a potential top-10 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft if it weren’t so QB/WR heavy near the top. Listed at 6’4″ and 250 lbs, Verse boasts a well-proportioned frame with exceptional athleticism. His explosive first step allows him to win the battle off the snap consistently, quickly threatening the outside edge of the offensive line. Beyond his initial burst, Verse showcases a variety of pass rush moves to keep quarterbacks guessing.
He can overpower tackles with his bull rush or bend the corner with surprising agility. This versatility, coupled with his relentless motor that sees him chasing plays down to the whistle, makes him a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks and an ideal add for Seattle. Verse’s ability to disrupt the passing game and set the edge in the run defense makes him a potential difference-maker for any NFL team.
Seattle Seahawks 7-Round Mock Draft
Troy Fautanau – OL, Washington
At 6’4″ and 315 lbs, he boasts good size and surprising agility. Fautanu excels in zone-blocking schemes, using his footwork and quickness to seal off defenders and create running lanes. He’s also a tenacious run blocker, finishing blocks with power and a nasty streak. While his pass protection needs some refinement, his ability to learn quickly and his overall skillset make him a potential plug-and-play option at guard who can significantly improve an offensive line’s run blocking and provide solid pass protection.
Laiatu Latu – Edge, UCLA
Despite missing a season due to injury, Latu has transformed into a bona fide first-round prospect. At 6’3″ and 250 lbs, he possesses a strong, compact frame with good length. Latu’s explosiveness and relentless energy allow him to quickly diagnose plays and attack blockers with a variety of moves. His elite ankle flexion allows him to bend around tackles and get to the quarterback, while his hand placement is disruptive, consistently knocking down passes. Latu is a well-rounded edge rusher who can contribute in both run-defense and pass-rushing situations.
