Seattle Seahawks fans can breathe a little easier this week as some organized team activities (OTAs) will be open to the media, giving supporters a glimpse into the team’s training. For those who can’t attend, it’s a chance to catch some video highlights of players in action and get updates on the status of injured athletes.
One notable absence on the practice field is Rylie Mills, the team’s fifth-round draft pick from Notre Dame in 2025. Unfortunately, he is still recovering from an ACL tear he sustained during the college playoffs last season. If he makes it back at all this year, it likely won’t be until late in the season – a situation that might pose significant challenges for the team.
Before his injury, Mills showed promise as a formidable defensive tackle, showcasing strength coupled with surprising quickness. Although he may not have racked up impressive sack numbers, he was anticipated to be a reliable force against the run. Now, with a significant portion of his rookie season already compromised, he’s left with only three years to make an impact.
The reality is that Mills may essentially be starting from scratch in 2026, which raises concerns about his development. It typically takes a full year for college athletes to adjust to the NFL’s speed and physicality. With his recovery timeline, there’s a possibility he could only have two seasons to fully acclimate and contribute at a high level.
While there’s always hope for a successful recovery from an ACL injury, the need for a strong lower body is paramount for thriving in Mike Macdonald’s defensive scheme. There are no guarantees that Mills will return to his pre-injury form, which casts doubt on whether he’ll live up to the expectations of a fifth-round selection.
Had he stayed healthy, it’s likely that Mills would have gone much earlier in the draft. Reflecting on the Seahawks’ decision-making, they could have opted for Ohio State’s Ty Hamilton, a defensive lineman selected just six picks after Mills by the Los Angeles Rams. Hamilton shares many of Mills’ attributes and might have been a better fit for the Rams, who are likely to see meaningful contributions from him.
As it stands, the Seahawks are left hoping for a full recovery for Mills, who will miss OTAs, minicamp, and training camp this offseason. While it’s clear that general manager John Schneider undertook his due diligence with Mills’ draft status, the inherent risks of such an injury linger, leaving the team in a waiting game as they look toward the future.
