Schneider's Next Move: Which Veteran Pass Rusher Could Save Seattle's Defense
The Seahawks lost a serious piece on the edge this offseason. Boye Mafe signed a $60 million deal with the Cincinnati Bengals, and now Seattle's pass rush depth is looking thin. General manager John Schneider is likely going to address this, but here's the question: how aggressive will he be, and when will he make his move?
The Edge Rusher Uncertainty
Let's be real, the situation at edge rusher in Seattle feels messy right now. DeMarcus Lawrence and Uchenna Nwosu aren't locked in long-term based on how their contracts are structured. Derick Hall is heading into a contract year, which adds another layer of complexity. With four draft picks in 2026, Schneider needs to be strategic about capital allocation. He's going to want to preserve draft picks for 2027 and beyond, not blow resources on a splash signing right now.
The Waiting Game: Von Miller and Jadeveon Clowney
According to The Athletic's Michael-Shawn Dugar, the Seahawks could wait until after the draft before making their move. "It feels more likely the Seahawks will wait until after the draft and kick the tires on a veteran edge rusher who wouldn't impact the compensatory draft pick formula, such as Von Miller or Jadeveon Clowney," Dugar wrote. That's classic Schneider thinking right there. Timing matters when you're trying to maximize draft capital.
Clowney is an intriguing option. He posted 8.5 sacks for the Dallas Cowboys last season and is still available as a free agent. He has history with the Seahawks too, playing in Seattle back in 2019, so there's familiarity with how Schneider operates. Plus, Clowney typically doesn't rush to sign early in free agency anyway.
Von Miller is another name to watch. The veteran just notched nine sacks with the Washington Commanders in 2025 and remains on the market. Both of these guys bring proven production and the flexibility to sign later in the offseason without tanking your compensatory pick formula.
What's Next
Don't expect Seattle to panic and overpay early. Schneider will be patient, let the draft play out, and then kick the tires on a veteran edge rusher who can stabilize the pass rush. The Seahawks need to get this right as the division race heats up.
🐦 What fans are saying on X
See the latest reactions and highlights from Seattle fans about Seattle Seahawks.
View X conversation →🔮 Trade Seattle Sports on Kalshi
Did you know you can trade on Seattle sports outcomes on Kalshi, the only federally regulated prediction market in the US? Kalshi is available in Washington state. Bet on Seahawks games, Mariners season outcomes, Kraken playoff runs, and more. No sportsbook account needed.
💰 Limited offer: Get a FREE $10 when you sign up!
👉 Sign up at Kalshi.com and use promo code SEATTLEONTAP to claim your free $10.
This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.