Seahawks Duo Projected to Make Offensive All-Rookie Team
There are several ways to build a perennial contender in the NFL. From landing big names in free agency to blockbuster trades, to nailing the draft - there is no "wrong" way to construct a winner.
For the Seattle Seahawks, the latter of those three was a major component of their playoff berth last season. In the 2022 draft alone, they landed a potential franchise running back in Kenneth Walker III, a lockdown cornerback in Tariq Woolen and a pair of standout offensive tackles in Charles Cross and Abraham Lucas.
They once again did well in the 2023 draft, or at least on paper since no games have been played yet. This was evident by a pair of Seattle's picks landed on NFL.com's projections for the 2023 Offensive All-Rookie Team.
The first of their two All-Rookie Team selections is receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who they used a first-round pick on.
"Geno Smith returns to lead the Seahawks in 2023, with Smith-Njigba operating in the middle of the field while DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett make plays outside," NFL.com writes. "The former Buckeye will find holes in zones and separate from his man inside, giving Seattle a top-five WR trio by the end of the season."
Smith-Njigba gives the Seahawks a potent receiver trio, joining forces with DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett. One look at his dominant 2021 season and it isn't hard to see his potential to be special. He recorded 95 receptions for 1,606 yards and nine touchdowns.
As for their other selection, NFL.com was a big fan of their fourth-round selection of offensive guard Anthony Bradford.
"Seahawks GM John Schneider landed two starting tackles -- Charles Cross and Abraham Lucas -- in last year’s draft, and Bradford has a chance to compete for the starting spot at right guard this year," NFL.com writes. "Bradford missed minicamp practices after being in what head coach Pete Carroll called a “fender bender,” so it did not sound like he suffered any serious injuries. His massive frame and relatively nimble feet remind me of a young Gabe Jackson."
Games can be won or lost in the trenches, something the Seahawks have taken to heart. After getting their franchise cornerstone tackles last season, Bradford may very well lock down the right guard position to further bolster the offensive line, which will only allow more time for Smith-Njigba to get open.
You can find Connor Zimmerlee on Twitter @Connorjz98
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