Seahawks 2024 Rookie Review: Byron Murphy II and the Class’ First Year Performance
While the Seahawks didn’t have any Rookie of the Year contenders, the 2024 draft class still played a significant role in the team’s 10-win season, marking their first winning record since 2020. Despite missing the playoffs in coach Mike Macdonald’s first year, the rookie class grew into important roles as the season progressed.
Here’s how Byron Murphy II and Seattle’s other rookies fared in their debut NFL seasons:
Byron Murphy II
Grade: B-
Selected 16th overall in the 2024 draft, Murphy didn’t fully live up to expectations in terms of sacks and splashy plays. He appeared in 14 games despite some injuries and recorded only half a sack and two tackles for loss. However, his impact went beyond his stat line. As a pass rusher, he finished third among rookie defensive tackles with 21 pressures and first in pass rush win rate (10%). Murphy’s ability to take on double teams and excel in both 3-tech and nose tackle roles helped improve Seattle’s run defense. With more luck and continued development, he could become a more disruptive force in the future.
Christian Haynes
Grade: D
After an impressive Senior Bowl and All-American honors at Connecticut, Haynes was expected to start, but he struggled with play strength and couldn’t beat out veteran Anthony Bradford for the starting role. He played only 167 snaps, allowing six pressures and a sack, along with four penalties. Though his pass-blocking efficiency was solid, his struggles in the run game raised concerns, especially when he lost his spot to fellow rookie Sataoa Laumea. Haynes has potential, but he will need a strong offseason to secure a bigger role in 2025.
Tyrice Knight
Grade: A-
Knight, coming from UTEP, surprised many by making an immediate impact. Stepping up when Jerome Baker was injured, Knight earned a starting role by Week 11, finishing the season with 88 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and a pass breakup. He demonstrated a solid all-around game with few missed tackles and proficiency in coverage. Knight could be a cornerstone of Seattle’s defense in 2025, especially if his partner, Ernest Jones IV, returns.
AJ Barner
Grade: A-
Though Barner wasn’t known for his receiving skills in college, he made a significant impact as a tight end for the Seahawks. Trust from Geno Smith led to a touchdown connection early in the season, and Barner finished with four touchdowns, second-most by a rookie tight end. While his run blocking needs improvement, his unexpected receiving ability suggests a bright future, potentially positioning him as Seattle’s top tight end next year.
Nehemiah Pritchett
Grade: D+
Pritchett was expected to contribute on special teams, but after injuries in the secondary, he was pressed into defensive action. He allowed one touchdown and struggled in coverage, giving up 205 yards over three games. His missed tackle rate was concerning, but with his speed, he could still develop into a solid contributor in 2025, especially with free agents looming in the secondary.
Sataoa Laumea
Grade: C+
Laumea was mostly a “redshirt” rookie until Week 12, when he stepped in for the injured Bradford. He struggled in pass protection, allowing 23 pressures and two sacks, but was solid in the run game. His performance showed promise, and with improvements in his pass protection, he could be a key part of Seattle’s offensive line in 2025.
D.J. James
Grade: F
James didn’t last long with the Seahawks after a rough preseason. He was waived during final roster cuts and never made it back to the practice squad, marking his sixth-round pick as a miss.
Michael Jerrell
Grade: C
Jerrell, who came from Division II Findlay University, wasn’t expected to play much, but injuries pushed him into action. Though he struggled with NFL-level edge defenders, allowing 15 pressures and three sacks, his athleticism shone through in the run game. He showed enough to be cautiously optimistic about his potential, and with more development, he could contribute in the future behind Abraham Lucas.
In conclusion, the Seahawks’ 2024 rookie class faced challenges but also demonstrated potential for growth. Several players, including Knight and Barner, exceeded expectations, while others, like Haynes and Pritchett, will need to develop further to secure a future role.
Leave a Reply