Seahawks’ Jadarian Price: A ‘Complete’ Back Poised for Immediate Impact
The Seattle Seahawks are betting on Notre Dame’s Jadarian Price to be their lead running back in the 2026 season, after selecting him with the 32nd overall pick in the first round of the NFL Draft. According to his former coach, Marcus Freeman, Price possesses a rare combination of skills that could translate to immediate success in the professional league.
A Multifaceted Skillset
“He’s a complete running back,” Freeman stated on Seattle Sports’ Bump and Stacy show on Wednesday. “You see his ability to make explosive plays. His ability to get east and west and then vertical is as fast as anybody I’ve ever seen.” Freeman highlighted Price’s exceptional speed and agility, noting his ability to “outrun a defense horizontally and then vertically at the drop of a dime.”
Beyond his rushing prowess, Price brings value on special teams, having scored multiple kickoff return touchdowns during his time at Notre Dame. Freeman emphasized that Price is “at any moment…a home run threat, and that’s in multiple phases of the game.”
Developing Receiving and Blocking Abilities
While already a dynamic runner and returner, Price is actively improving in other key areas. Freeman noted Price’s progress in catching passes out of the backfield and his growing proficiency in pass protection. “He’s becoming a guy that you can depend on to throw the ball out of the backfield,” Freeman said. “He’s getting better at pass protecting.”
Choosing Development Over Immediate Gain
Price’s decision to remain at Notre Dame, despite opportunities to transfer for more playing time and increased Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) earnings, speaks to his commitment to long-term development. Freeman explained, “He had opportunities in the moment to go make more money to be RB 1, and instead he made the decision to get his Notre Dame degree.” This dedication ultimately paid off, as Price became a first-round NFL draft pick.
Freeman believes this decision demonstrates a valuable lesson for the entire Notre Dame team: prioritizing long-term growth and education over “instant gratification.”
Filling a Void in Seattle
Price is expected to step into a starting role with the Seahawks, following the departure of Jeremiyah Love, who was selected third overall by the Arizona Cardinals. This presents a significant opportunity for Price to showcase his talents and contribute to a Super Bowl-winning team.
Did you know?
Jadarian Price averaged 6.0 yards per carry during his final season at Notre Dame, rushing for 674 yards and 11 touchdowns on 113 carries.
FAQ
Q: What position does Jadarian Price play?
A: Running back.
Q: Where was Jadarian Price drafted?
A: He was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks with the 32nd overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Q: What did Jadarian Price’s college coach say about his potential?
A: Marcus Freeman described Price as a “complete running back” with the potential to become even more impactful in the NFL.
Q: What other skills does Jadarian Price bring to the Seahawks?
A: He excels on special teams as a kickoff returner and is improving as a receiver and pass protector.
Pro Tip: Maintain an eye on Price’s performance in pass protection – a reliable pass-blocking running back is invaluable in today’s NFL.
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