The Seahawks 2025 Draft Grades from Mel Kiper Jr. & Other Experts. And other analysts are in agreement: Seattle excelled.
With 11 new players, the Seahawks have created one of the most dynamic and comprehensive draft classes seen in recent years.
General Manager John Schneider and Head Coach Mike Macdonald emphasized resilience, adaptability, and high-potential talent, laying the groundwork for both short-term impact and sustained success.
A Roster Designed For Immediate Competition as well as Future Success
Following a 10-7 season in which they barely missed the playoffs, the Seahawks approached the 2025 NFL Draft with specific requirements: enhancements to the offensive line, impactful defensive players, and offensive assets to aid new quarterback Sam Darnold.
Fortunately, Schneider and his team implemented an almost impeccable draft strategy, acquiring immediate starters and promising developmental talents with significant potential.
Highlights That Captivated the Audience
• G Grey Zabel (Round 1, No. 18) – A standout from North Dakota State, Zabel is an immediate starter with exceptional athleticism for an interior lineman.
• His impressive 93.1 PFF pass-blocking grade over the last two seasons indicates he will significantly enhance a struggling offensive line.
• Zabel’s ability to step in right away makes him a valuable asset for any team in need of offensive line improvement.
• Quarterback Jalen Milroe, selected in the third round as the 92nd overall pick, is not anticipated to take on a starting role immediately. However, his dual-threat capabilities present the Seahawks with a promising developmental opportunity.
With a remarkable speed of 4.4 and a powerful throwing arm, he has the potential to evolve into a franchise quarterback in the future.
What the Experts Are Saying
Mel Kiper Jr. (ESPN) – Grade: A
Kiper commended Schneider for his bold strategy, especially regarding the trade-up for Emmanwori and the significant value discovered in Arroyo.
He further emphasized the noteworthy acquisitions made on Day 3, such as running back Damien Martinez, who has the potential to make an immediate impact as a powerful runner.
Chad Reuter (NFL.com) – Grade: A
Reuter expressed great enthusiasm for the selection of Zabel, describing it as an ideal match for the team’s schematic needs.
He further remarked that Milroe has the potential to be a valuable long-term acquisition, provided he improves his accuracy.
Sports Illustrated – Grade: A
The SI team drew a comparison between Emmanwori and Ravens standout Kyle Hamilton, highlighting how seamlessly he aligns with Macdonald’s defensive strategy.
Additionally, they praised the selection of Arroyo as a safeguard for the veteran Cooper Kupp, who is advancing in age.
PFF – Grade: A
Pro Football Focus has emphasized Zabel’s exceptional abilities in pass protection and Emmanwori’s proficiency in coverage, describing this group as one of the most comprehensive classes in the league.
Unexpected Late-Round Talents That May ImpressWhile the early picks grabbed headlines, Seattle’s Day 3 selections could pay dividends:
• RB Damien Martinez (Round 7)– A powerful running back who averaged 4.5 yards after contact in 2024, Martinez may establish himself in short-yardage situations.
• WR Ricky White III (Round 7)– A highly effective outside receiver from UNLV, White presents exciting potential as a developing pass-catcher.
• DT Rylie Mills (Round 5)– An energetic interior disruptor who recorded 7.5 sacks last season, Mills enhances the depth of the defensive line rotation.
Expert Editorial Comment
The Seahawks 2025 Draft Grades from Mel Kiper Jr. & Other Experts, and other analysts, demonstrate an exceptional combination of selections that cater to immediate needs and possess significant potential.
By focusing on essential areas of improvement, such as the offensive line and secondary, while also acquiring a promising quarterback for the future, Schneider and Macdonald have strategically set the Seahawks on a path toward long-term success.
Should even a portion of these selections prove successful, Seattle may find itself in the running for the Super Bowl much sooner than anticipated.