Seahawks' interest in this tight end might eclipse the need for Brock Bowers

If general manager John Schneider wants to keep one thing true about how the Seattle Seahawks will approach the 2024 NFL draft without former head coach Pete Carroll, Schneider will choose the best player available on Seattle's draft board rather than just choose a player who fits a certain position. However, Seattle is probably assuming that Bowers won't be around at pick 16. Or maybe Schneider already assumes he will trade back in the first round and Bowers would be gone.

Based on a recent top-30 visit, however, Seattle is already preparing a contingency plan if Bowers is not around for them to choose. Or maybe the Seahawks would pass Bowers anyway and take a potentially great player such as offensive lineman Troy Fautanu who also happens to play a position of need. No matter the thinking, Seattle is clearly interested in Penn State tight end Theo Johnson.

Johnson reportedly visited Seattle headquarters this week. Each NFL team can host as many as 30 players. Those visits include medical examinations, interviews, and private workouts.

Seattle Seahawks reportedly have interest in Penn State tight end Theo Johnson

Bowers is the best tight end in the 2024 class. He can catch and run well, and he is not a bad blocker either. He would be a Week 1 starter no matter where he ends up. The Seahawks don't really have a dire need at tight end, however, as the team re-signed Noah Fant this offseason and also signed free agent Pharaoh Brown. Fant is a decent blocker but is better at catching passes. Brown is almost a pure blocker.

Seattle could use another tight end who can be a weapon for Geno Smith and that is what Johnson could potentially be. The Penn State product has great size at 6'6" and nearly 260 pounds and he ran a 4.57 40 at the NFL Combine as well as a 39.5" vertical jump. There is no doubt as to his raw athleticism.

Johnson, though, won't be drafted high in the draft and Seattle might be able to take him in the fourth round. He is a poor route runner and not a good blocker. He has the size and strength to be so, but does he have the drive to be? That is maybe what the Seahawks are trying to find out on Johnson's visit.

Still, if he can hone his raw physical traits, he can be a threat in the passing game. The team might be able to mold him into a better blocker, too. Plus, he won't cost Seattle a first-round choice like Brock Bowers would.

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