With the NFL Draft approaching in under five weeks, 2025 appears to be a pivotal moment not just for the Seattle Seahawks but also for John Schneider. The outcome of their choices, coupled with the immediate need for these players to make an impact, carries significant weight for both the franchise’s future and Schneider’s role in Seattle.
In recent weeks, various mock drafts have suggested numerous directions the Seahawks might take with their 18th overall pick. Players ranging from versatile linebackers to tight ends, and even candidates to succeed DK Metcalf, have frequently been mentioned. Just last week, I predicted that Michigan’s Kenneth Grant would be selected by Seattle as their first pick.
Although I would be pleased to see head coach Mike Macdonald focus on building a championship-caliber defense with their first-round pick, I believe the Seahawks’ first-round pick is becoming clearer. It’s difficult to envision them selecting anyone other than an offensive lineman at this point.
The failure to secure guard Will Fries during free agency was disappointing, and a lack of significant signings (apologies to Josh Jones) has left many fans puzzled and worried. The Seahawks have seen multiple free agent guards visit only to sign elsewhere. During his recent interview on the John Schneider Show, Schneider mentioned, “The draft is strong. It feels like a really nice group.”
While this may not be significant to some, I interpreted Schneider’s words as a bold statement. The current state of this team makes it seem possible to end up with a record of 12-5 or 5-12, and securing a solid interior offensive line pick could tip the balance in favor of the former outcome. If the Seahawks decide to focus on the offensive line early in the draft, here are three potential players aligned with three different drafting approaches they might consider.
Option No. 1: Stick and pick with Grey Zabel
Each year, the Baltimore Ravens excel with their draft selections, being praised for the quality of their picks. Should Seattle choose to keep the 18th pick, I believe Grey Zabel would embody that Ravens-type selection.
Zabel, the leading player from North Dakota State’s FCS national championship squad, is a standout versatile interior offensive lineman (IOL) prospect. Standing at 6-6 and weighing 312 lbs, Zabel has amassed over 1,000 snaps playing both tackle positions and some experience at guard and center during his collegiate career.
Option No. 2: Slight trade back, draft Donovan Jackson
Seattle’s advantage in this draft lies in the depth of offensive line talent. If a situation arises where a team like the Chargers or Texans want to trade up for a wide receiver, Seattle could potentially secure a fourth-round pick while still selecting an offensive lineman on Day 1.
In this scenario, I believe Donovan Jackson fits perfectly. Notably, he has achieved Second-team All-Big Ten status in 2022 and First-team All-Big Ten in 2023 at left guard, along with a total of 40 starts to his name. A year ago, I was disappointed he decided to stay in school as I had him ranked among the top IOL options for the 2024 draft.
Option #3: Aggressive Day 2 trade up, selecting Tate Ratledge
This option could be both risky and exhilarating, and it’s likely to be the route Schneider may take. He has consistently emphasized a “best player available” approach in the draft. With Seattle holding picks No. 50 and No. 52, while they might be tempted to wait and see if their desired player might still be available, this could lead to a missed opportunity reminiscent of past draft mistakes.
The time to act feels critical, and getting it right could finally solve the offensive line issues Seattle has faced for years. It wouldn’t be surprising to see two of these three players in Seahawks uniforms soon, making this the most promising chance yet to rectify the offensive line. Only time will tell.
