The Seahawks faced a lengthy wait in the 2024 NFL Draft due to the absence of a second-round pick. Their second selection of the draft didn’t come until the 81st overall pick in the third round, leading to some anxious moments in the Seahawks’ draft room on Friday evening. As their turn approached, the Seahawks were eager to secure Christian Haynes, a guard from the University of Connecticut. However, with several offensive linemen drafted between the 73rd and 79th picks, there was uncertainty about Haynes still being available when the Seahawks’ turn arrived.
Seahawks general manager and president of football operations John Schneider recalled the tension in the room as the draft progressed. With the fear that another team might select Haynes before them, there was a sense of panic. Seahawks coach Mike Macdonald humorously denied being the source of the concern, adding a lighthearted moment to the situation. Despite the apprehension, the Seahawks successfully drafted Haynes, a highly regarded prospect with an impressive collegiate record.
Schneider praised Haynes’ qualities, highlighting his intelligence, toughness, and reliability on the field. He emphasized Haynes’ extensive experience and exceptional skills, particularly in pass protection. The Seahawks were enthusiastic about Haynes’ potential contributions to the team, with Schneider expressing excitement about his acquisition.
Macdonald echoed Schneider’s sentiments, emphasizing the consensus among the coaching staff and scouts regarding Haynes’ abilities. He credited various individuals, including offensive line coach Scott Huff, offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb, and former Seahawks coach Jim Mora, for their positive assessments of Haynes. The Seahawks’ decision to select Haynes was further validated by his performance at the Senior Bowl and endorsements from key figures in football.
With their first two picks in the draft, the Seahawks prioritized bolstering the trenches with tough and athletic linemen. Schneider highlighted the importance of reinforcing both the offensive and defensive lines to enhance the team’s overall performance. Macdonald emphasized the Seahawks’ commitment to a physical style of play, emphasizing the importance of recruiting players who embody the team’s standards and ethos.