The Seattle Seahawks took a gamble in the 2022 NFL Draft, selecting right tackle Abraham Lucas in the third round despite concerns over a pre-existing knee issue. For a time, that gamble seemed to pay off, as Lucas enjoyed a promising rookie season alongside left tackle Charles Cross. But the knee problem that haunted Lucas in college has resurfaced with a vengeance, raising serious questions about his long-term viability as a cornerstone of Seattle’s offensive line.
Recurring Injury Woes: A Season of Setbacks
Lucas’ knee issues first became a significant problem during the 2023 season when he missed 11 games, forcing the Seahawks to cycle through replacements who struggled to provide stability. The right tackle position became a glaring weakness, plagued by inconsistent blocking and costly penalties.
Hopes for a full recovery after offseason surgery were dashed when Lucas missed the first half of the 2024 season. Though he has managed to play since his return, his name has frequently appeared on the injury report, including as a non-participant in practice this week due to knee and abdominal issues.
Performance Decline: From Promising Rookie to Liability
Lucas’ performance on the field has also suffered. While Cross has emerged as a top-10 tackle in the NFL, Lucas currently ranks 70th at his position according to Pro Football Focus (PFF). His PFF grades reflect his struggles, with a mediocre 62.8 in pass blocking and 65.7 in run blocking—well below the level expected of a starting tackle in the NFL.
The knee injury’s impact on his mobility and technique is hard to ignore, and his inconsistency has become a liability for the Seahawks’ offensive line. With Seattle competing for playoff positioning, the right tackle spot remains a concern.
Future Uncertainty: A Draft Need Looms
In an ideal scenario, Lucas would fully recover during the offseason and return to form. However, the Seahawks can’t afford to bank on that outcome. Given his ongoing injury struggles and declining performance, Seattle may need to prioritize finding a replacement in the 2025 NFL Draft.
The Seahawks have shown a knack for drafting and developing offensive linemen, as evidenced by Cross’ rapid rise. Targeting a high-upside prospect to compete for the right tackle spot could ensure the offensive line remains a strength moving forward.
What’s Next for Lucas and the Seahawks?
For now, Lucas’ focus will remain on contributing through the rest of the season, but his future with the team is anything but certain. The Seahawks face tough decisions regarding their offensive line, with Lucas’ health and performance playing a pivotal role in shaping their strategy.
As Seattle looks to solidify its roster for 2025 and beyond, the right tackle position looms as a potential draft priority. Whether Lucas can bounce back or the Seahawks opt to move on, his ongoing knee troubles serve as a reminder of the inherent risks in rolling the dice on injury-prone talent.