NFL Mock Draft: Seahawks Select Oregon Center Jackson Powers-Johnson
The Seattle Seahawks are beginning a new era under head coach Mike Macdonald but despite a roster that is playoff-caliber, there are still some needs that have to be addressed.
One such need is along the Seahawks' offensive line. The unit gave up 38 sacks last season while the run game consistency also failed them.
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With three linemen, Damien Lewis, Evan Brown, and Phil Haynes all set to hit free agency, there is a pressing need to get Smith more help, and in CBS Sports' latest mock draft, Seattle gets one of the best interior linemen in the class - Oregon center Jackson Powers-Johnson.
"The Seahawks just fully guaranteed Geno Smith $12.7 million for 2024, and while that doesn't mean he'll definitely be on the roster -- he could still be traded -- it seems as though new head coach Mike Macdonald will be rolling with the veteran QB," CBS Sports writes. "Now he needs better protection, as the Seattle offensive line was among the worst in the NFL last season in quarterback pressure percentage and pass-blocking grade. Plus, all three of the team's interior offensive linemen are set to become free agents. Seattle addresses one of those needs with another Senior Bowl standout in Oregon center Jackson-Powers Johnson."
With Powers-Johnson, the Seahawks are getting one of the best centers in the draft as a 2023 Rimmington trophy winner. Add to that, the Seahawks' run game last season left a lot to be desired, and with the addition of Powers-Johnson, Seattle gets an explosive run blocker who will no doubt level up the interior.
While Powers-Johnson is good in the run game, pass protection is also a strength, and with his skill set, the Seahawks will be getting a dependable Day 1 starter for Smith and the offense.
This isn't a shiny pick, but with Ryan Grubb's background with offensive linemen and Macdonald's want to be a physical football team, adding the Oregon standout would be a great piece of business.
