Price was selected No. 32 overall, the final pick of the first round, marking Seattle’s first draft choice and aligning with the organization’s plan after Kenneth Walker’s departure. The Seahawks emphasized that Price’s selection addresses a concrete roster need, given Charbonnet’ s knee surgery and the absence of a proven long-term backfield option.
Zabel’s public focus on a powerful run game underscores Seattle’s offensive plan: deploy Price in a weight-bearing, volume-driven role as the team aims to maintain its identity while rebuilding its backfield. Zabel’s remarks, supported by his own path as a high-profile, up-front blocker, suggest Seattle intends Price to grow quickly into a feature runner.
Analysts note Price’s potential—burst, acceleration, and cutback ability—while highlighting questions about workload and experience. Price entered the NFL with limited college touches and never started at Notre Dame, prompting evaluations of his projection and adaptability to increased volume, pass protection, and weekly usage.
Seattle did not opt to trade down from the 32nd pick, indicating a clear appetite to invest in a high-impact back who can contribute immediately as part of a backfield in transition after Walker’s exit. The team’s strategy points to Price being integrated into a bruising, downhill rushing attack designed to sustain its offensive tempo.
Overall, Zabel’s message translates into a direct expectation: Price should quickly embrace a workhorse role and help anchor Seattle’s ground game as the team seeks to maintain its championship-era identity. Run the damn ball.
