The Seattle Seahawks have traded for cornerback Avery Smith from the Los Angeles Chargers, surprising the rookie who had a strong training camp and preseason. Smith, who was signed as an undrafted free agent from the University of Toledo, expressed his astonishment at being traded before the regular season, noting that he had not heard of such occurrences for undrafted players.
The Seahawks made the move on roster cut-down day, sending a sixth-round pick in the 2027 NFL Draft to the Chargers. General manager John Schneider indicated that the team was impressed with Smith's performance during the preseason and had previously scouted him while evaluating other Toledo players.
Smith's familiarity with fellow Toledo teammates Andrew Fuller and Maxen Hook, who are now also on the Seahawks' practice squad, adds to the team's cohesion.
Schneider, who has been the Seahawks' GM for 17 years, emphasized that the decision to trade for Smith was based on his potential to contribute to the team's defense. Smith's versatility allows him to play both nickel and outside cornerback positions, which is crucial as the Seahawks seek a reliable third cornerback following the departure of Riq Woolen to the Philadelphia Eagles.
The Seahawks have also recently signed former Dallas Cowboys cornerback Trevon Diggs and former Detroit Lions first-round pick Terrion Arnold, who is currently unable to practice due to legal issues. The addition of Smith is part of head coach Mike Macdonald's strategy to strengthen the defensive backfield ahead of the upcoming season opener against New England at Lumen Field.
