Locker argued Seattle could retain its first-round slot given needs at cornerback, edge rusher, and running back, but noted general manager John Schneider’s penchant for accumulating picks. By trading back, Seattle would still address its needs while increasing overall draft haul, albeit at the risk of reducing available high-round selections this year.
The plan would see the Seahawks drop to No. 32, enabling the Cardinals to grab Simpson ahead of the Jets at No. 33. Locker suggested Simpson’s limited starting experience and size could factor into a mid-round projection, with Arizona potentially valuing his intermediate accuracy and clean pocket work for Mike LaFleur’s system.
If the Cardinals land Simpson, head coach and staff could begin game-planning around him for the next decade, highlighting the broader strategic calculus of NFL trades. Seattle, meanwhile, would confront the realities of a smaller draft footprint with only four selections in 2026, including just one on Day 3.
Despite the theoretical fit, such a move would raise questions about cross-division maneuvering and the implications for Seattle’s opponent in the long term. Arizona’s quarterback situation remains a focal point for both teams as they approach a pivotal offseason and the broader NFC West landscape, where the Rams and 49ers pose ongoing challenges.
