If Washington Huskies tight end Jack Westover was healthy for the NFL draft process, there’s a chance he would’ve heard his name called among the 256 players who were selected in 2024. He was unable to perform any athletic testing while recovering from multiple injuries he suffered during the 2023 season and eventually signed with the Seattle Seahawks as an undrafted free agent.
Now, not only does the product of nearby Mount Si High School get to stay home and compete for a spot with his local team, but he should have a good shot at making the roster.
Behind Noah Fant, the Seahawks went through a complete overhaul at the position, bringing in Pharoh Brown from the New England Patriots and selecting Michigan’s AJ Barner in the fourth round. If Westover can develop some strong chemistry with quarterback Geno Smith during training camp, that should benefit him greatly as coach Mike Macdonald begins making cuts.
Geno Smith hooking up with Jack Westover in passing drills.#Seahawks QB referenced Westover as only player on team who already knew Ryan Grubb's offense after practice. pic.twitter.com/8czYTNl6XW
— Corbin K. Smith (@CorbinSmithNFL) May 23, 2024
Westover, who proved himself as a reliable run blocker and third down option as a pass catcher at Washington also has a few coaches on staff that are very familiar with his talents. Offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb and offensive line coach Scott Huff both spent multiple years working with Westover on Montlake and get to continue their relationship at the NFL level.
Grubb is bringing his deep, complex playbook with him from Washington to the pros and Westover’s deep knowledge of the offensive coordinator’s system should also give him a leg up over some of his competition.