The Seattle Seahawks knew what they needed to do to get back on track in 2025. The offensive line was somewhat shaky, especially in the interior, and they needed someone to shut down the left side and open up running lanes.
That's why general manager John Schneider didn't hesitate to use a first-round pick on North Dakota State's Grey Zabel. It wasn't the sexiest pick, but it didn't take long before he proved that they had made the right call.
Fast forward to today, and the Seahawks have quietly done the same on the other side of the line. While they didn't use a first-round pick on Beau Stephens, his presence might be enough to push Anthony Bradford to the next level once and for all.
The Seattle Seahawks may have fixed their offensive line
Zabel was outstanding as a rookie, and he should be the team's left guard for years to come. Jalen Sundell might be the most underrated player on the team, and he didn't give up a single sack or was called for a penalty in 734 offensive snaps last season.
That only leaves Bradford as the question mark in the interior of the trenches. He has been the offense's weakest link for years now, but unlike in previous years, he can't afford to stay behind anymore.
Beau Stephens was instrumental to the nation's top offensive line last season. He can play on both sides and even slide to tackle if needed, and boasts a top-notch work ethic and versatility to make his way to the field at any point next season.
Iron sharpens iron, and Bradford will have no choice but to bring his A-Game to training camp and every single practice if he wants to hold onto his starting spot. Inevitably, that will only raise the floor at the position.
Last season, Bradford was Pro Football Focus' (subscription required) sixth-worst pass-blocking guard (40.8). He ranked 70th of 81 overall (50.6) and 54th as a run-blocker. Granted, their algorithm can fail and doesn't always give the full picture, but the tape wasn't much more flattering.
Bradford allowed 28 total pressures, including five quarterback hits and three sacks, and was called for four penalties. The Seahawks won the Super Bowl despite his shortcomings, but the bar should be higher now.
This team still believes in him, but that doesn't mean they won't take the necessary precautions to make sure his mental miscues and lack of physicality don't hurt the team's back-to-back championship aspirations.
Perhaps he just needed some additional motivation to take his game to the next level and turn one of this team's few flaws into yet another strength. On paper, at least, this team should be better equipped with Stephens' addition, whether he plays or just serves as an incentive to keep Bradford on his toes.
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