Why 31? There are 31 first round picks in the 2016 NFL draft.
#1 Joey Bosa (DE, Ohio State)
His production is down on previous seasons but he’s still the best overall prospect available for this draft class. Endless motor and converts speed to power with ease. Similar to Chris Long who went #2 overall.
#2 Robert Nkemdiche (DE, Ole Miss)
A freak of nature who earlier this year scored a touchdown on a catch and run down the right sideline — moving like a tight end. Nkemdiche also scored a rushing TD. Ignore the production. He will destroy the combine.
#3 Laremy Tunsil (T, Ole Miss)
He’ll be allowed to begin his 2015 season on October 24th vs Texas A&M after the NCAA sanctioned a seven-game ban for accepting benefits. A very rounded blindside blocker if a little sloppy in the midriff.
#4 Tre’Davious White (CB, LSU)
The complete package. Excellent athlete, adept technique and wonderful character. Was awarded the coveted #18 jersey by the Tigers for this season. Has scored a TD on a punt return. Highly underrated and teams will love, love, love Tre’Davious White.
#5 Jaylon Smith (LB, Notre Dame)
Rangy athlete and the modern day NFL linebacker. Can play multiple positions, fly to the ball and go sideline-to-sideline. Very few limitations and will prove to be a safe pick at the next level in a draft without major star power.
#6 Paxton Lynch (QB, Memphis)
Teams will assess this quarterback class and ultimately could decide Lynch is the best bet. He’s 6-5 and around 230lbs but runs the read-option effectively. He’s accurate. He doesn’t turn the ball over. He throws with touch. If he continues his 2015 form he will be the guy.
#7 Laquon Treadwell (WR, Ole Miss)
Ignore the naysayers — Treadwell is the real deal. Crisp routes, competitive in the air, capable of the spectacular and a reliable #1 target in the making. He’s bounced back effectively from last years serious leg injury and looks every bit a future top target.
#8 Cameron Sutton (CB, Tennessee)
While the Vols have had an agonising season for the most part, Sutton has been their shining light. Teams daren’t take him on. On the few occasions he’s been tested, Sutton has looked as smooth as silk in coverage. He’s a great athlete with ideal size and length.
#9 Taylor Decker (T, Ohio State)
The Ohio State O-line hasn’t dominated as much as people expected and I’m going to adjust expectations for Decker as a consequence. At the very least he’ll be an accomplished right tackle in the NFL. Can he play the left side? How athletic is he?
#10 Shon Coleman (T, Auburn)
Having fought cancer, teams will do the necessary health checks. They won’t need to check his heart, determination or love for the game. Coleman puts defensive ends on their ass. Like Decker he might not play left tackle — but he’d be tremendous inside.
#11 Eli Apple (CB, Ohio State)
He’s had a couple of rough outings but still managed to make plays. He has the entire skill set to be a very productive starting NFL cornerback. He will take chances — but he’s a playmaker. You can iron out the creases.
#12 Jack Conklin (T, Michigan State)
Another player who might move to the right side like Decker — but he’s Michigan State’s most talented player. Good enough in pass protection at the college level — Conklin has also improved in the run game. Former walk-on with basketball roots.
#13 Michael Thomas (WR, Ohio State)
Very accomplished receiver with size and speed to burn. The big playmaker for Ohio State this season. Embarrassed Kendall Fuller in the opening week with a stunning stop-and-go route. High-points the ball, gets behind a defense. Superb talent.
#14 Reggie Ragland (LB, Alabama)
Physical, pounding inside linebacker born to play in the AFC North. Hits hard and does a better than expected job at the line and working through traffic. Another big-time linebacker off the Alabama production line.
#15 Will Redmond (CB, Mississippi State)
Talented senior cornerback at 6-1 and decent size. Reads a quarterback well with good instincts to play the ball. Willing tackler but more of a coverage specialist.
#16 Tyler Boyd (WR, Pittsburgh)
Percy Harvin-lite. Not the same kind of athlete as Harvin but could be used in a similar way. Just get the ball in his hands. Has a chance to be special in the right offense. Keep an eye on him.
#17 Su’a Cravens (S, USC)
Every week he seems to find a way to make an impact play. Not many safety’s record his volume of TFL’s. Has the size to play strong safety but the instinct and coverage skills to be more than just a physical force.
#18 Emmanuel Ogbah (DE, Oklahoma State)
It’s difficult to ignore his production (7.5 sacks in 2015) but there are still parts of his game that need improving. A little raw like Ziggy Ansah and perhaps a little less freaky — but he has a shot at round one.
#19 Kendall Fuller (CB, Virginia Tech)
Would be higher but for the injury. Fuller has the bloodlines and looks like the more talented brother. His college debut was a sight to behold, flashing his natural talent. If he heals properly he will be a first or second round pick in 2015.
#20 Germain Ifedi (T, Texas A&M)
A mountain of a man but similar to previous A&M left tackles hasn’t always looked settled in his new position. Could easily be a big riser in the post-season.
#21 Darron Lee (LB, Ohio State)
Perhaps Ohio State’s most underrated big talent. Lee roams around the field like Ryan Shazier used to. He isn’t close to Shazier’s unreal speed and athleticism — but he has enough to go in round one.
#22 Jalen Ramsey (CB/S, Florida State)
I’m not the big fan a lot of other people are. He’s playing as a tweener, lining up at safety and corner. The tape at corner isn’t fantastic. It’s OK. I think he ends up at safety full time.
#23 DeForest Buckner (DE, Oregon)
Not the same kind of upside as Arik Armstead but possibly a more accomplished player. He had a couple of sacks against Washington State to establish some momentum. Let’s see if he can finish the year strongly.
#24 Braxton Miller (WR, Ohio State)
The best player in space? Possibly. The Buckeyes aren’t using him as much as they could — but Miller is a genuine playmaker and a threat to make major gains on every snap. Watch his juke against Maryland. Watch his spin move against Virginia Tech. Watch him catch the ball. Miller is just getting started.
#25 Jared Goff (QB, California)
Capable of beautiful, surgical passes — but also capable of ugly turnovers and decision making. He has a shot at the next level but is he going to go very early or in the Teddy Bridgewater/Derek Carr range?
#26 Eric Striker (LB, Oklahoma)
People knock Striker because he’s small for a linebacker and big for a safety. The guy makes plays. He has the record for sacks by a Sooners linebacker. He gets everywhere. He’s physical and an athlete. Teams will love him. Players will love playing with him.
#27 Adolphus Washington (DT, Ohio State)
He scored a touchdown against Western Michigan and just draws attention up front with an active motor. He has the versatility to play end or tackle. He defends the run but also has the first-step quickness to penetrate.
#28 De’Runnya Wilson (WR, Mississippi State)
He has some character flags and the production isn’t enormous — but there just aren’t many human beings that can do what De’Runnya Wilson does. He’s a basketball player at receiver who makes the tough grabs. Has some concentration drops but so did Kelvin Benjamin.
#29 A’Shawn Robinson (DT, Alabama)
Hasn’t been anything more than average so far. Defensive tackles fell last year and you have to wonder if he’s anything more than a solid starter? Robinson and UCLA’s Kenny Clark could easily be judged as second round options.
#30 Ezekiel Elliott (RB, Ohio State)
The thing that maybe hurts Elliott? The loaded class of RB’s expected in 2017. He’s averaging 6.9 yards a carry and does everything well. Whether he’s a feature runner at the next level remains to be seen. He might fall to a good team.
#31 Myles Jack (LB, UCLA)
I think he will go in the top-45 despite the injury. There’s a lot to like about Jack — who played some running back as well as linebacker at UCLA. If he heals well pre-draft he can go earlier than this projection.
The overrated four (in my view)
#1 Vernon Hargreaves (CB, Florida)
Like several previous high-profile Florida cornerbacks, there are some questions. His play can be erratic, especially his tackling, and there are just better cornerbacks available in this draft.
#2 Ronnie Stanley (T, Notre Dame)
At no point have I been truly convinced by Stanley and from what I’ve seen this year — he’s trending downwards if anything. I just don’t see a competent NFL lineman. He has time to show more.
#3 Cardale Jones (QB, Ohio State)
The last thing he should be thinking is ‘NFL’. Go back to Ohio State. Mature. Get some games. You’re not ready.
#4 Connor Cook (QB, Michigan State)
A thoroughly average passer without any special traits. Throws too many contested passes and rarely throws a guy open. Has mediocre games against sub-standard opponents. ‘Big’ win against Oregon now looking a little more routine.
I read that Nick Chubb is having surgery but thankfully he didn’t tear his ACL or MCL. I’m very happy for him and his family! I’m thinking best lineman rd1 hopefully Devantar Booker Rd.2
Go Hawks! I guess I’ll have to wait till Sunday. Smiley Face
Was wondering when you were going to post a big board.
Man, if you could get ‘Zeke’ in that 1st that would be something else. I’m not convinced he’ll go as high as some think. Doesn’t have Gurley’s size or overall game, not as explosive as Melvin Gordon, but a well-rounded back that creates yards that aren’t there.
I see him in the late 1st as well.
Rawls has looked great, but we know how much emphasis Seattle places on the run game. Having 3 backs appears to be something they’ll alwasys want, need, or have. Also think ‘Lou’ Rawls is a guy that needs to be paired with someone.
Devantae Booker would be a great paring third down back, can catch the ball out of the backfield could replace Fred Jackson if this is his last year. Ever since Volume12 talked up Booker I’ve watched some tape and am really liking the cat (scat back? More like scat cat!)
Elliot will go high. He reminds some of Charles or L Bell. How many teams would kill for that type of back in their offense… almost every team in the NFL. He might not even make it past the Chiefs, since Charles is an injury waiting to happen every year.
For V12:
@BryanPerez_DB: Excited about a new season-long (draft season) feature on @draftbreakdown re: #Wazzu OL Joe Dahl.Will chronicle his entire #NFLDraft journey
@BryanPerez_DB: The first installment should be posted on Thursday afternoon. Dahl is the real deal, and will rise up the board as the season progresses.
Volume12 stated Dahl’s from Spokane Washington so it’s likely he’s one of us being a Hawks fan. Might be the perfect fit!
Yup. Attended U-hi. Played for Montana and transferred to Wazzu. He’s a guy that just outworks people and is versatile enough to play any position. Will be better inside, but could play either tackle spot in a pinch.
Thanks for the update my man. I love this cat. I gotta agree with Perez saying he’s the real deal.
Not a fan of DeForest Buckner and Dahl showed why.
Dahl is a good prospect and one to monitor.
Hot off the presses V12!
http://draftbreakdown.com/chasing-the-dream-joe-dahls-2016-nfl-draft-journey-1014/
http://www.draftbreakdown.com/video-embed/?clip=258173
So I’m hoping maybe Dahl rd1, Booker rd2, and Doctson rd3 if we could be so lucky!
That would be a very lucky/good draft.
This is just me(personal favorites), but my 2016 RB rankings would be:
1. Devontae Booker, Utah
2. Alex Collins, Arkansas
3. Ezekiel ‘Zeke’ Elliott, Ohio St.
4. Tra’ Carson, Texas A&M
5. Kenneth Dixon, LA. Tech & Paul Perkins, UCLA
ND’s CJ Prosise would be my wildcard along with Michigan’s De’Veon Smith.
Another kid that’s growing on me is Florida’s RB Kelvin Taylor. Bloodlines, very interesting upbringing, plays with a ton of attitude.
Originally I thought he wasn’t ready for the NFL this year, but he’s continued to impress me.
This is how I hope they go:
1st-T or BPA
2nd-DT or BPA
3rd-G/C
3rd (comp?)-WR
4th-DE/DT/LEO
4th (comp?)-SS/FS
5th (comp?)-CB
7th-OL
7th from Coyboys-WR/OL
This changes if Lynch retires, or (as some people have been clamoring for) they trade/release Graham. If Lynch is gone they have to at least draft a “standby” RB in 2016 and then go bananas in 2017 for a top tier RB. I think Graham will work out, but if for some reason they trade or dump him they have got to get a big bodied WR/TE early. I hope they get a solid Tackle in round 1, he doesn’t have to be the greatest, just better than what they got. Mebane is most likely gone, so a young strong DT is picturesque for round 2. Round 3 they should go Center or Guard (probably Center). If they get a comp in the 3rd, then grab a well rounded WR (Kearse will probably be gone). 4th Round they should get a LEO to replace Irvin, and if they get a comp pick they should get a quality Safety to be the next man up. They traded their natural 5th, so if they have a comp they should get their yearly 33 inch arm CB to develop. No 6 round pick. In the 7th they should basically get “Cable Guys” for they OL, and maybe if there is an intriguing WR pick him up. The next two drafts should be packed with talent, but they really need to draft smart these next two drafts. No flyers. Just solid, competent football players.
I think they have a 6th. Not sure if they have 2 4ths. IIRC it looks like:
1st
2nd
3rd
3rd (comp)
4th
5th(comp)
6th (comp)
7th
?7th (conditional for C-mike, must be active for 3 games)
Rawls is our C-mike. This year /2016 grab our Turbin or Freddy Jackson, 2017 go get a Marshawn Lynch.
Traded their 6th for Mo S.
Oh never mind, my bad…
I thought the conditional pick was in 2017
Agreed.
Lynch/Graham/Okung/Sweezy/Mebane/Irvin/Kearse could all be gone next year (and most should be gone for performance and money).
1st OT
2nd DT
3rd DE
3rd WR
4th CB
5th LB
Lynch – Likely
Graham – No way, it would be a huge mistake. Another offseason of work should solidify the connection between Wilson and Graham not to mention there are 11 (and possible more) games for Graham and Wilson to play this season.
Okung – Goner, not very good anymore
Sweezy- Best player on the line, I think that we resign him.
Mebane – Yep, he is past his prime and is taking up cap space
Irvin- Unfortuanetly, hes probably a goner. Hope they find some way to resign him.
Kearse – he wont have much of a market at all, i suspect he will be with the team again this time next year.
Interesting Seahawks just waived B.J. Daniels and Rod Smith reports are Paul Richardson should be back soon!!! Awesome possum! We are also signing a nickel corner named Crezdon Butler.
PRich can’t come back before week 6 by rule.
Rod Smith just never fit. I always thought it was strange they took a back built like him. He just didn’t fit their specs. It would’ve been like if they had drafted a CB over 6’0 without 32″ inch arms.
DAL just picked up Smith off waivers.
+1 for use of “daren’t”.
Great find on the Memphis QB Lynch, Rob. Looking at his video has me thinking; is this a draft that we should look at taking a developmental QB? If so, who are possible prospects and where in the draft should they be targeted? And by ‘developmental’, I’m not talking about a Garoppolo-type player drafted to be a career backup. I’m talking about a player that could eventually, realistically compete for a starting position in our system.
I’m asking because I’m starting to think there is rift of sorts within our system. We have a front office that is steadfastly committed to adding an element of elite explosiveness to our passing attack, yet keeps missing the mark repeatedly in this endeavor. It could be we don’t have an offensive philosophy compatible with that type of weapon (not likely), we don’t have an OC capable of effectively scheming for that type of weapon (most likely), or we don’t have a QB capable of effectively utilizing that type of weapon (say it ain’t so).
I’m quite convinced there is a large amount of truth behind door number 2. Bevell’s recent statements to the effect that Jimmy is “just another TE in our offense” makes me think Bevell never asked for or even wanted a player like Jimmy, who’s acquisition was forced upon Bevell and has now become burdensome. However, I’m now starting to also wonder if there are realities we don’t want to face lurking behind door number 3. Russell won a SB and almost a second largely without the offensive weapons we’ve wasted the last two first round picks to acquire. Is Russell the right QB to run the explosive passing offense this FO ultimately wants to build? If not, is there a QB in this draft that might be ready to do so in a couple years?
It is hard to say what is causing the passing difficulties by just looking at it from the outside. Pete wants a team focused on running, but he knows (we all know) you have to have a good passing attach to keep the defense honest. The Hawks have good WR and TE’s, and QB is fine, I believe the offense is too predictable and cautious. So much emphasis is placed on ball security that Wilson is told not to pass unless they are wide open and a sure thing.
That predictable, excessively ball-secure passing game is not compatible with the type of explosive receiving weapons we’ve spent a heap of draft capital trying to acquire. Is it just the OC that’s not getting it done with these high-powered receivers or is there a deeper issue of not having the right QB to get the ball to them?
Or is it that the offensive line started bad and has finally got to the level of barely acceptable. If Wilson can stand in the pocket or roll out the way he wants then he will be more successful in the passing game.
In addition we should keep training up cheap backup quarterbacks because Tevaris ain’t no youngin.
One part of our balanced offense that is hard for QBs to get into rhythm. If they are off they don’t get enough passes to get into that groove. And every dropped pass seems more important when you only throw a few.
Coming back to door #2, don’t you think by now we’d be able to account a bit for a suspect O-line by getting the ball out quicker? I don’t see any slants and quick hitters; I see long-developing routes almost every 3rd down. It makes no sense in a ball-control offense that we aren’t absolute masters of a short passing game.
And for anyone saying Russ can’t see well enough to hit slant, go watch the NFCC against Green Bay. Russ put the slant on the money to Kearse several times (unfortunately Kearse…well…you know the rest)
I’m not sure you ever draft a guy to be a career backup at QB. Garoppolo is a different case. Brady is getting near the end.
IMO it’s a waste to spend a pick on a guy you never see starting down the line. They do need a backup, but going the UDFA route seems to be the way NFL teams are trending nowadays.
Goff top 3 pick, that is a lock. Probably another QB goes top 10 as well. Should they go that high, probably not.
DE/DT Bosa is the guy I think could really shine in the NFL. His off the field stuff is concerning, but on the field.. dominant. He won;t be around after top 3 picks.. so lets focus on..
#27 Adolphus Washington (DT, Ohio State)
He scored a touchdown against Western Michigan and just draws attention up front with an active motor. He has the versatility to play end or tackle. He defends the run but also has the first-step quickness to penetrate.
This is the guy I would love Seattle to draft. He will be available at bottom of 1st round and can replace or supplement Bennett. Perfect fit, exactly what they want.. a versatile DE/DT kind of guy. Oh yeah, he would be roster mirroring what already exists on the roster.
Not if he kills the combine he won’t. He’s a prototype for today’s NFL. He frees up Bosa.
I actually like Nnkemdiche the best. He’s a bad boy! With a little bit of coaching and his explosiob/athleticism, he could be a destroyer.
I wouldn’t call it anything like a lock that Goff goes top three.
Baalke and the Niners might just be dumb enough to take him top 3…
I think he’ll be in range (Washington) if we go 8-8 or 9-7, which seems likely at this point
For those thinking Rawls is the future no.1, not quite. PC called him a ‘solid no.2.’ And if Lynch gets hurt again next year, then what? Their facing the same problems.
I thought it was bold, to reshuffle the RB deck before the season started. I thought Rawls has shown more in 2 or 3 games than Turbo and Micheal showed their whole time in Seattle. The 60+ yard TD rush was just the beginning. I need to see more from him in the passing attack, but overall I think he is an ideal #2 back, if you can have a good #1.
Now, who would be the ideal #1 once Lynch leaves…… Booker is the obvious choice, but I’m not digging his heavy workload and under 5 ypc he has currently. Henry is also a trendy pick, due to his ability to rush and also block…. but I’m leery of Alabama backs. I suspect Seattle might go for a guy a little less flashy or big named… off the grid if you will… a guy like Josh Ferguson (who could fit the Fred Jackson kind of back for Seattle).
I also would like to see Seattle grab a FB that can punish people, say Quayvon Hicks out of Georgia. I like Coleman, but he is a bit limited. Carrying 2 FB on the roster is eating up roster spots, they need to consolidate into one guy at FB imo.
Alex Collins is someone I have been keeping my eye on. He should be available late 1st round, maybe mid 2nd.
Yeah, very good. He’s my no. 2 actually.
Really liking A&M’s Tra’ Carson. A unique back with very good size.
+1
A&M is loaded with NFL caliber talent.
Jerruh will bend over backward to get Collins in Dallas.
I think you grab a no. 1 in 2017. Get a guy to fill the Turbin or Jackson role this year. They aren’t going to go into next year with just Lynch and Rawls. And if Lynch retires, which I can’t see him leaving money on the table or going out on the shelf, then your stuck with just Rawls. Signing Jackson was proof this team wants 3 solid backs.
I don’t think Booker is a one by any means. He doesn’t do any one thing great, but he doesn’t have any faults either. Booker has under 5 ypc because of his workload. Matter of fact, the top 5 backs in terms of carries per game, average under 5 yards. There’s a direct correlation.
Ferguson is an interesting guy, but I’m not sure he has the size or ability to wear down a defense.
I liked Henry earlier on, but right now, he’s about as soft as a peach.
There’s plenty of solid backs in this year’s class. I don’t care what Walter Cherepinsky says.
Not sure any back comes off the board before before end of round 2 other than ‘Zeke’ in the late 1st. There’s always pockets of talent.
And even though I say Turbin or Freddy Jackson, doesn’t mean they have to have the same game. Just fill that type of role.
So we’re limiting Rawls as a #2 based on two games in the NLF behind a shaky O-line, but anointing Booker as a #1 based on….Zero nlf games? Can we at least let the season play out before we start labeling what we do or don’t have?
We’re saying Rawls is a 2 based off what PC. Whether he becomes a one is wait and see.
Never said Booker was a 1.
Guess I’m replying to CharlieUnicorn who said Rawls “would be an ideal #2 as long as you have a good #1″. who would be the ideal #1 once Lynch leaves…… Booker is the obvious choice.”
And PC didn’t say Rawls is only viewed as a #2 ceiling moving forward. He’s just understandably pumping the breaks a bit based on one game and the fact lynch is coming back
Fair point.
That would be the correct debate to have. Is he referring to him as a 2 now or in the future?
I happen to be a Rawls supporter. It was just a few weeks ago that people were saying he wouldn’t even make it. Now it is apparent that he does have the tools to be an every down back. Is he Marshawn Lynch or some other mythical #1 back? Well no – he is Rawls and has his own style. So far that has netted him a game with more yardage then Lynch – so why dont’ we all show him some respect. He is putting his health on the line to live his dream and satisfy are fan base.
The other part of this is – why do we need a #1 versus running back by committee? I think we can all agree that it is better to have two great running back then only one. So lets celebrate Rawls potential greatness and get busy looking for a second and third great running back to fill in after Lynch is gone.
That was my point. no. 1, workhorse, bell cow, lead dog, all the same, it’s semantics.
It does seem like, after all, they’re leaning towards a RBBC, but in a different way. When PC refers to Rawls as a ‘solid no. 2’ I think it’s safe to say they classify their backs that way. And a one could just be the guy who starts and finishes.
SEA had some success last season starting Turbo to soften up a D, then letting loose Lynch. I know that was more because Lynch had trouble getting his body in game mode, but it was effective nonetheless. Rawls is significantly more physical than Turbin, and presumably could soften a D better.
I could see Rawls getting the early snaps going forward.
Yeah, definetly.
But to declare Rawls the future after 2 games would be a mistake in my opinion. For a team that prides itself on running the ball effectively and wanting to punch people in the face/break the man in front of them, there’s no such thing as having too many good backs.
Look at Jamaal Charles. One of the best in the game, but is injury prone. DeMarco had a career year last year and tons of people annointed him as one of the game’s best.
For a position that takes such a physical toll and has the shortest shelf life as is, it’s very smart roster management to have 3 solid- very good, if not great, RB’s.
You can hardly declare Lynch as a #1 or the future when he hasn’t played significant time this year. One thing I learned from fantasy football is not to live in the past. Players can decline rapidly or get injured. We are all holding are breath and wondering how long Lynch can play. It will be great if Lynch can contribute, but it is not a sure thing any more then Rawls is.
Agree, I don’t think Rawls is a #1 feature back either. A solid #2, solid part of a committee.
I’m hoping Rawls will change a lot of people’s minds this year. He has already moved the conversation from won’t be a starter to #2. A couple more good games and people will remember that at one time there was talk of him having Heisman potential.
I don’t think anyone is saying they don’t like Rawls. I know I do, but they need more and I can’t see them going into next year with just Rawls and Lynch.
Rob, I just noticed no Shawn Oakman on the big board. Granted, he has dissappointed this year. Where do you see his stock, and could he play inside or is he more of a Julius Peppers type position player?
I haven’t seen Baylor yet but from what I understand he’s had a very disappointing season. This is a guy with the potential to dominate and doesn’t. That is concerning.
Yeah, he disappears for big chunks of time with random short bursts of dominance, a la Ra’Sheed Hageman from last year. The knock on him is he just ‘doesn’t know how to play football’ yet. Someone will take a chance on his rare athleticism, though. Hope it’s not us.
Like Margus Hunt
Perhaps he could be a value pick in the mid rounds, with upside.
Great stuff Rob.
RE: Zeke Elliott – He seems to be a little bit of a victim of his well roundedness. I think he will reach the point where he is very underrated, just because he doesn’t have a crazy unique skill that sticks out.
In my mind, he’s a more talented Mark Ingram, which is a damn good player and one that the Seahawks could pull the trigger on in R1. I like what I’ve seen from Rawls but am still unconvinced that he’s a true #1 RB. Elliott could be the guy, mainly because I think the 2017 class won’t fall the way it needs to for the Hawks to be in position to make the pick.
If we are picking in the mid-late 20s; it will be really interesting which direction we go in. We desperately need OL, but again, we’d be overdrafting a guy in R1. Perhaps it’s time we are forced to do that to address the OL.
Maybe we could trade back to pick 30 to 31, take oline who would go early round 2 and pick up another mid round pick.
So, Elliot will be there in the 20s? Is it worth passing on O-Line to take him? I dont know.
A backfiled of Elliot, Rawls and Smith would be just as good as Lynch, Turbin and Michaels. But they all need blocking. Will will Davontae Booker likely be drafted? I checked PFF, and ALL of our oline grade out as bad except JR Sweezy who grades out as below average. Rawls graded as average, which i found surprising.
Also Chancellor, Williams and Shead all grade out as bad. Mebane was graded bad as well. Rubin was graded average, Wagner graded as bad and Hill graded as good. Bennet and Avril both high quality. Sherman grades out as average. I dont know whats upnwith bobby thebseason, but he apears to have majorly regressed, while KJ is playing like the best linebacker in the league. Chancellors play just HAS to be from missing training camp and preseason practice. I think Shermans And Thomas’s play is from lingering injury issues, Shead is just not very good. This is why the secondary is sturggling, lingering injuries, kams debacle, and Williams being philly williams.
Mebane is still recovering from his injury. FYI He actually got sat a couple of late series Sunday so he definitely wasn’t 100%.
I thought it was interesting, being asked by the media about Eifert’s two TDs on blown coverages, he specified it wasn’t Kam’s fault. When asked if it was Thomas’ PC wouldn’t verify. Just saying, maybe Earl was right when he said Kam is the brains of the outfit.
I am still trying to find an answer about who was responsible on those Eifert TDs. Pete keeps covering up. It’s someone’s fault. Richard’s scheme and lack of adjustment, Kam, ET, Cary Williams, or all of the above.
Maybe its scheme related
And pete doesnt want to throw richard under the bus
Surely you jest. Lynch is one of the best 5 rbs I’ve ever seen in 40 years of watching football. One of the best PLAYERS I’ve ever seen. He’s hall of fame likely. You can’t compare an Elliott yet to a player as dominant as Lynch, what he’s done, what he’s meant to this team, and how he’s affected NFL opponents trying to stop him.
He’s out of his prime. Elliot in his prime + Rawls in his Prime > Lynch (old) +Turbin
Lynch is borderline HoFer right now… needs 10k yards and another ring. Then he is a shoe in….. there are plenty of “highlight” reel materials already.
PFF also said Rogers was a -5 grade for passing, when threw 5 TDs in a game. Let’s not take this metric too seriously.
Come on, pff doubting is tiresome.
Well if we’re going off PFF KJ is the top ranked LB in the NFL, Bruce is no. 9.
UMASS WR Taj Sharpe is 6.
Wazzu OT Joe Dahl is 1, in terms of pass blocking.
My boy Michigan DL Chris Wormley is 10.
Just sayin’.
Bosa, Garrett (Fr), Nkemdiche, Nassib, Buckner, Clark. I know Garrett’s not in this draft class, but man there’s some DL talent in CFB this year.
A ton of talent on the D-line. Even into the mid and late rounds.
Right now, I see our biggest needs as OT, HB, DT, C, and CB. Maybe not in that order.
It’s weird when people say PC/JS don’t draft for needs or make surprise picks. They always fill needs in the early rounds, and the only thing surprising about their picks isn’t position, but the names.
A lot depends on where SEA ends up picking.
If they don’t make the playoffs, or don’t make it past the wild card, and they pick somewhere in the low 20’s or high teens, they may take the opportunity to go for their next LT.
Agreed. I can’t see them not getting out of round 3 without an OT.
There will be a couple OT’s that rise or ‘come out of nowhere’ and get into the 1st. We see it every year. Ja’wuan James, DJ Hunphries, even Eric Fisher. Whether they turn out to be good, is another topic.
CHAWK, don’t know if you’ve been over to draft breakdown.com lately, but the Joe Dahl vs Oregon film is up. I remember you saying you were looking forward to his film. Just a heads up.
Yeah I posted links above where we discussed him
Oh damn. Didn’t see that. Don’t know how I missed it.
You like?
It’s good film against top flight (elite?) competition in Buckner.
@pff_college: Out of 446 interior defenders, #Ducks DE Buckner has best grade overall and on pass rush. Is No. 1 in run-stop % among DEs
My primary concern is he gives up a lot of ground vs bull rush. Never really breaks or loses his man, but the pocket shrinks nonetheless.
Noticed the same thing. I wonder how much of it is related to the fact Wazzu throws it a ridiculous amount and he may be fatigued.
As Rob said, he’d be better at the next level moved inside. I like him at C, ecspecially after having experience at LT.
Seattle did like Sambrailo and Morse, 2 college LTs, Morse is now a C and they worked ‘Sambo’ out there.
He generally blocks the guy — doesn’t tend to get beat off the edge and a double move or a good punch doesn’t clean him out. He does give up ground though. And you wonder about the next level. He’s also not great in space so you wonder what he’d be in a ZBS. I think he’s a guard or a possible center convert.
Fair analysis.
What about Texas Tech OT Le’Raven Clark? I see his name all over the place in terms of range. Have you watched him yet Rob?
I have not.
So looks like the extra roster space was for LB Nick Moody. Insurance for BWags? Or is his injury more serious?
Didn’t Pete say BWagz would be out a couple weeks at the most, if he misses any time at all?
It probably is insurance, but also time to see what this guy brings to the table. If KPL replaces Bruce, and I gotta agree with Rob on that one, then maybe Moody replaces KPL at WILL.
PC just said Wags is a game day decision vs CAR. Can’t be that serious.
This game is critical. Seattle needs to win. So his injury might normally keep him out, to get him right, but he is lobbying hard to get on the field when the team needs him most.
Gregg Bell @gbellseattle
Pete Carroll says K.J. Wright could slide inside and be middle LB if Bobby Wagner can’t play Sun. vs CAR. Nick Moody WILL LB. #Seahawks
If Wags is out and KPL is healthy, I think he’d get the start at WILL over Moody.
Problem is, KPL has been nicked up
KPL seems constantly injured and inconsistent when healthy, kind of like Tharold Simin but with poor coverage instead of bad penalties, I won’t harp on Simon for playing in the Super Bowl with a dislocated shoulder.
Seahawks promote Nick Moody and announce official signing of Crezdon Butler. But there’s bad news, too. Cowboys claim Rod Smith. Crap!
Maybe they’ll have to start getting more conservative over calling up players from the practice squad they want to stash when a guy has an injury that is close to healing. They probably could have used Coleman as the backup halfback and kept smith stashed.
Wow Cowboys are taking all our running backs. I’ll be interested in how C Mike performs this week, he is supposed to start for them. I sometimes wonder if he and Turbin would have done better if they were given more carries in a game. Probably not – just hate to see him get 100 yard games with Dallas.
For whatever reasons he didn’t catch on here in Seattle. Wish him the best. Nothing else can be done now.
Well for starters he doesn’t switch arms when he’s running and he’s fumble prone. He’s also a narcissist which I personally don’t enjoy in people even NFL dudes. With that said I also wish Christine the best as well.
Go team Hawks!
https://youtu.be/33DWqRyAAUw
Perfect example of a guy that had all the measuarables, athleticism, etc., but didn’t have it from the ‘neck up.’
For whatever reason he just never responded to coaching here. Maybe someone in Dallas can get to him and teach him all the little things.
U think he was cussing when Rawls broke his big run he did not switch hands! He ran threw that last tackle but if we would have had ball on the outside he would have been able to use that right arm to help even more. Luckily he didn’t need it.
LOL. The thing about that run though was Rawls had the ball ‘high and tight.’ C-mike never carried it luke that.
Hey guys….dusting off the cobwebs and gearing up for the 2016 draft. Like this piece as a nice precursor. Now that we know the types that Pete & John prefer it makes it so much easier to focus on. I really like this class for prospects on both front lines – some interesting name for me are Ifedi, Conklin, Tuerk, Haeg, Buckner, Oakman, Gotsis, Rankins. Some skilled guys Doctson, Duke Williams, Braxton Miller, D. Booker. Really like T Boykin as a later round Russ back up. Good to see things are pretty active around here. Thanks again Rob for the great insight and website!
Thanks man
Would love to have a chance late 1st for us to consider Myles Jack. Local guy, very Sparky & Seahawky, great athlete with potential for 2 way play. Potential snaps at OLB for Bruce and at FB/RB as part of our jumbo package. Screams Seahawks type.
Frank Clark has a hamstring injury. Didn’t he have one in TC? Probably never healed if so.
Eric Pinkins back on the PS. I like that.
I have an idea of who is probably gone next year (Mebane/Kearse/Rubin) and who could be gone (Okung/Sweeezy/Chancellor/Lynch/Graham (if we can’t figure out a way to utilize a $10 million TE). One big change that I hope for (if not sooner), is Bevell being gone. I also have an idea on the weakest positional groups (OL/OL/DL). Yes we still need a LB/CB/S/WR, but talent on the OL and some inside push on the DL.
All I really want is for them to not get cute. They may be smarter than other organizations when it comes to seeing late round talent, but they have been pretty poor in the early rounds. Use the 1st and 2nd on two solid starters with talent. I don’t care about sparq or potential, I want them to draft to solid football players (OT and DT would be great).
Tyler Lockett was not SPARQy at all IIRC.
They’ll keep one of Mebane or Rubin.
Can’t see Kearse gong anywhere.
Bruce probably.
Kam no.
One of Sweezy or Okung, although I hooe they sign both somehow.
Lynch and Graham, nah.
If mebane goes, we should definetly resign rubin and another free agent and draft at least one with a highish pick.
Depending on how this season ends up, some form of not-insignificant rebuilding might be a good idea. Some things might be broke, therefore fix them. Neither Mebane nor Rubin have impressed. Kearse is a habit, better this season, but replaceable (except in Russell’s mind). Bruce, I have never been against them keeping him, don’t think he is that easily replaced. Nobody on the o-line should feel safe.
Stupid Derrick Coleman
Really stupid.
Does that a spot is open on the 53?
Yes and BJ Daniels has filled it.
Didn’t think BJ would go far. They’ve invested some time and coaching into him.
It would be interesting to see Seattle’s ‘ghost roster.’ Not that the public would ever be privy to that info.
Had a question for ya CHAWK. When you said +1 is that like saying me too?
Yes exactly.
I’d love to be in on the ghost roster. Say, “Ghost Roster” is a helluva title for a football-centric movie!
In other words, +1 on the ghost roster
The tagline for ‘Ghost roster.’ I see… Seahawks.
I saw Auburn’s OT Shon Coleman was PFF’s highest rated tackle in the SEC.
The cat you mentioned from Kentucky, DT Cory Johnson, looks very interesting. Kind of Clint McDonald like. Or maybe what they thought Jimmy Staten would be.
Another guy who I plan to study/break down more is S. Carolina OT Brandon Shell, nephew of Art. I’ve heard from a couple people that this guy is the 2016 version of Oklahoma’s Darryl Williams, who I believe we tried to trade up for.
So far Shon Coleman is pushing the UK DL all over the place.
He looks like a genuine pro RT when they line him up there.
Looking forward to seeing the Auburn tape tonight. Coleman is a monster nobody is talking about on a national level.
This was the first Auburn game I’ve watched this season. I was enormously impressed by Coleman. Like R1 impressed.
I’d really like to see a detailed post on him like you did on Bitonio last year.
You know something V12, that’s a player SEA dearly misses. Clint McDonald.
Why do we throw away dts like they are nothing? Weird to see Mcdaniel, Mcdonald, Bryant, Clemons, Branch, McGill, Siliga and soon to be Mebane gone in such a short amount of time
Alan Branch-2 down player, he took NE’s offer over ours. Can’t do much about that
Tony McDaniel- had to, and there’s quite a few guys in this year’s class who could potentiall fill his role
Red Bryant- he’s breaking down, if not completely
Cris Clemons- already had Avril, Bennett, and Bruce. Can’t pay big bucks to 4 veteran DE’s
T.Y. McGill- ‘meh.’ Not sure he fit what they wanted
Silver Siliga- tons of guys out there like him every year
Clint McDonald- This is the one I wish we would kept, but again, he probably went with more money. No reason to chase the 4th guy on your depth chart.
Seattle wants versatility amongst their DTs, our if their Rubin/Mebane types they better have great motors and move well. Also, Seattle has never drafted a DT before the 3rd round. High bust rate.
Doesn’t make sense to invest high capital in 2 down players, who’s athleticim doesn’t impact the game. Aaron Donald’s and Dontari Poe’s don’t grow on trees, nor will the last long on draft day.
“I saw Auburn’s OT Shon Coleman was PFF’s highest rated tackle in the SEC.”
Not surprised. Beast.
Here is a link:
http://www.komonews.com/news/local/Seahawks-fullback-Derek-Coleman-arrested-held-without-bail-333055451.html
Please let this all be just a misunderstanding and not some event that ruins his life.
Damnit, I’ve always rooted for Derrick and don’t know exactly what happened yet but this does not look good, but hey were all only human. I just hope his emotions didn’t lead him to actually hurt anyone. I’m down about this. Sad Face
There was some speculation that he was coming home late from the team facility and fell asleep at the wheel. What got him in the most trouble was fleeing the accident on foot (literally on foot since he wasn’t wearing a shoe).
There is rumor that after the accident he was concussed and confused. Keep in mind he has a hearing disability.
Hope Bevell took time out to watch N.O. tonight. Now that’s how you use a tight end. Now if only we had a dynamic, mobile, huge mismatch like Benjamin Watson
… it just seems like bevvell never wanted jimmy graham to me
I liked what they did with Ingram and the slot WRs as well. They had the goal line formation where it looked like a rush.. and they threw to the TE.. that was a beautiful play.
sdcoug,
In case you missed it few days back,
This post (click to view), may explain more as to why Darrell Bevell most likely is not going to watch footage from tonight’s game…
I suspect it’s more than Bevell. Carroll’s ideology is for a simplified offense. ‘We know what we do’. Sean Payton runs a much more complex, adaptable passing game.
That said, it’s time for Seattle to find ways to get Graham into space ala New Orleans. Otherwise why make the trade?
When I make Bevell comments, I’m not even thinking running Graham 30 yds down the field. I’m thinking simple chains-moving plays that could make our ground-pounding offense almost unstoppable.
Simple slants, drags across the line with Russ on a boot, a 6 yd out, run 12 yds up the middle and turn. All things that should be a staple of a ‘conservative’ offense yet ones we can’t seem to incorporate. We should be masters of a short, chains-moving passing game with our style of offense.
Most (not all) of N.O.s plays to Watson were not complicated, complex Sean Payton routes.
I have to agree with you on that one sdcoug. How many times have we wondered why there wasn’t a short player to throw to? Whether the slant or just run 5 yards downfield and sit in an empty spot, Graham should be feasting with this offense. Seahawks have NEVER made an effort to use their tight ends over there wide receivers.
I hope Wilson was watching, too. Brees was quick and decisive with his throws. Rarely held the ball for more than a couple seconds before finding the open man.
I have been thinking the Seahawks would draft a FB in 2016… before this incident last night/this morning.
I think they might draft 2 guys, each for slightly different purposes. One can be a hybrid FB/TE and fit the 3rd TE slot nicely and the other a smashmouth FB to lead block and pass protect. One name is widely known, the other is not as well known.
Glenn Gronkowski, FB, Kansas State
Quayvon Hicks, FB, Georgia
Both are currently projected in the later rounds, but names to keep in mind for 2016.
Stanford’s Christian McCaffrey is a stud! Dude is such a weapon.
UCLA DT Kenny Clark was a monster tonight. Raw power for days. Continues to impress me.
Another DT I like Auburn’s Montravius Adams, unfortunately was hurt tonight. Don’t know if he came back.
Career night for McCaffrey.
Not so much for Clark. It’s going to be hard for him to have an impact moving forward. There are some holes in the UCLA defense, and teams are just running away from him. Also he’s being double teamed a lot.
I thought the officiating was dismal at best.
UCLA WR Jordan Payton had a nice game.
UK RB Boom Williams has some speed.
I still can’t figure out why A&M’s RB Tra ‘Pluto’ Carson isn’t getting more pub. Seems like a perfect 3rd down back. Only guy I see giving him love is Tony Pauline, whose opinion I value highly.
Very inteterested to see against ‘Bama’s D.
Marshal Yanda re-signed. Gotta draft good O-lineman these days. Who’s letting good ones walk?
Alex Boone will have multiple suitors. I guess there’s Giacoimini types, but will their learning curve be any different than a rookie?
Sleeper alert:
Every year there are numerous under the radar players that never seem to get much credit for their accomplishments stats wise, especially mid-season. OLB-Paul Dawson was a good example last year, but he was never as far down the rankings list as this guy……………..
—-OLB- Joe Schobert, Wisconsin, SR, 6-2/236, fastest 40: 4.76.
2015: Through the first 6 games….40-TKLS, 13.5-TFL, (#1 in FBS ), 9.0-SACKS, (#2 in FBS) , 4-FF, (#2 in FBS (tied) plus 10-QBH. —– Currently ranked in the 700’s at cbssports.com. —–WHY?
http://www.cfbstats.com/2015/player/796/1050459/index.html
With the possibility that Irvin goes to Atlanta next year, another pass rusher may very well be a big need. I think this is a guy to keep an eye on as the season goes on. Maybe RW and/or DB knows of him from their time at Wisconsin?
Like Schobert as well. Doesn’t seem to a great class for LEO’s this year. I’m thinking they’ll target a Schofield kind of guy right in the range Schobert will probably end up going. 4th round?
The guy Dan Kadar mentioned in Rob’s previous (2 weeks ago?) Ohio St OLB Josh Perry is another intriguing name to monitor. Don’t think he’s anywhere near a 1st round talent. A&M’s Daeshon Hall is exciting and ‘Seahawky’ as well.