3 top-flight cornerbacks Seahawks must go after in 2022 free agency

Mike Hughes

Hughes is still a young player who should be good for several more seasons. He will be just 25 years old when the 2022 season starts. In Hughes’ first three seasons with the Minnesota Vikings, Hughes was hurt a lot. He played just 6 games in his rookie year and 4 games in his third. But after being traded to the Kansas City Chiefs last offseason, Hughes has been healthy and fantastic.

PFF has Hughes graded as the seventh-best corner in the league in 2021. His coverage grade is 79.7 and Hughes has been solid in run defense as well. Seattle’s corners must play the run extremely well as the way the defense is designed there are several one-on-one opportunities for running backs.

But perhaps the best part of Hughes’ game is the fact that he can play outside corner and the slot. He has the quickness to turn and run with receivers but also can move up to close the gap between open receiver in the flat and suddenly not-open receiver. Seattle needs corners who don’t just allow receivers to catch and turn.

In 2021, Hughes has defended 5 passes and intercepted one. He has also forced 4 fumbles. No 2021 Seahawk has more than one this year. Hughes knows how to create turnovers and Seattle needs more playmakers on defense.

Hughes also shouldn’t command a huge payday due to his injury history. But a three-year deal makes sense to offer.