Seattle Seahawks: 2022 NFL Draft Tackle Duo Showing Promise Early

The Seattle Seahawks looked rough overall in their second preseason game, but their rookie tackle duo springs some hope for the future.

It was a rough night at home for the Seattle Seahawks, as they were thoroughly dominated by the Bears, losing 27-11 in their second preseason game. The defense struggled to get stops, their special teams was a nightmare, and the offense couldn’t do much until a late surge from Jacob Eason and Darwin Thompson.

All wasn’t lost though, as the Seahawks are seeing some promise out of their two rookie tackles. Charles Cross (drafted ninth overall) and Abraham Lucas (third round) both showed off impressive footwork and pass protection skills in college. Coincidentally, both had so many pass pro reps due to playing in a Mike Leach system. Lucas has long been on the draft radar, and Cross had top 10 potential going into last season.

So far, both are getting praise from their preseason performances. Cross’ footwork is as advertised, and his ability to carry rushers both vertically and mirror them when they change their path (via an inside move or otherwise) is fun to watch. His hand placement has been good and he’s looked the part of a starting left tackle for Seattle. Lucas, who was heralded for his ability as a pass blocker, has actually been dominant when he gets off and moving in the run game. He’s had excellent finishes (pancakes) in both games so far and is proving that just because he was in a Leach system, doesn’t mean he can’t run block.

If both of these two tackles hit, it would be a fantastic start to a rebuild that will take some time for the Seahawks. Their draft class was praised from top to bottom, and they’ve gotten good performances from other rookies so far in Boye Mafe and Tariq Woolen. But, Cross and Lucas panning out isn’t just good for the offensive line. It’s going to be great for whoever the long-term signal-caller is. They’ve got a ways to go, but it’s an impressive start for the duo.