Seattle sent a 2016 sixth-round pick to Detroit in August…
Seattle sent a 2016 sixth-round pick to Detroit in August 2015 for cornerback Mohammed Seisay, a young depth option who fit the Seahawks' preferred size profile. Seisay did not become a regular-season contributor for Seattle. Detroit's pick became No. 202, used on defensive lineman Anthony Zettel, who developed into a useful rotational player and starter. The Lions received the only substantial on-field value from the deal.
Detroit Lions Received
- pick 2016 6th round pick (202nd overall, Anthony Zettel)
Seattle Seahawks Received
- player Mohammed Seisay
Trade Analysis
Why the Deal Happened
Seattle entered the 2015 preseason with injuries and uncertainty in the secondary and saw Mohammed Seisay as a developmental fit for its long, physical cornerback profile. Detroit had depth at the position and accepted an undisclosed 2016 draft pick. The choice later resolved as a sixth-round selection.
What Each Side Received
Seattle received Seisay. Detroit received the 202nd pick in the 2016 draft and used it on defensive lineman Anthony Zettel. The compensation was modest, but sixth-round picks still carry meaningful value when a club can turn one into a roster player.
How the Value Developed
Seisay did not become part of Seattle's regular-season defense. The Seahawks' projection did not translate into a lasting role, which left them without meaningful return on the pick they surrendered. Zettel, meanwhile, developed into a useful Lions defender. He appeared regularly and earned a larger role, giving Detroit actual snaps and production from the late-round asset. That is exactly the type of outcome that makes a sixth-round pick worthwhile.
Why Detroit Gets the Edge
The Lions sold a player who was not central to their plans and received a selection that became a contributor. Seattle was taking a reasonable low-cost swing on traits and fit, especially given its success developing defensive backs, but the result never materialized. The realized value is therefore one-sided even though the original price was small.
Final Verdict
Detroit earns a B for turning surplus secondary depth into Anthony Zettel and useful defensive-line production. Seattle receives a D+ because Seisay did not provide the regular-season value needed to justify giving up the pick. The Lions win the trade without it being a franchise-altering transaction.