The Seattle Seahawks‘ inability to execute in short-yardage situations has become a significant issue in recent weeks.
In critical moments where they need to gain just a yard, the Seahawks have consistently struggled, particularly due to an offensive line that has been unable to create movement. In a Week 9 overtime loss to the Los Angeles Rams, Seattle failed to convert a third-and-1 in the red zone, with running back Kenneth Walker III being stopped for no gain on back-to-back plays. Then, in a Week 10 win over the San Francisco 49ers, the Seahawks turned the ball over on downs again, this time on a fourth-and-1, when running back Zach Charbonnet was stopped for no gain.
During a Week 12 win against the New York Jets, Seattle also failed to score despite having eight consecutive snaps inside the 5-yard line, including five from the 1-yard line.
To address this short-yardage problem, Curtis Rogers, a producer for Seattle Sports’ Bump and Stacy, suggested a bold idea: What if the Seahawks used rookie defensive tackle Byron Murphy II, who stands 6 feet tall and weighs 306 pounds, as a fullback in goal-line situations?
This suggestion may not be as outlandish as it sounds. Murphy, the 16th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, had a successful stint as a fullback during his college career at Texas. He scored two offensive touchdowns last year, including a 1-yard rushing touchdown in the Sugar Bowl and a 1-yard receiving touchdown against Wyoming.
“We’re at a point in the season where any idea is worth considering to fix the Seahawks’ goal-line offense,” Rogers said. He acknowledged the tougher NFL defensive lines but pointed out that Murphy had managed to score even against a strong Huskies defense last year.
Former NFL wide receiver Michael Bumpus supported the idea, noting the Seahawks’ offensive line struggles and the lack of push during short-yardage situations. While Seattle doesn’t have a traditional fullback on the roster, they have recently experimented with running back Charbonnet and backup offensive lineman Jalen Sundell in fullback roles during short-yardage plays.
Bumpus believes the team should at least explore the possibility of using Murphy in this role, even if they don’t acquire a fullback this season. “They have to try something because what they’re doing isn’t working,” he said. “I think they should look at that film and consider trying it.”
