Crystal (Foot)Ball: NFL Mock Draft; Seahawks Pick in 2024?

Because it's never too early to plan for the future, NFL 2024 mock drafts have the Seattle Seahawks already eyeing another elite defender in LSU's Maason Smith.

A year from now we'll know if the promising grades pan out. In the wake of drafting projected difference-makers in Illinois cornerback Devon Witherspoon, Ohio State receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Auburn edge-rusher Derick Hall and UCLA running back Zach Charbonnet, the Seattle Seahawks are receiving rave reviews and high marks.

Witherspoon is expected to improve Seattle's talented secondary that includes Tariq Woolen, Quandre Diggs and Jamal Adams. Smith-Njigba gives quarterback Geno Smith another target, and Charbonnet will take some pressure off Kenneth Walker III in the backfield.

We know, the dust has yet to settle on this year's draft crop. But because it's never too early to plan for a football future, 2024 mock drafts are already heating up.

USA Today put out the first of countless mocks over the weekend, and it has the Seahawks picking No. 12 overall. Not because of 2023 standings (obviously), but based on current Super Bowl odds.

The 2024 draft class will again be loaded with skill-position players, led by 2022 Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Caleb Williams (USC), receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. (Ohio State) and quarterback Drake Maye (North Carolina).

While the mock has the Arizona Cardinals choosing Williams No. 1 overall (hello, Kyler Murray?), it predicts Seattle will again look to improve its defense with an SEC defensive lineman:

12. Seattle Seahawks – Maason Smith, DT, LSU

Reasons USA Today:

A torn ACL wiped out Smith's 2022 season after his starring debut as a freshman. The 6-5, 300-pounder exhibits outstanding athleticism, however, and Pete Carroll might not be able to resist a superlative up front after passing on Jalen Carter this year.

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