Month: April 2016 (Page 2 of 4)

Yesterday I made an appearance on ESPN 960 in Utah to discuss Bronson Kaufusi. You can hear the audio above. I’ll also be on KJR with Softy today at 5pm PST so if you get an opportunity check it out.

Plus — here’s a podcast with two days to go. Kenny and I will be recording another on Wednesday too:

Last week we linked to a mock draft by ESPN’s Louis Riddick which was interesting for two reasons:

1. It was different

2. It wasn’t totally absurd despite being different

It also presented a scenario where several potential Seahawks were still on the board.

Reggie Ragland, Kevin Dodd, Vernon Butler, Germain Ifedi, Jonathan Bullard, Derrick Henry and Chris Jones all visited the VMAC and were sitting there for the Seahawks at #26.

Mike Mayock published his top-100 yesterday and it continues on a similar theme. Look at the following prospects and where they’re ranked:

#26 Reggie Ragland
#28 Germain Ifedi
#29 Emmanuel Ogbah
#30 Kevin Dodd
#31 Vernon Butler
#32 Noah Spence
#36 Jason Spriggs

If Seattle’s board is anything like Mayock’s this group could be available to them.

Perhaps more interesting is the range Mayock had some other prospects ranked:

#57 Chris Jones
#58 Keanu Neal
#64 Derrick Henry
#65 Jonathan Bullard
#77 Bronson Kaufusi
#80 Shon Coleman
#92 Connor McGovern

Mayock is connected — and that perhaps gives his top 30-40 some genuine credence. I’m not sure he’s using total insider info though on a top-100. I would expect Keanu Neal, for example, to go a lot earlier than the late 50’s.

That said — there might be some useful info here. Are teams simply grading Jonathan Bullard as a second rounder? Could he be there at #56? Will Derrick Henry last until Seattle’s second rounder and could he be an option?

And perhaps more importantly — could we really see Shon Coleman, Connor McGovern, Joe Haeg and Joe Dahl available within range of Seattle’s two third round picks?

Imagine a scenario where the Seahawks came out of the draft with Noah Spence, Jonathan Bullard, Connor McGovern and Joe Haeg. Or any combination of the players listed above.

It wouldn’t be a total surprise if someone like Bullard lingered into round two. Especially after one scout described him as such:

“Is he a great player? No. Solid rotational player.”

This also reinforces why teams are really valuing the second and third round. Just looking at Mayock’s board you can see it’s stacked in that range. The Tennessee Titans played an absolute blinder in their trade with the Rams.

Jason La Canfora has really interesting things to say

So what are the Seahawks going to do per JLC? In a really detailed piece that is worth checking out, he had the following to say:

The Seattle Seahawks are not afraid to wheel and deal. GM John Schneider might be the best in the business and he loves this draft — especially deeper along. The Seahawks believe it’s the richest draft since 2010, and he is never averse to trading out of the first round when picking so low. If someone wants to jump up from the early-second round to here to get a quarterback, well, sources said other execs are well aware the Seahawks are open for business. They have a bunch of picks and wouldn’t mind having more.

It could be the Browns, Bills or Saints or any team that wants to get ahead of the Cardinals and Chiefs that could go QB late in the first round to get their guy, whether it be Lynch or Connor Cook or Christian Hackenberg.

Now, I will mention that the Seahawks believe their medical team and advanced sport science department give them a competitive edge (consider their work with Michael Bennett, for instance) so if a stud player slips for a medical reason and Schneider sees value there, that could be the pick. And they certainly have a need on the offensive line. All things being equal, however, this spot is ripe for a trade and there would be linemen on either side of the ball who Seattle would likely fancy in the top half of the second round.

I’m not sure what to make of the talk of a ‘stud player’ slipping. There aren’t many candidates — and they’re not going to take Jaylon Smith at #26.

Is this a Myles Jack thing? Or is it someone else?

The player in question could be Shaq Lawson. There’s been a lot of talk about a bad shoulder for Lawson impacting his stock. He actually has a nice athletic profile:

Height: 6-2 1/2
Weight: 269lbs
Length: 33 inch arms
40-yd: 4.70
10-yd: 1.64
Vertical: 33 inches
Broad: 10-0
Three cone: 7.16
Short shuttle: 4.21

At his size that short shuttle time is elite. His broad jump is highly explosive. His split is pretty good for his size and not far off the elite 1.5’s.

In some mocks Lawson is listed in the top-15 and in others he drops well down into the late first. Just keep him in mind based on what La Canfora is saying here.

Mayock lists him as the 13th best player in the draft.

Initially I linked these two sentences together:

If a stud player slips for a medical reason and Schneider sees value there, that could be the pick. And they certainly have a need on the offensive line.

I thought he was referring to an injured O-liner (aka Shon Coleman). On reflection I think it’s more a case of they’ll stay at #26 if:

a.) a stud player slips for a medical reason

b.) They really like an O-liner at that spot

So it looks increasingly like the Seahawks are going to move down unless there’s a major rush on O-liners and they get spooked into taking Germain Ifedi (for example) with their top pick. All the signs point to a trade down into the 30’s.

My prediction is when they finally start to take players off the board — they’ll be gunning for size, athleticism and impact.

When John Schneider talked about becoming the bully again — I think it’ll mean they want to get bigger and faster. They’ve kind of emphasised speed over size since 2013. This year I’d expect physical, big, tough and athletic to be the priority.

That’s evident from the list of names they’ve met with — Ifedi, Bullard, Butler, Jones, Henry, Dodd etc.

The exception could be if they see a truly excellent EDGE available (that could be Lawson or Noah Spence). Even then a hybrid DE-DT with size and rare mobility seems much more likely on defense.

How the ideal scenario could play out

I really don’t want to get anyone’s hopes up that Sheldon Rankins will fall to #26.

Daniel Jeremiah published a mock yesterday where that exact scenario happened. It’s worth noting that Jeremiah has consistently graded Rankins at about #26 on his big board. Contrast that to Mayock who has him at #11 overall.

Someone will undoubtedly take him before Seattle’s pick because he’s the most explosive defensive lineman in the draft. Here’s what would need to happen, however, for the ideal prospect to fall to the Seahawks:

1. New Orleans would need to take Paxton Lynch at #12

2. Miami and Oakland would need to pass on Darron Lee, pushing him to the Falcons

3. The Lions and Colts would need to be focused on their O-lines

4. The Bills would need to prioritise either a quarterback or an edge rusher

5. Scot McCloughan would need to be temporarily distracted or perhaps tied up and locked in a closet

6. Cincinnati would need to be totally zoned in on receivers and not put off by two going right in front of them to Houston and Minnesota

7. Pittsburgh would need to focus on their secondary

It’s asking an awful lot as you can see. You could argue stranger things have happened — but even this seems really far fetched.

Where are the special players?

The guys who are unique athletes? The guys who stand out?

This is a nice deep class overall — but there aren’t many players projected to go in the top-40 that scream ‘Seahawks’.

In the middle rounds you can come up with several examples:

Joe Haeg and Joe Dahl — explosive, long offensive tackles expected to kick inside

Connor McGovern — Missouri coached, tough and extremely explosive with the ability to emulate Mitch Morse

Tyler Ervin — an electric playmaker who plays big despite his size and has a fantastic attitude

Devon Cajuste — SPARQ demon who run blocks brilliantly, maxes out his targets and has a quirky ‘Seahawks’ receiver personality

Joel Heath — up for the challenge, incredibly athletic and could convert to the O-line

There’s also a whole host of athletic defensive backs expected to be available on day three that fit Seattle’s criteria.

Yet in terms of that perfect combination of grit, athleticism, upside and production — there aren’t a ton of options at #26.

Jonathan Bullard is a nice overall prospect — but he has limitations. Bob McGinn put out a piece today on defensive linemen and here’s the blurb on Bullard:

Considered coming out a year ago. “He was smart,” said one scout. “He had a heck of a year for them. Played his (expletive) off. He can play 3- or 5-technique. Is he a great player? No. Solid rotational player.” Finished with 175 tackles (34 for loss) and 12 sacks. Described as an “overachiever” by a second scout. “More of a strength than finesse player,” a third scout said. “He does not have the explosiveness or twitch that you’d like shedding blocks. His pass rush has no personality or power. His only source of quarterback harassment was a collapsing power rush. He’s not around the ball like he should.”

There’s a lot to like about Bullard’s game — but are the Seahawks really going to draft a “solid rotational player” in round one given their previous trends?

Vernon Butler has a nice physical profile and the players at Louisiana Tech appeared to gravitate towards him. Is he a pass rusher though? Not yet. Is he only ever going to be a one (or a three) in Seattle and is that worth a high pick in this defense?

It’s a big question on Butler — who appears to be a big favourite among NFL scouts. He does have a ton of upside though and he could be one to watch if he lasts. Here’s McGinn’s notes on Butler:

Can play anywhere across the front. “He wore a single-digit jersey, No. 9, that really made him stand out in terms of his movement skills,” said one scout. “I wouldn’t classify him as a grinder type of D-lineman. He really relies on his athletic ability. He’s got a lot of potential.” Finished with 170 tackles (29 ½ for loss) and 5 sacks. “He’s got some quickness for a big man,” said a second scout. “He’s more of a nose but he has some movement skills. He can push the pocket and get an edge on occasion.” Long arms (35). From Summit, Miss. “His body balance, bend, acceleration is very good,” a third scout said. “He’s a big finesse athlete. This year, he used his hands much better and played with better strength. He’s a little bit of a goofball, in a good way. Not a bad kid. Athletic as hell. You need the right D-line coach and then coach the crap out of him.”

For what it’s worth, McGinn has him as the #3 defensive end in the draft behind only Joey Bosa and DeForest Buckner. He might not make it to #26.

Chris Jones has plenty of upside — but there are major concerns about his character. Here’s more from Bob McGinn:

Quintessential underachiever. “Boom or bust,” said one scout. “Yeah, he’s talented as hell, but his whole makeup is very, very limited. He shows everything you want in flashes, but it’s just so hit or miss. Our area guy hates him, but I bet him someone will take him in the first.” Tied for the longest arms (34 ½) and biggest hands (10 ¾) of any DT. “He’s got talent but he’s a mess as a kid,” said another scout. “He really flashes but has character concerns.” Started 16 of 39 games as a third-year junior, finishing with 102 tackles (18 for loss) and 8 ½ sacks. “He’s 6-6, he’s gonna be 320, he’s got really good feet,” a third scout said. “But he’s got two things going against him: he’s a junior from Mississippi State, and he’s not too smart (Wonderlic of 15). He’s country. He’s a bad (expletive) but he has to be more consistent.” From Houston. Added a fourth scout: “How much dog does he have in him I guess is the old phrase. They’re the same questions about Albert (Haynesworth) when he came out. At some point you figure the maturity will kick in and he’ll say, ‘You know what, this is what I want to do for a living.’ If he can get the right (coach) in his ear he can do whatever he wants to do.”

Can you really expect the Seahawks to spend a first round pick on a “quintessential underachiever”?

This trio have some positives — but the Seahawks haven’t drafted a defensive lineman earlier than the third round. Are they going to break that trend with these guys? Butler might be the most likely candidate.

This is why we brought up Bronson Kaufusi on Saturday. He might not be everyone’s favourite but at least he offers genuinely unique size and athleticism. His 4.25 short shuttle is incredible at 6-6 and 285lbs. So is his 7.03 short shuttle.

He didn’t provide a truly explosive combine (30 inch vertical, 9-3 broad) though — which was somewhat disappointing given his combination of size/quickness.

Here’s what McGinn’s sources have to say:

“Real effort player,” one scout said. “He’s smart (Wonderlic of 32), alert, instinctive. But he’s not an explosive player. He has enough strength. He knew his weaknesses and compensated well. He’s a thinking player and he has length (34 ½ arms).” Finished with 167 tackles (44 for loss) and 26 ½ sacks. Will be a 25-year-old rookie because he served a two-year Mormon mission to New Zealand. “They just think the world of him there,” another scout said. “He’s going to be a big surprise for somebody. He’s just going to get better. He’s got takeoff and speed to the corner.”

That’s quite a positive review.

If this is a case of compromise for the Seahawks with their first pick — Kaufusi might just be ‘more special’ than some of the other options. And that could put him on their radar earlier than anyone expects.

In a similar way, it’s probably what makes Germain Ifedi the odds-on favourite to be picked if they stay at #26. He has unique size (6-6, 324lbs, 36 inch arms) and athleticism (32.5 inch vertical, 9-1 broad). He isn’t Bruce Irvin or Frank Clark or Jimmy Graham — but he’s the type of player they’ve drafted early.

As Tony Pauline reported recently:

Most people I speak with feel Ifedi is a great fit for the team at the end of round one. The recurring comment is “Ifedi is a Seattle Seahawks type of lineman.”

He could easily be their pick, solidifying the left guard spot. He does compare favourably to Kelechi Osemele’s physical profile. Yet with attractive O-line options available in rounds 2-3 (Haeg, Dahl, McGovern), they might be obliged to go defense first.

And while nearly every national mock has the Seahawks taking Ryan Kelly these days — here’s a quick reminder on why that would be a major outlier based on how they’ve drafted since 2012 (click here).

All of this points to one thing — trading down.

There’s really very little difference in terms of talent between the 20th pick and the 45th. That range is going to all be about jockeying for position. Getting ahead of certain teams, moving down because you can.

None of this lends itself to any kind of ‘great deal’. You’re not going to get a 2017 first rounder. It’s more about getting into the position that suites your need.

The Seahawks should be able to find a trade partner.

According to Tony Pauline, the Ravens are keen to draft a top safety:

During combine week I mentioned on Walters Football the word around Indianapolis centered on the Baltimore Ravens dropping back into the bottom half of round one then selecting a safety. I was told last week the team loves Su’a Cravens, hence he could be the target if they trade down.

Instead of moving down from #6, could the Ravens move up ten spots from #36 and get ahead of teams like Arizona?

Such a trade could see both teams swap third rounders for a fair deal.

The Browns might look to move back into the first too. Charlie Campbell claims it’s a possibility:

In speaking to sources, the Browns and Denver Broncos have been speaking to teams to feel out potential deals to trade up from their picks at 31 (Denver) and 32.

Peter King also projects Seattle trading down with Cleveland in his mock draft today.

Either way it seems likely. And an extra fourth rounder (King’s projection) could secure a high enough pick to select Devon Cajuste on day three.

Who are some of the outsider candidates?

Moving back into round two could bring Derrick Henry into range. The Seahawks are a run-first team and Henry is one of the few ‘freaky’ athletes in this class. He’d be a size/style outlier based on what the Seahawks have previously looked for in a running back — but there aren’t many players with his combination of skills.

Henry was also on the list of confirmed VMAC visits. That said, he might be more of an option if he lasts to #56.

EDGE rusher isn’t really that much of a need. After all, the Seahawks drafted Frank Clark a year ago while Michael Bennett and Cliff Avril are signed up long term. Chris Clemons was also re-signed so that’s four solid options for a healthy rotation.

However, Jason La Canfora put out a mock draft today and selected Noah Spence for the Seahawks. In the piece he admitted he was tempted to pair Emmanuel Ogbah at #26 too.

According to Zach Whitman’s Three Sigma rankings, Spence isn’t a freaky overall athlete. However, neither is Joey Bosa according to Whitman’s site — and yet it’s Bosa’s elite agility testing that makes him so interesting as a prospect (he ran an incredible 6.89 three cone and a 4.21 in the short shuttle).

How does Spence compare? He ran a very good short shuttle (4.35) but his three cone was fairly disappointing given his size (7.21). He did, however, manage a 35-inch vertical and a 10-1 in the broad jump. He had 25 reps on the bench (decent) and ran a 1.61 10-yard split (just shy of the 1.5 ‘elite’ bracket).

Yet look at the top NFL pass rushers Von Miller and Khalil Mack and see how Spence compares:

Von Miller
Height: 6-2 5/8
Weight: 246lbs
40-yd: 4.53
Broad: 10-6
Vertical: 37

Khalil Mack
Height: 6-2 5/8
Weight: 251lbs
40-yd: 4.65
Broad: 10-8
Vertical: 40

Noah Spence
Height: 6-2 1/2
Weight: 251lbs
40-yd: 4.80
Broad: 10-1
Vertical: 35

The only similarity is size. Still, we’re talking about two top-five picks and a guy who might be available at #26.

He’s a former 5-star recruit — something Pete Carroll is evidently drawn to. And here’s something else to consider — they tried Cassius Marsh at linebacker and appear to be projecting him as such again this off-season.

Here’s Marsh’s combine compared to Spence’s:

Cassius Marsh
Height: 6-4
Weight: 252lbs
Arm length: 32 3/4 inches
40-yd: 4.89
10-yd: 1.70
Vertical: 32 inches
Broad: 9-0
Bench: 14
Three cone: 7.08
Short shuttle: 4.25

Noah Spence
Height: 6-2
Weight: 251lbs
Arm length: 33 inches
40-yd: 4.80
10-yd: 1.61
Vertical: 35 inches
Broad: 10-1
Bench: 25
Three cone: 7.21
Short shuttle: 4.35

Physically there are similarities — but Spence has a lot more burst (10-yard split), explosion (broad, vertical) and he’s stronger.

On tape you see that too. Marsh wasn’t much of an edge rusher but Spence has shown to be an excellent edge rusher — albeit slightly one-dimensional (he needs to increase his repertoire).

Spence could be a candidate to play SAM/DE. Possibly. And the difference between his character issues and someone like Robert Nkemdiche is Spence actually went to Eastern Kentucky to prove to teams he’s a changed man. Nkemdiche’s issues are very much in the here and now.

The counter to this projection is fairly obvious. Seattle’s two greatest needs are a DE/DT hybrid who can kick inside on third down and the O-line. Taking an EDGE is a bit of a luxury unless, like Louis Riddick, they think he’s special:

“This is the best edge rusher in this draft… no-one has this kid’s hand use, no-one has his feel for pad-level, leverage points in terms of attacking offensive tackles and getting people on the ground.”

I would agree with Riddick — Spence is the best edge rusher in the draft. He isn’t Von Miller, Khalil Mack or Bruce Irvin though in terms of an overall athletic profile. It still shouldn’t be a total shock if they take him at #26 — or if he goes before they’re on the clock.

With a few days to go my hunch right now is they’ll trade down and take the most ‘Seahawky’ prospect on the O-line (Ifedi?) or D-line (names noted above). An EDGE or running back is a wildcard.

Are we looking at this group (in no particular order)?

Germain Ifedi
Jason Spriggs
Shon Coleman (if they see beyond the health issues)
Jonathan Bullard
Vernon Butler
Chris Jones
Bronson Kaufusi
Kevin Dodd
Noah Spence
Derrick Henry
Emmanuel Ogbah

They can draft for the O-line in rounds 2-3 if they go defense first (McGovern, Haeg, Dahl) and it won’t be a shock if they zone in on Tyler Ervin and Devon Cajuste by round four.

If you want to hold out hope on the ideal scenario coming true — Daniel Jeremiah today mocked Sheldon Rankins to the Seahawks.

Here it is. #MockDraft1.Only pic.twitter.com/VnidikNa3e

— Louis Riddick (@LRiddickESPN) April 21, 2016

So this is interesting for three reasons:

— Louis Riddick is connected but not in a way that’ll have agents and teams using him to put out bad information (as we see occasionally from the big ‘news breakers’)

— Riddick highlights some of the ‘chatter’ we’re currently hearing — Tunsil might fall behind Ronnie Stanley, Cleveland goes OT (before potentially trading Joe Thomas) and Vernon Hargreaves is set for a fall

— It’s unlike any other mock draft we’ve seen so far — and yet there are no stand out bizarro picks

The ideal trade down scenario?
The Seahawks have worked out or met with Reggie Ragland, Kevin Dodd, Vernon Butler, Germain Ifedi, Jonathan Bullard, Derrick Henry and Chris Jones. All seven are still on the board when they pick at #26. By the time the first round ends — only Ragland is gone.

With two teams (Arizona & Denver) selecting quarterbacks after Seattle’s pick — the Seahawks might be able to generate interest in #26. Cleveland, Dallas and New Orleans are just three teams that might want to jump back into round one.

Likewise a team like Baltimore might be interested in grabbing a defensive playmaker.

With so many potential options still on the board, moving out of round one would make a lot of sense for the Seahawks if this scenario plays out.

It screams trade down.

What about Ryan Kelly?
If the Seahawks draft Kelly, you won’t hear any complaints from me. He’s a tough, solid, intelligent center. A lot of fans want him to be the guy at #26 and I understand why. It’s equally understandable why a national analyst like Riddick would pair Kelly with the Seahawks.

That said, I’m not at all convinced he’ll be their pick. It would be a distinct shift in philosophy compared to their previous first round picks.

The Seahawks under John Schneider and Pete Carroll have generally gone for difference making athleticism and unique traits early in the draft. You might well disagree with that approach — but there’s no disputing that’s what they’ve done.

Brock Huard did a good job breaking down Kelly on ESPN 710 while acknowledging he probably won’t be their guy (click here and fast forward to 24:37).

Huard sums it up perfectly. There is a lot to like about Kelly’s game — but is he a Seahawk? His physical profile doesn’t stand out. He doesn’t match-up with TEF. He jumped only an 8-7 in the broad.

You can ignore this if you want to — but don’t say we didn’t warn you.

Based on the options available what would they do?
Certainly trading down is a distinct possibility. I think it’ll ultimately come down who is the most explosive defensive or offensive lineman available with the grit they cherish?

Of the players they worked out (Kevin Dodd, Vernon Butler, Germain Ifedi, Jonathan Bullard, Chris Jones) they all have different qualities. Butler is a tone-setter who players gravitate towards, Bullard plays with his hair on fire, Ifedi has explosive athleticism and a hulking frame, Dodd has the production and size to play inside/out while Jones has freakish size/length/athleticism but a questionable motor.

If they move down and grab any of that group — they’ll probably feel pretty satisfied.

Unless they truly believe in Ifedi or Spriggs — the percentages add up to going D-line first and taking two of McGovern, Haeg and Dahl (or Coleman?) in the second and third round range.

Any disagreements with Riddick’s mock?
If we’re going to see quarterbacks propelled into the late first — I think Cardale Jones and Christian Hackenburg — rather than Connor Cook — will get the push.

Cook isn’t just a character concern for teams. Some of his throws have to be seen to be believed. Hackenburg and Jones didn’t have Cook’s production at college — but they have much higher ceilings.

Keanu Neal will go in the first round in my opinion — and people will act shocked. He is a terrific, excellent football player. The Cardinals will probably run to the podium if he’s there at #29 — but keep an eye on Washington and Pittsburgh too.

That’s really about it. This is a very interesting mock draft that is different but makes a ton of sense across the board.

#Eagles have agreed to a trade with the Cleveland Browns to acquire the second-overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft. pic.twitter.com/SdJSegMy4m

— Philadelphia Eagles (@Eagles) April 20, 2016

The Cleveland Browns — a franchise in dire need of an answer at quarterback — clearly don’t think much of the guy the Rams aren’t drafting.

Today they traded with the Eagles, dropping down to #8 and sacrificing the chance to get one of the perceived top two quarterbacks.

So what do we learn from this deal?

— All the talk was that Cleveland wanted Jared Goff. This latest trade suggests the Rams will be taking him at #1 and the Browns weren’t in love with Carson Wentz.

— The Eagles are making a big splash despite already re-signing Sam Bradford and adding Chase Daniel. If there’s one position worth overloading — this is it. Unlike the Rams, Philadelphia can afford to sit their rookie for at least a year or two.

— The Browns might still take a quarterback at #8. Paxton Lynch is the forgotten man of this QB class but arguably has greater upside than both Goff and Wentz. He also has the kind of signature win (vs Ole Miss) that Goff lacked at Cal.

— Cleveland might trade down again. Anyone who wants Lynch (Jets? Bills?) might be forced to negotiate with the Browns (providing San Francisco doesn’t take him). Could they drop as far as #20 while accumulating extra stock in the middle rounds and 2017?

— Another option is Cleveland trades Joe Thomas and takes a left tackle at #8. Tony Pauline earlier today described Thomas as a “locker room lawyer”. The Seahawks appear set with Garry Gilliam as their left tackle so no, I wouldn’t expect Seattle to be interested. They don’t have the cap room either.

— We’ve mentioned a few times the likelihood of three quarterbacks going in the top ten and consistently mocked that scenario. What about the rest of round one? Jon Gruden predicted as many as five or six quarterback would go in round one recently. Christian Hackenburg, Connor Cook and Cardale Jones might find themselves thrust into the first frame.

Here’s an updated two-round mock draft with trades (explanations below)…

Los Angeles (#15) >>> Tennessee (#1)
This deal has already been concluded for a king’s ransom. The Rams moved up to secure their quarterback — presumably Jared Goff.

Philadelphia (#8) >>> Cleveland (#2)
The Eagles move up to #2 where they’re expected to draft Carson Wentz as their quarterback of the future.

Tampa Bay (#9) >>> Jacksonville (#5)
The Buccs offer up their second round pick to grab an impact defensive lineman. It’s their biggest need — and with this move they can put Joey Bosa on the same line as Gerald McCoy. The Jags move down knowing they will get either Myles Jack or Sheldon Rankins.

New York Jets (#20) >>> Cleveland (#8)
In this scenario the Browns make it clear they will draft Paxton Lynch if no deal is forthcoming — and the Jets take the bait. The Browns collect another second round pick this year and the Jets’ #1 pick in 2017.

Tennessee (#33) >>> Cincinnati (#24)
The Bengals are said to be looking for a receiver and can drop down into the early second round and get a good one if it plays out like this. The Titans jump back into the first round to get a left tackle (Jason Spriggs).

Baltimore (#36) >>> Seattle (#26)
The Ravens move up to secure a replacement for Kelechi Osemele (Germain Ifedi) and the Seahawks move down ten spots. The two teams swap third round picks. The Seahawks get #70, the Ravens #90. The trade chart says Baltimore wins the deal by 60 points but Seattle might take the hit for the early third rounder.

New York Giants (#40) >>> Denver (#31)
The Broncos once traded out of the late first round with Tampa Bay and the Buccs drafted Doug Martin. The two teams simply swapped fifth round picks. History could repeat — with the Giants getting a bargain deal to select Derrick Henry.

Round one

Trading teams are highlighted in capitals

#1 LOS ANGELES — Jared Goff (QB, California)
#2 PHILADELPHIA — Carson Wentz (QB, North Dakota State)
#3 San Diego — Laremy Tunsil (T, Ole Miss)
#4 Dallas — Jalen Ramsey (CB, Florida State)
#5 TAMPA BAY — Joey Bosa (DE, Ohio State)
#6 Baltimore — DeForest Buckner (DE, Oregon)
#7 San Fran — Ronnie Stanley (T, Notre Dame)
#8 NEW YORK JETS — Paxton Lynch (QB, Memphis)
#9 JACKSONVILLE — Myles Jack (LB, UCLA)
#10 New York Giants — Jack Conklin (T, Michigan State)
#11 Chicago — Leonard Floyd (LB, Georgia)
#12 New Orleans — Sheldon Rankins (DT, Louisville)
#13 Miami — Ezekiel Elliott (RB, Ohio State)
#14 Oakland — Darron Lee (LB, Ohio State)
#15 Tennessee — Vernon Hargreaves (CB, Florida)
#16 Detroit — Reggie Ragland (LB, Alabama)
#17 Atlanta — Kevin Dodd (DE, Clemson)
#18 Indianapolis — Taylor Decker (T, Ohio State)
#19 Buffalo — Shaq Lawson (DE, Clemson)
#20 CLEVELAND — William Jackson III (CB, Houston)
#21 Washington — Vernon Butler (DT, Louisiana Tech)
#22 Houston — Hunter Henry (TE, Arkansas)
#23 Minnesota — Josh Doctson (WR, TCU)
#24 TENNESSEE — Jason Spriggs (T, Indiana)
#25 Pittsburgh — Kendall Fuller (CB, Virginia Tech)
#26 BALTIMORE — Germain Ifedi (T, Texas A&M)
#27 Green Bay — Andrew Billings (DT, Baylor)
#28 Kansas City — Jarran Reed (DT, Alabama)
#29 Arizona — Keanu Neal (S, Florida)
#30 Carolina — Vonn Bell (S, Ohio State)
#31 NEW YORK GIANTS — Derrick Henry (RB, Alabama)

Round two

#32 Cleveland — Laquon Treadwell (WR, Ole Miss)
#33 CINCINNATI — Will Fuller (WR, Notre Dame)
#34 Dallas — Emmanuel Ogbah (DE, Oklahoma State)
#35 San Diego — Ryan Kelly (C, Alabama)
#36 SEATTLE — Jonathan Bullard (DE, Florida)
#37 San Francisco — Corey Coleman (WR, Baylor)
#38 Jacksonville — Artie Burns (CB, Miami)
#39 JACKSONVILLE — Bronson Kaufusi (DE, BYU)
#40 DENVER — Connor Cook (QB, Michigan State)
#41 Chicago — Le’Raven Clark (T, Texas Tech)
#42 Miami — Eli Apple (CB, Ohio State)
#43 TENNESSEE — A’Shawn Robinson (DT, Alabama)
#44 Oakland — Mackensie Alexander (CB, Clemson)
#45 TENNESSEE — Kyler Fackrell (LB, Utah State)
#46 Detroit — Shon Coleman (T, Auburn)
#47 New Orleans — Michael Thomas (WR, Ohio State)
#48 Indianapolis — Noah Spence (DE, Eastern Kentucky)
#49 Buffalo — Christian Hackenburg (QB, Penn State)
#50 Atlanta — Hassan Ridgeway (DT, Texas)
#51 CLEVELAND — Chris Jones (DT, Mississippi State)
#52 Houston — Cody Whitehair (T, Kansas State)
#53 Washington — Nick Martin (C, Notre Dame)
#54 Minnesota — Kenny Clark (DT, UCLA)
#55 Cincinnati — Karl Joseph (S, West Virginia)
#56 Seattle — Connor McGovern (T, Missouri)
#57 Green Bay — Tyler Boyd (WR, Pittsburgh)
#58 Pittsburgh — Su’a Cravens (S, USC)
#59 Kansas City — Braxton Miller (WR, Ohio State)
#60 New England — Devontae Booker (RB, Utah)
#61 New England — Sean Davis (CB, Maryland)
#62 Carolina — Kenneth Dixon (RB, Louisiana Tech)
#63 Denver — Joshua Perry (LB, Ohio State)

Seahawks picks — rounds 3-7

#70 Joe Dahl (T, Washington State) or Joe Haeg (T, North Dakota State)
#97 Tyler Ervin (RB, San Jose State)
#124 Devon Cajuste (WR, Stanford)
#171 Justin Simmons (S, Boston College)
#215 Joel Heath (DT, Michigan State)
#225 DeAndre Elliott (CB, Colorado State)
#247 Alex Balducci (DT, Oregon)

In this mock the Seahawks address key needs at DT-DE (Jonathan Bullard) and the O-line (Connor Mcgovern and one of Joe Dahl or Joe Haeg). McGovern and Dahl could go into camp competing at guard and center, while Haeg has a classic guard frame but could be a swing tackle.

Tyler Ervin adds another X-factor to the offense while Devon Cajuste fills the Ricardo Lockette/Chris Matthews role. Justin Simmons would provide raw athleticism at safety and he could be trained to be a hybrid deathbacker.

Joel Heath is a possible D-line to O-line convert in the sixth round range, DeAndre Elliott fits their physical profile at cornerback and Alex Balducci would provide some depth to the D-line. There’s a cluster of very interesting possible priority UDFA’s.

Tomorrow I’ll be publishing a 100-prospect watch-list for the Seahawks with players listed round-by-round (includes UDFA’s).

With less than 10 days to go, in this edition of the podcast we run through some of the big talking points and yesterday’s ‘mock draft with trades’. Check it out:

I noticed a few interesting comments in response to yesterday’s mock draft. The general gist was that Germain Ifedi had become ‘our guy’ and that we were ‘overrating’ his talent.

I want to take a moment today to clarify a few things.

This blog is very active during the college football season and not just in the January-April ‘draft months’. We spend a lot of time reviewing different prospects, discussing options and debating team needs.

Among the players we focused on and considered were: Shon Coleman, Will Fuller, Keanu Neal, Derrick Henry and Nick Martin. That’s just a small sample.

When we get this close to the draft — we have a lot more information to hand. We have combine and pro-day numbers to review, we know what the team did in free agency and we know the holes they need to fill.

The reason we’ve projected Ifedi to the Seahawks frequently isn’t necessarily based on a personal assertion that he’s going to be the next Walter Jones. While you may not like the pick or have a certain opinion on Ifedi — it doesn’t mean the Seahawks will agree with you.

Simply selecting the most popular player for the Seahawks and creating a mini campaign for that prospect isn’t something I want to get into. I see on social media almost a cult-like status developing for Ryan Kelly. And yet when we look at Seattle’s draft history under Carroll and Schneider (no pure center’s drafted, focus on explosion) Kelly would be something of an outlier.

The intention is not to create a fervour for one guy and then react to the inevitable disappointment when the Seahawks do something else. The aim of the blog is to review what is most likely — focus on a collection of players without picking favourites and try to understand why they might be drafted by Seattle.

If they go in a different direction — that’s good because we can look at the reasons why.

Yet the selection of Ifedi in this instance is not just a personal fantasy lived out in print form. It’s a pick made because whether you like it or not — it makes sense.

For example:

— Our TEF study revealed and helped us to understand Seattle’s focus on explosive athletes on the offensive line. Ifedi ranked #3 only to Jason Spriggs and Connor McGovern in weighted TEF.

— Respected Draft Insider Tony Pauline has twice reported interest from the Seahawks in Ifedi, noting recently: “Most people I speak with feel Ifedi is a great fit for the team at the end of round one. The recurring comment is ‘Ifedi is a Seattle Seahawks type of lineman’.”

— The Seahawks have looked for size (320lbs) at right tackle and left guard. Look at J’Marcus Webb, Justin Britt, James Carpenter and Robert Gallery. Ifedi’s physical profile is a perfect match.

— The Seahawks have consistently looked to draft unique traits and athletic upside early. Ifedi has 36 inch arms and jumped 32.5 inches in the vertical and 9-1 in the broad. That’s freaky at 6-6 and 324lbs.

None of this means the Seahawks will definitely draft Ifedi — but I’m sure you can accept why the projection is being made.

From a personal point of view I’d like nothing more than for the Seahawks to draft Shon Coleman. Regulars during the 2015 college will know how highly we rated him, including this piece from mid-October titled:

‘Is Shon Coleman the best tackle in college?’

You hear a lot about Ronnie Stanley, Taylor Decker, Jack Conklin and a few others.

Not enough people are talking about Auburn offensive tackle Shon Coleman.

He has everything you want in a NFL starting OT. He’s too powerful for college defensive linemen — when he locks on it’s over. He doesn’t get beat with the bull rush. He drives people off the ball in short yardage situations. He has that nasty element to his game you want to see — and he LOVES to get to the second level. He can kick-slide with fluidity, takes good angles and he isn’t troubled by speed off the edge. He has a very natural shuffle and mirror and he maintains balance at all times.

I’ve watched several Auburn games this season and I’m struggling to find many flaws.

He’s a monster.

Not only is Coleman an inspirational human being — his attitude in beating cancer is positively fantastic. Watch this video below:

This quote stands out every time I hear it:

“When I found out it (cancer) was in remission I knew it was time to get back to business.”

The words are said with a confident nod and a steely look in his eye. No thoughts other than ‘get me my pads’.

His tape, in my view, is fantastic. Punishing, physical. He frequently speaks about his passion for run blocking. No offensive lineman in this draft plays with his edge. He’ll dump you on your ass before leaning over to tell you it’ll happen again on the next play. In pass protection he handled Texas A&M’s sensational edge rusher Myles Garrett just as well as Laremy Tunsil did.

Here’s Coleman blocking possible top-15 pick Leonard Floyd into the parking lot despite playing with a torn MCL:

Auburn left tackle Shon Coleman vs Georgia's Leonard Floyd. Drives him off the screen. First round lock. pic.twitter.com/uoqZdXlKun

— Rob Staton (@robstaton) November 14, 2015

In so many ways he is an ideal Seahawk. Grit, passion for the game, overcoming extreme adversity, physicality, attitude, run blocking.

If the Seahawks draft Coleman I’ll make my wife give me a high-five.

The problem, however, is that Coleman is recovering from a torn and repaired MCL. The Seahawks just let an often-injured Russell Okung depart for Denver. Are they going to take a chance on a player that has endured the most terrifying health problems already in his career and now has a knee injury?

Especially when there are alternatives that are younger, with as much upside and are currently healthy?

These are the things I have to consider when putting together a mock draft. It doesn’t mean I don’t want them to draft Coleman or that I prefer him over Ifedi.

My best case scenario is probably similar to a lot of people’s. In fact even those who want to go in a different direction will probably approve of my ideal draft:

— Add explosive, physical, tough, punishing linemen on both sides of the ball in rounds one and two

— Find a way to add one of Vernon Butler, Sheldon Rankins or Jonathan Bullard

— Hopefully they’re satisfied with Shon Coleman’s health and draft him too

— Find a running back who can compete for snaps immediately with Thomas Rawls and Christine Michael

— Increase the competition and quality of the O-line with at least one, maybe two extra additions in the middle/later rounds

— Add a big, athletic, physical receiver in rounds 4-5 to compliment the quicker options they already have

— Draft a hybrid secondary prospect (or two) on day three with major athletic upside and see if they can play safety/linebacker/deathbacker

In this scenario you’re getting an amped up, explosive defensive lineman who can play DE and DT. Players gravitate to Butler and he was the heart and soul of the Louisiana Tech defense. Bullard likewise has amazing character and plays with a major chip on his shoulder.

Rankins is the most explosive defensive lineman in the draft based on our research.

Coleman loves to hit people in the mouth and bully linebackers at the second level. He’s a terrific run blocker with a desire to play in a scheme like Seattle’s. He can also slot in at left guard or right tackle.

The rest is straight forward — help at RB, WR, DB/LB and more competition on the O-line.

However — I make this projection without any knowledge on Coleman’s knee injury or what his physical profile is (he hasn’t worked out). I don’t know whether Butler lasts until #26 — Rankins almost certainly won’t.

So we work from the information we do have — and what might be likely or possible.

If it was down to me the Seahawks wouldn’t have traded for Percy Harvin in 2013 and would’ve taken DeAndre Hopkins — in this piece I talked about how he was a legit top-20 talent:

Time to start a new bandwagon. A DeAndre Hopkins shaped bandwagon.

Without any doubt at all, he’s a stud. Any doubts about this guy need to be firmly removed following an incredible solo-performance against mighty LSU yesterday. He’s a top-20 talent who may go later… and a smart team will be ready to capitalise.

Or they might’ve gone for Kawann Short with their pick at #25 — who we declared should’ve been on their radar in round one:

Nobody should panic if Kawann Short is the best defensive tackle available when the Seahawks are on the clock. He’d be a fine choice with the #25 pick.

Ultimately the Seahawks drafted neither and went for the upside and fireworks of Harvin. Yet if you disagree with that move and other subsequent moves — you take away one of the main reasons this team has succeeded with personnel. Their desire to find special talent they can develop is what brought Richard Sherman, Russell Wilson, Earl Thomas, Kam Chancellor and others to this roster.

We have to project what they might do — not what we hope they do. So if Ifedi is the pick at #26 in our final mock draft (FYI I haven’t decided yet) it won’t necessarily be because we think he’s gods gift to pass protection (although I do think his tape is better than some people are willing to give him credit for).

The trades

Los Angeles (#15) >>> Tennessee (#1)
This deal has already been concluded for a king’s ransom. The Rams moved up to secure their quarterback — and it looks increasingly like Jared Goff is their guy.

Tampa Bay (#9) >>> Jacksonville (#5)
The Buccs offer up their second round pick to grab an impact defensive lineman. It’s their biggest need — and with this move they can put Joey Bosa on the same line as Gerald McCoy. The Jags move down and select Sheldon Rankins — who they coached (and loved) at the Senior Bowl.

New York Jets (#20) >>> New York Giants (#10)
The Jets won’t have a deal in place with Ryan Fitzpatrick before the draft, per reports today. They might decide to address this long term need by making an aggressive trade for Paxton Lynch. The Giants can fall back and still grab a big offensive tackle (Taylor Decker).

Indianapolis (#18) >>> Oakland (#14)
The Colts see an opportunity to move ahead of Tennessee and Detroit to land the second best offensive tackle in the draft — Jack Conklin. The Raiders might be targeting William Jackson III and they can probably afford to drop down a few spots and get their guy. This could be a bargain deal for the Colts.

Kansas City (#28) >>> Seattle (#26)
The Chiefs see a rival in Green Bay and make a cheap trade (5th rounder) with the Seahawks to secure Jarran Reed. Let’s say it’s the 5th rounder Seattle previously traded for Kelcie McCray.

Tennessee (#33) >>> Cincinnati (#24)
The Bengals are said to be looking for a receiver and can drop down into the early second round and get a good one in this scenario. The Titans jump back into the first round ahead of Pittsburgh to get a cornerback (Kendall Fuller). He could be highly coveted now that he’s healthy.

Miami (#42) >>> Arizona (#29)
With Keanu Neal off the board the Cardinals decide to trade down. They don’t have a second round pick so collect Miami’s third rounder to drop down 13 spots here. The Dolphins need a running back and see an opportunity to get Derrick Henry. Arizona targets athletic safety’s at #42 (T.J. Green? Karl Joseph?).

Baltimore (#36) >>> Denver (#31)
The Broncos once traded out of the late first round by merely swapping 5th rounders. Here they make a similar token move down the board. The Ravens step up to guarantee a new left tackle for their O-line.

The mock draft

#1 LOS ANGELES — Jared Goff (QB, California)
#2 Cleveland — Carson Wentz (QB, North Dakota State)
#3 San Diego — Laremy Tunsil (T, Ole Miss)
#4 Dallas — Jaylen Ramsey (CB, Florida State)
#5 TAMPA BAY — Joey Bosa (DE, Ohio State)
#6 Baltimore — DeForest Buckner (DE, Oregon)
#7 San Fran — Myles Jack (LB, UCLA)
#8 Philadelphia — Ezekiel Elliott (RB, Ohio State)
#9 JACKSONVILLE — Sheldon Rankins (DT, Louisville)
#10 JETS — Paxton Lynch (QB, Memphis)
#11 Chicago — Leonard Floyd (LB, Georgia)
#12 New Orleans — Vernon Hargreaves (CB, Florida)
#13 Miami — Darron Lee (LB, Ohio State)
#14 INDIANAPOLIS — Jack Conklin (T, Michigan State)
#15 Tennessee — Ronnie Stanley (T, Notre Dame)
#16 Detroit — Reggie Ragland (LB, Alabama)
#17 Atlanta — Kevin Dodd (DE, Clemson)
#18 OAKLAND — William Jackson III (CB, Houston)
#19 Buffalo — Vernon Butler (DT, Louisiana Tech)
#20 GIANTS — Taylor Decker (T, Ohio State)
#21 Washington — Ryan Kelly (C, Alabama)
#22 Houston — Hunter Henry (TE, Arkansas)
#23 Minnesota — Josh Doctson (WR, TCU)
#24 TENNESSEE — Kendall Fuller (CB, Virginia Tech)
#25 Pittsburgh — Keanu Neal (S, Florida)
#26 KANSAS CITY — Jarran Reed (DT, Alabama)
#27 Green Bay — Andrew Billings (DT, Baylor)
#28 SEATTLE — Germain Ifedi (T, Texas A&M)
#29 MIAMI — Derrick Henry (RB, Alabama)
#30 Carolina — Shaq Lawson (DE, Clemson)
#31 BALTIMORE — Jason Spriggs (T, Indiana)

Only a small trade for the Seahawks?
With Sheldon Rankins and Vernon Butler off the board, the Seahawks can’t get too cute. They need to address one of their two key needs (OL, DL) with a player they like. Butler would’ve been a nice option — but instead it’s Ifedi over Spriggs here because of his size, upside, length and ability to play left guard or right tackle.

I considered having Seattle move down into round two but didn’t see a team needing to get ahead of Green Bay and Kansas City or a quarterback worthy of such a move.

As discussed yesterday, there’s still a chance they could move down from #56. Such is the depth on the D-line this year.

For example, Gil Brandt’s fairly well informed ‘top-100’ board has Hassan Ridgeway, Willie Henry and Kyler Fackrell lasting into range — plus a cluster of other defensive players they might be interested in if they swap from #56 into the early third round.

They might even consider moving up in round two. Brandt has Jonathan Bullard ranked at #47.

Seahawks will re-sign Brandon Browner on Monday. Returning to the place where he established himself in the NFL

— Jason La Canfora (@JasonLaCanfora) April 17, 2016

Before we get into today’s piece — the Seahawks are bringing back another familiar face. Brandon Browner joins Chris Clemons in re-signing with the Seahawks.

If you wanted to know how they were going to become the bully again in 2016 — here’s your answer.

Trade down scenario involving Devon Cajuste

The Seahawks will manufacture a way to get the players they want.

Sometimes it’s hard to do. John Schneider admitted a year ago they came out of the draft with all but one of their ‘targets’. It’s a safe assumption that player was Mitch Morse — an explosive center convert who enjoyed a productive rookie season in Kansas City.

They also had to move up aggressively to get Tyler Lockett. They still managed to come away with a nice collection of players that fit their physical and character ideals.

2014 is a good example of things falling nicely for the Seahawks. They were able to trade down from #32 acquiring picks they needed to select certain targets. Despite those moves, they still got two players they really wanted in rounds 1-2 (Paul Richardson, Justin Britt) and the extra picks helped them select the likes of Kevin Pierre-Louis.

You might look back on that class and comment, not unfairly, that Richardson is injury-prone, Britt has performed poorly and KPL hasn’t had an impact. The point in this piece isn’t really to judge the quality of the players chosen — rather the fact Seattle was able to get the prospects that ‘fit’ what they wanted.

For example — Joel Bitonio is a fine offensive lineman that fit what they were looking for. However — if they were targeting Bitonio at #32 they knew they wouldn’t get the players they wanted in the mid-rounds (couldn’t trade down) and they wouldn’t get a receiver like Richardson (who they clearly really liked).

Selecting Bitonio would’ve secured one good player — the Seahawks wanted to secure multiple players they were comfortable with. Thus the trades and the selection of Richardson/Britt.

Our TEF piece on the 2014 draft explains why they wanted to draft Britt in the second round.

This is how the Seahawks generally work. How can they manipulate the board to find value and physical ideals in every round to fill various needs? It isn’t about selecting one player at a certain position and seeing what happens the rest of the way.

It’s more of a calculated, universal approach to all seven rounds. Not a narrow-minded focus on just the earliest pick.

Many consider 2014 a ‘dud’ class — but this approach has also brought about the brilliance of 2010, 2011, 2012 and potentially 2015.

Expect the Seahawks to work out a plan to address both their key needs (OL, DL) sufficiently at #26 and #56 with an eye to potential targets later in the class. If that means going D-line at #26 because they like the O-line options in rounds 2-3 — so be it. If it means going O-line first because they see great depth within this D-line class, that is an option too.

And don’t be shocked if they move around to acquire extra picks with another prospect or two in mind…

We’ve discussed possible trade scenarios in each of the first three rounds — but here’s another scenario that might make some sense:

Round 1 — #26
Vernon Butler (DT, Louisiana Tech)

Round 2 — #56
Trade down from #56 with Miami (#73) for a fourth round pick (#107)

Round 3 — #73
Connor McGovern (T, Missouri)

Round 3 — #90
Joe Dahl (T, Washington State)

Round 3 — #97
Tyler Ervin (RB, San Jose State)

Round 4 — #107 (acquired from Miami)
Devon Cajuste (WR, Stanford)

If the Seahawks decide to go D-line first, they’re likely comfortable waiting until the second and third rounds where Connor McGovern, Joe Dahl and Joe Haeg are expected to come off the board.

Tony Pauline recently reported that Dahl’s stock was rising into day two — while Haeg has also received positive reviews (especially after a very good combine). McGovern’s stock has been a little quieter — but according to TEF he’s the second most explosive lineman in the draft.

In 2011 Seattle moved down from #57 to #75, acquiring an early fourth round pick. On that occasion Detroit wanted to move back into round two to select running back Mikel Leshoure. The Seahawks took John Moffitt in round three.

There might be an opportunity for history to repeat here. Again Seattle might be targeting an offensive lineman that will be available in the early third. The Miami Dolphins might also be thinking of adding a running back — having seen Lamar Miller bolt for Houston and the Broncos retain C.J. Anderson.

If Ezekiel Elliott is off the board by the #13 pick and Derrick Henry is gone by #42 — the Dolphins might get a little anxious to add a runner. The likes of Devontae Booker and Kenneth Dixon are being projected in the late second round.

The overall value of the deal favours the Dolphins — but the Seahawks might be willing to take the hit for the following reasons:

1. The guy they’d take at #56 would be expected to be available at #75 anyway

2. They desperately want an early fourth rounder to select a player they covet

The thinking here is they might have a crush on Devon Cajuste, the receiver at Stanford. The Seahawks don’t really have a big athletic target following Ricardo Lockette’s career-threatening injury and Chris Matthews’ departure.

Cajuste is attractive for many key reasons. Aside from his athletic profile — he’s a terrific run blocker (important in Seattle), he’s used to working in a run-first offense with a scrambling quarterback, he maxed out his limited targets in college, he’s a red zone threat and he’s very close to Doug Baldwin.

“I feel like I represent Doug in a way because he wore ’89’ at Stanford, so the fact that I got to wear that, I had to keep his legacy going.”
— Devon Cajuste

Everything about his character, his athletic profile, his experience — it screams Seahawks. He’s being projected in rounds 4-5 — and there’s no guarantee he lasts until the late fourth.

Getting that early fourth rounder would give them a better shot at Cajuste.

John Schneider has a history of drafting this type of receiver in this range. Kevin Norwood, Chris Harper and Kris Durham were all previous fourth round picks. All were bigger in stature compared to Golden Tate, Paul Richardson and Tyler Lockett (drafted in rounds 2-3).

Of course, the Seahawks might still be able to pull off a trade like this even if they go O-line at #26. The sheer depth on the D-line could allow them to move down from #56 and still take a defensive player.

Alternatively they could drop down a few spots in round one with the intention of acquiring a fourth rounder.

In this scenario I had the Seahawks taking Vernon Butler at #26. He has a lot of buzz at the moment and could easily be off the board as early as #19 to Buffalo.

People talk up his potential as a pass rusher but he has a lot of work to do there. That said, he’s amped up on the field and set the tone for the Louisiana Tech defense. Every other player gravitated towards him on the field — that was evident.

Here’s how Scouts Inc describes him:

Plays with a mean streak. Tough dude. Well respected by teammates and he’s also known as the enforcer in their locker room. The only area on tape that gives us concern is his inconsistent fight as a pass rusher, particularly when he doesn’t win with first move.

This just about sums him up perfectly. He’s a fun guy with a serious football side — but he needs to improve his pass rush to max out his potential. This video offers a good insight into his personality:

Scouts Inc go on to add:

Butler is a massive interior defensive lineman with good overall strength, explosive upper-body power, and above average mobility for his size. He’s capable of playing DT, NT and 34DE in the NFL. There are flashes of Muhammad Wilkerson (Jets) in his game, but Butler needs refinement as a pass rusher. He’s a likely top-50 pick overall.

A quick reminder that when we put Butler through weighted TEF — he was the #2 defensive lineman behind Sheldon Rankins.

It’s his versatility, on top of his explosive physical profile that could appeal to the Seahawks. If he can line up at DE and one-technique in base but also act as an interior pass rush option on passing downs — he’d be exactly the type of player they currently lack.

They’ll need to work out whether they can enhance his pass rush before they spend a high pick on him. Plus the need to address the O-line right off the bat might prove too strong — especially with a plethora of D-line options available in this draft class.

Even so — Butler looks like an option. We’ve run through a few scenarios with an O-liner at #26 so it was time for a change. And while they might end up addressing their biggest need with a Germain Ifedi type at #26 — there are options in McGovern, Dahl and Haeg in rounds 2-3 that could also afford them the opportunity to go D-line first.

Written by Bob Kaupang

Each year fans get excited about certain prospects they hope are drafted by their favorite teams. This year Utah State linebacker Kyler Fackrell is on a short list of players I hope are selected by our Seattle Seahawks. He is big, strong, fast, quick, and impacts the game in a variety of ways.

He simply makes things happen.

Looking at the numbers. The twenty-four year old Fackrell is comparable to Bruce Irvin, who was the same age when the Seahawks made him their first-round draft choice in 2012. Many envision Fackrell as a replacement for the recently departed Irvin — a player who will play strongside linebacker (SAM) on early downs before putting his hand in the dirt to rush the passer on money downs.

With that being said and as Rob Staton pointed out last week, here is a comparison of the two:

Bruce Irvin
Height: 6-3
Weight: 245lbs
Vertical: 33.5 inches
Broad: 10-3
Bench press: 23 reps
10-yard: 1.58

Kyler Fackrell
Height: 6-5
Weight: 245lbs
Vertical: 34.5 inches
Broad: 10-1
Bench press: 15 reps
10-yard: 1.62

While it may be true that Fackrell could take over the role played by Irvin the past three years, Pete Carroll has a track record of moving his playmakers to maximize their talents – chess pieces, if you will.

In fact, Fackrell may be used more like Clay Matthews was by Carroll during his senior year at USC and the way the recently resigned Chris Clemons was used by the Seahawks from 2010-2013. If you compare the combine numbers of Fackrell to both Matthews and Clemons, you will see similarities:

Clay Matthews
Height: 6-3
Weight: 240lbs
Vertical: 35.5 inches
Broad: 10-1
Bench press: 23 reps
10-yard: 1.61

Chris Clemons
Height: 6-3
Weight: 236lbs
Vertical: 35 inches
Broad: 9-8
Bench press: 18 reps
10-yard: 1.72

While many have focused on Fackrell being a replacement for Irvin, let’s not forget that Irvin was drafted with the intent that he would be the eventual replacement for Clemons at Leo. This obviously didn’t happen.

While Clemons has been resigned, the fact of the matter is he’s 34-years-old. Even though Frank Clark is shedding weight this off-season in what appears to be a move to play an expanded role on the outside, this is a team that preaches competition and has a coach with final say on draft day. Carroll noted they hope to address the pass rush — the exact quote was, “we’ll see what happens in the draft.”

General Manager John Schneider and Carroll have consistently stated through the years that you’re not going to find these pass rushers, at least the ones who are going to contribute right away, unless you take them early in the draft.

Whenever Carroll says they need to do something at the conclusion of any season, they go out and do it. In addition to specifically mentioning the pass rush, he also noted that the offensive line is a priority. They haven’t ‘nailed’ that unit yet. There’s a good chance the Seahawks will go with either a pass rusher or offensive lineman in the first round, followed by the whatever they didn’t get in the second.

Adding Fackrell to the edge with Clark, Clemons, and Cliff Avril would give defensive coordinator Kris Richard a plethora of pass rushers coming off the edge. That depth could help prevent fourth quarter meltdowns such as the many squandered leads last season and Super Bowl XLIV when Avril went out with a concussion. The pass rush became anything but a ‘rush’ as hopes of a repeat vanished with Brady surveying the field with time for picnics with Gisele and naps during the nightmarish fourth quarter in which the Patriots scored two touchdowns.

The Giants have proven twice against Brady that the best formula is adhering to the philosophy of one can never have too many good pass rushers and adding Fackrell would be a big step in the right direction.

Even if the Seahawks don’t land a pass rushing defensive tackle in the draft, the potential move of Clark and addition of Fackrell would allow Michael Bennett to spend all third downs rushing from the interior, which would indeed improve the Seahawks push up the gut more consistently, too.

There are various scouting reports on every player expected to be drafted later this month. Unlike reading a report and forming an opinion, I have always wanted to see the player for themselves to form a final conclusion.

For example, many scouting reports said that Tyler Lockett would have trouble getting deep in the NFL because he got caught from behind too often at Kansas State. However, when you actually watched his offensive snaps for yourself, you could see that it was usually the quarterback under throwing a pass and Lockett having to slow down for it, which led to him getting caught from behind by a toasted cornerback running at full speed.

As I watch the only two games available from Fackrell’s senior season, I see a relentless player who is almost always strong at the point of attack and a difference maker when moving forward. He is extremely athletic and has the height and length that Carroll loves.

As I project Fackrell to the Seahawks, I see a player who would spend more time attacking the line of scrimmage than he did at Utah State so a few of the completions you see him give up aren’t as big of a concern for me as they would be for a team hoping to draft a linebacker who would spend the majority of his time in coverage on passing downs.

I had a chance to ask Fackrell a few questions for this story and when it comes to what he can bring to an NFL team, he stated, “I think that one of my strengths is versatility and being able to use me to rush, drop into zone coverage, and cover man-to-man.”

I asked Fackrell about the game above and here was his reply: “The Colorado State game is probably the most fun I’ve had in a game. Our rush was very strong and being able to put on that kind of pressure was important against them because of the threats they had in the passing game.”

Fackrell quote: “The Boise game was something I’ll never forget. To be able to cause seven turnovers in one half was shocking even to us. They just kept coming and our offense capitalized on nearly all of them and I remember there being just stunned faces on our own sideline at the amount of success we were having against a very good team.”

As I was able to ask Fackrell a few questions, I knew there would be certain responses due to the fact that he could be drafted by any NFL team. However, one area of interest reminded me of having the opportunity to interview my boyhood hero, Kenny Easley, last month. When I asked Easley about his career highlights, he talked about the Dolphins playoff win at the conclusion of the 1983 season and when the Seahawks returned four interceptions for touchdowns in a game versus the Kansas City Chiefs in 1984. Two of his three individual highlights was with the team in mind.

Fackrell went from giving politically correct answers to passionately gushing when he talked about the team success in both of these games. It reminded me of communicating with Easley. Some players talk about winning and team success but I don’t know how genuine it is. With Easley and now Fackrell, I got the sense they care (or cared) about their teammates and having success with them and some of what they chose as “individual” highlights was impressive.

Regardless of how Fackrell would ultimately be used in Seattle, there are other aspects important to Schneider and Carroll such as character, competitiveness and grit. Fackrell has these in spades.

I cannot count the number of times I have read comments from Seahawks fans such as, “I can’t believe we passed on Martavis Bryant. How could we have done that?” The only comments from fans today revolve around thankfulness their team did not select someone who finds themselves out of the league for at least a year.

Randy Gregory is the latest poster boy for being careful with early picks. Gregory was projected by many to be a top ten pick last year but slid to late in the second round. Like Bryant, addiction can be a terrible thing to overcome and adding a player like Fackrell ensures you don’t have to worry about these types of potential headaches as an organisation.

Another strength Fackrell possesses is the ability to play assignment sound football. How many times do we hear Seahawk coaches and defenders talk about doing their jobs and trusting others to do theirs on the field? It seems Fackrell is the type of player who would fit perfectly due to his nature of doing his job and not freelancing to be the star. When you can get a star talent who embraces the team mentality — you have a special type of player.

Thankfully Schneider and Carroll have assembled a roster of players who fit these ideals and when someone doesn’t buy into the program, they are often jettisoned out of town. Fackrell would most definitely be part of the solution, not the problem. That’s the kind of players you want with all of your picks.

I was able to ask Fackrell about the upcoming draft and potential fit with the Seahawks: “There is obviously a good history of USU Aggies going to Seattle and I would count myself lucky to have the opportunity to play for the Seahawks.” The last time the Seahawks drafted a Utah State linebacker they were able to add Bobby Wagner in the second round in 2012.

If Fackrell does become a member of the Seahawks, he’s already said that he’ll answer some additional questions for us, too. Here’s to hoping the Seahawks draft another Utah State linebacker in a few weeks!