It’s been a while since we could discuss the Seattle Seahawks potentially receiving compensatory draft picks, but if they refrain from additional qualifying free signings, that drought is about to end. Before delving into the number of compensatory picks Seattle might receive for the 2025 NFL Draft, let’s review how the compensatory picks system operates:
Compensatory picks are limited to 32 picks per year, corresponding to the number of teams in the league, under the collective bargaining agreement. However, they aren’t distributed equally among teams, and no team can get more than four compensatory picks in a single year for players leaving. To be eligible for compensatory picks, a team must lose more or better qualifying free agents than they gain in a given year.
Compensatory draft picks, allocated between Rounds 3 and 7, are determined by a league formula considering factors like a player’s average salary per year (APY), snap count, and postseason awards. Despite an anticipated compensation level based on a player’s contract, their playing time in the upcoming season could affect the expectation.
Seattle last received compensatory picks in 2020, totaling three for Earl Thomas, Justin Coleman, and Shamar Stephen. This year, projections suggest the Seahawks are in line for two compensatory picks.
Projected Comp Picks:
– Damien Lewis: Projected 4th round pick
– Jordyn Brooks: Projected 5th round pick
Certain signings, like those of Tyrel Dodson, George Fant, and Pharaoh Brown, have nullified Seattle’s chances of receiving the maximum of four compensatory picks.
It’s important to note that only players scheduled for unrestricted free agency count in the compensatory pick formula; roster cut cap casualties do not. Some free agent signings and departures may not qualify due to not reaching the qualifying cutoff based on contract values.
The deadline for unrestricted free agent signings to impact the compensatory pick formula is May 1. As of now, Seattle’s only remaining unsigned unrestricted free agents are Phil Haynes and Jason Peters.
