The 2024 NFL Draft is quickly coming, and the Seattle Seahawks are putting together their roster in preparation. The squad has signed some players via free agency, but there are still a number of obvious needs. With this in mind, the Seahawks have a wide open board in what will be Mike Macdonald’s first draft as head coach.
There are definitely a variety of paths the organization might take, but many observers appear to be focusing on the trenches, particularly along the offensive line. As I previously reported, Troy Fautanu is gaining traction among experts as a suitable fit in Seattle. Or, a good fit to stay in Seattle.
According to Bruce Feldman’s newest mock draft for The Athletic, the Seahawks will select Fautanu, but Michael-Shawn Dugar believes the team will take a different approach. He expects a trade down that will result in the acquisition of Iowa Hawkeyes defender Cooper DeJean, a versatile defensive back.
Round 1, No. 20 (from the Steelers): Cooper DeJean, DB, Iowa
Nos. 20, 98, and 178 are expected to be traded to the Seahawks. Steelers obtain pick No. 16.
DeJean played cornerback at Iowa, but it is unknown where he will play in the NFL. Teams may keep him as an outside cornerback, shift him inside to nickel, or test him at safety. With his quickness and ball abilities, he has the potential to flourish at any of the three positions. DeJean’s versatility makes him an intriguing fit for Macdonald’s defense. One of the takeaways from speaking with Macdonald at the NFL’s annual meeting last month was his vision for a defense comprised of guys with various skill sets.
Macdonald has some flexibility at safety, but the team could use a ball-hawking playmaker. Aside from Devon Witherspoon, the cornerbacks aren’t particularly diverse. Riq Woolen, Tre Brown, and Mike Jackson are predominantly outside cornerbacks (both Brown and Jackson will be free agents after the season). Artie Burns made his nickel debut last season, but there’s no guarantee he’ll be in the rotation once everyone is well. Adding DeJean would provide Macdonald with another good athlete with elite attributes, making the defensive backfield more dynamic.
