Month: April 2019 (Page 2 of 4)

Live blog: 2019 NFL draft (first round)

Headlines

— The Seahawks trade down with the Packers, moving from #21 to #30
— They acquired two fourth round picks from Green Bay (#114, #118)
— They spent the #29 pick on TCU defensive end L.J. Collier
— Pick #30 was traded to the New York Giants for #132 & #142
— They now possess nine total picks

Welcome to the live blog, I’ll be posting thoughts on every pick as they come in. After the first round I’ll write a review and we’ll be recording a podcast.

Join in via the comments section but please — no tipping picks.

#1 Arizona — Kyler Murray (QB, Oklahoma)
On January 3rd I wrote an article saying the Cardinals should take Kyler Murray first overall. He’s the most talented player in the draft. He has the same magic as Patrick Mahomes. The Cardinals needed to make the most of this pick and I believe they did. Now they need to try and get value for Josh Rosen.

#2 San Francisco — Nick Bosa (DE, Ohio State)
What makes Nick Bosa ‘special’? Simple. He’s 266lbs and ran a 4.14 short shuttle. That’s incredible agility to work the edge and it shows. Some players just look better than everyone else in college. Nick Bosa fits that category. He’s a complete defensive end and the NFC West just got a lot better with Bosa and Kyler Murray.

#3 New York Jets — Quinnen Williams (DT, Alabama)
It feels like a long time ago now but Williams absolutely destroyed the SEC in 2018. He was a one-man show some weeks. He was an absolute terror against LSU — a game where it’s often difficult to stand out with both teams grinding through running plays. He battered Elgton Jenkins at Mississippi State.

#4 Oakland — Clelin Ferrell (DE, Clemson)
Well, I had the Raiders trading up to get Ferrell in my mock. I didn’t anticipate they’d make this call here. However — here are some things to remember. Going into the year a lot of people, myself included, considered Ferrell a possible top-five pick. They want tone-setters and leaders. That’s Ferrell. He’s an alpha.

#5 Tampa Bay — Devin White (LB, LSU)
He was recruited to be the next Leonard Fournette at running back. He ended up at linebacker and there are three key points to his game. First — he’s a natural leader. Second — he runs a 4.42. Third — he sets a tone and is highly physical.

#6 New York Giants — Daniel Jones (QB, Duke)
Like most other people I mocked Daniel Jones to the Giants albeit at #17. If you identify a quarterback and have the conviction that he’s great — take the guy. Jones is athletic and has functional skills. Is anything outstanding about his game? Not yet.

#7 Jacksonville — Josh Allen (EDGE, Kentucky)
There are things to really like about Allen. His pressure percentage of 29.1% was by far the best in college football in 2018 (the next best mark was 23.5%). He’s an intelligent pass rusher who sets up blockers. He also had some rough games where he was targeted in the run game or handled by tight ends.

#8 Detroit — T.J. Hockenson (TE, Iowa)
This is an outstanding pick. Hockenson’s going to play a long time in the league. He’s a sensational blocker, he makes big plays in the passing game and he dominates against safety’s and linebackers at the second level. This was a no-brainer for Detroit. Exceptional choice.

#9 Buffalo — Ed Oliver (DT, Houston)
He’s fast, explosive and he plays with great effort. Here’s the issue. He has 31 3/4 inch arms and he’s 6-2 and 287lbs. Where do you play him? He could get smothered inside. He lacks the length for DE and the Bills are an orthodox 4-3 so he’s not a five-technique. Love the quickness but this carries some risk. He only had a pressure percentage of 9.6%.

#10 Pittsburgh (via Denver) — Devin Bush (LB, Michigan)
The Steelers trade up from #20 to #10, giving up a second round pick (#52) and a 2020 third rounder. I had the Broncos trading down to #23 in my mock. Bush runs and hits with incredible intensity. This is a classic AFC North pick. He runs a 4.43 and will replace Ryan Shazier who they miss so much.

#11 Cincinnati — Jonah Williams (T, Alabama)
I think he’s overrated. He’s a marginal athlete and his best position might be center (they took a center in round one a year ago). Williams has a fantastic attitude, approach and he’s A-star in terms of character. It’s tough playing O-line at the next level though if you lack power, length and agility. He ran an 8.01 short shuttle and a 4.79 short shuttle.

#12 Green Bay — Rashan Gary (DE, Michigan)
So much for Gary lasting to the Seahawks at #21. There’s been far too much negativity about him recently. It’s funny how some guys just get targeted like that. Jim Harbaugh loved him. He has Jadeveon Clowney-level athleticism. He’s a superb fit at DE in Green Bay’s scheme. He ran a 4.58 at 277lbs.

#13 Miami — Christian Wilkins (DT, Clemson)
This is a quality pick for the Dolphins. They are rebuilding in the trenches. They need to shift the culture in Miami. They need new leaders, people who set a tone. That’s Wilkins. High character, infectious and he plays his tail off. Impact player.

#14 Atlanta — Chris Lindstrom (G, Boston College)
This was rumoured earlier in the day. It had been reported that some teams ended up grading Lindstrom in the top-20. Clearly Atlanta was one of them. He’s very athletic and ran a good forty (4.91) and short shuttle (4.54). He might need to get stronger though to maul and grind at guard.

#15 Washington — Dwayne Haskins (QB, Ohio State)
This was gathering steam this week. The Redskins can’t cut Alex Smith this season or next. They’re tied to his enormous contract. Therefore they were handcuffed to go and acquire a cheap quarterback. Drafting one was inevitable. I’m wary of Haskins. He’s a one year wonder playing in an offense that is always kind to quarterbacks.

#16 Carolina — Brian Burns (EDGE, Florida State)
There are extreme positives and negatives with Burns. He has fantastic athleticism, speed and quickness. He has great length. He had a pressure percentage of 19.7% in 2018. However, he played at about 228lbs last year. Can he keep weight on? Can he play the run? Can he convert speed-to-power or is he just a speed guy?

#17 New York Giants — Dexter Lawrence (DT, Clemson)
Lawrence, like Rashan Gary, got a lot of unnecessary criticism. Maybe it’s because they were the #1 and #2 national recruits and expectations went overboard? He had 33 pressures in 2018 — one fewer than Jeffery Simmons and seven more than Ed Oliver. He can rush, he’s an incredible athlete for his size and he’s stout. Great pick.

#18 Minnesota — Garrett Bradbury (C, NC State)
Pat Elflein was a weak link last year. Bradbury has incredible hips and he can twist his body to make reach blocks like very few interior O-liners. This stood out so much at the combine — I don’t think I’ve ever seen a lineman with hips like Bradbury showed that day. It’s a solid pick and makes sense based on their needs.

#19 Tennessee — Jeffery Simmons (DT, Mississippi State)
Some believe Simmons was the best player in the draft and it’s a compelling argument. He has a frame similar to Ndamukong Suh. He’s all muscle at +300lbs. He handles double teams with ease and flashed great pass rushing ability against Iowa in the Bowl game. He dropped because he tore his ACL during combine training.

#20 Denver (via Pittsburgh) — Noah Fant (TE, Iowa)
The Broncos were after a tight end. They traded down ten spots and get the second one off the board. Will Denver move back into the first round to get Drew Lock later on? If so, #29 could be an option for them. The Seahawks dealt with the Broncos on the Paxton Lynch trade. Fant is big, fast and highly athletic.

#21 Green Bay (via Seattle) — Darnell Savage (S, Maryland)
For the second year in a row, the Seahawks trade down with the Packers. Seattle moves from #21 to #30 — so they now own back-to-back picks at the end of the first. In return they get two fourth round picks (#114 & #118). They now have seven picks. The Packers are spending all their high draft stock on defense under their new GM. I really hope Seattle mimics that approach give the current state of the roster. Savage ran a 4.36 and you can’t teach speed.

#22 Philadelphia (via Baltimore) — Andre Dillard (T, Washington State)
The Eagles trade up from #25 and give the Ravens a fourth and sixth round pick. Andre Dillard ran an absurd 4.40 short shuttle at 315lbs and ran a 4.96. He’s the best pass-protecting lineman in the draft. The Eagles secure their tackle position for the long haul with Jason Peters now aged 37. This is good value for Dillard.

#23 Houston — Tytus Howard (T, Alabama State)
A lot of people liked Howard. Tony Pauline raved about him at the Senior Bowl. He did have that one rep against Montez Sweat that didn’t go well. The Texans needed to draft an offensive tackle. Bob McGinn noted in his mock draft that Jawaan Taylor has a knee issue.

#24 Oakland — Josh Jacobs (RB, Alabama)
Marshawn Lynch retired this week and set the stall for this pick here. Undoubtedly Jacobs emerged in 2018 and had some really fun plays. However — he didn’t have a great pro-day and you have to question his upside. He had 120 carries last season and that was by far his biggest tally.

#25 Baltimore (via Philadelphia) — Marquise Brown (WR, Oklahoma)
Antonio Brown’s cousin lands in the AFC North. The Ravens needed a receiver or an offensive lineman. Brown had a fantastic season in 2018. Yes he benefited from playing with the #1 pick on a loaded roster but he just gets open and makes big catches. Lamar Jackson can get it downfield.

#26 Washington (via Indianapolis) — Montez Sweat (EDGE, Miss. State)
The Redskins took Dwayne Haskins and then gave up their second round pick in 2020 to move up from #46. Chris Ballard now has three second round picks. He gets it. There were concerns about a heart condition. His 4.41 forty at 260lbs was incredible and he has 35 3/4 inch arms.

#27 Oakland — Johnathan Abram (S, Mississippi State)
Oakland’s draft was all about setting a tone, finding intense alpha males and that’s what they’ve added. Three physical players with leadership quality. They’re trying to build a tough group. The worst thing a team can do is not have a clear plan. The Raiders have that in this draft.

#28 Los Angeles Chargers — Jerry Tillery (DT, Notre Dame)
Recruited as a left tackle, Tillery’s physical profile is highly impressive. He’s 6-6 and 295lbs but still ran a 4.44 short shuttle. He had a weird game against USC where he kicked one player in the head and stamped on another’s ankle as both lay on the turf. Had a pressure percentage of 12.2%.

#29 Seattle — L.J. Collier (DE, TCU)
The Seahawks trolled the first round by using their back-to-back picks to essentially create a 20-minute on-the-clock window. They used pick #29 and traded pick #30. L.J. Collier is a beast. As I wrote earlier today, he wins with speed, speed-to-power, bull-rush, engage/disengage. He’s one of my favourite players in the draft and it’s a great pick. His pressure percentage was a high 19.2% in 2018.

#30 New York Giants (via Seattle) — De’Andre Baker (CB, Georgia)
The Seahawks traded down from #30 to #37 and gained a fourth (#132) and fifth (#142) round pick. Baker had a weird off-season and reportedly didn’t take combine training seriously. The Seahawks have done what we expected and traded down aggressively.

#31 Atlanta (via LA Rams) — Kaleb McGary (T, Washington)
The Falcons double down with the O-line and pair Chris Lindstrom with Kaleb McGary in round one. McGary is a tough physical, punishing tackle. He’ll give up some pressures but he’s very athletic and you’ve got to admire the commitment to the O-line.

#32 New England — N’Keal Harry (WR, Arizona State)
Harry believed he wouldn’t get by pick #33 and that proved to be correct. He’s a smart, intelligent personality with great YAC ability. Many believed he would be on Seattle’s radar.

That’s it for round one. Thoughts on the way shortly. I’m also just about to record a podcast with Brandon Schulze so stay tuned.

#29 (R1) L.J. Collier (DE, TCU)
#30 (R1)
#92 (R3)
#114 (R4)
#118 (R4)
#124 (R4)
#132 (R4)
#142 (R5)
#159 (R5)

Final notes & Seahawks tier list

A prediction on what will happen over the next three days

The Seahawks will trade down multiple times. They might trade both #21 and #29. The key to a successful draft this year is to get what you can in rounds 2-3. That’s the strong area of this class with the best value. Can they pick 4-5 times on day two? That’s the way to control this draft.

The Seahawks should get some good offers

Baltimore at #22 need O-line and receiver help. So do many of the teams in the 20’s and 30’s. The Packers at #30 need weapons and have been linked to the quarterbacks. Other teams will want to secure the fifth year option at the end of round one. The Seahawks couldn’t be better placed to receive trade interest.

They will get their guys

They always do. Last year they had their pick of the running backs and took a player at #27 who most expected to be solidly in round two. Forget the consensus. Focus on what they look for in players and individuals. Don’t be surprised if, after the first two days of the draft, Seattle ignores the big names, moves around and then takes players who simply ‘fit’.

What do I want to happen?

Defense, defense, defense.

I can live without a high pick at receiver and the eternal complaining that will happen when he doesn’t get enough targets. In 2018 they re-established their identity. They ran the ball, used play-action and wanted to keep things tight.

They also need to play great defense for this work. So build up the unit. Get more speed. Defend the run better. Rush the passer. Get some playmakers. This is a strong defensive draft so focus on the defense.

Will the Seahawks take a defensive back early?

Practically every mock I’ve read in the last 24 hours has the Seahawks taking a DB with one of their first two picks. See for yourself:

Lonnie Johnson at #29
Greedy Williams at #21
Byron Murphy at #29
Johnathan Abram at #29
Justin Layne at #29

We’ve seen this in the past and often it’s people outside of the Seahawks bubble not really understanding that Carroll and Schneider prefer to draft defensive backs later.

That said, there have been a few whispers that the Seahawks might buck a trend. Brock Huard mused a few weeks ago that this ‘could’ be the year they think about a cornerback early. Meanwhile, Eric Galko connected the Seahawks to interest in Byron Murphy not so long ago and he continued to make that link in his final mock draft.

The tier list

I’ve been really strict with this. I didn’t want to just list half the draft and not provide any real value.

Tier one

These are the players I think they might consider at #21 if they last that far.

Rashan Gary (DE, Michigan)
Montez Sweat (EDGE, Mississippi State)
Brian Burns (EDGE, Florida State)

I’ve only listed three names. I just don’t see many options that would dissuade them from moving back. Christian Wilkins and Dexter Lawrence will be long gone. I’m still not sold on them spending a first round pick on an injury redshirt like Jeffery Simmons. Supposedly there are some medical concerns about Clelin Ferrell. If these three names are off the board at #21 — it’s probably time to move down.

Why these three? Gary is a complete base-end with a sensational physical profile. Sweat’s 4.41 doesn’t get enough attention and his size/length is off the charts. Burns will always be a concern vs the run and his size is a question mark but his speed and pass rush percentage could be intriguing.

Tier two

These are the players I think they might consider at #29 or after trading back into the early second round.

N’Keal Harry (WR, Arizona State)
Terry McLaurin (WR, Ohio State)
Parris Campbell (WR, Ohio State)
Darnell Savage (S, Maryland)
Jaylon Ferguson (DE, Louisiana Tech)
L.J. Collier (DE, TCU)
Byron Murphy (CB, Washington)

These three receivers all fit based on athletic profile, maturity and a lack of ego. The Seahawks offense isn’t a high-target offense. It’s about maxing out your opportunities, being willing to block and function as a unit. These three are capable of doing that.

Darnell Savage is listed because 4.36 speed is 4.36 speed. You can’t coach that. It also helps he jumped a 39.5 inch vertical. That’s a special athletic profile that Carroll might want to get his hands on.

Jaylon Ferguson could be a base-end alternative to Rashan Gary. A lot has been said about Ferguson’s pro-day. Here’s a reminder that not everyone thought it was a disaster. L.J. Collier is one of my favourite players in the draft. I wish he tested better but here’s the facts — he’s a bad ass who wins with power, hand-use, speed, stunts and setting up blockers. Both he and Ferguson excelled in pressure percentage.

I added Byron Murphy because I think it should at least be a consideration that the Seahawks might want the best cornerback in the draft to play as a nickel hybrid.

Tier three

In my mock yesterday I had the Seahawks moving from #29 to #41 in a trade with the Broncos. Here are some of the prospects I think they might consider in that range or later.

Ben Banogu (EDGE, TCU)
Trysten Hill (DT, UCF)
Jerry Tillery (DT, Notre Dame)
Chase Winovich (EDGE, Michigan)
Juan Thornhill (S, Virginia)
Chauncey Gardner-Johnson (S, Florida)
Lonnie Johnson (CB, Kentucky)
Sean Bunting (CB, Central Michigan)
Justin Layne (CB, Michigan State)
Isaiah Johnson (CB, Houston)
Dawson Knox (TE, Ole Miss)
Oshane Ximines (EDGE, Old Dominion)

Ben Banogu is more athlete than football player and he’ll need major work to develop into an effective NFL pass rusher. However, he has the kind of profile they want and they’ve never been afraid to coach up traits. Trysten Hill and Jerry Tillery are both excellent athletes.

Juan Thornhill is a bit overrated to me. You’ve got to love the six interceptions and his fantastic combine. His tape was still a bit underwhelming. Chauncey Gardner-Johnson plays with a spark. He had 9.5 TFL’s from the nickel position in 2018 and he competes to shed blocks and make plays.

Chase Winovich is one of the hardest players to project this year. His passion for the game is unmatched. He ran an incredible short shuttle of 4.11, ran an elite 1.5 10-yard split and a 4.59 forty. His pressure percentage is excellent. Yet he had a mediocre broad jump and he lacks ideal length. For all of these reasons I think he’s best suited to a pure 3-4 scheme playing in space.

I’m intrigued by the sheer numbers of ‘Seahawks style’ cornerbacks in this draft. The four names listed here are all expected to go in rounds 2-3. They’re all long, physical and explosive. Anyone who’s spent any time following the Carroll Seahawks knows they don’t draft cornerbacks early. However — we’re talking about four quality corners here. They won’t last. It needs to be seen to be believed but I’m putting their names on the list just in case.

Dawson Knox has been steadily rising this off-season. Why is he a fit for the Seahawks? He blocks, he never complained about a lack of targets at Ole Miss and he ran a sub-7.10 three cone (which seemingly matters in Seattle).

Oshane Ximines had the second best pass rush percentage in college football (24.5%) in 2018. He’s a high character, passionate football player who could take a physical step forward in a pro-setup. If they don’t get an EDGE early and others leave the board quickly, he could be an alternative.

Tomorrow I’ll publish a new tier list based on the prospects still available looking at day two possibilities.

We’re planning to record a podcast after the first round but if this doesn’t happen — I’ll seriously consider hosting a Google Hangout to offer some further thoughts.

I’ll also be live blogging throughout the first round and I hope you’ll join in with your comments.

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The final 2019 mock draft

This is my final 2019 mock draft to send to the Huddle Report for scoring. Here’s a few quick thoughts before getting into it…

There’s absolutely no doubt what the Seahawks have to do in this draft. They need more picks (five isn’t enough) and they need defensive linemen. We can sit here and discuss receivers just in case Doug Baldwin calls it a day or the defensive backs who can play nickel and maybe push Delano Hill out of a warranted starting gig. The simple fact is — Seattle’s starting D-line, now minus Frank Clark, is inadequate.

Cassius Marsh, Nate Orchard and Jacob Martin are your edge rushers. They haven’t replaced Shamar Stephen or Dion Jordan. Now they need to replace Clark too. They can sign a few veterans after the draft, sure. But none are long-term solutions.

When this team was at it’s best they had the Legion of Boom and Russell Wilson. They also had Michael Bennett, Cliff Avril and Chris Clemons rushing the passer, ably supported by Bruce Irvin. Eventually Clark replaced Clemons.

Now what have they got?

This is a defensive line draft. If there was ever a year to load up on the D-line, this is it. Swapping out Clark for a cheap rookie and hoping Jacob Martin and Rasheem Green take a step forward isn’t enough to progress in 2019.

So while receiver and defensive back are both needs — they both pale into insignificance compared to the defensive line.

Pass rush, run defense, depth, quality.

This historic D-line class provides an opportunity to emulate the impact additions of Avril and Bennett in 2013.

And on that note — here’s my projection…

Final 2019 mock draft

#1 Arizona — Kyler Murray (QB, Oklahoma)

#2 San Francisco — Nick Bosa (DE, Ohio State)
#3 New York Jets — Ed Oliver (DT, Houston)
#4 Oakland — Quinnen Williams (DT, Alabama)
#5 Tampa Bay — Devin White (LB, LSU)

#6 New York Giants — Josh Allen (EDGE, Kentucky)

#7 Jacksonville — T.J. Hockenson (TE, Iowa)
#8 Atlanta (via DET) — Christian Wilkins (DT, Clemson)
#9 Buffalo — Jonah Williams (T, Alabama)
#10 Houston (via DEN) — Andre Dillard (T, Washington State)
#11 Cincinnati — Devin Bush (LB, Michigan)
#12 Green Bay — Jawaan Taylor (T, Florida)
#13 Miami — Dexter Lawrence (DT, Clemson)
#14 Detroit (via ATL) — Cody Ford (T, Oklahoma)
#15 Washington — Dwayne Haskins (QB, Ohio State)
#16 Carolina — Brian Burns (EDGE, Florida State)
#17 New York Giants — Daniel Jones (QB, Duke)
#18 Oakland (via MIN) — Clelin Ferrell (DE, Clemson)
#19 Tennessee — Noah Fant (TE, Iowa)
#20 Pittsburgh — Greedy Williams (CB, LSU)
#21 Seattle — Rashan Gary (DE, Michigan)
#22 Baltimore — Garrett Bradbury (C, NC State)
#23 Denver (via HOU) — Drew Lock (QB, Missouri)
#24 Minnesota (via OAK) — Chris Lindstrom (G, Boston College)
#25 Philadelphia — Jeffery Simmons (DT, Mississippi State)
#26 Indianapolis — Montez Sweat (EDGE, Mississippi State)
#27 Oakland (via DAL) — Byron Murphy (CB, Washington)
#28 LA Chargers — Rock Ya-Sin (CB, Temple)
#29 Denver (via SEA) — Irv Smith JR (TE, Alabama)
#30 Green Bay — Marquise Brown (WR, Oklahoma)
#31 LA Rams — Erik McCoy (C, Texas A&M)
#32 New England — Kaleb McGary (T, Washington)

The trades explained

Atlanta trades #14, #80 & #118 to Detroit for #8
The Falcons want to get an impact defensive lineman and sit behind too many teams with a similar need (Buffalo, Green Bay, Miami). With four and fifth round comp picks padding out their draft, they give up a third and fourth round pick to move up eight spots to get Christian Wilkins. The Lions are reportedly keen to trade down from #8.

Houston trades #23, #54 & #87 to Denver for #10 & #125
The Texans will never be able to function properly unless they can protect Deshaun Watson. An early run on offensive linemen is expected. Houston has two second round picks so they give up one here to trade up and select Andre Dillard to play left tackle. The Broncos also get Houston’s third rounder and the Texans receive Denver’s fourth rounder.

Oakland trades #24, #107 & a 2020 third rounder to Minnesota for #18
The Raiders are trying to change their culture and bring in leaders. I almost gave them Devin White at #4 to illustrate that. They also need a defensive end badly. Here they trade up to get an alpha who will set the tone for the rest of the defense. The Raiders go up and get Clelin Ferrell.

Denver trades #42, #87 & #183 to Seattle for #29
The Seahawks and Broncos have been trade partners in the past. Denver needs a tight end and they leapfrog Green Bay here to make sure they get one. Having traded down from #10 to #23 originally the Broncos have some stock to spend. In return the Seahawks collect another third round pick and a sixth round pick to fill out their board and take their total to seven.

Options for the Seahawks in round two

If they drop down from #29 to #41 it’s possible they’ll miss the run on receivers. It’s also likely at least one of Darnell Savage and Juan Thornhill will be off the board (keep an eye on San Francisco). If N’Keal Harry, Terry McLaurin, Parris Campbell, Savage or Thornhill are available they could all be options.

#41 would also be a range where you maybe consider outside corner with Lonnie Johnson, Sean Bunting and Justin Layne unlikely to be available after round two. If the Seahawks see a potential star among that group they could consider drafting a corner earlier than they ever have done before.

However, as discussed in the intro, one defensive line pick early isn’t enough for the Seahawks. They need to improve their pass rush and D-line depth. If they’re lucky enough to get Rashan Gary with their first pick they have their base-end. Now they need someone to replace Clark’s pass rushing ability.

If we look at pressure percentages, Jaylon Ferguson could be an option. I’m still sceptical Chase Winovich is a fit in Seattle but he too would also qualify. Tony Pauline has connected the Seahawks with second round interest in the ultra-raw Ben Banogu. Trysten Hill is an incredible athlete at defensive tackle and is expected to go in the top-60.

The Seahawks have a lot of options. If a player drops to #21 they now have the freedom to make a pick. If nobody drops — there’s a good chance they’ll trade down at that spot. They could trade down from both #21 and #29. The only unlikely scenario, in my opinion, is they use both #21 and #29. That would require a unique opportunity presenting itself — an opportunity I can’t really imagine. You could say Rashan Gary and Jeffery Simmons maybe. That might be too much of a health risk. Brock Huard said on 710 ESPN he didn’t think Simmons will be on Seattle’s board.

Seahawks seven round projection

R1 #21 Rashan Gary (DE, Michigan)
Incredible athlete, traits, #1 national recruit. Pete Carroll loves all of that.

R2 #41 Jaylon Ferguson (DE, Louisiana Tech)
A sack machine in college with one of the best pressure percentage scores.

R3 #87 Drew Sample (TE, Washington)
Compared to Zach Miller. Sample and Will Dissly are Seattle-style tight ends.

R3 #93 Marvell Tell (S, USC)
Try him at outside corner, nickel or safety. Tell has a fascinating physical profile.

R4 #125 Gary Jennings (WR, West Virginia)
If they don’t take a receiver early Jennings is an alternative.

R5 #160 Armon Watts (DT, Arkansas)
Tough, physical run-stopper with some pass-rush upside.

R6 #183 Derrek Thomas (CB, Baylor)
He looked like a Seahawks corner while running at the combine.

Final general draft thoughts

— I still think this will be one of the more unpredictable first rounds we’ve seen in a long time. With very few ‘legit’ first round picks and a puzzling quarterback class — a lot of different scenarios could play out. About 10-15 players are going to be drafted in round one with similar grades to the players being drafted in the second round. There’s always uncertainty and the unexpected but there could be far more this year.

— Adding to this is the complete mystery surrounding Rashan Gary, Montez Sweat and Jeffery Simmons. All three are highly talented but with very different health concerns. Where do they end up going?

— It’s also very important to think 12 months on. The next draft is expected to be particularly strong at wide receiver but weak on the offensive line. Teams will plan ahead. It could mean a large number of O-liners go in the first frame and the receivers are pushed into round two.

I’ll have some further thoughts before the draft tomorrow and will publish a tiered list of Seahawks targets for each section of the draft.

If you want to post your own mocks in the comments section feel free.

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Further thoughts on the Frank Clark trade & more

1. Why did the Seahawks trade Frank Clark?

Because they clearly weren’t willing to make him the third highest paid defensive player in the league (behind Aaron Donald & Khalil Mack) and they received a great trade offer (a first and second round pick). Whether you agree with the deal or not — it’s hard to argue with their logic.

2. What kind of pass rusher will they try and draft?

Pete Carroll highlighted the importance of ‘pressure percentages’ recently. I couldn’t find data for the entire 2019 draft class but here’s what we were able to discover:

Josh Allen — 29.1%
Anthony Nelson — 23.5%
Oshane Ximines — 23.5%
Jaylon Ferguson — 23.4%
Joe Jackson — 21.7%
Chase Winovich — 21.7%
Montez Sweat — 20.2%
Brian Burns — 19.7%
L.J. Collier — 19.2%
Clelin Ferrell — 18.5%
Jachai Polite — 18.4%
Sutton Smith — 17.6%
Zach Allen — 17.1%
Justin Hollins — 16.8%
Quinnen Williams — 16.7%
Rashan Gary — 15.8%
Ben Banogu — 15.5%
Christian Wilkins — 14.0%
Jalen Jelks — 12.3%
Greg Gaines — 12.2%
Jerry Tillery — 12.2%
Dre’Mont Jones — 11.4%
Ed Oliver — 9.6%

If the Seahawks really are focused on pressure percentages, this is a list to study. While nobody is talking about Jaylon Ferguson much these days, his pressure percentage score would suggest he’s a possible target. The likes of Chase Winovich, Montez Sweat, Brian Burner, L.J. Collier and Clelin Ferrell scored well here too.

It’s also important to remember how much the Seahawks value traits and athleticism. They’ve drafted four defensive linemen in the first two rounds during the Carroll era — Bruce Irvin, Malik McDowell, Jarran Reed and Frank Clark.

Bruce Irvin
The best pass rusher in college football for two years, he ran a 1.55 10-yard split, a 6.70 three cone and a 4.03 short shuttle at 245lbs and was described as the ‘ideal LEO’.

Malik McDowell
He ran a 1.69 10-yard split, a 4.53 short shuttle and a 4.85 forty at 295lbs. McDowell was unique — capable of rushing the edge with speed/power one snap and then handling two blocks at nose tackle on the next.

Frank Clark
Clark ran an incredible 4.05 short shuttle at 271lbs. That’s the kind of time you’d expect from a small defensive back. He also jumped a 38.5 inch vertical. He’s a phenomenal athlete.

Reed is the only one of the quartet with unspectacular testing numbers. However, his ability to anchor vs the run was among the best we’ve seen from any defensive tackle entering the draft in recent history. They clearly saw some value in that.

Whichever defensive lineman they draft early, he’ll probably be a great athlete. That’s why I think Rashan Gary (if available) is a strong contender. He ran a 4.58 at 277lbs, jumped a 38-inch vertical and ran a 4.29 short shuttle. The Seahawks will always back themselves to bring out elite potential.

Gary isn’t the only one with a sensational athletic profile though and Montez Sweat and Jeffery Simmons both have a top-level of athleticism (although clearly that’s only a projection with Simmons given his injury has prevented him from working out). Brian Burns is also incredibly dynamic.

3. What type of defensive linemen do the Seahawks need?

I think ideally they come away with someone who can act as a base-end and play any down/distance plus someone with great athleticism and quickness to be more of a specialist rusher.

Adding a defensive tackle at some point would also be appealing.

They now have to replace three 2018 projected starters — Shamar Stephen, Frank Clark and Dion Jordan. They will sign some veteran free agents after the draft having protected their 2020 comp picks. The Seahawks could be major players at that stage because trading Clark just freed up $17m in cap space for 2019.

There are lots of combinations you could run through. Rashan Gary early then maybe one of Chase Winovich, Ben Banogu or Justin Hollins later. That would be your base-end and your high-upside type. If they took Montez Sweat early maybe you look at L.J. Collier, Anthony Nelson, Charles Omenihu or Keke Kinglsey later.

Or, as suggested earlier, you go for a draft steal reminiscent of the Michael Bennett and Cliff Avril free agency heist by drafting Rashan Gary and Jeffery Simmons.

There’s a lot of work to do on the D-line and it’ll take more than one high pick and a couple of veterans to fill the holes.

4. Trading down is still likely

The Seahawks still only have five picks. That’s not enough. It’s a nice thought to imagine landing two big-name players at #21 and #29. The bigger picture demands you collect more picks and fill out your roster. They need depth and competition.

The Clark trade simply opens up the possibility of using #21 if the right player is available. It’s still fairly possible the right player won’t be available and that the Seahawks will trade down. Even if they use #21 — that would simply put #29 in play for a trade back into round two.

A lot of fans won’t like this thought but the value of this draft class is day two. Turning #21 and #29 into multiple day-two picks could be the target and could be Seattle’s way of controlling the meaty area of the 2019 draft.

5. The Seahawks are well placed to trade down

Make no mistake — teams will want to get ahead of Baltimore at #22 and Green Bay at #30. The Ravens have big needs at receiver and the offensive line (as do several other teams in the 20’s and 30’s). The Packers are expected to try and draft a weapon for Aaron Rodgers and some believe they may even target a quarterback late in the first. There will almost certainly be offers for Seattle’s two first round picks.

6. Get your pass rushers early

In his pre-draft press conference yesterday, John Schneider commented that while it’s a great draft for defensive linemen, he expects a drop-off after round three.

Here’s something else to consider — according to Bob McGinn’s scouting sources, next years draft will be ‘the year of the receiver’.

Every draft is a puzzle. You’re trying to find positional value points. Do they decide it’s better to target (for example) Gary Jennings in round four at receiver and focus on the D-line early? Can they get a defensive back in round three (Marvell Tell, Amani Hooker)?

7. Could they trade for a veteran?

The Seahawks are currently projected to own 12 picks in 2020 including five in the first three rounds. The Chiefs traded Dee Ford to San Francisco for a 2020 second rounder. I can’t imagine who they might be interested in but would the Seahawks make a similar move? Would they trade a 2020 pick for an unwanted veteran elsewhere?

8. What are the other positions to consider early?

A run on receivers is going to start in the 20’s or 30’s. Last year the Seahawks kicked off a run on running backs by taking Rashaad Penny at #27. Will history repeat at a different position?

N’Keal Harry, Terry McLaurin and Parris Campbell all ‘fit’ the Seahawks. They value a combination of quickness, athleticism, grit and character.

You can’t play in Seattle’s offense if you expect 10 targets a game and to be the focal point of the offense. They need guys who understand the situation — you’ll not get monster stats. Tyler Lockett and Doug Baldwin are rare individuals. Either would be much more productive playing for other teams. You never ever hear them complain about it though.

Harry, McLaurin and Campbell fit that personality mould.

It also helps that Harry is productive as a downfield playmaker (22% scoring rate on deep passes), McLaurin loves to block, play special teams and he ran a 4.35 and Campbell ran a 4.31 and looks like a sturdier Percy Harvin.

Whether it’s at #29 or after a small trade down — acquiring an extra pick has put the Seahawks in a great position to land a receiver they really want.

They could also focus on the secondary. With Carroll having so much success coaching defensive backs they’re less inclined to spend high picks on this unit. However, there are a couple of sensational athletes in this class who could be of interest — Juan Thornhill and Darnell Savage. It helps both players collected turnovers in 2018.

They’re also very versatile and capable of playing nickel, ‘big nickel’ and safety.

There are other defensive backs you could mention. Byron Murphy is a class act but is he athletic enough? They met with Justin Layne and Sean Bunting but it’d be a turn up for the books if Seattle drafted an outside corner early.

One of the early picks will almost certainly go on a defensive lineman. Unless they double-dip, the strong money is on receiver and defensive back being their next two priorities.

9. Scouting quotes

Courtesy of Bob McGinn. Each quote is from a separate anonymous scout.

Montez Sweat

“I think it will be a pure judgment call for every medical staff… We’re meeting on it this week.”

“(Josh) Allen and Sweat are very similar guys… One-year big production guys. Long and lanky. Look the part. Are they Pro Bowl-caliber players? I don’t think so. They’re going to get drafted where Pro Bowl-caliber players get drafted. I like him, but he’s not Von Miller.”

“He’s a gangly athlete. He gets beat up at the point of attack. As a rusher, he’s not a fluid-moving guy. He wins with his length. Just kind of a one-trick pony. He’s scary. He does play hard. But his workout numbers and what you see on the field are two different things.”

“Inside stab. Inside move and he gets his arms under. He’s got such great arm length. I don’t like his person, but with that length and that speed he can develop if he’ll take coaching.”

Clelin Ferrell

“He’s one of my favorite players… His production is unbelievable. He knows how to play. He’s not an elite athlete but he maximizes everything he has.”

“He’s kind of that tweener pass rusher, those guys that look the part physically but just don’t have the twitch and the traits that make you a really good one… I don’t see where he wins consistently. He’s not going to win with his strength or power on the inside or bull rush and he’s not fast enough to consistently win on the outside. In college, they had those two first-round D-tackles that were taking up three interior (blockers) so he was blocked one-on-one a lot on the outside. I like him. He just doesn’t have that twitch.”

Brian Burns

“He’s got a basketball body… Has a legitimate chance to be one of those up-down guys. A rusher on third down and play as an off-the-ball linebacker. He can drop and cover. Ran like a scalded dog

“He’s better coming out as a pass rusher than Leonard Floyd… More productive. Got a more natural knack for it. You’re checking the pass-rush box with him. Somebody will probably take a chance. It might be late 1.”

“The weight obviously was manufactured for the combine… I think he plays in the 235 range. He’s just not that big of a guy. You’re going to get bounced around a lot if he’s 235, 240. He’s very nimble as a pass rusher. He’s got some bend to him. He’s got a nice spin move inside. He can work the edge. He’s a six, seven, eight sack guy.”

“Not very tough or physical… Weak against the run. He’s got to win with his get-off. After that he doesn’t have moves and isn’t strong. Doesn’t have finish. He’s an athlete, not a football player.”

Jaylon Ferguson

“He had 44 sacks, which is pretty impressive… You can’t have 44 sacks without having some skill. He’s fluid. He has a feel for it. If a guy’s overplaying him he comes underneath. A lot of them were when the quarterback was running around and he cleaned up and got him. He will have to work to be more of a complete player. At this point you’d look at him as a designated pass rusher. If you teach him to play the run better you might have a heck of a find.”

“Sacks translate… He doesn’t have the twitch to be a true DPR. He will have to be a guy that wins with power. He played LSU and Mississippi State this year and had like three, 3 ½ sacks in those games. He steps up when the competition steps up.”

Oshane Ximines

“I got a little bit intoxicated with his person… I think he’s going to will himself to win. He’s going to be a situational pass rusher. Not a good kid. Great kid.”

“He’s a yoked-up guy… He’s got some body armor. He has better play strength than weight-room strength even though he looks like he hasn’t missed a day in the weight room. I know he doesn’t have elite long speed but he has short-area quickness, agility and contact balance. At the Senior Bowl he looked great. He’s got a great motor. His sack production looks like it can translate because he has the tools to build a repertoire of moves and make them all work.”

Chase Winovich

“What a (bleep) wild horse rider guy he is. He is going to play 10 years in the NFL. I don’t give a (bleep) what anybody says. He must be in the huddle when they call the plays because he gets to the ball. Some 3-4 team might try him as a linebacker but I don’t see that in him. Forget all that height-weight-speed (bleep). Put on the film and see who makes the plays.”

“He’s kind of a big-time millennial guy… He really started to feel himself in the branding. Some of that stuff bothers me. But then he is a good football player. All the Michigan tape was Chase Winovich making plays.”

“He plays his butt off. He’s a complete player. He refuses not to be. He’s one of those guys that has the heart of a lion. His intensity is infectious.”

“He’s like a big, dumb puppy… He wants attention all the time. He could polarize teammates that way. The older guys will roll their eyes at him and the younger guys think he’s the man … he’s not super-gifted but he’s not a stiff, either. At pro day he did outside linebacker drills and looked really good. I think a 3-4 team will pick him higher than a 4-3 team.”

Rashan Gary

“He plays along the line on his feet, he’s explosive, he’s got twitch, he’s got a great get-off and lean… His skill level is in the top 5 to 10%. His production is in the top 40%. We see him as a 5-technique but he could be a 3-technique. With that speed he can play on the right side.”

“His whole life he has been the biggest, fastest person… With that you don’t have to strain and do the extras. I think that’s what happened to him. Everything was just so easy for him that he hasn’t incorporated that internal high motor to match his physical gifts. The production is not there… You see him anchor and toss people. You see him bull rush and stab guys. Then you don’t see it. He and Ed Oliver have a chance to bust. He’s just always been so much better than everyone else that he never had to try to kick your ass.”

“I wish I had him… When he’s visible, he’s visible.”

Jeffery Simmons

“He’s kind of a combination of (Dexter) Lawrence and (Christian) Wilkins… I have them Wilkins, Simmons and Lawrence. He has better athletic ability than Lawrence. He can play anywhere from 0- to 3-technique. He might even be a 5-technique. I don’t see him as a great anchor on the inside. Where Lawrence is more of a pure anchor I think Simmons is a good anchor that has better pass-rush ability.”

“He’s a pretty complete player if he can get back to healthy… He’s a tremendous kid. He had that one incident.”

N’Keal Harry

“He ran a lot better than he played… He’s got really good hands. He has a chance to be a No. 1 (WR). He’s not one to take the top off, and that’s what all the coaches want. They want a speed guy to run as deep as you can. He goes over the middle and runs slants. He’ll be a good player.”

“He’s a good possession receiver… He’ll be one of those 60 catch a year guys. Not a big red-zone threat. Not a big-time difference-maker. You’re still going to be looking for better.”

Terry McLaurin

“It’s hard to find receivers that play good on special teams. This guy does.”

“He is like the anti-wide receiver… Zero diva. He understands special teams, and that’s how you get on the field. It’s just his whole mindset. Some guys say that and it’s bull—-. This kid really gets it.”

“He’s sharp. He’s at a different level. He’s so far above most college players when it comes to how he presents himself. There’s no way you miss on this guy. I don’t know if he’ll ever be a Pro Bowler (at wide receiver) but he’s going to be a really dependable player for a long time. There’s no downside.”

Parris Campbell

“He is electric with the ball in his hands… He’s really fast, and he plays every bit of that when he’s got the ball. His hands are the least natural of the (top receivers) but he’s worked pretty hard to improve them. High character. Played the same position that Curtis Samuel played and Percy Harvin played for Urban (Meyer) in Florida. Kind of a hybrid receiver-running back. He’s going to need some work with routes to play a conventional wide receiver position but the guy’s a big-time playmaker. Golden Tate is a lot like him.”

“You’ve seen the run after the catch that you know will easily transfer to the league… At least you know he can do that really well. The way the game is played now with all this quick stuff, he fits right in.”

10. Predict some scenarios

The conservative prediction
#21 Rashan Gary (DE) or Montez Sweat (EDGE)
#29 Trade down and select a receiver or defensive back

The dominate day two prediction
#21 Trade down and select BPA at DL, WR or DB
#29 Trade down and select BPA at DL, WR or DB

The Hail Mary
#21 Rashan Gary (DE)
#29 Jeffery Simmons (DT)

Maize and Blue
#21 Rashan Gary
#29 Trade down and select Chase Winovich

Pressure percentages
#21 Montez Sweat (EDGE) or Brian Burns (EDGE)
#29 Trade down and select Jaylon Ferguson (DE)

Tomorrow I’ll be posting my final mock draft to be sent for Huddle Report scoring. I’ll consider doing some kind of video too — maybe a live Google Hangout.

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The Seahawks are trading Frank Clark to Kansas City

Frank Clark is being traded to the Chiefs

The Seahawks have agreed to trade Frank Clark to the Kansas City Chiefs. They’ve acquired the #29 pick and a 2020 second round pick. The two teams will also swap third round picks (#85 for #93).

Clark will now be the third highest paid defender in the league.

So what does this mean for Seattle?

1. They have to add pass rushers

The Seahawks just traded away one of the best young pass rushers in the league. He had 35 sacks in four years despite minimal playing time as a rookie. Clark doesn’t even turn 26 until June 14th.

Seattle’s pass rush in 2018 relied on Clark — even with better-than-expected production from Jarran Reed and rookie Jacob Martin.

They’ve gone from one extreme to another. They used to be able to rotate Clark with Michael Bennett and Cliff Avril. Now what are they left with?

Before this trade their #1 draft need was more pass rush. Now it’s an even greater need.

At least one of their high picks will be spent on a defensive lineman — and likely one that can contribute straight away.

Clearly the Seahawks didn’t want to pay Clark (or couldn’t afford to). The trade is understandable and they’ve done well to get the compensation they did. They’ve also created a big hole on the roster.

2. How does it change their draft strategy?

For starters they can consider using pick #21. Before this trade they had to trade down. They couldn’t pick only four times in this draft. Their only chance to generate stock was to move down from #21.

It’s still very likely they will trade down at some point. They now have five picks instead of four — that’s not enough (especially when you need to replace one of your best players). But if a top player drops to #21 (for example, Rashan Gary) they can make the pick knowing they can trade down from #29.

Alternatively they could trade down from both #21 or #29 and truly fill out their board. The strength of this draft is in rounds 2-3. They currently only have one pick in that range — #93. Generating multiple picks in rounds 2-3 could be a target rather than spending their two first round picks.

Whatever they decide, they have more options now. It’s just a shame they couldn’t convince the Chiefs to give up their 2019 second rounder to truly fill out their board.

3. Could they make a franchise-changing move?

In 2013 the Seahawks pulled off a heist by signing Michael Bennett and Cliff Avril to cheap free agent contracts.

Is there a draft equivalent this year?

Rashan Gary and Jeffery Simmons were once regarded as top-10 locks. Now there are questions about whether Gary needs shoulder surgery after the 2019 season and Simmons is recovering from a torn ACL. Adding both would carry an element of risk. It would be a rare opportunity, however, to add two exceptional talents (and at a cost-effective price).

It might be too much of a risk to take but it could, potentially, provide the building blocks for an elite defensive unit.

If they want a top defensive lineman they’ll have to consider taking a chance. There’s a reason why the Chiefs are giving up a haul and paying Frank Clark mega money. Clearly they didn’t believe there was a defensive lineman worth taking at #29 (or worth trading up a few spots for).

John Schneider yesterday said he felt there was a talent drop-off on the defensive line after round three. If the Seahawks want to add impact D-liners, they might have to do it early.

It doesn’t necessarily have to be Gary or Simmons either. Brian Burns could last to #21. Montez Sweat is expected to fall after it was revealed he has a heart condition. Clelin Ferrell could reach the 20’s. There are alternatives.

4. Having two high picks enables them to cover two big needs

At least one high pick will go on a defensive lineman. The two other big needs are receiver and defensive back. Realistically they can now add a pass rusher or defensive tackle then target N’Keal Harry, Terry McLaurin or Parris Campbell at receiver — or one of the many defensive backs they’ve met with recently (Juan Thornhill, Darnell Savage, Justin Layne, Sean Bunting etc).

5. They now have 12 picks in 2020

This is still a re-set for the Seahawks. While they intend to be competitive in 2019 (especially after paying Russell Wilson) — it’s still a process. With two high picks this year they can add impact or control day two via trades. Next year, with 12 picks including five in the first three rounds, that could be the draft to push the Seahawks closer to the top of the tree.

I will have some further thoughts on this subject later — possibly via Google Hangout, possibly via podcast or via a mock. So stay tuned.

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Kansas City Chiefs to trade for Frank Clark?

Firstly, Brandan Schulze and I recorded two podcasts this week. The first reviews a couple of mock drafts and discusses options for the Seahawks. Check it out…

Peter King published a mock draft today. He had the Kansas City Chiefs trading #29 and #63 for Frank Clark. That’s a first and second round pick. Quite the haul.

We’ll gloss over the fact King then has Seattle drafting two similar players (Byron Murphy and Johnathan Abram) and focus on the projected trade. This would open up the draft for the Seahawks.

Firstly, they could potentially use #21 depending on who was available. Albert Breer has the Seahawks taking Rashan Gary in his mock draft (also published today). Gary is exactly the type of player the Seahawks like. He’s a superb athlete with massive potential, he’s a prototype for the defensive linemen they covet and he’s a former #1 national recruit. He’d be a top-10 pick if it wasn’t for this…

If you gain picks #29 and #63, you can afford to take Gary at #21. You’d have six picks instead of four. If they wanted they could trade down from #29 or #63 to gain further picks. They’d have an excellent chance to fill their key needs.

Here’s a potential scenario…

#21 — Rashan Gary (DE)
#29 (or after trading down) — N’Keal Harry, Parris Campbell or Terry McLaurin (WR)
#63 — Jaylon Ferguson, Chase Winovich, Oshane Ximines or a top defensive back

Those are just some of the possible names for the purpose of an example. The defensive back targets could be some of the outside cornerbacks they’ve looked at recently (Sean Bunting, Justin Layne etc) or a nickel/safety hybrid. Tony Pauline has also linked the Seahawks with second round interest in Ben Banogu. He could be another option at #63.

This scenario would soften the blow of losing a player as influential as Clark.

We’ll see if a deal like this is likely. It’d be a huge cost for the Chiefs — especially given they’d then have to pay Clark $65m in guarantees. However — they could front-load the deal with Patrick Mahomes still on his rookie contract. They’re not going to get a player anywhere near as good as Clark at #29 and they own two second round picks — so they would still be able to spend #61 on another need.

Ian Rapoport says a trade could happen ‘early in the week’. Connor Hughes from the Athletic says the Jets were interested in Clark but the Seahawks wanted pick #3. Hughes later added on Twitter: “When you see what the return haul for Clark is, you’ll understand why the Jets don’t have enough.” This implies the Seahawks will get an attractive deal if a trade is completed.

Mike Garofolo also said he’s surprised a trade hasn’t been completed yet.

Increasingly it looks like Clark will be traded. There’s just too much smoke coming from the premier NFL reporters.

If you missed yesterday’s 7000 behemoth discussing over 100 players relating to the Seahawks draft, be sure to check it out here.

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Identifying possible Seahawks targets in the 2019 draft

Could a shoulder issue push Rashan Gary into range for the Seahawks?

Seattle’s biggest draft needs?

Defensive line, receiver and defensive back.

Can they find an impact player in each area?

The safe money is on Seattle prioritising the D-line. They’ve lost Shamar Stephen and don’t appear interested in re-signing Dion Jordan. They might trade Frank Clark. This is the ideal draft to reload your defensive line.

They’ve spent a lot of time looking at the defensive backs in this class. For good reason. Juan Thornhill and Darnell Savage were two players who made visits to Seattle. The safety class surpassed expectations at the combine and a lot of teams needed to take a closer look. They also met with rising cornerbacks Justin Layne and Sean Bunting.

Uncertainty over Doug Baldwin’s future has launched receiver into a bigger priority. This isn’t a great wide out class but we could see a rush on the position in the early second round — then a major drop off.

Piecing together ways to add impact players will be a challenge. Can you wait on the D-line given the extreme depth available? Or do you target a top prospect with your first pick and feel comfortable knowing you addressed arguably your biggest need straight away?

The Seahawks to accumulate more picks. Trading down from #21 is inevitable. It’s not a great looking first round but there will be good value in rounds 2-3.

Below you’ll find an extensive look at the players I believe could be on Seattle’s radar.

Let’s start with the D-line class.

It’s worth remembering Pete Carroll’s reference to the importance of pressure percentages. For more on this, click here.

Three players are reportedly falling due to health. Jeffery Simmons has a torn ACL, Montez Sweat a heart condition and Rashan Gary has a shoulder issue.

If they drop into range for the Seahawks (and range means after trading down from #21) — do you consider gambling on health to acquire one of the draft’s top players? That’s the big question I’m considering with a few days to go until the draft.

We’ll look at Simmons, Sweat and Gary in a moment. First two ‘healthier’ alternatives…

Possible early round targets

Brian Burns (EDGE, Florida State)
The big question mark for Burns was size and he allayed some of those fears by gaining approximately 20lbs for the combine and still running a 1.54 10-yard split, a 4.53 forty, jumping a 36.5 inch vertical and achieving a 7.01 three-cone. He looks like an ideal LEO project with 33 7/8 inch arms. He had 66 pressures in 2018 and a high pressure percentage of 19.7%. There will be concerns about his ability to defend the run and keep the size on (he can’t play at 228lbs in the NFL) but he has a lot of what Seattle likes.

Clelin Ferrell (DE, Clemson)
He’s not the same kind of athlete as Brian Burns or Montez Sweat but Ferrell is an alpha dog. He was the leader on the great Clemson defense that won the National Championship. He didn’t run a forty pre-draft and his 4.40 short shuttle is more ‘good’ than ‘great’ at 6-4 and 264lbs but he had 56 pressures in 2018 and a pressure percentage of 18.5%. You’re not going to have any concerns about his ability to play three-downs and he’d be a quality book-end for Frank Clark if he falls into range.

Wildcards if they fall due to injury

Montez Sweat (EDGE, Mississippi State)
Sweat had worked himself into the top-10 after competing at the Senior Bowl then putting on a show at the combine. He gained weight to get up to 260lbs and still ran a 4.41 forty, a 1.54 10-yard split, a 4.29 short shuttle and a 7.00 three-cone. These are elite times. He also had 48 pressures in 2018 and a pressure percentage of 20.2%. When you consider he also had a 36-inch vertical and he has 35 3/4 inch arms — Sweat is pretty much the complete physical package. However, there are some concerns about his health after it was discovered at the combine he has an unusual heart condition. We’ll see how it impacts his stock but Sweat has opted not to attend the draft in Nashville despite previously accepting his invitation. The Seahawks will have to make a call on whether it’s right to draft a player who could be putting his life at risk simply playing the game. If he’s on their board and he drops — he’d be the type of athlete they’d love to have.

Rashan Gary (DE, Michigan)
He was the #1 national recruit coming out of High School and while everyone went nuts for Ed Oliver’s pro-day testing — it’s easy to forget that Gary had similar numbers on a bigger frame. At 6-4 and 277lbs he ran an incredible 4.58 forty. In comparison, Von Miller ran a 4.53 at 250lbs. Gary also ran a 4.29 short shuttle and jumped 38 inches in the vertical (plus a 10-0 broad). He’s the complete physical package at defensive end. Concerns are often raised about his production but he was asked to play a certain role in Michigan’s defense that didn’t produce many opportunities to make plays. His pressure percentage (15.8%) still topped players like Ben Banogu (15.5%), Jerry Tillery (12.2%) and Ed Oliver (9.6%). He played most of 2018 with a shoulder injury and there are reportedly some concerns about his health. He took an official-30 visit to Seattle and would be an ideal book-end — or a potential replacement — for Frank Clark.

Jeffery Simmons (DT, Mississippi State)
If it wasn’t for a torn ACL during combine training, Simmons would be a top-10 pick. It speaks to his talent and the way he’s turned his life around that he’d be rated so highly. NFL teams are seemingly satisfied with Simmons’ attempt to make amends after an ugly video surfaced showing him beating a woman during a family-related dispute. As a player he looks like Ndamukong Suh. He’s 6-4 and 301lbs but carries minimal body fat. He absorbs double teams and he’s a top-level run defender. Against Iowa in the Bowl game he showed off his pass-rush potential. He might not play in 2019 due to the knee injury and that will lead to a fall. Teams will need to weigh up the need for a redshirt rookie season vs landing one of the very best players in the draft. Some believe he’s the top player in the entire class.

Considering it isn’t a great first round this year — being in a position to acquire one of the best prospects is enticing. Yet the Seahawks so far haven’t taken a big injury risk with their first pick in the Carroll era. Their lack of picks also restricts their ability to fill needs immediately if — in the case of Simmons — they’re unable to feature in 2019.

Second tier options

If pressure percentage really is a big deal for the Seahawks, the next three names could be high on their radar…

Jaylen Ferguson (DE, Louisiana Tech)
He had 64 pressures in 2018 and a pressure percentage of 23.4% (fourth best). More than 27% of his career tackles were TFL’s. He led the nation with 17.5 sacks last year. He didn’t test well at his pro-day and he’s had issues with weight gain in the past. However, he’s raw and with the right pro-guidance has a ton of upside. He stood out in games against Texas A&M and Mississippi State and he looks the part at 6-5, 271lbs with 34.5-inch arms.

Oshane Ximines (EDGE, Old Dominion)
High character with a passion for the game. Ximines had 55 pressures in 2018 and the joint second best pressure percentage of 23.5%. He’s 6-3 and 253lbs with 33 inch arms. His testing results were fairly average (4.78 forty, 7.13 three cone, 4.57 short shuttle) but his production is worth considering.

Chase Winovich (EDGE, Michigan)
In terms of engaging personality, Winovich is #1 on the board. He only had five sacks in 2018 but he did amass 17 TFL’s, 53 pressures and his pressure percentage was an impressive 21.7%. He surpassed expectations at the combine by running a 4.59 forty (1.57 10-yard split) at 6-3 and 256lbs (32 3/4 inch arms). He also ran a superb 6.94 three cone and a 4.11 short shuttle. He said he’d rather die than miss Michigan’s Bowl game against Florida.

D’Andre Walker (EDGE, Georgia)
Walker picked up a sports hernia playing his head off against Alabama in the SEC Championship game. He was all over the field and stood-out among a crowd of stars. The injury prevented him from appearing at the Senior Bowl or the combine and he didn’t have a proper testing session at his pro-day. Ideally we’d have more information on his physical profile. However, he’s strong against the run, can rush the passer and he’s 6-2 and 251lbs with 34 3/8 inch arms. He’s a powerful BAMF.

Christian Miller (EDGE, Alabama)
Like Walker, Miller picked up an injury (in the College Football Playoffs vs Oklahoma) and hasn’t been able to do a proper testing session. He didn’t look 100% doing drills at the combine although he did manage a superb 38.5 inch vertical. On tape his ability to bend the arc is incredible and he has the size/length to be an effective LEO or EDGE (6-3, 247lbs, 35 1/8 inch arms). Miller could also be switched to linebacker full time.

Maxx Crosby (EDGE, Eastern Michigan)
An athletic, explosive pass rusher. Crosby ran a 4.66 forty, a 1.60 10-yard split, a 6.89 three cone and a 4.13 short shuttle. Those are all impressive numbers at 6-5 and 255lbs. He has talent but there’s a feeling he’s yet to fully develop physically and could become even stronger and quicker.

Anthony Nelson (DE, Iowa)
He had the joint-second best pressure percentage (23.5%) along with 53 pressures in 2018. Nelson’s tape is a bit underwhelming at times but there’s no doubting his upside. He ran a 4.82 forty, a 1.65 10-yard split, a 6.95 three cone and a 4.23 short shuttle at 6-7 and 271lbs. Those are elite times for a player with his size. He also has 34 7/8 inch arms.

Zach Allen (DE, Boston College)
At times in 2018 Allen was unstoppable. He took over games. It was a bit surprising to see how average he looked at the Senior Bowl. However, he made amends at the combine by running a 4.36 short shuttle at 6-4 and 281lbs plus a 1.65 10-yard split. He has 34 3/4 inch arms and he recorded 59 pressures in 2018 with a pressure percentage of 17.1%.

Charles Omenihu (DE, Texas)
Possesses a terrific combination of size (6-5, 280lbs), length (36 inch arms), agility (4.36 short shuttle) and explosive power (36.5 inch vertical). There are flashes on tape where Omenihu really looks the part. Sadly, he wasn’t consistent enough and never truly realised his potential in college. He recorded only 39 pressures in 2018. Reportedly he divides opinion within the league with some loving him and some not rating him at all.

Jerry Tillery (DT, Notre Dame)
Tillery is the complete package as a physical specimen. He’s 6-6 and 295lbs with 34 1/4 inch arms. He ran a 4.93 forty, a 1.71 10-yard split, a 4.33 short shuttle and he managed a 32-inch vertical. He was recruited in High School to be a left tackle and he’s one of the best defensive athletes in the entire draft. However — there are some concerns. He needlessly kicked an injured USC player in the head and in the very same game, also stamped on another player’s ankle. He created a mini-Twitter storm by liking Tweets suggesting Brian Kelly should be replaced by Les Miles. And while he had an impressive 47 pressures in 2018 his pressure percentage was only 12.2%.

L.J. Collier (DE, TCU)
He’s not fast (4.91 forty) and he’s not particularly agile (4.78 short shuttle, 7.71 three cone). However — Collier is adept at rushing the passer. He can work the edge, stunt inside, convert speed-to-power, bull-rush, win with hand-use, disengage. He might be the closest thing to Michael Bennett in this draft. He plays with great aggression, intensity and heavy hands. He had 54 pressures compared to TCU team mate Ben Banogu’s 60 in 2018. However, Collier’s pressure percentage (19.2%) was far better than Banogu’s (15.5%).

Joe Jackson (DE, Miami)
He didn’t work out at the combine and his pro-day testing numbers were not good. However, Jackson is 6-4 and 275lbs with 34 1/8 inch arms. He had 54 pressures in 2018 at 21.7% (level with Chase Winovich for fifth best).

Trysten Hill (DT, UCF)
Of all the players at the combine, Hill might’ve had the most impressive set of drills. He ran a 4.38 short shuttle at 6-3, 308lbs which is superb and added a 35-inch vertical. Those are top-25 type numbers for a defensive lineman. So why will he last? Purely because there are question marks about his 2018 season. He didn’t see eye-to-eye with the new coaches at Central Florida and lost his starting gig. His tape and athletic profile are top-level. Teams will need to make a call on his coachability. The Seahawks have two references who could help in the Griffin twins. Don’t be surprised if Hill goes earlier than expected. He had 26 pressures in 2018 despite not starting — as many as Ed Oliver and Gerald Willis III.

Third tier defensive linemen

Daniel Wise (DT, Kansas)
A team captain at Kansas with NFL bloodlines, Wise recorded 16 TFL’s and seven sacks as a junior before adding 12.5 TFL’s and five more sacks in 2018. He recorded 35 pressures in 2018. Only one of Wise’s workout numbers stood out but it’s the most important one — the short shuttle. He ran a 4.37 which is highly impressive at 6-3 and 281lbs. He also has 33-inch arms. He could be a specialist interior rusher at the next level. He should’ve been at the Senior Bowl and he was one of the standouts at the Shrine Game.

Kingsley Keke (DE, Texas Tech)
Keke’s tape is a bit disappointing but he was one of the more impressive performers at the Senior Bowl. He ran a 4.95 forty at 6-3 and 288lbs and added a solid 4.46 short shuttle and a 31.5 inch vertical. He only had 31 pressures in 2018 and that backs up the average tape. However, he did lose 20lbs to switch from tackle to end and with time could develop into an effective inside/out rusher.

John Cominsky (DE, Charleston)
A small-school prospect and former quarterback, Cominsky put on a show at the combine. He ran a 1.62 10-yard split at 6-5 and 286lbs. Considering anything in the 1.5’s is elite for a smaller EDGE or LEO — that’s a fantastic time. He has 33.5 inch arms and also ran a 4.69 forty, a 7.03 three cone and a 4.38 short shuttle. He added explosive power with a 33.5 inch vertical. There’s no tape to get a feel for him but his athletic profile is off the charts.

Ben Banogu (EDGE, TCU)
Banogu can’t rush the passer. He needs to be coached from scratch. His sacks in college were testament to his ability to out-athlete overmatched college tackles and run-and-chase better than most. His absolute best quality is covering ground and reading/reacting to reverses and misdirection. For that reason he could be best suited to switching to linebacker. He’s a great athlete — running a 1.56 10-yard split at 6-3 and 250lbs. He has 33 5/8 inch arms and also ran a 4.62 forty, a 4.27 short shuttle, a 7.02 three cone and he jumped a massive 40 inches in the vertical. He’s a project and at the moment more of an athlete than a pass rusher. His pressure percentage of 15.5% isn’t great.

Justin Hollins (EDGE, Oregon)
Another terrific athlete who leaves you wanting so much more on tape. Hollins only had 41 pressures in 2018 and his pressure percentage is 16.8%. He’s 6-5 and 248lbs with 33 3/8 inch arms. He ran a 4.50 forty but his short shuttle time of 4.40 is only decent for his size. He did manage a 36.5 inch vertical. Seattle coaches were spotted working him out during the pre-draft process. He dips in and out of games too often but there’s potential to be coached up.

Khalen Saunders (DT, Western Illinois)
Seen by some as a possible second round pick, Saunders was the big story of the Senior Bowl. Having remained in Mobile despite the birth of his child, he put on a show — mauling the interior with power and rushing the passer with quickness and speed. He can backflip at 6-0 and 324lbs. He doesn’t have the length Seattle likes (he has 32 1/4 inch arms) but he’s a terrific athlete with a great personality who could become a real force with pro-conditioning.

Renell Wren (DT, Arizona State)
He’s built like the Hulk and importantly for Seattle — at 6-5 and 318lbs (with 33 7/8 inch arms) — he ran a 4.53 short shuttle. His play was incredibly inconsistent. He’d destroy the center on one snap, then play out of control the next. Gap discipline is important in Seattle. Wren has amazing potential but he’ll need work to play within this scheme.

Later round defensive tackles

Armon Watts (DT, Arkansas)
A strong, physical defensive lineman capable of plugging gaps in the run game but still offering some pass rush ability. He’s 6-5 and 300lbs with 33 3/8 inch arms and could act as a solid anchor next to Jarran Reed.

Greg Gaines (DT, Washington)
Partnered Vita Vea superbly before Vea turned pro and had a knack of making at least a few splash plays every week. Gaines lacks traits but plays with a terrific motor. He needs to do a better job with his hands and too often he tries to barge his way through blockers. A 31-inch vertical hinted at some power and explosion though and at the very least he could develop into a disciplined run defender.

Albert Huggins (DT, Clemson)
Basically the unspectacular anchor of the Clemson D-line. Christian Wilkins, Dexter Lawrence and Clelin Ferrell provided the star quality. Huggins quietly was an effective block-absorber. He’s not quick, he’s not athletic and he’s not particularly explosive. However — his upper body is tremendously powerful and he has a good frame at 6-3, 305lbs and 33.5 inch arms. Huggins could be a top run defender.

Wide receivers

The need to prepare for life after Doug Baldwin is vitally important. Baldwin has been a reliable, prolific playmaker for the Seahawks for nearly a decade. We know they like downfield shots and suddenness. We know they value speed. They also have to consider the type of personality they draft at the position. This isn’t a high-volume passing offense. You won’t necessarily get consistent targets. Some receivers can’t cope with that. Drafting players who have the character and maturity to play within this offense is vital.

These are the top three players I believe fit the Seahawks…

Terry McLaurin (WR, Ohio State)
It’s not a coincidence that McLaurin and Doug Baldwin share an agent. McLaurin showed at the Senior Bowl he’s adept at getting open (like Baldwin) he’s a team player not obsessed with how many targets he gets (like Baldwin) and he loves to get involved as a blocker and on special teams (just as Baldwin did entering the league). McLaurin is their type of receiver with 4.35 speed, a high catch percentage (71.4%) and one of the best deep catch rates in the class. Whether he ends up in Seattle or not, he’s a Seahawks-type of receiver.

N’Keal Harry (WR, Arizona State)
Although he ran short of Seattle’s preferred 4.4 or faster, a 4.53 forty at the combine was a better-than-expected time for a receiver listed at 6-2 and 228lbs. Pete Carroll has been looking for a big, athletic target for some time. Like McLaurin, there’s no ego in Harry. But why is he a Seahawks fit? Two big reasons stand out other than his character and size. Firstly — he had a scoring rate of 22% on his deep targets. Secondly, quarterbacks had a 135.4 passer rating when throwing deep passes to Harry at Arizona State. The Seahawks want chunk plays in the passing game and he can provide that.

Parris Campbell (WR, Ohio State)
In 2013 the Seahawks traded high picks to acquire Percy Harvin and then paid him a fortune. Campbell isn’t the same personality as Harvin (he has much better character) but he played the same position in Urban Meyer’s offense. Like McLaurin’s he’s a rare athlete. Campbell ran a 4.31 at the combine (1.51 10-yard split) at 6-0 and 205lbs and he excelled in the explosive tests and the short shuttle (4.03). He worked heavily to improve his catching technique this year and he’s a modern day X-factor capable of lining up in multiple positions and commanding attention on every snap.

The other two names worth mentioning are D.K. Metcalf and Marquise Brown. Both potentially could fit the Seahawks. I wanted to separate them from the top three, however.

D.K. Metcalf (WR, Ole Miss)
There are reasons to think Metcalf won’t appeal to the Seahawks. He had too many concentration drops in college, he had a serious neck injury during the 2018 season, his short/intermediate routes are laboured and he’s pretty much a one-trick pony at the moment (he runs a superb go-route at 6-3 and 228lbs). The thing is — the one thing he does very well is pretty rare. He ran a 4.33 at the combine and the fastest 10-yard split of any player at any position (1.48). There aren’t many humans on the planet who can run that fast at his size. For that reason alone — and considering Seattle’s desire to get the ball downfield — Metcalf has to be included here.

Marquise Brown (WR, Oklahoma)
He couldn’t work out at the combine or his pro-day due to a foot injury. He’s incredibly small at 5-9 and 166lbs but he was extremely dynamic, consistent and effective for Oklahoma. He’s Antonio Brown’s cousin and they share some of the same tendencies. He has the suddenness to win quickly on slants and quick-hitters but he can also take the top off a defense. He’ll need to be used like DeSean Jackson at his size and we’ll see how he handles the more physical pro-level.

The receiver they might be most prepared to target later on is….

Gary Jennings (WR, West Virginia)
Had a terrific combine, running a 4.42 and jumping a 37-inch vertical. He’s 6-1 and 214lbs. Jennings had a 75% catch rate in 2018 and showed he a very capable deep receiver who can operate in the slot too. He clocked a top speed of 21.03mph at the Senior Bowl.

And if you want a possible UDFA target…

Johnnie Dixon (WR, Ohio State)
Like all the Ohio State receivers, he was lost within the scheme. Dixon ran a 4.41 at 5-10 and 201lbs and managed a 37.5 inch vertical. His eight touchdowns in 2018 averaged 32 YPC. He has the suddenness the Seahawks like and could be brought in for camp as an UDFA.

They could also potentially target players like Emmanuel Hall (WR, Missouri), Deebo Samuel (WR, South Carolina), Mecole Hardman (WR, Georgia), Hakeem Butler (WR, Iowa State) or Miles Boykin.

Defensive backs

Whether it’s bolstering the depth at outside corner, finding a Justin Coleman replacement or just adding some playmakers — the secondary will likely be a target area in this draft. Here are two most likely early round targets…

Juan Thornhill (Hybrid, Virginia)
The Seahawks don’t draft defensive backs early unless they have special qualities. The only one they’ve taken in the first two rounds under Pete Carroll is Earl Thomas. So they better have elite physical qualities and production. Thornhill recorded six interceptions in 2018 and ran a 4.42 forty at 6-0 and 205lbs. He jumped a 44-inch vertical. According to PFF he was the only safety in the country to finish with +80.0-plus grades in run defense, tackling, pass-rush and coverage while taking at least 15 snaps as a blitzer, at least 200 snaps in run defense and at least 200 snaps in coverage. He had 13 passes defended in 2018. Production + elite athleticism.

Darnell Savage (S, Maryland)
He ran a 4.36 forty at the combine at 5-11 and 198lbs. Savage also jumped a 39.5 inch vertical and ran a 4.14 short shuttle. This level of speed and quickness shows up on tape. Savage isn’t a big physical force but he excels in coverage situations. He’s practically always first to the ball. He had four interceptions in 2018 and forced 5.5 TFL’s. Like Thornhill he combines production with great athleticism.

Cornerback targets who might go too early

Lonnie Johnson (CB, Kentucky)
He has the ideal physical profile for a Seahawks cornerback. He’s 6-2 and 213lbs with 32 5/8 inch arms and a 77.5 inch wingspan. He ran a 4.52 forty, a 4.10 short shuttle and jumped a 38-inch vertical. He was one of the recipients of the now infamous ‘staring contest’ from the Seahawks at the combine. If he was available in the middle rounds he’d be a great option but some teams might see Johnson as the best corner in the class.

Justin Layne (CB, Michigan State)
One of Seattle’s late official-30 visits. He’s 6-2 and 192lbs with 33-inch arms and an 80 1/8 inch wingspan. He ran a 4.50 forty, a 6.90 three cone, a 4.09 short shuttle and jumped a 37.5 inch vertical. He’s a receiver convert like Richard Sherman and he’s adept at tight coverage and has a great feel for identifying routes, mirroring the receiver and making a play on the ball. Like Johnson he’d be an ideal target but he might go in the top-40. Had 16 passes defended and 15 PBU’s in 2018 but only one interception.

Sean Bunting (CB, Central Michigan)
One of the big risers during the off-season, Bunting is 6-0 and 195lbs with 32-inch arms. He ran a 4.42 forty and jumped a 41.5 inch vertical. He also ran the second fastest 10-yard split by anyone at the combine (1.51). He does a great job competing for 50-50 balls and breaking up passes and he allowed only a 39% completion rate in 2018. Unlike some of Seattle’s previous cornerbacks he does a good job avoiding contact with the receiver and plays the ball. He’s also very prepared to make a tackle. He might go in round two.

Isaiah Johnson (CB, Houston)
Johnson is the most likely to last into the middle rounds of the names mentioned here but he’s also been getting his fair share of day-two buzz. He’s 6-2 and 208lbs with 33-inch arms. He has a 79 1/8 inch wingspan. Johnson ran a 4.40 forty, a 6.81 three cone and a 4.06 short shuttle. Those are great times for a corner with his size. He also acted as a serviceable. gunner on special teams.

Byron Murphy (CB, Washington)
He’s the most talented cornerback in the draft. He could play outside in some schemes but I think he’s better inside at nickel or playing as a hybrid. He only ran a 4.55 forty but he’s sudden, flies to the ball-carrier and he can hit. He has a knack for playmaking. He could be a top-25 pick easily. Taking a 4.55 runner at 5-11 and 190lbs at corner early in the draft would be a major departure for Carroll and Schneider.

Defensive back hybrids

Chauncey Gardner-Johnson (S/Nickel, Florida)
Charismatic and a big talker, Gardner-Johnson switched to nickel corner at Florida in 2018. He’s superb at getting off blocks to make plays in the running game and against misdirection, extended hand-off’s and stretch plays. He forced 9.5 TFL’s last season — as good as some defensive linemen. He also added four interceptions including two vital plays in a MVP performance against Michigan in Florida’s Bowl game. He ran a 4.48 at 5-11 and 210lbs. According to PFF he had an 89.9 coverage grade (ranked ninth in the country). He also limited receivers to 8.4 yards per reception –- ranking 17th among all cornerbacks targeted at least 25 times in 2018. His 45.6 passer rating when targeted from the slot ranked sixth in the country.

Marvell Tell (S/CB, USC)
Could be converted to cornerback given his size (6-2, 198lbs) and arm length (33 1/8 inch arms). Tell made a major impression at the combine with a 42 inch vertical, 11-4 broad jump, a 6.63 three cone and a 4.01 short shuttle.

Marquise Blair (S, Utah)
Hits like a hammer and will strike fear into any receiver running across the middle of the field. Could be a flag-machine if his technique is off. Decent but not great size (6-1, 195lbs). He ran a 4.48 forty which was faster than expected.

Nasir Adderley (S, Delaware)
He was overhyped by the media and that was unfair. If he lands in the middle rounds that’ll be about right. Had four interceptions in 2018 and was a successful kick returner. His highlight reel is on fire but his tape shows inconsistent play. Didn’t do any pre-draft testing.

Amani Hooker (S/Nickel, Iowa)
Well built, stocky nickel or safety listed at 5-11 and 210lbs. He ran a 4.48 forty, jumped a 37-inch vertical and ran well in the three cone (6.81) and short shuttle (4.10). He was named ‘Big Ten Defensive Back of the Year’ after recording 65 tackles, 3.5 TFL’s, four interceptions, seven pass breakups and a safety in 13 starts. Tough, physical and considered the defensive leader by his team mates.

Day three defensive back hybrid’s

Darius West (S, Kentucky)
On a defense loaded with talent, West was considered the established tone-setter and leader. According to Lance Zierlein: “When he speaks, teammates listen.” A true alpha. He has a history of injuries and that could be a problem. If teams clear his medical he’s a 5-11, 208lbs blaster with 4.39 speed.

Will Harris (S, Boston College)
Harris has NFL bloodlines, plays with extreme toughness and physicality and he’s no slouch as an athlete. He ran a 4.41 at 6-1 and 207lbs, adding a 6.91 three cone and a 4.12 short shuttle. He’s been compared to Bradley McDougald. Only had one interception as a senior.

Sheldrick Redwine (S, Miami)
A converted cornerback with the traits to play big nickel. He’s 6-0 and 196lbs and ran a 4.44 forty. He jumped a 39-inch vertical and ran a 4.14 short shuttle. He had 3.5 TFL’s, three sacks and three interceptions as a senior. He’s plays big but he can cover.

Zedrick Woods (S, Ole Miss)
He ran the fastest forty at the combine (4.29). He doesn’t necessarily play to that speed but at least he has it. He’s aggressive and collected two picks and two forced fumbles in 2018. Could start off as a key special teamer.

Possible day three or UDFA outside cornerback targets

Stephen Denmark (CB, Valdosta State)
Incredible physical profile. He’s 6-3 and 220lbs with 33 3/8 inch arms. Denmark ran a 4.46 forty, 1.48 10-yard split, jumped a 43.5 inch vertical and a 10-10 broad. There isn’t another cornerback in this draft with this level of physical upside. He’s also a converted receiver. He’s a major project but keep an eye on him.

Jamal Peters (CB, Mississippi State)
Converted safety who didn’t test well at the combine but has the size and length Seattle likes. Tony Pauline linked Seattle with interest in Peters during the season. He didn’t force many turnovers at Mississippi State but he was tough and physical. He’s 6-2 and 218lbs with 32 3/8 inch arms but he ran a 4.63.

Michael Jackson (CB, Miami)
He ran a solid 4.45 at 6-1 and 210lbs. His 40.5 inch vertical and 4.12 short shuttle were also impressive. He had 3.5 TFL’s, 2.5 sacks and six PBU’s in 2018 but failed to record an interception. He has 32.5 inch arms and looked the part at the combine.

Saivion Smith (CB, Alabama)
Measured bigger than expected (6-1, 199lbs, 33 1/4 inch arms). He didn’t run at the combine and the rest of his testing was average (eg. 4.37 short shuttle). He’s a press-corner who mixes it up and had three picks in 2018.

Derrek Thomas (CB, Baylor)
He looked like a Seahawks corner at the combine. Superb frame — 6-3, 189lbs, 33 3/4 inch arms, 39.5 inch vertical. He’s a project but he took an official-30 visit to Seattle. The type of guy they’ve worked with.

Joejuan Williams (CB, Vanderbilt)
He’s 6-4 and 211lbs and was linked with a possible first round grade before he ran a 4.64. He has 32.5 inch arms. Another Seahawks-style press-corner who competes for the ball and has a physical demeanour. Was among the national leaders in passes defended (17) and had 13 PBU’s plus four interceptions.

Other possible options: Blace Brown, Blessuan Austin, Alijah Holder, Jordan Miller, Ryan Pulley, Ken Webster, Chris Westry.

Tight end

With Nick Vannett and Ed Dickson both free agents in 2020 — and with Will Dissly still recovering from a very serious knee injury — the Seahawks might add another tight end at some point in this draft. They seem to prefer players with length, tenacity as a run blocker and a sub-7.10 three cone.

Dawson Knox (TE, Ole Miss)
Ran between a 6.81-7.04 three cone at his pro-day (there are various reports). He also reportedly ran a 4.28 short shuttle and a forty in the 4.51-4.57 range. Wasn’t highly involved in the passing game at Ole Miss but he’s considered a good blocker with major upside as a receiver.

Jace Sternberger (TE, Texas A&M)
Doesn’t have the testing numbers the Seahawks like but they brought him to Seattle for an official-30 visit. Sternberger does an excellent job contorting his body to make difficult grabs and could be used as a complimentary target to some of Seattle’s Y-tight end group.

Kaden Smith (TE, Stanford)
Once considered a possible top-40 pick, Smith didn’t run well at the combine (4.92). However, he did manage a 7.08 three cone which might put him on Seattle’s radar. He also managed a 4.47 short shuttle and a 32-inch vertical.

Drew Sample (TE, Washington)
A complete tight end who put on a show at the Senior Bowl. Sample ran a 4.71 at the combine before adding a 33.5 inch vertical, a 7.15 three cone and a 4.31 short shuttle. He’s done more than most to boost his stock this off-season and could go in round three.

Foster Moreau (TE, LSU)
He wore the fabled #18 jersey at LSU — awarded to the player who best exemplifies character and leadership. He’s a terrific run-blocker with untapped potential in the passing game. Moreau ran a 4.66 forty, jumped a 36.5 inch vertical, a 7.16 three cone and a 4.11 short shuttle.

Kahale Warring (TE, San Diego State)
There are some mild concerns about his lack of playing experience and coachability. Yet Warring looks the part and had some big conversions in 2018. He ran a 4.67 forty, jumped a 36.5 inch vertical and ran a 4.25 short shuttle. His 7.21 three cone could be faster.

Josh Oliver (TE, San Jose State)
Oliver is said to love football and some scouts even believe he’s the best tight end in the draft. He was used as a moveable chess-piece in college and didn’t take many snaps as an orthodox tight end. It’s impossible to say how good he is as a blocker. He ran a 4.63 forty, jumped a 34-inch vertical and managed a 4.47 short shuttle.

Trevon Wesco (TE/FB, West Virginia)
Considered the best full back prospect by some, Wesco could be used in a variety of ways. He’ll never be a dynamic pass-catcher but he has 34 3/4 inch arms on a 6-3, 267lbs frame. He can be a full back, a sixth lineman or a blocking tight end. He ran a surprisingly quick 4.38 short shuttle. He’s a terrific blocker and plays with aggression and intensity.

Running backs

The Seahawks are a run-heavy team and they’ve lost Mike Davis. It’s easy to forget how much Seattle needed Davis in 2018. He was a vital player in some games. Chris Carson will never be a 16-game bell-cow and Rashaad Penny got banged up last year. Adding a third wheel to replace Davis shouldn’t be ruled out — albeit only with a later round pick.

Rodney Anderson (RB, Oklahoma)
I think he’s the best running back in the draft. He has everything — size, speed, explosive traits, he finishes runs. He tore Georgia to shreds in the 2017 playoffs. He’d be a top-20 prospect without the injuries. He’s still recovering from an ACL tear. If he’s there on day three he could be a steal.

Ryquell Armstead (RB, Temple)
Toughness personified. He finishes runs and hits you in the face. He ran an impressive 4.45 at 5-11 and 220lbs. He produced 1,098 yards and 13 touchdowns in 2018. Armstead also stood out at the Senior Bowl. He has the attitude and running style Seattle likes.

Miles Sanders (RB, Penn State)
Ran a 4.49 at 5-11 and 211lbs. He also jumped a 36-inch vertical and recorded a 6.89 three cone and a 4.19 short shuttle. Sanders is elusive and it’s weird he didn’t get more attention during the season. His tape is fun. He’s talented, fast and explosive.

Alexander Mattison (RB, Boise State)
Lacks great speed (4.67 forty) but makes up for it with size (5-11, 221lbs) and explosive physicality. Mattison jumped a 35-inch vertical. Like Ryquell Armstead he finishes runs and gets the hard yards.

Devine Ozigbo (RB, Nebraska)
Wasn’t invited to the combine surprisingly. Ozigbo reportedly ran a 4.53 at 233lbs at his pro-day while adding a 37-inch vertical and a 10-4 broad jump. He has the explosive power and running style to warrant interest as a later round pick who can last in the league for a few years.

Alex Barnes (RB, Kansas State)
He doesn’t look like an orthodox back at 6-0 and 226lbs but he ran a 4.59 forty, a 6.95 three cone, a 4.10 short shuttle and jumped a 38.5 inch vertical. He could be used as a third-down back with the quickness to make plays as a pass-catcher and runner.

Darwin Thompson (RB, Utah State)
He took an official-30 visit to Seattle. He’s smaller than they usually like at 5-8 and 200lbs but he’s a tough, physical runner and we know the Seahawks like that. He recorded 16 touchdowns on just 176 touches in 2018. Could be an UDFA target.

Alec Ingold (FB, Wisconsin)
He’s a classic full back. Most teams won’t consider him because they don’t use these types of players any more. It’ll be interesting to see if the Seahawks take him. They’ve needed a quality full back for a while. Ingold inspired Jon Gruden to march onto the Senior Bowl field for a high-five after one punishing block.

Offensive linemen

This isn’t an area the Seahawks are expected to target early. However, with Mike Iupati, Germain Ifedi and George Fant all free agents in 2020 they might need to start planning ahead.

The following players will likely go too early for the Seahawks…

Kaleb McGary (T, Washington)
Highly athletic — much more so than expected. Minimal bad weight, built like a terminator. He’s 6-7 and 317lbs and jumped an impressive 33.5 inch vertical. Arm length isn’t ideal (32 7/8 inch arms) and he gives up some pressures. Will be a solid, physical right tackle or guard.

Dru Samia (G, Oklahoma)
An absolute beast of a guard. If you want to see what a guy can do, watch them play Alabama in the trenches. Samia performed very well in that game. He squares everything up which is rare. He wants to fight everyone and he’ll give you everything. He’ll go earlier than some people think. Terrific run blocker.

Jonah Williams (G/C, Alabama)
He’s overrated as a top-10 pick. The league knows he’s overrated. He’ll still go early because his attitude, approach and history at Alabama is attractive. He can play any position on the O-line. Mike Solari used Williams to demonstrate his drills at the combine. Marginal athlete.

Andre Dillard (T, Washington State)
Lined up in a pass-pro stance every snap and will need to learn pro-technique. However, he was superb at the combine in drills and workouts. He ran a 4.96 and a 4.44 short shuttle. He’s 6-5 and 315lbs. He’s the best pass-protector in the draft. Looked good at the Senior Bowl.

Cody Ford (T/G, Oklahoma)
His footwork stands out for a guy at 6-4 and 329lbs. It’s incredible. His ability to drop and set is unmatched in this class. He could be tried at tackle even if his best position is at guard. He’s not a waist-bender and he could be the best offensive lineman in the draft.

Chris Lindstrom (G, Boston College)
He has J.R. Sweezy’s physical profile minus the intense physicality and attitude. He’s 6-4 and 308lbs, ran a 4.91 forty and a 4.54 short shuttle. He’s not going to be a dominating lineman but he’s a safe-and-sound pick who can start quickly.

Here are some possible day three O-line targets…

Yodny Cajuste (T, West Virginia)
Was expected to test through the roof at the combine but wasn’t healthy enough to perform. If he drops as a consequence the Seahawks could take him as a hedge for Germain Ifedi and George Fant. He’s 6-5 and 312lbs with 34-inch arms. He has what they look for in a right tackle.

Chuma Edoga (T, USC)
Few players stood out more than Edoga at the Senior Bowl. He was superb and looked like a legit left tackle. He’s 6-3 and 308lbs with 34 3/4 inch arms. There’s so much potential here. However, he had a difficult upbringing and witnessed his father being shot dead. He also had a tendency to pull himself out of games at SoCal.

David Edwards (T, Wisconsin)
Based on 2017 tape, Edwards had a shot to develop into a round one pick. Instead he regressed, got hurt and will now likely last into day three. Still, he’s a thumping right tackle with the attitude and approach teams love.

Michael Deiter (G, Wisconsin)
His tape was good. He blocks with toughness and finishes. Then he turned up at the Senior Bowl and was awful. It was a major surprise. He stood out for the wrong reasons. So you have to decide if he’s able to play with the same success at the next level against superior opponents.

Michael Jordan (G/C, Ohio State)
Huge frame (6-6, 312lbs) and although he played center for the Buckeye’s he might be better suited to guard. He has 34 1/4 inch arms. He looked the part at the combine and he could develop into a really solid starter over time.

Isaiah Prince (T, Ohio State)
If they gave out grades for body-building, Prince would be near the top. He looked in superb shape at the combine. He’s 6-6 and 305lbs with 35.5 inch arms. He has the ideal frame for a NFL left tackle. His kick-slide is good and so is his pass-pro. Prince is worth taking a shot on to develop.

Bobby Evans (T, Oklahoma)
There’s nothing spectacular about Evans — he’s just incredibly solid. He played left tackle at Oklahoma but likely switches to the right side at the next level. He’s 6-4 and 312lbs with 34 3/4 inch arms. He might not be a superstar but he’ll hold down a side for a few years and could be the type of player who ends up getting paid on his second contract.

Oli Udoh (T, Elon)
Absolutely massive right tackle prospect with 6-5, 323lbs size and 35 3/8 inch arms. His frame is already big and intimidating but he could add even more muscle. He ran a 5.05 forty. Udoh looks like a Seahawks right tackle.

Ben Powers (G, Oklahoma)
Powers stood out at the Senior Bowl. He’s 6-4 and 307lbs with 33 3/4 inch arms. According to Lance Zierlein he, “has a self-professed love for “taking a grown man’s dreams and crushing them” on the field.” We saw a bit of that in Mobile. He didn’t test at the combine but he’s worth a shot as a day three guard with starting potential.

Connor McGovern (G, Penn State)
Terrific run blocker with size (6-5, 308lbs) and length (34 1/8 inch arms). He ran a decent 4.57 short shuttle. Power matters at the next level and McGovern has it in abundance. Might go a bit too early for Seattle but he has the attitude they like. Has guard and center experience.

It’s not a good linebacker class and with the Seahawks keeping K.J. Wright and Mychal Kendricks, they’re unlikely to spend one of their few picks on a linebacker this year. Keep an eye on Arkansas’ Dre Greenlaw (best tackle % in the SEC), Idaho’s Kaden Elliss (pass rusher or linebacker) and Buffalo’s Khalil Hodge (good run defender) as possible late round fliers or UDFA’s.

The re-signing of Russell Wilson virtually eliminates the possibility of a quarterback being drafted unless a value situation presents itself. I think they will like Will Grier due to his fantastic production throwing downfield but if he goes in the first two days of the draft he won’t be a Seahawk.

I’ve not included the following players because they’re expected to be long gone before Seattle picks but here’s a sentence on each…

Kyler Murray (QB, Oklahoma)
The most talented player in the draft.

Quinnen Williams (DT, Alabama)
Super quick, slippery and dominated during 2018.

Nick Bosa (DE, Ohio State)
The complete defensive end.

Ed Oliver (DT, Houston)
Short arms are a concern and some worry about his personality.

Devin White (LB, LSU)
A tone-setter with extreme speed.

Devin Bush (LB, Michigan)
Will have a similar grade to White.

Josh Allen (EDGE, Kentucky)
Had the best pressure percentage in college football (29.1%) but can’t keep getting blocked by tight ends.

T.J. Hockenson (TE, Iowa)
The best offensive player in the draft after Kyler Murray.

Christian Wilkins (DT, Clemson)
Could still go in the top-10.

Dexter Lawrence (DT, Clemson)
Not just a nose tackle and he created more pressures in 2018 (33) than people realise.

I’ve not included the following group as they’re either poor scheme fits or not playing a position of early-round need…

Erik McCoy (C, Texas A&M)
Held his own against Quinnen Williams which speaks volumes.

Garrett Bradbury (C, NC State)
Short arms and small but has great hips, control and mobility.

Josh Jacobs (RB, Alabama)
The hype was too much.

Irv Smith Jr (RB, Alabama)
At best could be Delanie Walker.

Damien Harris (RB, Alabama)
Could have a better pro-career than people think.

Elgton Jenkins (C, Mississippi State)
Had a good Senior Bowl but looked bad vs Alabama against Quinnen Williams.

Greedy Williams (CB, LSU)
A buffet tackler who picks and chooses when to get involved.

A.J. Brown (WR, Ole Miss)
A big slot but won’t fit Seattle’s scheme.

Noah Fant (TE, Iowa)
Very athletic with major upside but is he a mirage?

Any other highly touted QB
Thank goodness for Russell Wilson’s new contract.

If you feel like I’ve missed anyone out let me know.

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Seahawks want a first rounder for Frank Clark

Let’s try and parse the following tweet…

1. The Seahawks are open to trading Frank Clark — as many have reported. Now they’re using the media to try and set a high bar for negotiations.

2. The parameters for a deal are clear so if a new contract was possible, we’d probably be hearing about progress not potential trades. Have they already decided they can’t/won’t meet Clark’s demands?

3. Clearly nobody has made a suitable offer. That’s why they’re making it known, through the best source of NFL breaking news, what their high-point asking price is.

4. This doesn’t necessarily mean it’ll take a first round pick to get a deal done. They might be prepared to accept a high second rounder. At this stage it seems like they want to shoot for the first rounder and there’s time to adjust their position.

5. We’ve been here before with Earl Thomas and Richard Sherman. Nobody made a reasonable offer and both players remained in Seattle. I still think this outcome is likely for Clark in 2019 due to the excellent D-line class and the +$65m in guarantees you’d have to give up on top of draft compensation.

6. Even so, it’s pretty clear a trade could happen. There’s no point pretending it’s a non-starter — even if, like me, you think ultimately he’ll play on the franchise tag this season. Too many quality sources are talking about this. Adam Schefter, Mike Garofolo, Michael Lombardi, Tony Pauline, Mike Florio, Ian Rapoport and originally Jay Glazer.

7. Garofolo originally told 710 ESPN it would take a high first rounder to acquire Clark. That seems very unlikely and if that was possible — the Seahawks wouldn’t need Schefter’s tweet to help things along. If the interested parties are Indianapolis and Kansas City as reported — this is probably about trying to coax them to offer #26, #29 or #34 instead of #59, #61 or #63.

8. Adding a high-ish pick for Clark would free up cap space and aid Seattle’s draft board. That’s the positive side of things. The negative is — their pass rush was already fairly milquetoast. When they lost Cliff Avril and traded Michael Bennett, Clark was the up-and-coming younger player ready to take the leading role. They don’t have a Clark to turn to now. Removing him would create a big hole. The fact they’re even considering it shows how much they value this D-line draft class. And for that reason — get ready for a D-line centric draft next week.

For more on the Clark situation, listen to our conversation with Tony Pauline:

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Some thoughts on what the Seahawks might do

Before we get into today’s piece, here’s a podcast I recorded with Brandan Schulze this week. We run through some of the players who’ve taken official visits with the Seahawks…

Thoughts on what the Seahawks might do

Sometimes the clues are staring you right in the face.

This is a fantastic defensive line class. The Seahawks needed to add to their D-line anyway. They’ve since lost Shamar Stephen and appear uninterested in keeping Dion Jordan. Their only additions so far are Cassius Marsh and Nate Orchard.

It’s abundantly clear they’re going to take a defensive tackle and a defensive end in this draft. It’s just a case of when.

That’s stating the obvious I suppose. Yet it’s easy to tie yourself in knots thinking about other positions when the truth is right there.

The Seahawks are meeting with plenty of veteran defensive linemen — from Corey Liuget to Al Woods and Allen Bailey. These are likely hedge moves based on a number of factors (targets not being available, a Frank Clark trade etc).

Anyone wanting to make a ‘safe’ projection for the Seahawks should pair them with a defensive lineman with their first pick.

1. They didn’t address it in free agency

2. It was a need before they lost guys on the D-line

3. It’s the strength of the draft

Of course the strength of the D-line class could allow the Seahawks to consider another need early. For example — the uncertain future of Doug Baldwin has increased the need at receiver. You’ll be able to land a decent wide out between picks #20-50 in this draft. After that the well runs dry. Yet the D-line depth stretches well into day three. In our conversation this week Tony Pauline suggested it could be an historic D-line draft.

Meanwhile one of Bob McGinn’s scouting sources had the following to say about the receiver class:

“This is a (expletive) year for early receivers… It’s just not a good class. I said last year it was a bad receiver draft. This is worse.”

The Seahawks will set out to complete their roster as much as they can with this draft. That means trying to add impact players at multiple positions — not simply addressing their top need first and then hoping for the best later on.

They badly needed a cornerback in 2017 but waited until the late third round to draft Shaquille Griffin. That draft class was considered ‘the year of the corner’. Seattle used that depth to wait on the position — drafting Malik McDowell and Ethan Pocic with their first two picks instead.

It’s possible they use a similar tactic this year (although hopefully with better results). If they can fill out their D-line between rounds 3-7, they might be inclined to look at the receivers and defensive backs with their top selection after trading down from #21 (possibly multiple times).

On the other hand, last years draft was ‘the year of the running back’. Seattle traded down nine spots and then took Rashaad Penny with their top pick. They could’ve waited until later on to grab a running back. However, they saw value in being the ones to launch a run on the position. They got what they believed was the #2 runner in the class after Saquon Barkley. They didn’t wait, despite having other needs (eg pass rusher).

So just as it’s possible they wait on the defensive line — they could also identify the guy they want from this tremendous D-line class and make sure they get them with their first pick.

Whoever they take with their first selection will probably seem obvious afterwards. This is the tenth draft for Carroll and Schneider together. We know what they look for at certain positions by now.

For example — if they take a defensive lineman with their first pick they’ll probably have good length. If it’s an EDGE they’ll be incredibly quick and athletic. If it’s an inside/out rusher or a defensive tackle they’ll likely excel in the short shuttle. We know they pay attention to pressure percentages, as discussed here.

There are so many players who fit the criteria this year it’ll be difficult to pin down ‘the guy’ who they ultimately take. Yet there’ll almost certainly be an ‘ah yes’ moment immediately after the pick.

If they don’t take a D-liner first up there could be a bit more mystery. The safety position has been harder to determine under Carroll and Schneider because they’ve added a wide variety of different profiles over the years. At receiver we know they like 4.4 speed or faster, quickness and the ability to get downfield and make plays. Terry McLaurin and Parris Campbell could be possible targets while N’Keal Harry’s 22% scoring rate on deep targets is appealing.

The biggest needs are clear — defensive line (both off the edge and at tackle), receiver and defensive back. The safe money might be on the D-line early but so much will depend on their ability to trade down, the future of Frank Clark and the best way to fill various needs to complete their roster.

Expect the unexpected

I think this will be an unpredictable round one. The top-15 or so players are fairly well established. Yet the next group of 40-50 players are all going to have similar grades. It could mean teams are more focused on need, scheme fit and personal preference than ever before. That could lead to a few shocks and surprises.

For example, there’s been talk recently of Chris Lindstrom being graded by some as a top-20 pick. In most years Lindstrom would be a fairly standard round two offensive lineman with some upside. Yet in this weaker draft in terms of top-level talent, he possibly gets bumped up — partly due to need and partly because he’ll be considered a safer projection than some of the other names being touted for round one.

I think we could see some ‘big’ names dropping into round two and a few shocks in the late first. It could be one of the more intriguing drafts in a long time for surprising round one picks. And as far as the Seahawks go — they’ll likely be very much part of that. They know what they like and they’re not afraid to go for it. Bruce Irvin in 2012, Rashaad Penny in 2018. Unpredictable picks at the time but in hindsight — understandable based on Seattle’s approach.

If there’s a prospect being rated in the 40’s, 50’s or 60’s this year — if they fit the Seahawks they could easily go in the 20’s or 30’s (whenever they pick). They draft for their roster, not everyone else’s. They know what they want.

Injuries and health will also play a part this year. As Tony Pauline told us yesterday, Montez Sweat is likely to last longer into round one than expected due to a minor heart condition. Jeffery Simmons would’ve been a top-10 lock but for his ACL injury. How early will he go? Michael Lombardi thinks he’ll be a first round pick — as do many others — but some think he’ll last into round two. There’s also been talk of injury concerns dropping Rashan Gary deeper into round one.

All three players fit the Seahawks. It’ll be interesting to see how willing they are to take a chance on health to potentially land a top player within this great D-line class.

Meanwhile…

Ian Rapoport is the latest reporter to say a Frank Clark trade is possible:

And if you missed it yesterday don’t forget to check out our conversation with Tony Pauline:

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