April 25, 2025
NFL Draft week arrives with the Seattle Seahawks nearing their selection turn. The team holds the No. 18 overall selection in the first round, a pick that represents a pivotal moment in reshaping the roster under new leadership.
Recent drafts saw the Seahawks busy, thanks partly to extra picks gained from the Russell Wilson trade. Seahawks general manager John Schneider led efforts resulting in 27 selections over three years. This group produced significant players like Pro Bowlers Devon Witherspoon and Riq Woolen, and wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba.
Attention for the upcoming draft centers heavily on the offensive line. Persistent issues upfront prompt many analysts to project the Seahawks addressing this need early. The team seeks players who can thrive in the new zone-blocking scheme implemented by offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak.
North Dakota State lineman Grey Zabel has become a popular projection for Seattle. His versatility across all five line positions and impressive athleticism showcased at the NFL Combine and Senior Bowl makes him a compelling fit for Kubiak's scheme. Former NFL quarterback Brock Huard, among others, highlights Zabel's potential.
Alabama guard Tyler Booker also frequently appears in mock drafts linked to the Seahawks. While perhaps lacking Zabel's positional flexibility, Booker offers immediate power in the run game, according to analysts. Debate continues over which player offers better value or scheme fit for Seattle at pick 18.
Beyond the offensive line, receiver remains a potential area for reinforcement. Changes saw Geno Smith and DK Metcalf depart, bringing in Sam Darnold at quarterback and adding veteran Cooper Kupp to the receiver group alongside Smith-Njigba. Some projections feature receivers like Arizona's Tetairoa McMillan or Texas' Matthew Golden as fits for Seattle early in the draft process.
The team must weigh addressing their pressing need for interior offensive line help against adding another pass catcher or potentially trading down the draft board. Field Yates, an ESPN analyst, praised Zabel's Senior Bowl performance heavily. NFL Network's Daniel Jeremiah also spoke on the decision points facing Seattle.
"I would take Grey Zabel," Jeremiah said. "I think he can do everything. I love Booker in gap scheme and just (his) power, firm pocket, intelligence, leadership. All that stuff, off the charts. I'm still a Booker fan. I love Booker. But to me, Grey Zabel can give you the majority of that stuff, as well as the ability to get out in space and do things (in the) second level and pull 'em and just give you the versatility."
