4 potential steals in the 2024 NFL draft if the Seattle Seahawks trade back

Defensive tackle Jer'Zhan Newton, Illinois

Devon Witherspoon might love this pick as Witherspoon played with Newton at Illinois. This might also help Newton's transition to Seattle and the NFL because Witherspoon would be able to help. But whether Witherspoon was on the Seahawks or not (and thankfully, he is), Newton would be a terrific pick at a position that is likely going to be one of great need for Seattle as soon as 2025.

In 2024, Seattle has talent with players such as Leonard Williams, Jarran Reed, and Dre'Mont Jones, but Williams and Reed are both going to be in their 30s and Seattle needs to add younger depth. Having players like that already on the roster is going to help Newton, however. He won't necessarily be forced to play 70 percent of snaps right away and he can better acclimate to NFL blocking by having time to adapt and learn from the veterans.

Newton has decent size at 6'2" and 304 pounds, but what really impresses is his athleticism and intelligence. He could overpower some college blockers, sure, but he also knew how to gain leverage and was great at reading the blocking assignments and getting around or through them. His athleticism is proven by the fact he led the FBS in 2023 with four blocked kicks which shows he can jump and run fast for a player his size.

To be clear, however, Newton, who is also called "Johnny," is capable of playing early in his career. A defensive line that features Williams, Newton, Reed, and Jones could be very formidable under Mike Macdonald. Most mock drafts have Newton going in the 20s (some even as late as pick 32), so he should be available if Seattle moves back.