The Seattle Seahawks' offense was almost flawless last season, but even the best things can be improved. If we're nitpicky, the interior of the offensive line could use some tweaking, and while adding Grey Zabel to the mix was a solid starting point, it might not be enough.
Considering that, using a mid-round pick to get someone like Beau Stephens may have been the most underrated move general manager John Schneider made during the 2026 NFL Draft. Even if he doesn't start right away, there's a clear path for him to take the field at some point.
Stephens was an instrumental member of the Iowa Hawkeyes' offensive line that earned the 2025 Joe Moore Award, which is given to the best unit in college football. He was a three-year starter for the Hawkeyes, and he didn't allow a single sack during that span. Read that again: Not a sack allowed in 1,345 snaps.
The Seattle Seahawks got an underrated gem in Beau Stephens
While he played exclusively on the left side of the line for the past couple of seasons, he played extensively at right guard in 2022. Injuries kept him off the field early on in his career, but he's coming off a fully healthy season.
Stephens is a true mauler, and while he's not necessarily athletic, his technique is pretty flawless. His hand placement as a pass-blocker is correct, and he's a violent finisher in the running game. Moreover, he can also climb and be a weapon in the open field with his ability to move linebackers out of the way in the second level.
All in all, Stephens gave up just four pressures last season (all hurries without a quarterback hit). Pro Football Focus (subscription required) gave him a pass-blocking grade of 92.5, which was the best among 686 eligible guards.
Admittedly, he played for one of the stoutest and most physical units in the game, so some of those numbers have to be taken with a grain of salt. Nevertheless, you just don't happen to start at left guard for the Iowa Hawkeyes, and he was also one of the primary reasons why they were so efficient over the past three years.
Stephens may have a harder time manhandling bigger and more physical competition in the pros. That said, Anthony Bradford has struggled mightily to establish himself at the next level, and Stephens' presence should put some pressure there. He poses a legitimate threat to take his spot opposite Zabel, and some friendly competition shouldn't hurt.
Beau isn't the type of guy who's going to make a lot of noise on and off the field, but he has a high floor as an NFL-ready lineman who can play multiple positions. That's tremendous value for the fifth round.
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