The Seattle Seahawks tied for the league-most selections in the 2025 NFL draft, adding 11 prospects to their roster. With a class that large, it’s a given that not every Seahawks rookie will be a starter or immediate contributor. General manager John Schneider and head coach Mike Macdonald did acquire a handful of instant upgrades, however.
We’ve identified three Seahawks rookies who should be immediate contributors in 2025.
Grey Zabel, G
The Seahawks drafted Grey Zabel to be a plug-and-play asset at left guard. There’s virtually no competition either, with Seattle’s other young blockers competing at right guard. Zabel is a terrific fit for Klint Kubiak’s offense, and the expectation is that he’ll hit the ground running.
Nick Emmanwori, S
Schneider traded up 17 spots to land former South Carolina safety Nick Emmanwori in the second round. The Seahawks have Coby Bryant and Julian Love at safety, but expect Emmanwori to play a role in big nickel and dime packages. Macdonald will find a way to get his versatile, athletic defensive back on the field.
Elijah Arroyo, TE
Elijah Arroyo projects as a mismatch nightmare for safeties and linebackers as a pass-catching tight end. Arroyo should compete with Noah Fant and AJ Barner for reps in Kubiak’s new-look offense. Sam Darnold will appreciate his reliability up the seam.