Seattle Seahawks Eye Linebacker Talent in 2026 NFL Draft

Analyzing the top 10 linebacker prospects that could reshape the Seahawks' defensive core

Apr. 11, 2026 at 9:55pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a Seattle Seahawks linebacker in the midst of a tackle, with sharp, overlapping planes of navy blue, lime green, and silver conveying the dynamic and adaptable nature of the position.A cubist interpretation of a Seahawks linebacker making a game-changing play, reflecting the team's opportunity to inject new talent and versatility into their defensive core.Seattle Today

The 2026 NFL Draft presents the Seattle Seahawks with an opportunity to bolster their linebacker corps, which currently features a solid but unspectacular group led by Ernest Jones, Drake Thomas, and Tyrice Knight. While linebacker may not seem like an immediate need, the depth, competition, and developmental potential at the position could be the key to elevating the Seahawks' defense to new heights.

Why it matters

The linebacker position is often underappreciated, but it plays a crucial role in setting the tone for an entire defense. Even a seemingly solid group can benefit from injecting fresh talent, as it creates an environment where players are pushed to their limits and the defense as a whole becomes more adaptable and versatile. For the Seahawks, adding the right linebacker prospect could be the difference between a good defense and a dominant one.

The details

The Seahawks have four picks in the 2026 NFL Draft, and they could target linebackers at various stages. In the first round, C.J. Allen from Georgia offers long-term upside with his sideline-to-sideline speed and instinctive play. In the second round, players like Anthony Hill Jr. from Texas and Jacob Rodriguez from Texas Tech could provide immediate impact as playmakers and reliable rotational pieces, respectively. Later on, wildcards like Harold Perkins from LSU and Kyle Louis from Pitt present intriguing developmental potential, while sleepers like Red Murdock from Buffalo and Jack Kelly from BYU could contribute on special teams and grow into depth roles.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft will take place in late April 2026.

The players

Ernest Jones

A reliable linebacker on the Seahawks' current roster.

Drake Thomas

Another solid linebacker on the Seahawks' current roster.

Tyrice Knight

A promising young linebacker who showed potential as a rookie on the Seahawks.

C.J. Allen

A linebacker prospect from the University of Georgia who offers long-term upside with his sideline-to-sideline speed and instinctive play.

Anthony Hill Jr.

A linebacker prospect from the University of Texas who is a downhill attacker with the explosiveness to disrupt plays in the backfield.

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What’s next

The Seahawks will have to carefully evaluate the linebacker prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft and determine which players best fit their defensive scheme and long-term vision for the team.

The takeaway

The 2026 NFL Draft presents the Seattle Seahawks with an opportunity to strengthen their linebacker corps and take their defense to the next level. By balancing immediate needs with long-term potential, the Seahawks can create a more versatile and adaptable defensive unit that can compete at the highest level.