Seattle Seahawks GM John Schneider is under pressure to select a guard in the first round of the upcoming draft, although historical trends suggest he may buck that expectation. Drafting a guard would contradict his usual strategy but projections still favor a tackle-turned-guard for the 18th pick. Meanwhile, the 2025 draft class is heavy on tight ends, and if the Seahawks release Noah Fant for cap space, they may seek an impactful tight end. Elijah Arroyo from Miami stands out as a prime target, pairing well with rising star Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Arroyo had a breakout season with 35 receptions for 590 yards and seven touchdowns, showcasing his ability to block and excel in vertical routes.

Rookie AJ Barner emerged as a bright spot for the Seahawks last year, surpassing Fant’s production. Should Arroyo be drafted by Seattle, he could quickly ascend the depth chart, possibly challenging Barner for the top spot. With a deep tight end class this year, Schneider will need to evaluate both immediate and long-term needs as the team looks to strengthen its offensive lineup.

The Seattle Seahawks face a pivotal offseason after the conclusion of Super Bowl LIX, which saw the Philadelphia Eagles claim victory over the Kansas City Chiefs. The team’s focus now shifts to navigating a challenging cap situation, as they sit approximately $13 million over the cap. General Manager John Schneider must weight decisions regarding 15 key players, including pending free agents like Ernest Jones IV and Jarran Reed, alongside veterans seeking new contracts, such as Geno Smith and DK Metcalf.

The recent hiring of Klint Kubiak as offensive coordinator adds to the urgency, as Seattle must determine who fits into their future plans amidst a potential roster overhaul. With significant decisions looming, the Seahawks could part ways with well-known players like Tyler Lockett and Uchenna Nwosu, who are seen as candidates for release.

The University of Iowa has consistently produced prominent NFL tight ends, with five former players currently making their mark in the league. The notable names include George Kittle of the San Francisco 49ers, Noah Fant representing the Seattle Seahawks, T.J. Hockenson of the Minnesota Vikings, and Sam LaPorta from the Detroit Lions, all excelling in their positions. Hockenson and LaPorta have even earned Pro Bowl honors in their careers. These players collectively secured over 40 receptions in the 2024 season, showcasing their talent and contributions.

The Carolina Panthers, facing challenges in the tight end position, have recently highlighted their search for reinforcements, particularly at the Senior Bowl. With the team's struggles reflected in last year's combined total of only 60 catches from six tight ends, the need for a dependable pass-catching option is apparent, especially as they aim to support quarterback Bryce Young.

In the upcoming drafts, targets like Luke Lachey are on the Panthers' radar, despite the tight end's limitations in a run-focused offense at Iowa. Additionally, past picks like Ja'Tavion Sanders from the University of Texas have shown promise, leading his team in receptions last season. The Panthers are keen on strengthening this position through both the draft and free agency to enhance their offensive efficiency.

The Seattle Seahawks are proactively addressing their financial situation as they approach the 2025 NFL season, currently facing a $30 million deficit against a projected $272 million salary cap. General manager John Schneider must navigate complex decisions regarding key players, particularly quarterback Geno Smith, whose contract escalators have pushed his cap hit to $44.5 million, the seventh-highest among quarterbacks. The front office is weighing options from extensions to potential cuts to create necessary cap space.

Seattle's financial challenges extend beyond Smith. Veteran receiver Tyler Lockett's cap hit is set to reach $31 million, making his future with the team uncertain. Given a lackluster season, it's likely he won't return unless a new arrangement is made. Meanwhile, star receiver DK Metcalf also faces contract scrutiny with a cap hit exceeding $30 million. While an extension may be feasible, his recent performance complicates matters. The team is also assessing tight end Noah Fant and defensive players like Dre'Mont Jones and Uchenna Nwosu for potential cuts, which could yield additional cap relief.

In the aftermath of the 2024 NFL season, the Seattle Seahawks' wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba has emerged as a standout performer, exceeding preseason expectations. Initially projected to achieve 83 receptions for 1,054 yards and 7 touchdowns, Smith-Njigba instead recorded 100 catches, 1,130 receiving yards, and 6 touchdowns, showcasing significant improvement in his second year.

The Seahawks' offensive strategy, heavily reliant on passing under the recently dismissed offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb, allowed Smith-Njigba to thrive. His 24.1% target share placed him among the top receivers in the league, leading to historic participation from the entire receiving corps.

Despite facing challenges, including the injury of fellow receiver DK Metcalf, Smith-Njigba solidified his role as a primary target. His production, especially in the slot, highlights his potential for future growth as he faces yet another coaching change.