NEWSLETTER
Seattle Seahawks 3-Round Mock Draft – With the 16th pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, General Manager John Schneider has a crucial decision to make – continue the rebuild by focusing on defense for new head coach Mike Macdonald, or invest in protecting their franchise quarterback, Geno Smith (or his eventual successor).
Schneider and Pete Carroll have been a successful draft day duo for the past 15 years, and while they’ve marched to the beat of their own drum, it’s hard to argue that it’s been a success overall. It’ll be interesting to see how Schneider approaches this draft without Carroll around this year.
With just two picks in the top 100, I think Seattle is an excellent candidate to trade back to recoup some of the missing picks. Otherwise, they’re a bit of a wildcard when on the clock at pick 16. Interior offensive line, EDGE rusher, and defensive back are the team’s most pressing needs, and trading back may allow them to address all these spots on Thursday and Friday if they can pull off a move from 16 to the mid-20s.
Here’s a breakdown of a Seattle Seahawks 3-Round Mock Draft using the PFF Mock Draft simulator:
2024 NFL Mock Draft: Seattle Seahawks 3-Round Mock Draft
Round 1, Pick 16: Troy Fautanu, OL, Washington
The offensive line has been a major concern for the Seahawks for several years. Geno Smith, despite a valiant effort in 2023, lacked consistent protection. With the 16th pick, the Seahawks prioritize this need by selecting Troy Fautanu, a versatile offensive lineman from the University of Washington.
Fautanu boasts elite hands and feet, displaying exceptional athleticism for his size. While projected as a tackle, his experience lining up at guard adds valuable versatility. He possesses the power to anchor against bull rushes and the footwork to neutralize speed rushers on the edge. His long arms and strong hands allow him to control defenders at the point of attack, creating a clean pocket for the quarterback and running lanes for the running back.
The Seahawks’ offensive line woes have hampered both the passing game and the running game. His versatility allows him to compete at guard or tackle, providing flexibility for the offensive line and immediate competition for starting spots.
Round 3, Pick 81: Xavier Thomas, EDGE, Clemson
While the offensive line remains a pressing need, the Seahawks can’t ignore the pass rush or lack thereof. Selecting Xavier Thomas, a relentless pass rusher from Clemson, injects youth and athleticism into a unit in need of a boost.
Thomas possesses a good combination of size (6’2″, 255 lbs) and speed, allowing him to overpower tackles with his strength or use his explosiveness to get around the edge. His relentless motor keeps him in the play, and he displays a variety of pass-rush moves to disrupt quarterbacks. While his run defense needs refinement, his ability to get to the quarterback is undeniable.
The Seahawks still possess veterans like Uchenna Nwosu and Boye Mafe, but their pass rush lacks consistent pressure. Thomas can be a rotational player in his rookie year, learning from veterans and developing his technique. As he matures, he has the potential to become a cornerstone of the Seahawks’ pass rush, reminiscent of the Legion of Boom days.
This Seahawks 3-round mock draft strategy prioritizes building a strong foundation for the Seahawks’ future success. Selecting Troy Fautanu immediately bolsters the offensive line, providing much-needed protection for Geno Smith or the Seahawks’ next franchise quarterback. While Xavier Thomas might not be an immediate starter, his potential as a pass rusher gives the Seahawks a crucial piece for their defensive rebuild.
The road back to contention won’t be easy, but by addressing their offensive line woes and adding a talented young pass rusher, the Seahawks take a significant step in the right direction. With a renewed focus on the trenches and a commitment to developing young talent, the Seahawks can rebuild the Legion of Boom and return to their place as a force in the NFC West.
