The Seattle Seahawks have made a significant addition to their offense in the 2026 NFL Draft by selecting Notre Dame running back Jadarian Price with the 32nd overall pick, cementing their commitment to revitalizing the team's ground game.
This first-round selection, announced on April 22, 2026, stands as a defining moment for the Seahawks' offensive plans, one that general manager John Schneider and head coach Mike Macdonald believe will bring explosive versatility to their backfield.
Price: A Dynamic Offensive Weapon
Jadarian Price entered the draft process as one of the most versatile running backs in this year's class. Standing 5-foot-11 and weighing 210 pounds, Price combines speed, agility, and vision, highlighted during his collegiate career at Notre Dame where he recorded over 40 receptions, showcasing his effectiveness as a dual-threat back.
Price's ability to make defenders miss after contact and generate yards after catch projects him as a natural fit for Seattle's balanced offensive scheme. The Seahawks have historically valued running backs capable of contributing significantly in the passing game, and Price fits this mold perfectly.
One AFC scout praised Price, saying, "He's a yards-after-catch monster and a home-run threat every time he touches the ball. The Seahawks got a player who can really change the game if healthy."
Impact on Zach Charbonnet and the Backfield
The arrival of Price immediately raises questions about the standing of second-year back Zach Charbonnet. Selected in the second round of the 2023 draft, Charbonnet was viewed as a potential lead back for the Seahawks' offense. However, injuries throughout his early career, including a knee issue in 2024 that limited his playing time, have slowed his development.
With Seattle investing a first-round pick in Price, Charbonnet's role is now less certain. Although the Seahawks typically value roster flexibility and efficiency, they could opt to maintain a two-back system with Price as the explosive lead and Charbonnet as a short-yardage or complementary back.
Trade rumors have surfaced, fueled by Football analysis sites such as Last Word On Sports, suggesting that Charbonnet could be moved if Price quickly emerges as the primary ball carrier. Several playoff contenders reportedly have interest in adding a powerful running back like Charbonnet to their roster.
Offensive Layout and Scheme Integration
Under offensive coordinator Brian Fleury, the Seahawks are expected to integrate Price into a multifaceted role involving handoffs, screen passes, and route-running out of the backfield. Price's receiving skills enable him to serve as a reliable check-down option, helping maintain offensive momentum and opening up opportunities for standout receivers like Jaxon Smith-Njigba and Cooper Kupp.
Quarterback Sam Darnold, the Seahawks' current starter, benefits from the added dimension that Price will bring to the offense. This move bolsters Seattle's ability to stay balanced and unpredictable, a necessary strategy in the talent-rich NFC West division.
The Seahawks' offensive line, featuring young talents like Charles Cross and Federico Maranges, is expected to benefit from Price's ability to create positive yards even on plays with less-than-perfect blocking.
Draft Night Decisions and Team Strategy
The Seahawks held firm on their pick at 32 despite trade rumors on draft night that suggested they might move back to accrue additional picks. Choosing Price at this spot sends a message that Seattle sees a pivotal player who can immediately contribute in an area of need.
The 2026 NFL Draft featured multiple high-profile running backs such as Texas' CJ Baxter and Georgia's Branson Robinson, but Seattle convinced themselves that Price's unique blend of attributes made him the best fit for their offense.
This selection marks a commitment to re-establishing the run game as a core component of the Seahawks' identity after several years of a pass-heavy offense under previous coordinators.
Looking Forward: A Renewed Backfield Landscape
Seattle now looks poised to build one of the more dynamic backfields in the NFC. Price's early success could accelerate Seattle's competitiveness in a division that includes rivals such as the San Francisco 49ers and the Los Angeles Rams.
The future of Zach Charbonnet remains uncertain, but his skill set and draft pedigree still hold value. Whether he remains a Seahawk or is traded will likely depend on training camp performances and Seattle's evolving roster construction philosophy.
Regardless, the Seahawks have made clear that Jadarian Price is their chosen running back of the future. His blend of talent and versatility positions him to be a central figure in Seattle's offensive revival in the coming seasons.
As the draft progresses and offseason moves unfold, fans should keep an eye on Seattle's roster adjustments, particularly concerning the depth and complementarity of their running back corps.
Seattle's front office, led by John Schneider and coaching staff under Mike Macdonald, has sent a strong signal: the Seahawks are ready to integrate new talents and compete immediately, using the draft and roster moves to strengthen their overall team identity heading into 2026.