What do you get for the defense that has everything? The Seattle Seahawks’ Dark Side defense led them to Super Bowl glory in 2025 in part due to Mike Macdonald’s inspired, state-of-the-art schemes and in part due to the talent John Schneider provided.
The general manager created an ideal blend of wise old heads and youthful game-wreckers. Deep, smart, talented, and versatile enough to execute their coach’s vision.
As they prepare for the upcoming NFL draft. Schneider may be primarily focused on the offensive side of the ball. He may be on the lookout for a new lead running back if Kenneth Walker III departs via free agency. He will almost certainly be looking for interior offensive line help and additional firepower at wide receiver.
FCS cornerback could help fill a potential defensive hole for the Seattle Seahawks
But Schneider will not ignore the defense. Last year, nine of his eleven picks were on offense, but the two defenders he found – Nick Emmanwori and Riley Mills – look to be cornerstone players.
This year, Schneider enters the draft with just four total selections. If he does indeed address the offense early, his only day-three pick – a sixth-rounder acquired from Cleveland – may be the place to help the defense. Today, we’ll look at one potential dark horse who might be a perfect fit in that spot.
There are only a handful of non-FBS athletes at this year’s NFL Scouting Combine. The initial invite list had just five D1-FCS players – and only three if you remove the two from North Dakota State, which has moved up to the top-tier FBS division in 2026.
One of those FCS players is cornerback Charles Demmings, who played 42 college games at Stephen F. Austin State, in Nacogdoches, Texas. For Seahawks fans who plan on checking out the Combine, Demmings is worth watching. He combines a solid athletic profile with the type of versatility and character that Mike Macdonald seems to prioritize.
The Seahawks have four starting-caliber defenders hitting free agency this season. Two are cornerbacks. Schneider has said little about his plans beyond indicating a general desire to keep everyone together. That is highly unlikely
Were he to lose both Josh Jobe and Riq Woolen this offseason, Schneider would suddenly have a new top priority – finding a cornerback to pair with Devon Witherspoon.
Charles Demmings does not project to step off the college field and into the starting defense for a defending Super Bowl champ. He will need time to develop and prove he belongs in the NFL. Drafting him in the 6th round – or perhaps scooping him up as an undrafted free agent – would be more of a depth move. It would make sense if Seattle were to re-sign either Jobe or Woolen, or perhaps find another veteran in free agency.
But Demmings shows the potential to develop into a reliable starter in the not-too-distant future.
At 6’1”, 190 pounds, he has the length and size to compete. His 4.4 speed allows him to run with NFL wideouts on the perimeter. His athletic gifts may not be on the level of Spoon or Emmanwori, but he can hold his own.
What makes Demmings a particularly good fit in Seattle is his scheme versatility. He is very comfortable in the zone. Almost all of Macdonald’s coverages feature zone principles, even if they are hybrid matchups. Demmings' size and speed will allow him to play man when called on. His sure tackling and instincts make him a very good zone defender.
Manning did not turn his attention to football in a serious manner until his senior year in high school. He was not recruited by FBS schools. When he began showing his talent at Stephen Austin, his coach, Colby Carthel, says he had opportunities to leave for NIL deals at Power Five schools. But Demmings chose to stay.
Carthel has said Demmings cares more about legacy than money. Demmings has said it’s about the camaraderie he has developed with his teammates. With his physical tools and character, it’s easy to see him as one of those undiscovered gems that show up every year in the draft.
The problem teams will have in projecting Demmings is the level of competition he has played at Stephen F. Austin. Every year, gifted, driven athletes enter the NFL. Many of the cornerbacks who will take their shot in 2026 come from bigger programs and have clearer track records.
Still, it is worth watching what Demmings looks like when lined up next to those prospects at the Combine. I imagine John Schneider and Mike Macdonald will be doing just that.