The offensive line remains a major talking point for the Seattle Seahawks this offseason.
Following another season of struggles up front, bolstering the O-line appeared to be a top priority for Seattle heading into the offseason. However, so far, there’s been little movement. The only significant addition has been free agent Josh Jones, who is expected to serve as the team’s third tackle.
That could change in the upcoming NFL Draft, where the Seahawks hold five selections within the first 92 picks. Still, whether or not they use one of those picks on an offensive lineman, it’s apparent the team is counting on internal development going forward.
General manager John Schneider and head coach Mike Macdonald have both voiced confidence in the new offensive coaching staff—featuring offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak and offensive line coach John Benton—to maximize the potential of the young linemen already on the roster.
When asked on Seattle Sports’ Bump and Stacy during his “Four Down Territory” segment which Seahawks lineman might take the biggest leap in 2025, Seahawks Radio Network analyst and former NFL wide receiver Michael Bumpus gave a clear answer.
“I think it’s going to be Christian Haynes,” Bumpus said. “And it’s because of his physical build and playing style. He’s incredibly agile. I went back and watched some of his college tape—he’s excellent at reaching the second level.”
The right fit
Standing 6-foot-2 and weighing 318 pounds, Christian Haynes was a third-round selection and the first of three offensive linemen the Seahawks drafted last year. Despite that, he logged just 167 snaps in 2024—fewer than sixth-round picks Sataoa Laumea and Michael Jerrell.
Haynes did have opportunities to carve out a role. The former UConn standout split time at right guard early in the season with opening-day starter Anthony Bradford. But after Bradford suffered a season-ending injury in Week 11, it was Laumea—not Haynes—who started the final six games at the position.
Still, Bumpus believes Haynes’ quickness and ability to block in space make him a natural fit for offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak’s wide-zone scheme. He added that the narrative around Haynes could have been very different had Kubiak been calling plays in 2024.
“Everyone’s going to grow, but Haynes’ style of play fits this system,” Bumpus said. “If Kubiak had been here last season, I really think Haynes would have had a better shot to lock down that guard spot.”
Last year, former offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb noted that Haynes needed to improve his power. Bumpus sees that as something that can be developed with a full offseason of work.
“With time to eat right, gain strength, and keep his quickness, he can really make a leap,” Bumpus said. “I’m hoping it’s him, especially since the team invested a high pick in him last year. And the more I study him, the more I think he’s the one poised for the biggest improvement.”
“Will it be enough to beat out a rookie or a veteran addition? That remains to be seen,” he added. “But I think Haynes has what it takes.”
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