Seattle Seahawks select Mississippi State offensive tackle Charles Cross in 2022 NFL Draft

The Seattle Seahawks selected Mississippi State offensive lineman Charles Cross, who emerged as a star in Mike Leach’s air raid offense, with the No. 9 overall pick in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft. Despite a lack of run blocking experience in his college system, he comes to the league as one of the most touted pass protectors.

At 6-foot-5, 307-pounds, Charles Cross entered the 2022 NFL Draft after winning All-SEC Freshman honors in 2020 and All-SEC honors in 2021. Although offensive lineman do not fill the stat sheet, he did light up the NFL combine with a 4.95-second 40-yard dash time and good work in the other drills.

A former five-star plus recruit in the class of 2019, he was the No. 22 overall player in the nation per the On3 Consensus, a complete and equally weighted industry-generated average. The Laurel, Mississippi native chose to stay home as the No. 5 offensive tackle and No. 2 player in his home state after playing at Laurel High School.

NFL draft analysts on Charles Cross

NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein broke down what Charles Cross can bring to the NFL in his recent scout of the offensive lineman’s draft profile. The analyst compared the Mississippi State product to a pair of NFL veterans, using Taylor Moton’s physical traits and Tristan Wirfs’ play style.

The NFL.com scout pointed out that as one of the highest ranked prospects since his high school days, Cross continues to show off the tools which make many believe he will have a long career at a cornerstone position.

“Two-year starter who plays with a high level of consistency from game to game, no matter the opponent,” wrote Zierlein. “Cross is an average athlete but he’s strong, plays to his length and has sticky, strong hands. Despite limited starting experience, he’s well-schooled and knows how to play.”