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Analysis: Grading Every Seahawks First Round Pick

Reflecting on 47 years of history, how have the Seahawks fared with their 42 total first-round selections?

Since the franchise’s inception in 1976, the Seahawks have made 42 selections in the first round of the NFL Draft, including selecting multiple players in the opening round on four occasions.

While Seattle hasn’t used many first rounders in recent history with general manager John Schneider at the helm, including not having a first-round pick in 2021 thanks to a trade for safety Jamal Adams, the organization has landed some impressive talents over the years while also drafting its fair share of duds along the way.

Looking back at the team’s 47-year history, how does each Seahawk first round pick stack up? Here’s a quick peek at every player ever selected by Seattle along with a grade based on overall production, awards, years with the franchise, and locker room impact.

1976: Steve Neihaus, Defensive Tackle, Notre Dame (No. 2 Overall)

Analysis: After being named an All-American for the Fighting Irish, Neihaus became Seattle’s first ever draft pick in the 1976 NFL Draft. He became an immediate starter for the expansion team and garnered NFC Defensive Rookie of the Year honors, but knee injuries derailed his career shortly after. He played only two more years in Seattle and three years total before being forced to retire.

Grade: C

1977: Steve August, Tackle, Tulsa (No. 14 Overall)

Analysis: August had a steady, if unspectacular eight-year NFL career and still holds the Seahawks franchise record with 90 starts at right tackle. He didn’t play in any Pro Bowls before retiring in 1985, but he was a serviceable starter for several playoff teams in Seattle.

Grade: B-

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Seattle Seahawks defensive end Jacob Green (79) in action against the Los Angeles Raiders at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.
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Shaun Alexander
Steve Hutchinson
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Earl Thomas
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Seattle Seahawks running back Rashaad Penny (20) during the second half at CenturyLink Field. Seattle defeated Tampa Bay 40-34.
Jordyn Brooks

2020: Jordyn Brooks, Linebacker, Texas Tech (No. 27 Overall)

Analysis: Schneider isn't a stranger when it comes to catching draft pundits and fans off guard, but he may have topped himself drafting an off-ball linebacker in Brooks. Many viewed his skill set as redundant with Bobby Wagner still on the roster and Cody Barton being drafted one year earlier, but he came on strong in the second half of his rookie season, finishing with 57 tackles, two passes defensed, and two tackles for loss. Taking over as the full-time weakside linebacker in his second season, the Houston native established a new franchise record with 184 tackles and received the first of what could be many All-Pro votes for the rising young star.

Grade: B