Seahawks Take Jadarian Price at No. 32 After Draft Trade Talks Collapse

The Seattle Seahawks used the 32nd overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft to select former Notre Dame running back Jadarian Price, addressing a key need in the backfield following personnel changes. The move positions him alongside Zach Charbonnet as the team reshapes its offensive identity.

Price is expected to step into a meaningful role after the departure of veteran running back Kenneth Walker III, giving Seattle a new pairing of young talent in the run game. The selection capped a tense draft sequence in which the Seahawks weighed multiple options before committing to the pick.

According to reporting from ESPN, Seattle entered the final stages of the first round with trade discussions ongoing and several potential targets in play. However, shifting moves across the league forced the team to adjust its strategy in real time.

Ultimately, the Seahawks determined that Price represented too strong of a value to pass up, even as trade scenarios briefly remained on the table.

1. Draft Board Chaos Shapes Final Decision

Seattle’s original draft target was San Diego State cornerback Chris Johnson, but that plan was disrupted when the Miami Dolphins moved ahead to select at No. 27. That trade effectively removed the Seahawks’ preferred defensive option from consideration. With their top defensive target off the board, Seattle’s front office was forced to reassess its direction. The team briefly explored trade-back opportunities with the Tennessee Titans at No. 35 and the New York Giants at No. 37. However, those negotiations did not progress far enough to provide a viable alternative. As other teams continued to maneuver, Seattle faced increasing pressure to make a direct selection rather than risk losing further value. The situation intensified when Tennessee moved up to the 31st pick, narrowing the Seahawks’ window and increasing uncertainty about whether their preferred player would still be available.

2. Rising Pressure Forces Immediate Choice

As the draft approached Seattle’s selection, concerns grew that multiple teams could target Price before the Seahawks were on the clock. Among those considerations was the possibility that the San Francisco 49ers could take him early in the second round. With Charbonnet recovering from ACL surgery, Seattle’s urgency at the position increased. The team believed there was a noticeable gap between Price and other available running backs, including Jonah Coleman and Mike Washington Jr. That evaluation played a key role in the decision-making process, as the Seahawks prioritized immediate impact over draft flexibility. The front office ultimately determined that staying at No. 32 provided the best chance to secure their preferred player. General manager John Schneider later noted that, despite extensive trade conversations, Price emerged as a clear focal point in the final stages of the board.

3. Character Praise And Lighthearted Reaction

Beyond his on-field evaluation, Price also received strong endorsements from those who coached him at Notre Dame. His former high school coach described him as one of the most respected players he has ever worked with, highlighting both his discipline and leadership. Price’s decision to graduate early and join Notre Dame was cited as an example of his commitment to development. Coaches have consistently pointed to his maturity and work ethic as defining traits of his profile. His selection also sparked a humorous reaction from former Notre Dame teammate Jeremiyah Love, who was drafted third overall by the Arizona Cardinals. Love joked about Price heading to Seattle and questioned the appeal of the city in a lighthearted exchange with reporters. While playful in tone, the comments reflected the close relationships formed between teammates and the shared awareness of how quickly draft-day fortunes can change.