Grey Zabel: "This Is A Life-Long Dream"

Seahawks first-round pick Grey Zabel discusses his draft experience and joining the team. (0:00) John Schneider welcomes Zabel, thanking the staff involved in the draft process. (2:09) Zabel describes the past week as surreal and a lifelong dream come true. (3:41) He mentions the moment became real when he received the call from Seattle. (4:00) Zabel talks about his college roommate and teammate, Jalen Sundell, who's also with the Seahawks. (5:45) Schneider highlights Zabel's competitiveness at the Senior Bowl. (8:40) Zabel expresses excitement about wearing the Seahawks logo and practicing with the team. (10:49) He reveals choosing jersey number 76, with Steve Hutchinson's approval. Zabel also mentions his experience making a draft call to Mason Richman and discusses his mentality as a key strength in his game.

The Seattle Seahawks completed their 16th draft under GM John Schneider and second-year head coach Mike Macdonald. They focused on adding smart, tough, reliable, and athletic players to build depth and competition. Key additions include offensive linemen Mason Richman and Bryce Cabeldue, as well as receivers Tory Horton and Ricky White III. The team emphasized improving the run game with fullback Robbie Ouzts and running back Damien Martinez. Macdonald praised the collaborative draft process and expressed excitement about integrating the new players. The Seahawks aim to compete for championships this year while creating an environment where players are excited to come to work every day.

The Seattle Seahawks chose guard Grey Zabel with the 18th overall pick in the NFL Draft. Head Coach Mike Macdonald and General Manager John Schneider praised Zabel's toughness, versatility, and ability to finish blocks. Zabel impressed at the Senior Bowl and was the Seahawks' top-rated interior lineman. He will start at guard but can play all five offensive line positions. The Seahawks emphasized Zabel's physicality, pass protection skills, and football IQ as key factors in the selection. Macdonald noted there will be competition along the offensive line to determine exact positions. Schneider said Zabel was their clear top choice among interior linemen available. The selection of Zabel adds to the Seahawks' recent investments in their offensive line, joining other young players like Christian Haynes and Abraham Lucas.

John Schneider and Mike Macdonald held a pre-draft press conference discussing the Seahawks' draft preparation. Key points: They feel comfortable with their draft process and roster heading into the draft. They have 5 picks in the first 3 rounds, providing flexibility. Offensive line is an area of need, but they won't reach for need over talent. They're excited about their quarterback room with Sam Darnold, Sam Howell, Drew Lock and Jaren Hall. The coaching staff is more involved in the draft process this year. They aim to draft players who are good people off the field but "dogs" on the field. Schneider cautioned against labeling draft classes as weak or strong before seeing players in the NFL. Area scouts may make more draft day calls to picks this year. Schneider views the draft preparation as the most exciting time of the year

Wide receiver Cooper Kupp has signed with the Seahawks, marking a return to his home state. Kupp expressed excitement about joining his hometown team, reflecting on childhood memories of watching Seahawks games. He discussed the transition from the Rams, his approach to learning a new offense with quarterback Sam Darnold, and his philosophy on blocking as a receiver. Kupp also shared insights on his mindset throughout his career, from high school aspirations to his current NFL success. He emphasized the importance of team culture and belief in winning, citing these as key factors in his decision to join Seattle. Kupp mentioned his experience playing with the Rams and his excitement about facing his former team in future games.

Seahawks defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence met with media to discuss why he chose to come to Seattle, what he is going to bring to the Seahawks' defense, his excitement to play for Mike Macdonald and Aden Durde and more at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center.

Seahawks wide receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling met with media after signing with Seattle to discuss why he chose to sign with the Seahawks, reuniting with offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak, his excitement for getting a chance to work with Sam Darnold and more on Thursday, March 13, 2025 at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center.

Seahawks offensive lineman Josh Jones spoke with media about what made Seattle an appealing place to sign with, playing for a Mike Macdonald coached team, his ability to play at multiple positions on the offensive line and more at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center.