In typical Seattle Seahawks fashion, their 2026 NFL Draft class was somewhat unconventional. General manager John Schneider has a knack for turning perceived reaches into value. He’s typically ahead of the curve compared to the rest of the league. 

Outside the three-day draft, the Seahawks continued their quest to add talent even after the event concluded. Arguably, their most interesting signing was Wisconsin tight end Lance Mason, a player with some draftable feedback across the league. There is a lot to like about the former Missouri State transfer. 

Mason walks into a Seattle tight end room led by AJ Barner, who had a breakout 2025 season. The depth in the room includes Eric Saubert, Elijah Arroyo, and Nick Kallerup. While that depth isn’t terrible, I do believe that Mason has a skill set that could earn a spot. 

Lance Mason’s scouting report 

At 6-3 and 243 pounds, Mason is a smaller tight end, but he is actually very competitive as a blocker. He has experience working both in-line and detached, showing the willingness to block on the move. That creates a solid baseline built solely on effort.

While his blocking was greatly improved during his one season with Wisconsin, Mason still profiles best as a move tight end who has some impact in the passing game. He has strong hands, showing the ability to play through contact. Mason is also a smooth athlete who has some upside as a route runner.

With Barner being a standout as an in-line tight end, someone like Mason could eventually develop into a strong complement in multiple tight end sets. For now, special teams will be the key for him to solidify a roster spot. The future, however, is extremely intriguing as long as Mason continues to develop his game.

Lance Mason’s career background 

Mason was originally a member of the 2022 recruiting class for Missouri State, coming out of Rockwall (Texas) High School. He did not hold any scholarship offers coming out, signing with the Bears program as a walk-on. During his three seasons with Missouri State, Mason developed into an outstanding pass catcher in 2024, hauling in 34 receptions for 590 yards and six touchdowns.

Following that final season, Mason opted to enter the transfer portal. Masone ended up landing with the Wisconsin Badgers, quickly becoming their top option at tight end. He proceeded to earn Second Team All-Big Ten honors. In 12 games, he hauled in 30 receptions for 398 yards and four touchdowns.