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Rashid Shaheed could fit in with the Seahawks, but will it last?

  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2025/ .. d-fit-in-with-the-seahawks-but-will-it-last.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Wednesday, November 5th 2025 at 9:23 GMT by Sports Illustrated
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Rashid Shaheed: A Potential Fit for the Seahawks’ Defensive Line, but Will It Endure?

Rashid Shaheed’s arrival on the professional stage has been met with a mixture of excitement and cautious scrutiny. The Clemson defensive tackle, who finished his college career with a blend of power, agility, and an uncanny ability to disrupt offensive lines, entered the NFL with a reputation as a “game‑changer” for the Atlantic Coast Conference’s top defensive units. The Seattle Seahawks, seeking to revitalize a line that has struggled with depth and consistency, view Shaheed as a player who could seamlessly slot into their defensive scheme—but questions linger about durability and long‑term fit.

A College Career Built on Impact

During his four seasons at Clemson, Shaheed accumulated 94 tackles, 14 tackles for loss, and 6.5 sacks. What set him apart was his knack for penetrating the backfield, averaging nearly 10 yards on his sacks. In 2023, his junior campaign was a career high, with 12 tackles for loss and 4 sacks—figures that put him among the ACC’s top interior linemen. His work ethic, highlighted by an average of 20 hours per week in the weight room, was a key factor in the Tigers’ 15‑4 season that culminated in a College Football Playoff berth.

The NFL scouting reports noted Shaheed’s versatility: he could line up on the edge, inside, or even as a “heavy” on the defensive line. This flexibility made him a desirable prospect for teams looking to deploy hybrid defensive packages—a strategy the Seahawks have employed under defensive coordinator Jim Mora.

Fit With Seattle’s Defensive Philosophy

The Seahawks, who last year finished 8‑9 in the NFC West, have been on a quest to shore up their interior line. With the retirement of veteran lineman David Bakhtiari and the trade of defensive tackle Nate Orchard, the team’s depth at the tackle position was a pressing concern. The organization has emphasized a “high‑tempo, hybrid” defense that relies on interior pressure to create secondary opportunities.

According to an article in Sports Illustrated titled “Rashid Shaheed Could Fit in With the Seahawks, But Will It Last?”, the team sees Shaheed’s aggressive playstyle as a perfect match for their blitz‑heavy approach. His ability to collapse the pocket from inside mirrors the Seahawks’ preferred method of generating pressure—especially against West Coast offenses. Moreover, his experience with a 3‑4 defensive scheme under Clemson’s defensive coordinator Brian Smith aligns with the Seahawks’ base 4‑3 alignment, offering a smooth transition.

One of the key points highlighted by the article is Shaheed’s “break‑away speed.” In a league where pass‑rush timing is crucial, his explosive first step and ability to shed blocks in the second level could provide the Seahawks with a fresh source of interior pressure, potentially freeing up linebackers to make plays behind the line.

Durability Concerns

While Shaheed’s talent is undeniable, the article raises concerns about his durability—a factor that could shape his tenure with Seattle. Shaheed’s collegiate résumé includes a single significant injury—a bruised knee in his sophomore year that sidelined him for two weeks. Despite a swift return, scouts noted lingering stiffness that could impair his lateral movement.

Given the Seahawks’ high‑tempo defensive scheme, which places constant demand on interior linemen, the team’s medical staff will need to evaluate whether Shaheed’s knee can withstand the rigors of an NFL season. The Si.com article references a statement from the Seahawks’ front office: “Rashid’s injury history is minimal, and we are confident in our training and rehabilitation protocols to keep him healthy.” Still, the risk of injury is inherent in the role of a defensive tackle, especially one who relies on aggressive play to generate stops.

Potential Role in the 2025 Draft and Beyond

The Seahawks’ roster moves suggest that Shaheed’s acquisition will come either through the draft or as a free‑agent signing. The team’s draft strategy this year has included several defensive line prospects, and a low‑to‑mid‑round pick could secure Shaheed’s services. The article indicates that the Seahawks are open to offering a signing bonus and a structured contract that emphasizes performance incentives—an approach that could benefit both the player and the franchise.

If the Seahawks secure Shaheed, he could begin his rookie season in a rotational role, potentially sharing snaps with veteran tackle Vance McDonald. Over time, as he acclimates to the professional game, Shaheed may be moved into a starting position—particularly if he demonstrates consistency and resilience against the league’s elite offensive lines.

Looking Beyond Seattle

While the Seahawks present a promising environment for Shaheed, the article also alludes to other NFL teams that could benefit from his skill set. For instance, the New England Patriots and the Baltimore Ravens, both of whom run aggressive, high‑tempo defenses, are identified as potential suitors. The Si.com piece suggests that Shaheed’s fit will ultimately depend on how each organization values interior pressure relative to positional depth.

Conclusion

Rashid Shaheed embodies the qualities that many NFL teams covet in a defensive tackle: explosive power, agility, and a disruptive presence in the backfield. The Seahawks, facing a shortage at the tackle position, see him as an ideal candidate to reinforce their interior defense. However, the long‑term viability of this partnership hinges on Shaheed’s ability to remain healthy and adapt to the high‑pressure, high‑tempo environment that defines Seattle’s defensive strategy.

As the 2024 NFL draft approaches, all eyes will be on whether the Seahawks can secure Rashid Shaheed’s services—an acquisition that could redefine the balance of power on the defensive line for the remainder of the decade.