Seahawks Should Target $21 Million Free Agent Guard to Protect Geno Smith

The Seattle Seahawks missed out on the playoffs in 2024, and that could be in large part due to the shaky offensive line. Quarterback Geno Smith simply did not have enough time to work with bigger plays and was sacked a third-most in the NFL (according to statmuse).

That said, the Seahawks need a big boost to their offensive line in 2025. Laken Tomlinson was the most consistent but is set to be an unrestricted free agent.

Anthony Bradford and Sataoa Laumea both played right guard to varying degrees of success but ranked low in terms of the position — according to PFF by way of Seattle Sports. Bradford came in at 73, and Laimea at 77.

The surprise retirement of center Connor Williams also threw a wrench at the position, with Olu Oluwatimi taking over.

Seattle needs to rework its offensive line in a big way, and they can start with the guard position. A target they should be interested in is Tampa Bay Buccaneers left guard Ben Bredeson.

Bredeson is also set to become an unrestricted free agent. The 26-year-old guard has proven to be one of the most durable in the NFL, starting all 17 games for the Bucs.

Considering his previous $3 million contract, he is likely due for a pay raise. The issue is the Seahawks are a projected $27 million over the cap for 2025. They could make some moves like releasing Tyler Lockett, which would save $17 million on the cap.

They might also restructure the contract or extend DK Metcalf to save some big money. His 2025 cap hit is currently $31,875,000, according to spotrac.

These roster moves would save plenty of money, which could lead to the Seahawks offering Bredeson a three-year, $21 million deal. This would pay the stalwart guard $7 million per season, solidifying at least one position on the shaky offensive line.

Seattle needs to make some drastic moves to protect Smith. They can do that, or simply move on from Smith to ensure even more money. Either way, the quarterback that would come in to potentially replace Smith would still need protection.

A boosted offensive line might also greatly help the rush game for the Seahawks, which was near the bottom in 2024. Seattle secured 95.7 yards per game on the ground, which severely diminished the possibility of opening up the passing game for Smith.

Reinvigorating the offensive line with a signing like Bredeson could be a major step in the right direction for the team.