With the ninth overall pick of the 2022 NFL Draft, the Seattle Seahawks selected Mississippi State OT Charles Cross. What will Cross’s rookie contract look like, and where does he project into the Seahawks’ current depth chart?
Charles Cross drafted ninth overall by the Seattle Seahawks
Cross becomes just the second Mississippi State offensive lineman selected in the first round since 1967 – Derek Sherrod was selected 32nd overall in 2011 by the Green Bay Packers. He also becomes just the fourth offensive player from the school to be selected in the first round in that time. During his time at Mississippi State, Cross was a 2020 All-SEC Freshman Team selection and a first-team All-SEC selection in 2021.
Cross’ projected rookie contract
Because Cross was the ninth overall selection in the 2022 NFL Draft, this is what his projected rookie contract should look like. Contract numbers are from Over the Cap.
- Total Value: $24.5 million
- Signing Bonus: $15.0 million
- 2022 Base Salary: $705,000
- 2022 Cap Number: $4.5 million
Cross’s strengths and areas to improve
Here is a snapshot of what the Seahawks will be getting with the selection of Cross. For further information, check out Cross’ full scouting report.
Strengths
- Despite his lean frame, he’s powerful and displays a decent anchor in pass protection and can mirror pass rushers
- Explosive out of his snap and possesses quick footwork and lateral agility to effortlessly get into pass sets
- Consistent with hand placement and timing
Areas for improvement
- Power rushers may cause issues in the NFL
- Can overset and give up the inside on occasion
- Limited exposure to run-game reps
How does Cross project in the Seahawks’ depth chart?
Cross is the most aesthetically pleasing pass protector in the class. He has the sweet feet that offensive line coaches dream about, and he brings way more as a run blocker than he’s given credit for.
They couldn’t step into 2022 with Stone Forsythe at left tackle. They still don’t have a fantastic option at quarterback, but whoever they have should be protected well on the left side. Their right side is still an issue, but there is offensive line depth throughout the rest of the class.
When do the Seahawks pick next in the 2022 NFL Draft?
As of the time they drafted Cross, the Seahawks have these remaining picks in the 2022 NFL Draft.
- Round 2 (Pick 40 from Broncos)
- Round 2 (Pick 41)
- Round 3 (Pick 72)
- Round 4 (Pick 109)
- Round 5 (Pick 145 from Broncos)
- Round 5 (Pick 153)
- Round 7 (Pick 229)
For the full results and upcoming draft order, check out our pick-by-pick tracker for the 2022 NFL Draft.