The Seattle Seahawks need to develop various guards on the roster if their offensive line is to take the desired step forward in 2025. The left guard spot will be filled by 2025 NFL draft first-round pick Grey Zabel. That’s a foregone conclusion, with Zabel expected to establish himself as an above-average starter right away.
The right guard position is more difficult to forecast. The Seahawks appear headed for a battle there between Anthony Bradford and Christian Haynes. It was a lackluster competition last offseason, with neither blocker meeting expectations in 2024. New offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak is introducing his scheme, and that offers both Bradford and Haynes a much-needed fresh start.
It would be surprising if Bradford emerged as the starter after stringing together two disappointing campaigns in 2023 and 2024. There’s hope for Haynes, who’s entering his sophomore season. Haynes was a poor fit under previous OC Ryan Grubb. The arrival of Kubiak could help lead to second-year growth.
If Haynes and Bradford fail to seize their fresh start, sixth-round rookie Bryce Cabeldue could be the developmental guard to capitalize. Kubiak inherited both Haynes and Bradford. He potentially played a role in the drafting of Cabeldue.
Cabeldue was a four-year starter at right tackle at Kansas. The athletic blocker is making the transition to guard at the NFL level. Cabeldue could potentially throw a wrench into the situation at right guard.
The Seahawks possess a ton of ascending interior offensive linemen. Jalen Sundell, Olu Oluwatimi, and Sataoa Laumea will also play a role inside. Cabeldue is a high-upside athlete who posted unimaginable testing numbers at the Big 12 pro day. Cabeldue may eventually prove to be the Seahawks’ best developmental guard.