The Seattle Seahawks are expected to select a center in the 2025 NFL draft capable of replacing starter Olu Oluwatimi. Not so fast, general manager John Schneider told reporters at this week's annual ownership meetings. Schneider claimed the 2025 NFL draft class of centers isn't a strong one, per ESPN's Brady Henderson.
Asked about Seattle finding an upgrade in the draft at center or guard, Schneider said it'll be difficult to find one at center because, in their view, it's not a strong class at that position.
— Brady Henderson (@BradyHenderson) March 31, 2025
Sounds like they're prepared to have Olu Oluwatimi and Jalen Sundell battle it out.
Oluwatimi took over as the starting center approximately midway through the 2024 campaign following Connor Williams' abrupt retirement. Oluwatimi ended up playing 431 total snaps at center. Pro Football Focus assigned him a stellar run-blocking grade of 65.8, but claim he struggled in pass protection, scoring a 54.8 in that department. His overall score was 64.2.
Oluwatimi allowed just zero sacks and eight total quarterback pressures, making his lackluster pass-pro grade slightly confusing. The former Michigan standout was only whistled for two penalties. The Seahawks appear comfortable entering the 2025 season under new offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak with Oluwatimi as their center.
Schneider's comments about the center class are especially interesting because the team has been heavily linked to drafting North Dakota State offensive lineman Grey Zabel at No. 18 overall. Zabel is considered a center prospect by most scouts. Mid-round options also include Georgia's Jared Wilson and Sacramento State's Jackson Slater. Either Schneider holds a low opinion on these prospects, or his comments are a smokescreen.
This article originally appeared on Seahawks Wire: Seahawks GM John Schneider says Olu Oluwatimi won't be easy to replace
