There are moments in every NFL Draft that remind fans why the journey to this league means so much more than measurables or 40-yard dash times. For the Seattle Seahawks and their loyal followers, that moment arrived Thursday night when the team selected Notre Dame running back Jadarian Price with the 32nd overall pick -- the final selection of the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft. Price's unfiltered, tear-filled reaction, captured by the Seahawks' own cameras, has quickly become the defining image of the franchise's draft class.
In a video posted on the Seahawks' official website minutes after the selection, Price is shown receiving the life-changing call. Overcome with emotion, he wipes away tears, embraces family members, and struggles to articulate his feelings. This wasn't just another name called from the green room -- it was a young man who fought for every yard, carry, and opportunity to hear his name called in the NFL.
For Seahawks general manager John Schneider and head coach Mike Macdonald, this pick signals a deliberate direction in roster building. Entering draft night, Seattle eyed depth and upgrades along the offensive line, secondary, and linebacker corps. Instead, they walked away with a running back -- a position that seemed stable with Kenneth Walker III and Zach Charbonnet already on the roster. Why then choose Price with their first-round pick?
A Running Back Tailored to the Seahawks' Modern Offense
Jadarian Price is not your conventional Notre Dame running back. While the Fighting Irish have produced a line of hard-nosed, between-the-tackles backs, Price represents a slightly different prototype -- one that offensive coordinator Brian Fleury has coveted for this evolving offense.
Standing 5-foot-10 and weighing 208 pounds, Price possesses a compact, muscular frame that helps him run through arm tackles. But his standout trait is his explosion and change-of-direction ability. Viewing his college highlights reveals a back who confidently hits creases at full speed and expertly eludes defenders in tight quarters. He's no plodder waiting for perfect blocking; he creates plays.
This trait fills a gap the Seahawks have seen in recent years. Walker III, dynamic and home-run capable when healthy, has battled injuries and occasionally struggles to find subtle running lanes within the zone-blocking scheme. Charbonnet is a powerful downhill runner excelling in short-yardage situations and pass protection but lacks Price's burst.
Price projects as a versatile, three-down back in the NFL. He can run between the tackles, bounce outside, contribute as a receiver out of the backfield, and -- crucially -- he's a willing and effective pass protector. In today's NFL, where protecting the quarterback is paramount, a running back who can reliably pick up blitzes is invaluable.
Prioritizing Price Despite Other Team Needs
There's no doubt the Seahawks entered the 2026 draft with pressing roster needs, particularly on the offensive line and in the secondary. Seattle has invested heavily in the trenches over recent years, but results have been uneven, with pass protection still a concern and run defense inconsistent. Many mock drafts expected Seattle to target an offensive tackle or cornerback early.
Instead, Seattle used its first-round pick on a running back. This decision reveals confidence that the team can replenish other positional needs in later rounds or via free agency. Moreover, adding a dynamic weapon in the backfield can alleviate pressure elsewhere -- defenses forced to respect Price's explosive ability cannot simply blitz aggressively or stack the box without risk.
In essence, the Seahawks are gambling that a strong running game will open up their entire offense. If Price indeed hits the ground running, it could make play-action more effective, force defenses to stay honest, and ease the burden on the offensive line and quarterback alike -- whoever that signal-caller may be in 2026.
Price wasn't a reach at pick No. 32. Most experts projected him as a late first- or early second-round draft choice. Seattle's front office simply identified him as their guy and chose not to risk losing him by trading down.
Emotional Intelligence and Leadership Qualities
Beyond measurable skills, the human element plays a vital role in a successful NFL career. Football is a sport of intense physicality and emotional highs and lows. Players who can channel their emotions constructively often outperform expectations.
Price's heartfelt reaction to being drafted by the Seahawks indicates a young man who profoundly understands the magnitude of his achievement. This humility and hunger are vital locker-room intangibles that resonate with teammates and coaches alike. Veteran Seahawks gravitate toward players who demonstrate such passion and commitment.
The Seahawks carry a proud running back tradition -- from Curt Warner, Shaun Alexander, and Marshawn Lynch to Chris Carson. Price has the talent to join this legacy. But beyond physical ability, success will demand toughness, durability, and earning the trust of Seattle's coaching staff and locker room. Thursday night's emotional moment was a promising first step.
What Lies Ahead for Seattle on Day Two
Heading into the second day of the draft, Seattle holds picks near the bottom of the second and third rounds. The focus now shifts to shoring up remaining roster holes.
The offensive line remains a priority, as the Seahawks seek interior or edge linemen who can compete immediately. Depth in the secondary is another focus, with questions looming about who will step up amid recent veteran departures.
Historically, Seattle has excelled finding key contributors in the middle rounds, especially at defensive back. A double dip in that area would not be unexpected.
Additionally, the front office is open to trading picks. John Schneider has a reputation for being opportunistic at the draft table, ready to move up or down to secure players he covets. If a coveted player starts slipping, fans shouldn't be surprised to see Seattle package picks to acquire him.
Final Thoughts on the Jadarian Price Selection
Draft grades remain tentative until players prove themselves on the field over multiple NFL seasons. Still, early reactions to Price's talent, versatility, and emotional connection to fans are overwhelmingly positive.
Jadarian Price combines explosive talent with a relentless work ethic. He plays with intent and passion and now has the opportunity to showcase his skills on Seattle's storied platform.
For a franchise seeking to reestablish identity under new leadership, this pick feels purposeful. The Seahawks aim to emphasize a strong running game, physical play, and players who embody pride and determination.
In Jadarian Price, they found all these qualities.
Stay tuned as the Seahawks continue shaping their roster through Day Two and beyond of the 2026 NFL Draft. And if you haven't yet seen Price's reaction video -- do yourself a favor. It's a vivid reminder of why this sport and this journey mean so much.