Seahawks predicted to pick DeMarcus Lawrence-like prospect in 2026 NFL draft

After winning 10 games in their first season under head coach Mike Macdonald, the Seattle Seahawks enter 2025 with a lot of confidence. They also have a vastly different roster. While most of the attention in that regard has been focused on their offensive changes, Seattle is also excited about a move they made on defense.

The Seahawks signed former Dallas Cowboys defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence, giving them someone capable of stuffing the run and generating a consistent pass rush. He fits Macdonald’s mold so well that Bleacher Report’s Matt Holder believes they will target someone similar to Lawrence in the 2026 NFL draft.

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In an early look at the next draft, Holder has the Seahawks taking Clemson EDGE T.J. Parker.

Clemson Tigers defensive end T.J. Parker pass rushes against the Pittsburgh Panthers. | Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

"Unless Derick Hall takes a big step forward this season, the Seahawks could use a young edge-defender for the long haul, seeing as Lawrence is already 33 years old," Holder said.

"Parker is similar to Lawrence in both size and play style, and he'd be a good value pick at No. 12."

Listed at 6-foot-3 and 265 pounds, Parker is coming off a breakout season for the Tigers. As a sophomore, he had 57 tackles and 11 sacks.

If he has another successful campaign in 2025, Parker will solidify himself as a top 20 pick, and would make a lot of sense for Seattle as they continue to bolster their defense.

Clemson Tigers defensive end T.J. Parker reacts after a play during the second quarter against SMU. | Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

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