Who is Michael Barrett? Why the Seahawks Traded for the Rookie Before His First NFL Snap

The Seattle Seahawks made headlines recently by trading for rookie linebacker Michael Barrett, even though he has yet to play a single regular-season game. But who is Michael Barrett, and why did the Seahawks see enough potential in him to make this move?

Barrett, a former Michigan Wolverine standout, was selected in the 7th round of the 2024 NFL Draft by the Miami Dolphins. Known for his versatility and high football IQ, Barrett played multiple positions during his college career, including linebacker, safety, and even a bit of slot cornerback. His adaptability on the field made him an intriguing prospect, despite his late-round selection.

During his time at Michigan, Barrett was a key defensive player, known for his ability to read offenses and make quick decisions. His athleticism and speed allowed him to cover a wide range of the field, making him valuable in both pass coverage and run defense. These skills caught the attention of NFL scouts, but his draft stock fell due to concerns about his size and whether he could transition smoothly to the pros.

So why did the Seahawks trade for Barrett before he even played a regular-season game? Seattle’s defense has been in flux, and they’ve been on the lookout for players who can bring energy and versatility to their lineup. Barrett’s ability to play multiple positions aligns perfectly with Seattle’s defensive schemes, which often require linebackers to drop back into coverage or blitz from different angles. The Seahawks likely saw Barrett as a low-risk, high-reward investment, especially given their recent struggles in pass defense.

The trade for Barrett is a bet on his potential and a reflection of Seattle’s need for dynamic, adaptable players. While he may not have played an NFL game yet, the Seahawks are banking on Barrett’s college performance translating to the professional level.