As the Seattle Seahawks finalize their initial 53-man roster for the 2026 NFL season, the team has made a decisive move in their defensive backfield. According to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, both seventh-round rookie cornerbacks, Andre Fuller and Michael Dansby, have been waived. This surprising development, first reported by ESPN's Brady Henderson, signals a clear direction for Seattle's cornerback room as they prepare for the upcoming campaign.
A Shake-Up in the Secondary
The decision to part ways with both rookies comes after an extensive preseason evaluation. Fuller, a standout from Toledo, and Dansby, formerly of Arizona, saw significant playing time during the preseason, showcasing their potential. However, the Seahawks' coaching staff, led by head coach Mike Macdonald, appears to be prioritizing experience and versatility over raw potential. If both players clear waivers by Monday, they could be re-signed to the practice squad, providing depth and development opportunities.
The cornerback position has been in flux since the departure of Riq Woolen. Currently, the starting unit is anchored by Josh Jobe, Devon Witherspoon, and Nehemiah Pritchett. The team also invested a third-round pick in Julian Neal, though he missed all of preseason due to injury. The front office has been active in reshaping the group, signing veteran Trevon Diggs and trading for rookie Avery Smith from the Los Angeles Chargers. Additionally, Terrion Arnold was brought in, though he is not expected to contribute immediately.
Veteran Presence and Draft Strategy
The waiver of Fuller and Dansby highlights a broader trend in Seattle's roster construction. With the exception of a potential surprise inclusion like Deven Eastern, none of the team's sixth- or seventh-round picks from this year's draft are expected to make the 53-man roster. This reflects a league-wide sentiment that the 2026 draft class was relatively weak, particularly in the later rounds. The Seahawks are clearly betting on proven veterans and undrafted free agents to fill out their depth chart.
One player to watch is Noah Igbinoghene, a veteran corner who is competing for a roster spot. His fate will be determined as the team finalizes its roster. The Seahawks' aggressive moves in the secondary demonstrate their commitment to contending in a highly competitive NFC West. With the season opener just around the corner, the coaching staff is leaving no stone unturned in their quest for a championship.
As the dust settles on these roster cuts, the focus shifts to the practice squad and the potential for these young corners to develop within the organization. For now, Seattle's cornerback room looks formidable, with a mix of seasoned veterans and promising young talent. The Vulius NFL Analysis Desk will continue to monitor these developments as the season progresses.
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