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An unlikely Seahawks prediction might solve a hidden problem

This might be an intriguing move.
NFL Pittsburgh Steelers safety DeShon Elliott
NFL Pittsburgh Steelers safety DeShon Elliott | Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

The Seattle Seahawks have the most disruptive safety in the game. Nick Emmanwori is a true game-wrecker, and what he brings to the table allows Mike Macdonald and Aden Durde to get creative with their coverages and schemes.

However, the Seahawks are still thin at safety. Julian Love and Ty Okada will probably have a bigger role next season with Coby Bryant gone, but they don't have a ton of depth behind them. Newcomer Rodney Thomas II is mostly a special teams guy, and while this isn't a major need, it might still be something to keep an eye on.

Considering that, Moe Moton of Bleacher Report had a rather interesting idea to solve that issue. In his latest article, he claimed the Seahawks should reach out to the Pittsburgh Steelers to trade for DeShon Elliott.

A trade for DeShon Elliott is unlikely, but it'd be solid for the Seattle Seahawks

"The Pittsburgh Steelers may be willing to deal Elliott after they signed safeties Jaquan Brisker and Darnell Savage. Unless Jalen Ramsey moves into the slot full-time, Elliott could play in a reduced role coming off an injury-riddled campaign," wrote Moton.

As mentioned, the Steelers' free-agency moves make it seem like Elliott is now the odd man out. That said, the Seahawks only have four draft picks in 2026, so it's hard to believe they will make any trade this offseason.

That said, Elliott could bring a proven veteran presence to the table for the defending Super Bowl champions. Injuries limited him to just five games last season (all starts), but he was still productive with 38 total tackles (20 solo), three QB hits, one tackle for loss, two passes defensed, one pick, and one forced fumble.

Pro Football Focus (subscription required) gave him a 78.3 pass-rush grade, the tenth-highest among 98 eligible safeties, and his 78.7 run grade ranked 17th. He did struggle a bit in coverage, giving up 13 catches for 13.3 yards per reception and an opposing passer rating of 97.7. The sample size is limited, but he can clearly still be a strong contributor if he's healthy again.

The Seahawks' defense took some hits after losing Riq Woolen, Coby Bryant, and Boye Mafe, but they should still be one of the best -- if not the best -- in the game. They're also likely to use at least one of their draft picks to add another cornerback, which is another reason why a move like this might not happen.

Even so, if the Seahawks can find a way to get Elliott in town without giving up 2026 draft capital, that's a move they should strongly consider.

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