The Seattle Seahawks made headlines during the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft by selecting North Dakota State offensive lineman Grey Zabel with the 18th overall pick. This strategic choice aims to bolster the Seahawks' offensive line, particularly around their new quarterback, Sam Darnold. Zabel, a versatile player who has showcased his talent at multiple positions along the line, is expected to be a key asset for Seattle as they look to enhance their performance in the upcoming season.
Grey Zabel's journey to the NFL is a testament to his hard work and dedication. Over his five years at North Dakota State, he started 41 games and was instrumental in leading the Bison to two NCAA Division I FCS national championships in 2021 and 2024. His impressive career culminated in a streak of 36 consecutive starts, demonstrating his reliability and skill on the field.
ESPN rated Zabel as the best offensive guard and the 33rd-best prospect overall in the draft class, highlighting his potential impact at the professional level. His ability to play left tackle, right tackle, left guard, and right guard adds to his value as a player who can adapt to various roles as needed. Steve Muench from ESPN praised Zabel's explosiveness, noting, "He fires off the ball, lifts defenders and gets some push in the run game." Muench further emphasized Zabel's effectiveness in combination blocking and his ability to recognize and pick up blitzes, crucial skills for an offensive lineman.
The Seahawks’ general manager, John Schneider, expressed his excitement about the pick, stating, "He’s just a loyal dude. I mean, he’s really close to this family. That’s a good, just good person. Just, he’s confident, loyal. Tough dude." Schneider’s comments reflect the Seahawks’ commitment to not only enhancing their roster but also selecting players who embody the team’s values.
In a draft filled with talent, Zabel stood out during the Senior Bowl, where he was named the offensive practice player of the week. His performance against some of the best defensive prospects from Power Five schools solidified his status as a top-tier offensive lineman. Schneider noted, "Just seeing him compete against all the guys that were down there...he was stealing reps. The more you can do..." This versatility is precisely what the Seahawks need as they aim to strengthen their offensive line.
After being drafted, Zabel shared his excitement with reporters, revealing his plans to celebrate with some Busch Lights, a nod to his Midwestern roots. "I’m probably going to start diving into these Busch Lights," he said, showcasing his down-to-earth personality and love for his hometown. Zabel’s authenticity resonates with fans and teammates alike, as he embodies the spirit of hard work and dedication.
Financially, Zabel’s selection comes with significant rewards. The Seahawks will give him a four-year contract worth $16.6 million, with an estimated $3.03 million in base pay for his rookie year. As a first-round pick, the Seahawks have the option to exercise a fifth-year option, allowing them to retain Zabel for an additional season if he performs well.
Seattle's decision to draft Zabel marks a significant moment in the franchise’s history, as he becomes the first player from a lower college division selected in the first round since 1999. This move reflects the Seahawks’ willingness to look beyond traditional powerhouses in college football and recognize talent wherever it may be found.
As the Seahawks prepare for the upcoming season, Zabel will join the team for rookie minicamp next week, where he will have his first NFL practices alongside other draft picks. This minicamp will be crucial for Zabel as he transitions from college football to the professional level, and he is eager to prove himself. The Seahawks are optimistic about what Zabel will bring to their offensive line and are excited to see how he develops as part of the team.
With the NFL Draft now concluded, the Seahawks are looking forward to their next selection in the second round, where they will continue to build their roster for the 2025 season. As for Zabel, the future looks bright, and he is ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that come with being a professional athlete.
