The Seattle Seahawks, coming off a triumphant Super Bowl win in 2025 led by quarterback Sam Darnold, are preparing carefully for the 2026 NFL Draft set for April. With limited cap space but promising future financial flexibility, the Seahawks face high stakes in selecting from only four draft picks, especially the important 32nd overall spot, to maintain their emerging status as a dominant NFC contender.
Addressing Running Back Needs with Jadarian Price from Notre Dame
Seattle’s running back position remains uncertain as free agency approaches, particularly with Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III expected to sign elsewhere after the Seahawks declined his franchise tag. Additionally, Zach Charbonnet, recovering from a torn ACL and nearing the end of his rookie contract, may not be a long-term solution. This creates a compelling case for acquiring a fresh running back talent like Jadarian Price from Notre Dame.
Charles Davis of NFL.com compares Price’s potential impact to that of Rashaad Penny, Seattle’s 2018 pick. Price emerged as a strong second-tier prospect after an impressive Combine performance, showcasing power and versatility that would complement Seattle’s offense. If the Seahawks also secure a rotational back in free agency, Price could become a vital part of their ground game.
Wide Receiver Denzel Boston of Washington as a Local Talent to Watch
Wide receiver is another position Seattle needs to strengthen, despite Cooper Kupp’s presence for at least two more seasons. Kupp’s advancing age and Rashid Shaheed’s likely departure in free agency leave room for new receivers to develop. Trevor Sikkema of PFF highlights Denzel Boston, a physical possession receiver from Washington, as a prime candidate to fill this gap.
Boston’s style closely resembles that of Puka Nacua, another star in the NFC West noted by NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein. His ability to excel in the red zone and maintain tough coverage would pair well alongside Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Selecting Boston would also please fans eager to see a local player stay in Seattle, offering a mix of talent and hometown pride.
Building Offensive Line Depth with Emmanuel Pregnon from Oregon
The Seahawks’ interior offensive line has drawn criticism for inconsistency, but coach Mike Macdonald is committed to improving this unit. Emmanuel Pregnon, an Oregon guard projecting as an immediate starter, represents an appealing option to help stabilize Seattle’s run game and pass protection.
Tim Crean of ClutchPoints notes that key players Jalen Sundell and Anthony Bradford are set to become free agents in 2026, increasing the urgency for reinforcements. Although Pregnon’s status in the first-round mock drafts is uncertain, his potential to contribute right away and fit Seattle’s long-term plans could prompt the team to act decisively, especially after his pro day on March 17th.
Cornerback Options to Strengthen Seattle’s Secondary
The Seahawks may also prioritize bolstering their defense, particularly the secondary, which faces potential losses in free agency. Key cornerbacks Josh Jobe, Coby Bryant, and Riq Woolen will all test the market, with no guarantees they will return at what could be costly salaries.
Two notable cornerbacks considered likely to be available at the 32nd pick are Avieon Terrell from Clemson and Colton Hood from Tennessee. Ryan Wilson of CBS Sports and Danny Kelly of The Ringer praise Terrell’s competitive nature and ability to defend both pass and run despite being somewhat undersized. His aggressive mindset aligns with Seattle’s defensive philosophy under Macdonald’s coaching staff, making him an intriguing option if he falls to the late first round.
Jordan Reid of ESPN highlights Hood’s proficiency in press-man coverage and his strong tackling skills, developed partly from his history as an all-state center fielder. Hood’s ability to defend the run and his ball skills—evidenced by his 10 passes defensed and one interception in 2025—make him a solid candidate as well. Analysts differ on which exact pick Hood will land, but many project him to be available at or near Seattle’s selection, putting him in direct competition with Terrell.
What the 2026 Draft Means for the Seahawks’ Future
With only four picks in the upcoming draft, the Seahawks face an intense need to maximize their choices to sustain their recent Super Bowl success. Their $58.08 million in cap space is modest now, but their future financial outlook is promising if they navigate free agency wisely. Adding key contributors on offense, such as running back Jadarian Price or receiver Denzel Boston, alongside strategic reinforcements on the offensive line and secondary, will be crucial to maintaining their competitive edge.
The Seahawks’ ability to identify and secure talent like Emmanuel Pregnon or emerging cornerbacks Avieon Terrell or Colton Hood may determine whether their roster remains balanced and ready to challenge for NFC supremacy in the coming seasons. Seattle’s front office and coaching staff face a delicate balancing act between immediate needs and long-term planning, all reliant on the outcomes of this pivotal draft and the moves they make before free agency unfolds.
