4 under-the-radar Seattle Seahawks targets to watch at the NFL Combine
By Lee Vowell
Safety Sione Vaki, Utah
Just as with Seattle's linebacker room, the Seahawks might have to replace most of their veteran safeties. Pro Bowler Julian Love is going to be on the roster but Quandre Diggs and Jamal Adams might not be. Releasing Diggs would save the team $11 million and releasing Adams would save the team around $6 million but also open up a roster spot for a player likely to remain healthier than Adams seems to be able to do.
Seattle does not have any true replacements for Diggs and Adams already on the team. Coby Bryant was moved to safety in the preseason in 2023 but he didn't get much play at the position once the real games began. Jerrick Reed II was great on special teams as a rookie but there is no proof he can play every-down safety in the NFL.
Vaki is an interesting prospect because of his versatility. He is 6' and 210 pounds with excellent straight-ahead speed but he may not have the quickness to play deep safety. He potentially could play more in the box as Macdonald does play three-safety sets more than any other coach. But assuming Love is one safety and Vaki plays in the box, Seattle would still need another safety.
Vaki also played running back some in 2023 and was good on special teams. He will likely show good strength in combine workouts and he is very mature for a true sophomore so he will likely interview well. He is still only projected to be a day-three pick but if he tests well could move up to the fifth round.