Entering into the 2023 NFL Season, a few players for the Seattle Seahawks needed to prove themselves in a make-it or break-it year. After the first two years of dealing with injuries, wide receiver D’Wayne Eskridge needed to prove that not only could he stay healthy, but also consistently contribute to the Seahawks’ upgrade passing offense. After a solid through mini-camps and the first week of training camp, Eskridge looked ready to prove his value.
That was the case until Friday afternoon when he was suspended by the league for six games for violating the league’s personal conduct policy. This is a major blow to not only D’Wayne Eskridge’s career for the Seahawks but also in the league. His suspension highlights one of the more disappointing NFL Draft classes for the Seahawks. Eskridge might soon be officially labeled as the latest bust for the Seahawks.
D’Wyane Eskridge Might Have Secured His Label as a Bust
D’Wayne Eskridge Has Failed to be Reliable With Seahawks
There have been some hits-and-misses with general manager John Schneider with early picks. With Eskridge, Schneider took the risk of drafting the 5’-9″ slot receiver/return specialist with the 56th overall pick (second round) in the 2021 NFL Draft from Western Michigan.
The Seahawks get Russ another weapon in Western Michigan WR D'Wayne Eskridge with the No. 56 pick in the #NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/lXHOZlhBbH
— NFL on ESPN (@ESPNNFL) May 1, 2021
Since his rookie season, Eskridge has been injury prone with multiple different ailments. In Week 1 of his rookie season, he suffered a concussion and missed seven games. He missed much of last’s season mandatory minicamp with a hamstring injury. One month later, he missed more time as the hamstring injury progressed. Finally, in the last month and a half of the regular season, he suffered a hand fracture.
In his first two seasons, Eskridge caught 17 receptions for 122 yards and one touchdown. His most impactful season was his rookie season when he caught 10 receptions for 64 yards and a score.
This season was essentially his last chance for Eskridge to show he can contribute to the Seahawks’ first two groups. It was especially tough with the Seahawks drafting Ohio State receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba with the 20th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. He was among the players who had positive results of development and impact during the minicamp and the first week of the regular season. Eskridge, however, got his way and found himself in trouble with the league.
Future With the Seahawks
D’Wayne Eskridge’s future with the Seattle Seahawks is very much in danger. He is just now starting to show himself more of a productive player for Seattle, even if that meant being a backup slot receiver and playing on special teams.
Eskridge will not be able to play within the first six games for the Seahawks if he is not cut. This suspension comes at a terrible time, as the roster space is being cut to a 53-man roster soon.
Eskridge’s disappointing time with the Seahawks may be over, as he has shown he can’t provide support to the team. The front office and the coaching staff are likely more inclined to give his spot to a more deserving player from a talented rookie class or a proven new veteran. One way or another, the Seahawks might cut a draft bust soon.
Main Photo: Kirby Lee – USA Today Sports
