Full Breakdown
Seattle Seahawks Draft Notre Dame RB Jadarian Price at No. 32, Forgo Trade-Back
4/25/2026, 8:41:21 AM
The Decision at No. 32 Selection
On April 23, 2026, Seattle used the 32nd overall pick—the final first-round slot—to select Notre Dame running back Jadarian Price. GM John Schneider confirmed the pick after a series of trades preceding Seattle’s turn left the team without a viable trade partner.
Draft Context and Trade Dynamics
The Seahawks entered the draft with four selections and a need at running back after Kenneth Walker III left in free agency and Zach Charbonnet suffered an ACL tear. Although the front office aimed to trade down, six consecutive trades from picks 26-31 eliminated potential partners, forcing Seattle to stay at No. 32.
Official Statements & Responses
Schneider said the team “wasn’t going to completely force it, but it was important” to replace Walker, adding that Price “stood alone” as the top prospect. Coach Mike Macdonald praised Price’s “commitment to Notre Dame, loyalty and cultural fit.” Former Seahawk Shaun Alexander stressed that a first-round pick must “fit the culture and be the most talented.”
Criticism & Opposition
Analysts flagged concerns about Price’s 203-lb frame, 4.49-second 40-yard dash and four fumbles, saying those metrics lower his upside as a feature back. Others noted his limited receiving—six catches for 87 yards—and argued that a running back at No. 32 is a reach given the position’s typical second-round valuation.
On-the-Ground Reactions
Price recalled Schneider’s call—“Hey, man, we’re getting ready to pick you right here, brother”—and said he broke down in tears with family in Denison, Texas. He described feeling “great” and praised the “family story” and “loyalty” that kept him at Notre Dame, noting the fit with Seattle’s culture.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on Price’s college totals: one lists 1,692 rushing yards and 27 touchdowns, another cites 674 yards and 11 touchdowns. His combine weight is reported as 203 lb, yet he said he aims for 210 lb. PFF grades vary between an overall 78.6 and a rushing grade of 79.9 (ranked 157/406).
Verbatim Quotes
- “Great player, great person,” — John Schneider, GM
- “Hey, man, we’re getting ready to pick you right here, brother,” — John Schneider, GM
What’s Next
Seattle’s next pick arrives at No. 64 in the second round, where the team will add depth on the line and defense. Price will sign a four-year rookie contract and compete for playing time alongside Emanuel Wilson and George Holani in a backfield reshaped by Walker’s departure.
