Seahawks select Grey Zabel 18th overall, highest FCS OL pick

The Seattle Seahawks addressed their struggling offensive line by selecting North Dakota State's Grey Zabel with the 18th overall pick in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Zabel, known for his versatility and intelligence, played every position along the offensive line in college and earned high praise from analysts, including multiple "A+" draft grades. General manager John Schneider emphasized Zabel's toughness, reliability, and fit for the team, noting that the pick fills a major need as the Seahawks look to strengthen their interior line. Zabel is expected to immediately compete for a starting role, likely at left guard, replacing Laken Tomlinson. His selection also marks a milestone, as Zabel became the highest-drafted FCS offensive lineman of all time and continues North Dakota State's tradition of producing NFL linemen. The move has been widely lauded as a smart, need-based decision for Seattle.