Seahawks Chart Draft Path After Early Free Agency Moves
Following a first week of free agency that focused on depth and flexibility rather than marquee signings, the Seattle Seahawks are taking shape for the 2026 NFL Draft with a clearer picture of roster needs. The team's early spending strategy—targeting rotational players, depth pieces, and special teams contributors—suggests the front office plans to find multiple future starters on draft day.
For this mock draft exercise, the PFF Draft Board was used as the reference point for player value and availability. Seattle originally held the 32nd overall pick but executed a trade down with the Houston Texans, moving from No. 32 to No. 38 while acquiring picks 104 and 128. That move added extra Day 2 and Day 3 capital for a roster that still needs young contributors across multiple positions.
Secondary Gets Boost With Johnson at 38
The Seahawks used their first pick on Chris Johnson, a cornerback from San Diego State. Johnson developed into one of the most productive corners in the Mountain West during his final collegiate seasons, recording 52 tackles, 4 interceptions, and 11 pass breakups in his most recent year. Playing primarily on the boundary, he consistently matched up against opposing top receivers and built his game around length, physicality at the line of scrimmage, and strong ball skills—traits that historically fit the Seahawks' prototype for outside cornerbacks.
Under head coach Mike Macdonald, Seattle's defense mixes coverages and disguises looks pre-snap, making corners capable of holding their own in man coverage while playing disciplined zone coverage critical to the system. Johnson's ability to disrupt routes early and attack the football at the catch point makes him a strong developmental candidate to eventually compete for a starting role on the outside.
Offensive Weapons Added in Middle Rounds
Seattle turned to offense with the second selection at pick 64, drafting running back Mike Washington from Arkansas. Washington emerged as a dynamic offensive weapon, finishing his most recent season with 1,280 rushing yards, 6.2 yards per carry, 13 rushing touchdowns, and 28 receptions for 240 yards. His game revolves around explosiveness and lateral agility, and he is particularly effective in zone-based rushing attacks where he can press the line of scrimmage, make a decisive cut, and accelerate into open space.
Seattle's offense has historically leaned on zone concepts and explosive run plays, making Washington a natural schematic fit. He also brings value as a receiver out of the backfield and has shown the ability to create yards after contact, providing another dynamic backfield option with big-play ability and long-term depth at the position.
Front Seven Reinforced With Barham
At pick 96, Seattle reinforced the front seven with Jaishawn Barham, an intriguing hybrid linebacker prospect from Michigan. What makes Barham particularly appealing for Seattle is his positional flexibility, with experience lining up as an off-ball linebacker and overhang defender.
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This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.