What are the Seattle Seahawks’ main needs heading into the 2025 NFL draft? Which prospects have been identified as primary targets for the Seahawks at the No. 18 pick? How might Grey Zabel’s selection impact the Seahawks’ offensive line? What challenges does Tetairoa McMillan face regarding his draft stock? Why is Armand Membou considered a potential successor to Abe Lucas for the Seahawks?
The Seattle Seahawks own the No. 18 overall selection in the 2025 NFL draft. General manager John Schneider will be tasked with drafting an instant contributor at that spot. With the pre-draft circuit reaching its conclusion, we’ve identified three prospects who should be Seattle’s primary target in the first round.
Grey Zabel, IOL, North Dakota State
The Seahawks have been routinely tied to North Dakota State offensive lineman Grey Zabel throughout the pre-draft process. It makes sense, given Seattle’s dire need for interior offensive lineman. The majority of NFL scouts see Zabel making a long-term impact at center, where the Seahawks currently have Olu Oluwatimi and Jalen Sundell in contention for a starting gig.
Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona
It’s tough to sort through Tetairoa McMillan’s expected draft range. Once considered a potential top-five pick, scouts allegedly have questions over his athletic profile and off-field commitment. McMillan has been a popular mock-draft target for the Seahawks. If available at No. 18, he’d replace DK Metcalf as the offense’s vertical threat.
Armand Membou, OT, Missouri
Oft-injured right tackle Abe Lucas is entering a fate-deciding contract year. Can the Seahawks trust him to stay healthy? If Schneider wants to draft an eventual successor, Armand Membou would be a phenomenal choice. Membou may not be available after dominating the NFL Combine, but if so, he’d be a massive upgrade for a struggling offensive line.
As the Seattle Seahawks gear up for the 2023 NFL Draft, the anticipation surrounding their first-round pick at No. 18 overall is palpable. Following an exciting off-season filled with roster changes and strategic maneuvers, the Seahawks have a unique opportunity to bolster their team for the upcoming season. With various needs on both offense and defense, the team must carefully assess how to maximize this pick. Here, we examine the three best prospects the Seahawks could target at No. 18 to make an immediate impact.
### 1. Bijan Robinson, Running Back, Texas
One of the most electrifying players in college football, Bijan Robinson is destined to be an early first-round selection in the NFL Draft. The 6-foot, 215-pound running back demonstrated exceptional skills during his time at Texas, where he rushed for over 1,500 yards and scored 18 touchdowns in his final season. Robinson has the vision, speed, and agility to excel in the NFL, and he would provide the Seahawks with a true three-down back.
The Seahawks have struggled to find a consistent running game in recent years, and with the departure of veteran Chris Carson, the need for a dynamic playmaker in the backfield is more pressing than ever. Robinson’s ability to break tackles and contribute in the passing game makes him a versatile weapon who can take pressure off quarterback Geno Smith.
Pairing Robinson with the likes of DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett would create a formidable offensive trio, allowing the Seahawks to play to their strengths and establish a more balanced attack. In a division featuring defensive stalwarts, having an elite running back like Robinson could provide the Seahawks with a significant competitive edge.
### 2. Jalen Carter, Defensive Tackle, Georgia
While the Seahawks may have their sights set on bolstering their offense, the defensive line is another critical area needing attention, especially with the aging roster on the front. Jalen Carter, a dominant defensive tackle out of Georgia, would be an ideal selection at No. 18. Despite some off-field concerns surrounding him, his on-field performance speaks volumes; Carter is a game-changer capable of disrupting both the passing and running game.
Standing at 6’3” and 310 pounds, Carter possesses the strength and quickness to penetrate offensive lines and apply pressure on opposing quarterbacks. His presence in the middle of the Seahawks’ defensive front would help shore up a run defense that has at times struggled in recent seasons. Additionally, Carter’s ability to collapse pockets could give Seattle’s outside pass rushers an opportunity to capitalize on one-on-one matchups.
Another factor to consider is the Seahawks’ recent attempts to rebuild their defense, and combining Carter with developing talents could lead to a formidable defensive line. With a player of Carter’s caliber, Seattle could elevate its defensive performance, becoming more formidable in a competitive NFC West.
### 3. Christian Gonzalez, Cornerback, Oregon
As the NFL continues to evolve, the need for elite pass coverage has become paramount. The Seahawks have historically prided themselves on a strong secondary, but after parting ways with several veteran players, their cornerback depth has diminished. Enter Christian Gonzalez, a standout cornerback from Oregon who has the potential to become a cornerstone of the Seahawks’ defense.
Gonzalez stands at 6’2” with a remarkable blend of size, speed, and football intelligence. His ability to press at the line of scrimmage and his knack for playing the ball in the air make him a perfect fit for Seattle’s defensive scheme, which has thrived on the talent of its cornerbacks throughout the years.
Drafting Gonzalez would not only fill a significant need but also solidify the secondary for years to come. The ability to pair him with current talents like Tyrique Stevenson or even bring in a veteran could raise the level of play across the board, especially in a division with potent offenses.
### Conclusion
As the Seahawks approach the No. 18 pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, their selections could define their competitive window for years to come. Bijan Robinson, Jalen Carter, and Christian Gonzalez present the Seahawks with an opportunity to address immediate needs while laying the groundwork for future success. Whether it’s adding a game-changing running back to invigorate the offense, a disruptive force along the defensive line, or a shutdown cornerback to strengthen the secondary, the right selection has the potential to elevate the Seahawks to new heights as they seek to reclaim their place among the NFL’s elite. Each of these picks would not only fill a critical need but could also surprise spectators with the depth of talent available at No. 18. As fans eagerly await draft day, the excitement surrounding these prospects highlights the infinite possibilities that lie ahead for the Seahawks.
Certainly! Here are three promising prospects the Seahawks could consider with their 18th overall pick:
Offensive Tackle: Strengthening the offensive line is critical. A top-rated offensive tackle can provide protection for the quarterback and open up the run game. Someone like Peter Skoronski or Paris Johnson Jr. might be available and would add immediate value.
Edge Rusher: Adding a dynamic edge rusher could significantly enhance the defensive line. Players with a strong combination of speed and technique, such as Tyree Wilson or Myles Murphy, could be game-changers and help generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
- Cornerback: Upgrading the secondary is essential for defending against the pass-heavy offenses in the league. A top cornerback like Christian Gonzalez or Joey Porter Jr. could bolster the defense and provide stability in the backfield for years to come.
Selecting from these positions can help the Seahawks build a stronger roster and address critical areas of need.