Now that the Seattle Seahawks season is over, the organization’s focus has turned to the upcoming NFL Draft, which will be held from Thursday, April 24, to Saturday, April 26. The Seahawks’ primary focus will be their offensive line, but they will also look to bolster their defensive line and potentially find their quarterback for the future. Here is who they should target in each round.
Round 1 Pick 18 – Tyler Booker, IOL, Alabama
At 6’5″ and 320 pounds, Booker is a force to be reckoned with on Alabama’s offensive line. His ability to dominate in the trenches and adapt to various blocking schemes has made him one of the most reliable linemen in the SEC, a conference known for producing NFL-ready talent. Booker thrives in run blocking, an area the Seahawks need to bolster. As a sophomore, he recorded an 89.3 run-blocking grade, according to Pro Football Focus (PFF), which ranked among the top interior linemen in college football. With Kenneth Walker III and Zach Charbonnet forming a dynamic backfield duo, adding Booker to the interior line would elevate the team’s run game.
Round 2 Pick 50 – Tate Ratledge, OL, Georgia
Drafting offensive linemen with the first two picks is unusual, but it’s the Seahawks’ biggest need, and Ratledge may be the best player available at this pick. Like Booker, Ratledge was named first-team All-SEC for the 2024 season and has played in many important games. His experience and ability to play both guard and tackle should make him NFL-ready on day one. Drafting Booker and Ratledge would solidify the interior offensive line, laying the foundation for success both in the run game and in pass protection for years to come.
Round 3 Pick 82 – Riley Leonard, QB, Notre Dame
With one year left on his contract, it looks like the Seahawks are going to move on from Geno Smith after next year’s season. Although Smith has been good for the Seahawks, his age and talent level prevent him from being a franchise quarterback. Drafting Leonard, who has shined in his one year at Notre Dame, would allow him to sit for a year and learn under Smith. Leonard’s ability to contribute both as a passer and a runner makes him a valuable asset for the Seahawks’ future. Leonard’s physical running nature complements Mike Macdonald’s play style and can help improve the Seahawks’ weak run game. Quarterbacks like Josh Allen, Lamar Jackson, and Jayden Daniels have proved that having a quarterback who can run the ball adds a different dimension to your team’s offense.
Round 4 Pick 136 – Anthony Lucas, EDGE, USC
At 6’5″ and 270 pounds, Lucas is a prototypical edge rusher with a rare combination of size and athleticism. His production has not been great, but his physical intangibles give him a high ceiling. Macdonald is a defensive-minded coach who can help him reach his full potential, which makes this pick enticing. Seattle has been searching for a consistent pass-rushing presence to complement their existing core, and he could potentially fill that void.
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