Seahawks Pursue Trade for Raiders’ Center Jackson Powers-Johnson Amid Offensive Line Concerns
The Seattle Seahawks are reportedly eyeing a potential trade for Jackson Powers-Johnson, the Las Vegas Raiders’ benched center, as they look to bolster an offensive line struggling to protect quarterback Sam Darnold.
A Surprising Season for Seattle
Through the first seven weeks of the NFL season, the Seahawks have emerged as one of the league’s unexpected contenders. With a solid 5-2 record, they find themselves in a three-way tie for first place in the NFC West alongside the San Francisco 49ers and Los Angeles Rams. Their performance has showcased a commendable balance, featuring a top-10 offense complemented by a stout defense.
However, even in a successful season, there are always areas for improvement. The Seahawks’ offensive line, particularly the interior, has shown vulnerabilities, especially in protecting Darnold. While rookie Grey Zabel has managed to hold his own, the team could significantly benefit from an upgrade at the center position currently occupied by Jalen Sundell.
Powers-Johnson on the Trade Block
The potential for a trade has been highlighted by Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox, who notes that Powers-Johnson, a former second-round draft pick, has fallen out of favor with the Raiders. Knox reports that head coach Pete Carroll has been reluctant to utilize the 22-year-old at center, leading to his benching during a recent blowout loss to the Kansas City Chiefs.
“After refusing to play the 22-year-old at center early in the season and forcing him to battle for a starting job, Carroll benched the 2024 second-round pick during Sunday’s blowout loss to the Kansas City Chiefs,” Knox detailed. This suggests a lack of confidence from the Raiders in Powers-Johnson’s abilities, making him a viable target for teams looking to strengthen their offensive lines.
What Powers-Johnson Could Bring to Seattle
If acquired, Powers-Johnson could provide the Seahawks with a much-needed boost. His experience as a high draft pick indicates that he possesses the talent and potential to succeed at the professional level. With the trade deadline approaching, the Seahawks could explore this opportunity to enhance their offensive front, ensuring better protection for Darnold as they pursue a playoff spot.
As the NFL landscape continues to shift, Seattle’s front office will need to weigh the benefits of a trade against the potential costs. If they can secure Powers-Johnson, it could prove to be a pivotal move that solidifies their offensive line and propels them further into the season.
