Seahawks GM John Schneider isn’t keeping secrets about Seattle’s NFL Draft plans

The Seattle Seahawks enter draft week with a clear and calculated approach, as general manager John Schneider continues to emphasize flexibility, value, and roster depth. With limited selections in hand, Seattle appears poised to reshape its draft board through potential trade scenarios.

The Seahawks general manager addressed the media on Monday ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft and offered rare transparency about the team’s intentions. Seattle currently has four picks, including the No. 32 overall pick in the first round, placing added importance on maximizing each selection.

Beyond their first-round position, Seattle’s draft capital remains limited, with additional selections at Nos. 64, 96, and 188. The lack of picks in the middle rounds creates urgency and increases the likelihood of a trade-back scenario. As a result, moving down the board has become central to the Seahawks’ draft outlook.

ESPN’s Brady Henderson shared Schneider’s comments on X, formerly Twitter, noting the team’s openness to maneuvering during the upcoming draft.

“It’s no secret with us. We have four picks, so we’ll be looking to move back.”

Seahawks GM John Schneider, during his pre-draft press conference alongside HC Mike Macdonald:

"It’s no secret with us. We have four picks, so we’ll be looking to move back."

— Brady Henderson (@BradyHenderson) April 20, 2026

Schneider’s statement reinforces a long-standing philosophy rooted in acquiring volume and maintaining flexibility. Trading down from the first round would allow Seattle to accumulate additional assets while addressing multiple roster needs.

The Seahawks’ draft plan centers on fortifying premium positions, particularly running back, edge rusher and cornerback, which have clearly emerged as organizational priorities. By adding extra selections, Seattle would significantly increase its ability to land impact contributors at each of those spots and deepen a roster built to contend now and in future seasons.

This approach aligns with broader league trends. Teams picking late in the first round often trade back to add more selections, creating additional opportunities to build depth and long-term value.

The defending Super Bowl champions enter the draft as a competitive team with defined needs and a clear strategy. If Schneider executes a trade back, Seattle could transform a limited set of picks into a more impactful and balanced draft class for 2026 and beyond.

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