The Seattle Seahawks have added tight end Mitch Van Vooren to their 90-man offseason roster. Though the team has not yet released a corresponding cut to make space, this move signals an interest in giving new talent a shot during the upcoming Training Camp. Van Vooren joins as an undrafted free agent and will be competing for a potential spot on the team’s final roster.
Van Vooren’s Inspiring Nine-Year Journey From Announcer to NFL Athlete
Van Vooren’s journey to the NFL is a unique one. In 2016, he announced the selection of Thomas Duarte during the NFL Draft, a moment that symbolized his deep love for football as a Miami Dolphins fan. Now, nine years later, Van Vooren is chasing his own NFL dream—this time as a player. His transition from fan to professional athlete offers a compelling backstory that adds human interest to Seattle’s offseason narrative.
Mitch Van Vooren (NFL)Van Vooren played his college football at St. Norbert College in Wisconsin, where he appeared in 22 games. Over two seasons, he recorded 65 receptions for 1,045 yards and scored 13 touchdowns. His performance earned him First-Team All-NACC honors in 2024.
He also played a key role in leading the St. Norbert Green Knights to their first bowl game victory. Interestingly, before his football career at St. Norbert, Van Vooren was a decorated hurdler at Marquette University, receiving All-Big East honors in Track and Field.
Athletic Build and Versatility Make Van Vooren a Unique Seahawks Camp Prospect
Standing at 6’5″ and weighing 245 pounds, Van Vooren’s physical profile gives him versatility as both a tight end and a potential fullback. Compared to Seahawks fullback competitors Robbie Ouzts (6’3”, 274 lbs) and Brady Russell (6’3”, 250 lbs), Van Vooren presents a leaner but taller option. His athleticism and history in track suggest explosive potential that the Seahawks may wish to explore in different roles on offense.
Regardless of where he fits on the depth chart, Mitch Van Vooren enters Seahawks Training Camp as a feel-good story and a player to watch. His unlikely path—from draft day announcer to NFL hopeful—adds a layer of emotional intrigue. Whether he makes the final roster or not, Van Vooren’s presence will bring energy and curiosity to the Seahawks’ offseason preparations.
