Another week of the NFL season passes, and yet another unfortunate clip circulates featuring Seahawks guard Anthony Bradford looking lost on the field. This week, Bradford made the rounds on Twitter after running into fellow offensive lineman Jalen Sundell and knocking over teammate Zach Charbonnet on a play that could have resulted in a large gain. While one play doesn’t define an entire performance — after all, it’s easy to pick apart most players by isolating a single clip — Bradford’s viral gaffes are just standout moments in a season marred by poor play.
### Bradford’s Ongoing Struggles
Bradford is currently one of the lowest-rated guards according to Pro Football Focus (PFF), ranking 73rd out of 82 eligible players. He has particularly underperformed in the passing game, where he ranks 80th in pass-block grade.
“All of the 12s could heartily concur, because it’s obvious from watching last week that Anthony Bradford’s play at right guard isn’t close to an elite level,” Richie Whitt writes for Sports Illustrated. He adds, “It’s not solely Bradford’s fault, but he shares some of the blame for Seattle ranking just 27th in the league at 3.7 yards per rush.”
Tim Weaver, another SI writer, discussed how Bradford has fallen short of expectations, especially after a promising preseason performance. “Bradford’s struggles are particularly disappointing this year because he appeared to have turned a corner during the preseason, when he was positively dominant facing second-string defenders,” Weaver explains. “Unfortunately, that great work in August turned out to be a mirage, as Bradford immediately regressed once the regular season began and he started lining up across from starters again.”
### Possible Trade Candidates
With the trade deadline approaching on November 4, Seattle has several interior offensive linemen to consider acquiring.
One name frequently mentioned is Saints right guard Cesar Ruiz. The 26-year-old was a first-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft and has started 75 games over six seasons with New Orleans. Acquiring Ruiz would be a relatively big financial commitment for the Seahawks, as his cap hit jumps to $14.2 million over the next two seasons. However, the Saints are rebuilding and may be willing to part ways with the serviceable veteran.
Another potential source for upgrades is the Cleveland Browns, who have two veteran guards rumored to be available. Joel Bitonio is one of the most decorated players who could be dealt at the deadline. The 34-year-old has made seven Pro Bowls and been named an All-Pro five times throughout his career. Currently in the final year of his deal, Bitonio could serve as the perfect short-term addition for Seattle’s playoff push.
The other Browns option is Wyatt Teller. Teller, 30, has made three Pro Bowls and earned two All-Pro selections during his career. Like Bitonio, his contract also expires after this season. NFL analyst Dan Wilkins of theScore recently proposed a trade scenario where the Seahawks acquire Teller in exchange for a 2026 fifth-round pick.
As the deadline nears, Seattle will need to decide whether upgrading their offensive line through trades is the solution to their ongoing struggles at the guard position.
https://heavy.com/sports/nfl/seattle-seahawks/seahawks-urged-to-replace-struggling-player/
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