Seattle Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker III (9) rushes against the New York Giants during the second quarter at Lumen Field. Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports

Seahawks' 2022 draft class coming through in big way

By Cory Woodroof | Last updated 11/3/22

The Seattle Seahawks are one of the NFL's best surprises this fall.

While quarterback Geno Smith's comeback campaign is leading headlines, it's the Seahawks' 2022 draft class that's really raising eyebrows.

The NFL just named rookie running back Kenneth Walker III and rookie cornerback Tariq Woolen as the NFC's offensive and defensive rookies for the month of October, respectively.

Seahawks RB Kenneth Walker III was named the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Month for October.

Seahawks CB Tariq Woolen was named the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Month for October.

Their draft class continues to shine. pic.twitter.com/XUPh2v4X1V
— Field Yates (@FieldYates) November 3, 2022

Walker's stellar season has him in the conversation for Offensive Rookie of the Year, and Woolen is perhaps the best cornerback the team has drafted since Shaquill Griffin.

They highlight what's been a tremendous draft class, one that also features starting left tackle Charles Cross, emerging pass rusher Boye Mafe, starting right tackle Abraham Lucas and reserve corner Coby Bryant.

Getting four immediate starters out of one draft class (and one likely down the road in Mafe) is a coup for any team. The Seahawks, though, have the great fortune of two of those starters going into a long-struggling offensive line. With Smith's rise and Walker's fast start, it's critical that Cross and Lucas are doing what they're doing.

On defense, Woolen already has four interceptions and 27 tackles starting for the Seahawks. He's a fifth-round steal.

The Seahawks might not quite be a bona fide Super Bowl team, but they lead the NFC West at present. They should be extra thankful the 2022 draft class has come through as it has.

More must-reads: