ESPN Seven-Round Mock Draft Projects Seahawks to Select Auburn Defensive End Keldric Faulk at No. 32

ESPN latest seven-round mock draft projects the Seattle Seahawks will address their defensive line needs by selecting Auburn defensive end Keldric Faulk with the 32nd overall pick, viewing the young pass rusher as the ideal long-term replacement for aging veteran DeMarcus Lawrence.

Matt Miller comprehensive draft projection identifies Faulk as a high-potential prospect whose physical attributes and age make him an attractive investment for Seattle defensive coordinator. At 6-foot-6 and 276 pounds, Faulk possesses the prototypical size for an NFL edge rusher while offering significant room for development at just 20 years old.

DeMarcus Lawrence was instrumental last season but is 34 years old and needs an heir apparent, Miller explained in his analysis of Seattle projected selection. Faulk is a high-potential prospect at 6-foot-6 and 276 pounds with pro-level power and agility. At just 20 years old, there room for him to grow and develop beyond what he did at Auburn.

Faulk recorded 16 total sacks across his final two collegiate seasons from 2024-25, demonstrating consistent production despite Auburn offensive struggles that often limited his opportunities. His 30 total pressures during the 2025 season showcase his ability to consistently affect opposing quarterbacks even when sacks did not materialize.

The Auburn product represents one of the most highly regarded edge rushers in the 2026 draft class, combining rare physical tools with productive college performance that suggests immediate NFL impact potential. His combination of size, athleticism, and pass-rushing instincts align perfectly with modern defensive schemes that prioritize versatile edge players.

Seattle second-round selection in Miller projection focuses on addressing offensive depth, with Arkansas running back Mike Washington Jr. projected to join the backfield with the 64th overall pick. Washington broke out during his final collegiate season, recording the first 1,000-yard rushing campaign of his career with 1,070 yards in 2025.

Washington size at 6-foot-1 provides the physical presence Seattle offense may lack in their current backfield rotation. His late-career breakout suggests continued development potential while his college production indicates readiness for immediate NFL contribution in a complementary role.

The third-round projection sends North Dakota State wide receiver Bryce Lance to Seattle with the 96th overall pick, adding another offensive weapon with impressive production credentials. Lance remarkably accumulated 1,079 receiving yards on just 51 receptions during his final season, averaging over 21 yards per catch.

Lance exceptional per-reception average suggests big-play ability that could complement Seattle existing offensive weapons while providing quarterback Geno Smith another reliable target. His FCS background mirrors successful NFL transitions by other North Dakota State products who have thrived at the professional level.

Alabama center Parker Brailsford rounds out Seattle projected selections in Miller mock draft, joining the offensive line with the 188th overall pick in the sixth round. Brailsford allowed just one sack during his final collegiate season, demonstrating the pass protection skills that NFL teams value in interior linemen.

Brailsford selection addresses long-term depth along Seattle offensive line while providing insurance for potential injuries or departures among current starters. His SEC experience against elite competition suggests readiness for the physical demands of NFL interior line play.

The comprehensive four-player projection reflects balanced roster construction that addresses both immediate needs and future development opportunities across multiple position groups. Seattle apparent focus on youth and upside aligns with their organizational philosophy under head coach Pete Carroll.

Defensive line improvement represents Seattle most pressing need entering the 2026 draft, making Faulk selection logical despite his relative youth and developmental requirements. The investment in Lawrence eventual replacement demonstrates proactive roster management rather than reactive crisis response.

Offensive additions through the middle rounds provide depth and competition for existing players while creating opportunities for scheme expansion based on new personnel capabilities. The blend of experienced college producers and high-upside prospects offers multiple paths toward roster contribution.

Miller projection reflects current draft consensus while acknowledging that team needs and prospect evaluations will continue evolving before April draft dates arrive.