Seahawks 2022 Draft Picks: A Deep Dive

What's up, football fanatics! Let's dive deep into the Seahawks 2022 draft picks and see what the team was cooking up that year. The 2022 NFL Draft was a pivotal moment for the Seattle Seahawks, a chance to rebuild and reload for the future. With several high-profile departures and a need to inject new talent, the Seahawks' selections were under a microscope. This draft class was all about finding foundational pieces, addressing key positional needs, and maybe even unearthing a few hidden gems. We'll break down each pick, analyze their potential impact, and discuss how they fit into the team's long-term vision. So, grab your favorite team jersey and let's get into it, guys!

Round 1, Pick 9: Charles Cross, OT (Mississippi State)

Talk about a statement pick! The Seahawks kicked off their 2022 draft haul by selecting Charles Cross, an offensive tackle out of Mississippi State, with the ninth overall pick. This was a massive move, addressing a critical need for the team. For years, offensive line play had been a bit of a rollercoaster for Seattle, and securing a top-tier tackle was paramount. Cross, at 6'5" and 307 pounds, possesses the ideal frame and athleticism for the left tackle position. His tape showed incredible footwork, impressive strength, and a tenacious attitude. He was widely considered one of the best pass-blocking tackles in the draft, boasting incredible agility and the ability to mirror edge rushers. His college production was stellar, facing some of the best competition in the SEC, and he consistently held his own. The expectation was that Cross would immediately step in and become a cornerstone of the offensive line, providing much-needed stability and protection for whoever was under center. He wasn't just a plug-and-play guy; he was seen as a potential Pro Bowl-caliber player who could anchor the line for a decade. His versatility was also a plus, with the ability to play both left and right tackle if needed, though his future was undoubtedly pegged at left tackle. The Seahawks clearly saw a star in the making, and this selection signaled their commitment to rebuilding the trenches. It's always exciting when a team invests such a high pick in the offensive line, as it's the foundation upon which any successful offense is built. Cross's arrival was meant to be the first domino in revitalizing Seattle's protection schemes.

Round 2, Pick 40: Boye Mafe, EDGE (Minnesota)

Moving on to the second round, the Seahawks snagged Boye Mafe, an edge rusher from Minnesota, at pick number 40. Now, edge rusher is another position that has seen its fair share of changes in Seattle, and Mafe represented a chance to add some serious disruption to the defensive front. Standing at 6'4" and 261 pounds, Mafe brought a compelling blend of size, speed, and power to the table. What really stood out about him was his raw athleticism and potential. He had a relatively high ceiling, and the Seahawks' coaching staff likely saw him as a player they could develop into a dominant force. In college, he showed flashes of brilliance, with explosive first steps and the ability to bend around offensive tackles. He wasn't always the most consistent player, but when he was on, he was incredibly impactful. His strength was undeniable, allowing him to shed blocks and get after the quarterback. The Seahawks were looking for playmakers on defense, guys who could create pressure and force turnovers, and Mafe fit that mold. He had the tools to become a nightmare for opposing offenses. The idea was to pair him with other talented pass rushers and allow him to grow within the system. His development would be key, but the potential upside was enormous. He had the size and the power to be a strong run defender as well, making him a more complete package. The selection of Mafe signaled Seattle's intent to bolster their pass rush and create a more formidable defensive unit. It was a pick with a high reward potential, banking on his athletic gifts and ability to refine his technique.

Round 3, Pick 72: Kenneth Walker III, RB (Michigan State)

Alright, football fans, let's talk about one of the most exciting picks of the Seahawks' 2022 draft class: Kenneth Walker III, a running back from Michigan State, selected at pick 72 in the third round. This was a move that sent shockwaves through the league and, let's be honest, got a lot of Seattle fans hyped! Walker is an absolute stud. He's a powerful, shifty, and electrifying running back who can do it all. Standing at 5'10" and 211 pounds, he might not have the towering frame of some backs, but he makes up for it with pure grit, vision, and acceleration. In his final season at Michigan State, Walker was an absolute monster, rushing for over 1,600 yards and 19 touchdowns, even earning the Doak Walker Award as the nation's best running back. His ability to break tackles, make defenders miss in open space, and accelerate through holes is simply phenomenal. He's the kind of player who can change the game on any given play. The Seahawks were clearly looking to revitalize their run game, and Walker was the perfect guy to do it. He brought an immediate impact and was expected to be the lead back from day one. His tough running style, combined with his elusiveness, made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. He could be a workhorse, carrying the load and consistently moving the chains. This pick was a home run in terms of value, as many considered Walker a first-round talent. He offered a much-needed explosive element to Seattle's offense, and his addition was a clear sign that the team was prioritizing a strong, consistent ground attack. The synergy he could create with the passing game was also a huge plus, opening up play-action opportunities and keeping defenses honest. Walker's selection was more than just adding a running back; it was adding a game-changer.

Kenneth Walker III's Impact on the Seahawks

Man, Kenneth Walker III didn't just make an impact on the Seahawks in 2022; he was the impact! This guy burst onto the scene like a lightning bolt and quickly became the heart and soul of the offense. After a somewhat slow start to the season for the team, Walker's electrifying runs started changing the momentum of games. He ran with a blend of power and elusiveness that was simply uncontainable for most defenses. His ability to churn out tough yards between the tackles, break free for long gains, and consistently fall forward was incredible to watch. He earned himself the nickname "King Kenny" for a reason, guys! He finished his rookie year with over 1,000 rushing yards, which is a massive accomplishment, especially for a rookie on a team that was still finding its footing. He was a massive reason why the Seahawks' run game went from mediocre to one of the best in the league. His presence opened up the offense significantly, making play-action passes more effective and keeping defenses from solely focusing on stopping the pass. He was a constant threat, and you could see the confidence he brought to the entire team. Walker wasn't just running the ball; he was carrying the team on his back at times. His vision, his footwork, and his sheer determination were on full display week after week. He earned himself a spot on the PFWA All-Rookie Team and even finished third in Offensive Rookie of the Year voting. That's pretty darn impressive, right? He truly lived up to the hype and exceeded expectations, proving that he was absolutely worth that third-round investment and then some. His emergence was one of the biggest silver linings of the 2022 season for Seattle, and he's set to be a cornerstone of this team for years to come.

Round 3, Pick 109: Jalen Ramey, CB (Purdue)

In the third round, at pick 109, the Seahawks added Jalen Ramey, a cornerback from Purdue. Cornerback is another position where depth and talent are always crucial, especially in a league that's so pass-heavy. Ramey brought a solid skillset to the defensive backfield. Standing at 5'11" and 192 pounds, he showed good speed and agility, which are essential for shutting down receivers. In his college career, he displayed sticky coverage skills, the ability to break up passes, and a willingness to come up and make tackles in run support. He was seen as a smart player who understood route concepts and could anticipate throws. The Seahawks were looking to build a more competitive secondary, and Ramey was a piece that could contribute to that effort. He wasn't necessarily seen as a shutdown corner right away, but more of a versatile defensive back who could play outside or in the slot. His potential to develop into a reliable starter was definitely there. The team likely saw him as a player who could learn from the veteran corners on the roster and gradually earn more playing time. His physicality at the catch point and his instincts were qualities that the Seahawks' defensive staff would want to develop further. This pick was about adding competition and depth to the cornerback room, and Ramey had the tools to potentially become a valuable contributor.

Round 4, Pick 112: Abraham Lucas, OT (Washington State)

Moving into the fourth round, the Seahawks continued to invest in the trenches by selecting Abraham Lucas, an offensive tackle from Washington State, at pick 112. This pick, coming so close to Ramey's, showed a clear strategy of building both lines. Lucas, at 6'7" and 315 pounds, has the ideal size for an offensive tackle. What made him stand out was his strong performance against Pac-12 competition. He was a consistent pass protector for the Cougars, showcasing good hand work and the ability to anchor down against defensive linemen. While he might not have had the same explosive athleticism as some of the higher-drafted tackles, Lucas brought a different kind of strength and stability to the position. He was viewed as a player with a high floor, meaning he was likely to be a solid contributor relatively quickly. The Seahawks were looking for players who could step in and compete, and Lucas fit that description. He could play either right or left tackle, offering valuable versatility. His development would focus on refining his technique and improving his lateral agility, but the foundation was clearly there. The combination of Cross and Lucas provided Seattle with two promising young tackles, signaling a significant upgrade to their offensive line. It was a smart move to continue adding depth and talent to protect the quarterback and open up running lanes.

Round 4, Pick 132: Coby Bryant, CB (Cincinnati)

With their second fourth-round pick, at 132 overall, the Seahawks selected Coby Bryant, another cornerback, this time from Cincinnati. This back-to-back cornerback selection underscored the team's commitment to solidifying their secondary. Bryant, standing at 6'0" and 193 pounds, is known for his physical style of play and his excellent ball skills. In college, he was a playmaker, recording multiple interceptions and pass breakups. He wasn't afraid to get his hands on receivers at the line of scrimmage and showed a good understanding of coverage schemes. The Seahawks' coaching staff likely saw him as a corner with the potential to develop into a strong starter, especially given his physical tools and instincts. He had the size to match up with bigger receivers and the tenacity to compete in the physical NFC West. Bryant's ability to contribute on special teams was also a factor, making him a valuable addition to the roster. He represented a good value pick in the fourth round, offering the potential for significant contribution without the high draft capital risk. He was expected to compete for playing time and provide depth, with the hope of developing into a key piece of the secondary in the future. The organization clearly believed they could mold him into a reliable defender for years to come.

Round 5, Pick 153: Matt Schneider, LB (Missouri)

In the fifth round, at pick 153, the Seahawks opted for Matt Schneider, a linebacker from Missouri. Linebacker is a position that requires a great deal of football intelligence and physicality, and Schneider brought both to the table. At 6'3" and 231 pounds, he has the ideal size for an inside linebacker. He was known for his sure tackling, his ability to read plays, and his leadership on the field. In his college career, Schneider was a consistent performer, racking up tackles and showing a nose for the ball. He was a player who understood his assignments and executed them effectively. The Seahawks were looking to add depth and competition to their linebacker corps, and Schneider was a player who could do just that. He wasn't necessarily a flashy player, but he was a reliable one, the kind of guy who does the dirty work and makes the plays that don't always show up in the box score. His potential to contribute on special teams was also a plus. The organization saw him as a player who could provide immediate depth and potentially develop into a contributor on defense as he adjusted to the NFL game. He was a smart, hardworking player who fit the mold of the type of player Seattle often looks for.

Round 5, Pick 178: Bo Melton, WR (Rutgers)

As the fifth round continued, at pick 178, the Seahawks selected Bo Melton, a wide receiver from Rutgers. Wide receiver is always an exciting position to watch in the draft, and Melton brought a different kind of spark to Seattle's receiving corps. At 5'11" and 189 pounds, Melton is a quick and agile receiver with good hands. He showed flashes of playmaking ability during his time at Rutgers, capable of making tough catches in traffic and gaining yards after the catch. He was also a capable return specialist, adding value in that area of the game. The Seahawks were looking to add depth and competition to their receiver group, and Melton provided that. He was seen as a developmental prospect who could potentially carve out a role on offense or contribute on special teams. His speed and agility made him a threat in the slot, and his willingness to compete for contested balls was a positive trait. The organization believed they could help him refine his route running and further develop his overall game. This pick represented a chance to add a versatile player with the potential to contribute on offense and special teams. He was a player who could provide depth and a different dimension to the receiving unit.

Round 6, Pick 229: Dareke Holmes, EDGE (North Carolina A&T)

In the sixth round, at pick 229, the Seahawks took a chance on Dareke Holmes, an edge rusher from North Carolina A&T. This was a late-round flyer, a pick with a bit of a project feel but with potential upside. Holmes, standing at 6'3" and 270 pounds, showed some intriguing physical tools during his college career. He was a dominant force at the FCS level, and the Seahawks were hoping to see if he could translate that production to the NFL. He displayed good athleticism and a strong motor, which are always desirable traits for an edge rusher. The team likely saw him as a player who could benefit from NFL coaching and development. His strength and size suggested he could potentially develop into a solid run defender or even a pass rusher with the right training. Late-round picks like Holmes are often about finding raw talent and seeing if you can mold it into something special. He represented a low-risk, potentially high-reward selection. The Seahawks were not expecting him to be an immediate contributor, but rather a developmental piece for the future. His journey would be about proving himself and making the most of his opportunity.

Round 7, Pick 233: Ty Jones, WR (Cincinnati)

Finally, with the last pick of the 2022 NFL Draft, pick 233 overall, the Seahawks selected Ty Jones, a wide receiver from Cincinnati. This was a classic late-round flier, a pick made with very little pressure and a lot of hope. Jones, at 6'5" and 200 pounds, has the size that scouts love. He showed some promising hands and the ability to make contested catches during his time at Cincinnati. The Seahawks were looking to add depth to their receiving corps, and Jones provided that. He was seen as a developmental prospect who could potentially surprise some people. The team likely saw him as a player who could compete for a practice squad spot or even push for a roster spot if he showed significant improvement during training camp. Late-round receivers are often long shots, but every team needs to take a swing on guys with physical tools and the potential to develop. Jones represented that type of gamble for Seattle. He was a player with a very long road ahead, but the reward, if he panned out, could be substantial. It was a low-risk move to round out their draft class with a player who had intriguing physical attributes.

Overall Seahawks 2022 Draft Class Analysis

The Seahawks 2022 draft picks class was a solid effort, guys, aimed at addressing key needs and injecting youth into the roster. They started strong with Charles Cross at offensive tackle, immediately shoring up a crucial position. The selection of Kenneth Walker III in the third round was an absolute home run, as he quickly emerged as one of the league's most exciting young running backs and a true offensive cornerstone. The team also made smart additions to their secondary with Jalen Ramey and Coby Bryant, adding depth and competition. Abraham Lucas was another smart pick on the offensive line, providing depth and future potential. While some later-round picks like Boye Mafe and Dareke Holmes are more developmental projects, they offer intriguing upside. Overall, this draft class brought in a mix of immediate impact players and promising developmental prospects. The Seahawks did a good job of addressing both the offensive and defensive lines, while also finding explosive talent in the backfield. It was a draft that set the stage for future success and showed a clear vision for rebuilding the team with young, talented players.