The Seattle Seahawks experienced significant changes and turnover this offseason, with head coach Pete Carroll transitioning to a front office role and offensive coordinator Shane Waldron joining the Chicago Bears. Mike MacDonald took over as the new head coach, leading the team through their first draft under his leadership. Amidst these shifts, the Seahawks made notable moves before and during the 2024 NFL Draft, three of which stand out as key steps towards returning to postseason contention.
- Selecting Byron Murphy II: The Seahawks used their first-round pick to draft Byron Murphy II from Texas, opting for an interior lineman despite acquiring Leonard Williams from the New York Giants. Murphy’s versatility allows him to play on the edge or in the middle of the defensive line. He showcased his abilities during the 2023 season, excelling as both a run-stopper and a pass rusher, evident in his impressive performance against Washington. With the Seahawks prioritizing improvements in run defense and pass rush, Murphy’s selection addresses both areas, making him a valuable addition to the team.
- Drafting Christian Haynes: Following successful picks in previous drafts for offensive linemen Charles Cross and Abraham Lucas, the Seahawks aimed to bolster their interior offensive line in the 2024 draft. Christian Haynes, from UConn, emerged as one of the top guards available. His athleticism and on-field performance earned him recognition as one of the best guards in college football last season. Haynes is poised to compete for a starting position alongside Laken Tomlinson, potentially solidifying the Seahawks’ offensive line and providing depth in the crucial interior positions.
- Acquiring AJ Barner: AJ Barner, a former Michigan Wolverine, was selected by the Seahawks to reinforce their tight end group. While not known for flashy stats, Barner’s blocking abilities and reliability as a receiver make him a valuable asset. With Colby Parkinson departing for the Los Angeles Rams, Barner fills a similar role at a fraction of the cost, showcasing Seattle’s savvy business approach in finding depth behind Noah Fant without overspending.
Overall, these three moves demonstrate the Seahawks’ strategic approach to addressing key areas of improvement, positioning them for success in the upcoming season.
