Seahawks Buck Trade Trend to Draft Jadarian Price at No. 32 After Walker Exit
Seattle stood firm at the end of a chaotic first round, selecting Notre Dame running back Jadarian Price to replace Kenneth Walker III.
- Glenn Catubig
- 3 min read
The closing stretch of the 2026 NFL Draft featured an unexpected surge of trade activity, as teams scrambled to move into position late in the first round. For the Seattle Seahawks, who held the final pick at No. 32, the prevailing expectation was that they might join the movement and trade back.
Instead, Seattle opted to remain in place and make the selection. With the final pick of the opening round, the reigning Super Bowl champions chose Jadarian Price out of Notre Dame, reinforcing their offensive depth as they look to defend their title in the NFL.
The decision comes at a pivotal moment for a roster undergoing transition after significant offseason departures. Among them was star running back Kenneth Walker III, the Super Bowl MVP who left in free agency to join the Kansas City Chiefs.
With roster needs emerging in the backfield, Seattle’s choice of Price reflects both urgency and opportunity as the franchise attempts to maintain its championship trajectory.
1. Seahawks Resist Late First-Round Trade Wave
As the first round neared its conclusion, multiple teams engaged in aggressive trade discussions, attempting to move into favorable positions. The late flurry created uncertainty around several picks, including Seattle’s slot at No. 32. Naturally, speculation grew that the Seahawks might trade out of the round to accumulate additional assets. However, the front office ultimately resisted that temptation and stayed put. The decision to remain at No. 32 stood in contrast to the broader trend unfolding across the league. While others pursued movement, Seattle chose stability and a direct selection. In doing so, the Seahawks maintained control over their evaluation process and targeted a player they believed could immediately contribute.
2. Price Steps Into A Clear Roster Need
The selection of Price directly addresses a pressing need in Seattle’s offense following Walker’s departure in free agency. His exit created a significant void in the team’s rushing attack. Compounding that loss is the injury to backup running back Zach Charbonnet, who is currently recovering from a torn ACL. That situation further elevated the importance of reinforcing the position. Price brings both production and efficiency from his college career at Notre Dame Fighting Irish football. Playing behind a high-profile teammate, he still managed to carve out consistent contributions. His 2025 season included an average of six yards per carry, offering Seattle an intriguing blend of explosiveness and reliability as he transitions to the professional level.
3. A Strategic Fit For A Defending Champion
Seattle’s decision also reflects a broader roster philosophy built on balance. With much of the defense returning intact, the team was positioned to address offensive needs early in the draft. By selecting Price, the Seahawks add depth to a unit that will likely operate in a shared workload system. His skill set suggests he can contribute in multiple game situations rather than serving in a singular role. The organization also incorporated a meaningful moment into the selection process, allowing a beneficiary of the Make-a-Wish Foundation named David to announce the pick, adding a human element to the night. As the Seahawks prepare for a title defense, the addition of Price represents both continuity and adaptation. The franchise is betting that reinforcing its ground game will help sustain success in a competitive league landscape.