Going into the 2026 NFL Draft, there was speculation that the Seattle Seahawks would trade out of the first round. GM John Schneider said in his Monday presser, “It’s no secret with four picks, we’ll be looking to trade back”. With the Seahawks stuck with just four picks in total in this year’s draft, making a deal to acquire more picks was a strong possibility. However, several teams traded up in front of Seattle, making a trade more difficult. Both the Jets and Titans moved up to picks 30 and 31 to make additional first-round selections.
The Seahawks use their first round pick on a running back
Though the Seahawks were unable to make a deal to acquire more picks, they found a good way to use their first selection. Taking RB Jadarian Price from Notre Dame with the final pick on day one of the draft. Price had a successful career playing for the Fighting Irish. He ran for 1,692 yards, had 21 TDs rushing, and also had 15 catches for 162 yards and three TDs receiving. Price slots in right away as one of Seattle’s primary running backs.
The Seahawks hope Price can make up for Kenneth Walker’s production
Following a Super Bowl MVP performance and helping the Seahawks to their second Lombardi Trophy, Kenneth Walker left in free agency. Signing a three-year, $45 million contract with the Kansas City Chiefs. Walker finished 2026 with 1,007 yards rushing, ran for 10 TDs, and had 282 yards receiving on 32 catches. Seattle is counting on Price to help replace the productivity Walker had last season. The Rookie RB joins Zach Charbonnet, George Holani, Emanuel Wilson, and Kenny McIntosh in the Seahawks RB room.
John Schneider shares his thoughts on his first-round pick
When day one of the draft was over, the Seahawks GM and head coach, Mike MacDonald, took questions from the media at a press conference. Schneider talked about what went into his selection of Price and how the day unfolded:
“We thought we had some opportunities for a minute. They fell apart. There’s a lot of like, a lot of trading going on there, and like, right ahead of us. But, uh, I mean he was, he kind of stood alone, I mean great, great player. The person is outstanding, the competitor, he’s just, I mean he’s a Seahawk. It’s really cool,” said Schneider.
The Seahawks GM made a point of saying he had opportunities to make a trade, but ultimately, they did not work out. Despite not making a deal, Seattle was able to get the player they wanted to fill a need at running back. Schneider and MacDonald both like the versatility Price will bring to the offense.
Price is a dynamic running back
The Rookie RB can be used in different run schemes based on his skill set. Price is explosive as a runner and averaged six yards per carry at Notre Dame. He has also been getting better as a pass catcher. While Price had just 15 catches in his college career, Schneider was impressed by his pro day and the work he did to improve in the passing game. The Seahawks should be able to find multiple ways to get Price involved with the offense.
What’s next for Seattle
The Seahawks have just three picks remaining in the 2026 NFL Draft. They have two selections on day two of the draft at pick 64 in round two and pick 96 in round three. Seattle still needs to target the defensive back position after losing CBs Riq Woolen and Coby Bryant in free agency. The Seahawks would also be smart to add a defensive end after losing Boye Mafe this past offseason. How Schneider maneuvers on day two will be interesting to watch.
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