Getty

Fansided's 12th Man Rising's Ernesto Cova explained why the Seattle Seahawks could have a clear path to drafting South Carolina cornerback Brandon Cisse.

The Seattle Seahawks could go in a couple different directions with their first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. They don’t have a lot of roster needs, and a trade back scenario is on the table to acquire more picks.

But if the Seahawks stay at No. 32 overall, addressing what few roster holes the team has makes sense. While Seattle could afford a luxury pick, the organization only has four selections in the 2026 NFL Draft.

At No. 32, Fansided’s 12th Man Rising’s Ernesto Cova argued the Seahawks have a great chance to fill a need in the secondary. That’s because Cova fully expects South Carolina cornerback Brandon Cisse to be available.

On Saturday, Cova explained why.

“All 31 teams might just lay the red carpet for the defending champions to march and get the guy they want,” wrote Cova. “That’s why, according to FanSided’s NFL draft big board, no other team has Cisse among their top five targets.”

ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. ranked Cisse the No. 4-best cornerback in the 2026 NFL Draft class. NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein raved about his ceiling at the next level.

“Teams will be willing to take a chance on Cisse’s explosive athleticism and upside, but a refinement runway might be needed to smooth some of the rougher edges,” wrote Zierlein. “He’s scheme-versatile in coverage and is an A-rated run supporter.

“Cisse’s traits and competitiveness are clear selling points. But a lack of on-ball production and coverage consistency create a more volatile floor.”

Will Seahawks Pursue CB Brandon Cisse?

Cova argued in favor of the Seahawks targeting Cisse because Riq Woolen departed in 2026 NFL free agency.

“The Seahawks lost Riq Woolen in free agency, and they have an evident need for depth at cornerback behind Josh Jobe,” wrote Cova. “They can afford to take things slowly with Cisse, polishing and molding him while getting him on the field in obvious run-play situations at first before unleashing him in a bigger role toward the end of the season.”

The Seahawks writer wondered if the team’s potential interest in Cisse could be misguided because other teams don’t have him ranked as highly. But Cova concluded that Cisse isn’t getting a lot of buzz because teams prefer other cornerbacks in the first round.

At No. 32, Cisse could be the top prospect at the position on the board.

Cisse registered five pass defenses and an interception in 12 games at South Carolina last season. The cornerback began his college career at NC State.

In 34 collegiate games, he registered 10 pass defenses, two interceptions and three tackles for loss.

Why No. 32 Overall Could Be Too Early for Cisse

Cisse might be the top cornerback prospect on the board at No. 32 overall. But that doesn’t mean he will provide value at that selection.

Zierlein projected the South Carolina cornerback as a second-round pick. NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah did the same, ranking Cisse as the No. 43 overall prospect on his NFL Draft big board.

“Cisse is a fast, twitchy cover corner. He primarily lined up outside at South Carolina,” wrote Jeremiah. “Cisse usually played with his back turned to the sideline, allowing him to see through the wideout to the quarterback.

“He gave up some plays in the games I studied, but it appeared to be more of a focus issue than any physical limitation.”

If the Seahawks really want to target Cisse, the second round would provide more value. However, it doesn’t sound like the cornerback will still be available at No. 64 overall.

Perhaps Seattle could trade back from No. 32, land more picks and then target Cisse.