By ATTS 
Evaluating the Seattle Seahawks’ Defensive Needs Ahead of the Draft
With the NFL Draft rapidly approaching, all eyes are on the Seattle Seahawks and their strategic plans. While much of the pre-draft chatter revolves around bolstering their offensive line, it’s crucial to recognize the significant strides the Seahawks defense made last season under Mike Macdonald. Their improved rankings in points allowed, points per drive, and DVOA highlight a resurgence, marking a departure from the struggles seen during the final years of the Pete Carroll era. But let’s be clear: the journey to defensive dominance isn’t complete. There are still areas needing attention, and the draft presents an opportunity to address them.
Why should we focus on defense when the offensive line is a hot topic? It’s simple. The Seahawks won’t exclusively target offensive players in the draft. Logic dictates that they will allocate resources to strengthen their defense. So, what specific positions should they prioritize? Let’s dive into a detailed analysis, player by player, to identify the most pressing needs.
The burning question remains: Where should the Seahawks focus their defensive draft picks? Do they need to shore up the cornerback position, add depth to the safety ranks, or inject talent into the defensive line and linebacker corps? Considering the current roster composition and the contracts of key players, the answer isn’t as straightforward as it seems. What factors will influence their decisions, and which players might be on their radar? Let’s explore the possibilities.
Cornerback: A Potential Need in the Long Term
The cornerback position presents an intriguing scenario for the Seahawks. While Riq Woolen and Devon Witherspoon appear to be secure as starters for the 2025 season, the long-term outlook is less certain. Woolen’s contract is up this season, adding a layer of complexity to the situation. Josh Jobe is essentially on a “prove it” deal, while Tre Brown and Artie Burns are set to depart. The limited playing time of Nehemiah Pritchett as a rookie raises questions about his potential. This uncertainty suggests that the Seahawks may need to consider adding cornerback talent in the draft, particularly if they don’t see Pritchett developing into a reliable option. What qualities will they prioritize in a cornerback prospect, and how high will they be willing to draft one?
Furthermore, who are some of the top cornerback prospects in this year’s draft, and how do their skill sets align with the Seahawks’ defensive scheme under Mike Macdonald? Will they target a physical cornerback who excels in press coverage, or will they prioritize a more versatile player who can thrive in both man and zone schemes? How will their evaluation of Woolen’s long-term potential influence their decision-making process at the cornerback position?
The answers to these questions will provide valuable insight into the Seahawks’ draft strategy and their overall vision for the cornerback position moving forward. It’s a position to watch closely as the draft unfolds.
Safety: Solid Starters, but Depth is Key
At safety, Julian Love and Coby Bryant form a solid starting duo. Bryant’s emergence as a reliable starter after Rayshawn Jenkins’ injury was a significant boost for the Seahawks defense last season. While Jenkins is gone and K’Von Wallace wasn’t re-signed, D’Anthony Bell might be the team’s new big nickel. Ty Okada, Jerrick Reed II, and A.J. Finley are also in the mix, but they’ll primarily be competing for roster spots. Reed’s special teams contributions give him an edge, but his injury history is a concern. Therefore, it’s pertinent to ask: Is the safety position truly secure, or should the Seahawks look to add more depth and competition through the draft?
Moreover, what specific qualities are the Seahawks looking for in a backup safety? Do they need a player who can excel on special teams, or are they prioritizing a safety with the potential to develop into a starter down the line? Will they target a versatile safety who can play both strong safety and free safety, or will they focus on finding a specialist at either position? And perhaps the most pressing issue: Can players like Okada and Finley develop into reliable players, or should the Seahawks look for a different option?
Assessing the Seahawks’ needs at safety requires a careful evaluation of the existing roster, the coaching staff’s preferences, and the available talent in the draft. Ultimately, the goal is to create a deep and competitive safety group that can withstand injuries and contribute on both defense and special teams.
Interior Defensive Line: Beyond the Core Three
The interior defensive line is anchored by Leonard Williams, Jarran Reed, and Byron Murphy. However, the depth behind these three is questionable, especially if Johnathan Hankins isn’t re-signed. Mike Morris has barely seen meaningful snaps, Cameron Young has been plagued by injuries, and Quinton Bohanna and Brandon Pili are battling for roster spots. This raises a crucial question: Is the Seahawks’ interior defensive line deep enough to withstand injuries and maintain a consistent level of performance throughout the season?
Furthermore, What types of players are Bohanna and Pili? Are they suitable to add depth, or should they be moved on? What are the Seahawks’ plans for Morris and Young? Ultimately, their answers will determine what the Seahawks do with their defensive line.
Strengthening the interior defensive line would not only improve the Seahawks’ run defense but also enhance their pass rush. By adding depth and talent to this position group, the Seahawks can ensure that they have a consistent and disruptive presence in the trenches throughout the season.
Pass Rush: Strong, but Not Elite
Seattle’s pass rush is a strong area, but it’s not quite elite. Boye Mafe and Derick Hall were productive in 2024, Uchenna Nwosu struggled with injuries, and DeMarcus Lawrence has been added to the mix. However, there isn’t a singularly dominant player among this quartet. Jamie Sheriff showed promise in the preseason but didn’t translate that into regular-season playing time. This leads to a fundamental question: Should the Seahawks invest in a top-tier pass rusher in the draft, or should they focus on developing the talent they already have?
Moreover, what exactly is Jamie Sheriff’s ceiling? How can the Seahawks help unlock his potential? Is there anyone in the upcoming draft that fits the Seahawks’ needs? These are important questions that can define the Seahawks’ season.
Investing in a premier pass rusher could elevate the Seahawks’ defense to a new level. However, it would also require a significant investment of draft capital. The Seahawks must carefully weigh the potential benefits of adding a top-tier pass rusher against the other needs on their roster.
Off-Ball Linebacker: A Clear Need
The off-ball linebacker position is thin beyond Tyrice Knight and Ernest Jones IV. Patrick O’Connell and Drake Thomas have shown flashes in the preseason, but O’Connell has never played a regular-season defensive snap, and Thomas has only seen extended action in one game. This means the Seahawks are looking at two starters and a bunch of special teams contributors. This begs the question: Is this linebacker corps sufficient to compete against the NFL’s elite offenses, or should the Seahawks prioritize adding talent and depth through the draft?
What does O’Connell need to show in order to make an impact? What are the Seahawks looking for when they decide on linebackers? If the Seahawks truly want to be contenders, this is an important position to consider.
By investing in the linebacker position, the Seahawks can improve their run defense, pass coverage, and overall defensive versatility. It’s a move that could pay dividends for years to come.
Drafting for Defense: Prioritizing Needs for the Seahawks
As the NFL Draft approaches, the Seattle Seahawks face crucial decisions regarding their defensive strategy. While the spotlight often shines on offensive improvements, the team’s defensive needs cannot be ignored. From cornerback to linebacker, several positions require attention to ensure a well-rounded and competitive roster. The key lies in identifying the most pressing needs and strategically utilizing their draft picks to address them. Should they prioritize a long-term solution at cornerback, add depth and talent to the defensive line, or bolster the linebacker corps with playmakers? The answers to these questions will shape the Seahawks’ defensive identity and determine their success in the upcoming season. Ultimately, a balanced approach that considers both immediate needs and future potential will be crucial for the Seahawks to build a dominant defense and compete for championships.