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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172 Comments

  1. Frank

    Thanks again for all the hard work this year Rob. Really enjoyable read, and agree 100 percent on those guys all being Seahawk type players. I know you don’t particularly care for Tillery who is one of my favorites, but wondering what too you makes Miles Boykins not fit the bill as Hawk types. Really love that you included Miles Sanders, can’t have too many good running backs. Interesting Rashan Gary may have never put together a healthy season, as a possible reason that he could have untapped potential. Sweat and Burns could both be intriguing if they fall. Any thoughts on Brailford or Bingham?

    • Rob Staton

      On Boykin I just didn’t see a lot to get excited about (short of the great combine). Here’s the Bob McGinn review of him:

      Fourth-year junior. “One-year production,” one scout said. “That’s the thing that bothers me the most. If you’re really on the kid’s side you could say the quarterback play sucked. It improved some this year but it wasn’t very good in the past. The kid has all the talent. He’s huge, he’s athletic, he’s fast and he’s got really good hands. He needs a little bit of work with routes but he’s got all up side. Super kid. Really smart (Wonderlic of 26). There’s a little bust factor just because he hasn’t done it his whole career. This guy is way better than (Equanimeous St. Brown). More fluid, faster, much better natural ball skills.” After catching 18 balls in 2016-’17 he broke loose to haul in 59 for 872 (14.8) and eight TDs in ’18. “I don’t think he’s much because he can’t get in and out of his breaks,” said another scout. “He’s just too big. He’s tough enough, I guess. He has no special-teams value. More of a power player. He’s a 400-meter guy, not a 60-meter guy. Straight line.” Led all WRs in the vertical jump (43 ½) and broad jump (11-8). Played at Providence Catholic in suburban Chicago.

      Length is an issue with Brailford. Lot’s of effort, decent production in 2018. Possible later round option. Bingham I haven’t studied.

  2. Nick

    Rob, seriously: how do you produce this much amazing content? I am so grateful for your fandom and analysis. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Happy Easter to you!

    • Rob Staton

      Thanks Nick, Happy Easter.

  3. DCD2

    Are you freaking kidding me?!?!?

    Wow, Rob. Just, wow.

    That is such an awesome write up on so many different guys! I got to about Daniel Wise, before I started scrolling down to see just how far the rabbit hole went. A minute or two later and I realized just how much went into this piece. I’ll go back and finish it now 🙂

    Quick thoughts on the first part:

    Winovich: I’m not sure if he’s a fit, but it sure is refreshing to hear something like “I’d rather die than miss the bowl game.” I wish him good fortune in the wars to come.

    Walker and Miller: Too bad about their lack of measurables, but I feel like both of these guys could be high on our board. Tape looks great on both and they come from big time programs that have faced tough competition.

    Nelson: I did watch some of his tape and I wasn’t all that impressed either. His combine numbers are really good, but it make me think of that tackle from last year (I want to say Kolton Miller but am too lazy to look it up) who had an amazing combine and got drafted by the Raiders. His tape was “meh” but his numbers were insane. I don’t think he had much impact for OAK last year.

    “Early & Wildcards”: I don’t think any will be in range for us after a trade down, unfortunately. Have you listened to a Brian Burns interview by chance? He’s the Terry McLaurin of DE’s. Really smart and seems to ‘get’ the position.

    Thanks again, I can’t wait to read and re-read this.

  4. Zxvo3

    My favorite players at the top positions of need:

    DL- LJ Collier
    WR- Terry McLaurin
    S/Nickel- Juan Thornhill

    Collier would be a scary player to have across Frank Clark.
    McLaurin would have an instant impact while also being insurance for Doug Baldwin.
    Thornhill would be the replacement for Coleman and he would definitely be a day 1 starter.

    • Trevor

      DL: Simmons (like getting a 2020 top 5 pick)
      WR: Mclaurin
      Safety / Hybrid: Savage ( like Thornhill too but Savage seems to have more grit)

      • Hawktalker#1

        Rob

        Running off Trevor’s post, I think I remember reading some of your comments about savage in a previous post somewhere and If I remember right Savage and Thornhill or not really similar comps. Can you speak to that?

        Thx

        • Rob Staton

          Savage is a cover guy, quick to the ball carrier. Thornhill better working up at the LOS, run and chase, read/react.

          • ZB

            Unfortunately the Seahawks would NEVER take a CB with their first pick.

    • Volume12

      DL- Burns
      WR- Harry
      S- CGJ, Savage, Thornhill, Abram, Adderley, Hooker

  5. Trevor

    Absolutely incredible draft week content! No need to look anywhere else. Really amazing work Rob, one of your best yet.

    Thanks so much for this. I will be really surprised if the majority of the Hawks picks are not on this list.

    • Zxvo3

      +1, Rob your work is outstanding!

  6. Hawktalker#1

    I’ve been refreshing the blog consistently today looking for this article.

    Wow is this some great stuff. Honestly I’ll get some extra enjoyment out of this as I use (likely along with some of your other content) while I watch the draft unfold.

    Also, a late comment, but your last podcast with Pauline was a thing of beauty. Some many relevant, smooth and well delivered questions packed in such a short, but yet unrushed period of time was something I have never experienced before. We all know your produce a ton of incredible content, but I really think your podcast work is even more impressive. Also want to say I so enjoy more to the point conversations on football matters and less of the silly/offbeat/annoying chatter that seems mandatory in so many other podcasts.

    Some truly impressive and professional work.

    Thank you!!!!

    • Rob Staton

      Thanks, glad people enjoyed the conversation with Tony.

  7. Hawktalker#1

    A repost of Robs last mock until he updates it:

    Seven round Seahawks projection

    R2 (#33) — Terry McLaurin (WR, Ohio State)
    R3 (#85) — Charles Omenihu (DE, Texas)
    R3 (#93) — Marvell Tell (S, USC)
    R4 (#104) — Armon Watts (DT, Arkansas)
    R4 (#125) — Kaden Smith (TE, Stanford)
    R5 (#160) — Greg Gaines (DT, Washington)
    R6 (#216) — Derrek Thomas (CB, Baylor)

    Absolutely love the round 1-4 picks. Need to research 5-7 more to provide a better opinion.
    Any other thoughts out there?

    • Greg Haugsven

      That mock really hits on everything.

  8. Mark Souza

    Hi Rob, you mentioned Pete’s desire for a big wide receiver, where is Miles Boykin on your list? 6′ 4″, 220 lbs, 33.5 ” arms, 9 7/8″ hands, 4.42 40 yd dash, 43.5 vertical, 140″ broad.

    • Rob Staton

      I don’t know. People are talking about him as a possible second or early third rounder. That’s too rich for me. Great physical profile but wanted to see a bit more. I could’ve added a handful of other receivers and done a ‘second tier’ options list but I suspect if you miss out early they might just pass.

  9. Volume12

    IDK if he’ll slide that far, something tells me it’s likely, I still think they want Rashan Gary. He’s the ideal PC type player. So for know I’m gonna pencil in Gary as Seattle’s 1st overall selection.

    • Rob Staton

      Even if he falls he aint dropping to the late 20’s or 30’s unless that shoulder injury is a MAJOR issue.

      • Volume12

        Oh I wouldn’t be surprised if Gettleman jumps on him at 6, but I’m willing to bet one of Sweat, Burns, or Gary fall farther than expected.

        • Rob Staton

          I agree on that — I think at least one will last. Sweat because of the heart, Burns because some concerns about size and his ability to play a high percentage of downs, Gary because of the shoulder. Out of the three I would suspect Burns.

          • Volume12

            If Burns is there I’d like to think they’d be all over him.

            I ‘m just beginning to think teams won’t like the value Gary brings with his shoulder and lack of production. Although coaches eat his physical/athletic profile up.

            • Trevor

              If Burns get out of thr top 20 I will be shocked. That would be an incredible pick for the Hawks. Clark coming off one edge and Burns off the other would be a thing of beauty with Reed and Green working inside. That would be a really nice pass rush group IMO.

      • ZB

        I guess he has an injury to an AC joint in his shoulder. Not a doctor so I don’t know how serious that could be.

        • Volume12

          Rumored to be chronic.

        • Bigten

          As someone who lives with chronic AC joint pain, it’s a real concern. My guess would be something called osteolisis of the clavicle. Causes nerve damage, and for me when I was competing, a tingly numbness when the arm is raised with random spouts of loss of use of the arm (not completely dead, but loss of strength). Affects my labrum and bicep as well. Happens a lot to athletes after separating shoulder multiple times and doesn’t go away but is manageable with proper rehab daily. If that’s the case, he could fall farther than expected.

  10. ZB

    I will be bookmarking this page on draft day as well. Good stuff Rob.

    • AlaskaHawk

      Agreed, great content Rob. Seeing that long list just makes me want more draft picks. I won’t be checking in till day two though.

  11. Eli

    Outstanding piece Rob – I think you’ve really done well to identify the athletic profile we seek at each position and give us an idea of the players available at each tier. Honestly couldn’t ask for a better analysis of the draft landscape. We’re spoiled to have you!

    Some other players I like that I think could be in the discussion as potential Hawks based on either athletic profile or how they remind me of players we’ve had on our roster:

    RB James Williams, Washington State
    WR Darius Slayton, Auburn
    OL Terronne Prescod, NC State
    OL Yosh Nijman, Virginia Tech
    OL George Asofo-Adjei, Kentucky
    LB Vosean Joseph, Florida
    LB Otaro Alaka, Texas A&M
    CB Chris Westry, Kentucky

  12. Volume12

    Lance Zierlein said it’s a longshot and he doesn’t think it’ll happen (DE, secondary, O-line is what he said), but Seattle is a wildcard for HB Josh Jacobs. Of f***n’ course.

    • Rob Staton

      No they aren’t. That’s poor from Lance.

      • Volume12

        ‘Carson is good. Jacobs is better.’- LZ

        That made me laugh. Big disagree there. A healthy Carson is better than Fournette. J/k

        • Tecmo Bowl

          Listened to that same interview link- https://t.co/2Gs7Ml7zeW?amp=1
          Laughed out loud too! Haha

          • DCD2

            Rotoworld had a piece on the Seahawks ‘draft needs’ today… Didn’t even include DL as a top 3 priority. There are places you go for intel and places you go for a laugh. SDB is the former.

        • Rob Staton

          Oh Lance… No, Lance. No.

      • Volume12

        I’ve been more disappointed in draft media than probably any past year. It’s become almost a pet peeve of mine

        • ZB

          I’m starting to think the draft media don’t know anything. lol.

          • Volume12

            They have said almost every name could be a top 100 pick. It’s not a special draft overall. Matter of fact of it wasn’t for the D-lineman it would be average of not below average.

            • RealRhino2

              Agree. QB class is average, RB is bad, LB is really bad, CB is bad. I’d say outside of DL and TE, the positions that are good are mostly good for the depth in the 2nd to 3rd-round types rather than the high end talent. High end WR is bad, but I think there are a ton of quality players on day two. Same with OL. The #1 guy probably grades out as a late R1 pick, but the depth for quality starters (particularly on the interior) is really good. Safety class, same thing. Nobody worth taking top 20, but the depth from 25-100 is good.

              That’s why I think unless a high end DL/DE falls to us, stockpiling picks in the 2nd-4th round is absolutely the way to go if we can do it. In fact, outside of my personal draft crush Hakeem Butler, I can’t see any other position being worth a pick at 21.

  13. KJ Smith

    Great write-up looking forward to Thurs night to wait a couple of hours to hear what we get in a trade 🙂

    Questions
    With many people knowing that the Seahawks desperately want to trade down do u see a possibility of teams just low balling them for the pick and “forcing” them to take the pick at 21?

    You’ve mentioned several times why teams may not trade for Clark (paying him big money on a contract despite his production) do you think the Seahawks get antsy if there is no market for Clark and they really want a player in round 2-3 do you see them possibly giving up a 2020 pick?

    Is there any other asset they could trade to get picks in this years draft?

    Thanks,
    KJ

    • Rob Staton

      Teams stick to the trade chart and it’s relatively fair across the board (Bill Belichick made that point). So I doubt that scenario occurs. The good thing for the Seahawks is there’s a big motivation to get ahead of Baltimore.

      They could get antsy with Clark. It all depends on how badly they want value vs keeping Clark vs potentially being open to pay Clark.

      I don’t see any other trade asset unfortunately.

    • Eli

      Here’s an interesting bit of insight into trading during the draft, courtesy of the Chiefs GM (starts at 14:42, should open automatically at that spot though)

      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C8n7qlSXWm8&feature=youtu.be&t=882

  14. Tecmo Bowl

    Like others I’ve been anxiously awaiting this piece today. It exceeded high expectations. Fantastic piece!

    Couple of names to add:
    WR Dillon Mitchell Ore
    NB Jimmy Moreland JMU

    A couple gritty players, who show heart and passion on the field.

    • Volume12

      Big fan of Dillon Mitchell.

      • Kenny Sloth

        Same he got on the field a ton for Oregon and almost always plays up to the opponent

  15. Coleslaw

    I would add David Long. Great piece Rob, cant wait to ‘draft’ with you all.

    • Bobby54

      He could be a great target for nickel corner. Great agility, had a crazy good 3 cone (6.45). According to PFF, he “allowed all of 18 catches on 595 coverage snaps in his entire college career”.

  16. Adog

    I think that Walker or Ferguson will be our pick after the Seahawks trade down. Gary Jennings is a player who screams Seahawk…so maybe they grab him with that pick they gain from trading down.

  17. Volume12

    I see you listed Clellin Ferrell. That’s a weird one for me. Think that range would be perfect value for him. Kind of the under the radar name at DE right now. Good, sound football player. Does he have the get-off, raw power, athleticism they usually emphasize?

    • SoCal12

      He’s the perfect character fit for Seattle, which I think will make up for any perceived lack of special athleticism. Exactly the kind of guy PCJS love in the locker, being a total dawg and leader. My guess is he goes top 25. Would be insane value if we can get him after a trade down though. I would be doing backflips.

  18. Eburgz

    Awesome list! I still feel like Dexter Lawrence could drop a little. One of the Clemson guys or one of Sweat, Burns, Gary would feel like we hit a home run. If we got one of those guys after a trade down it’s a grand slam. I’d bet one of them is available at 21 but not after trading back and we’re looking at the next tier of guys with my favorite being Tillery.

    A couple later round guys that caught my interest at senior bowl are CB (slot) Corey Ballentine and DL Byron Cowart. Also temple DL Michael Dogbe.

    • Rob Staton

      I feel somewhat confident Lawrence won’t get out of the top half of round one. He’s just too athletic and he had a lot more pressures than people realise in 2018. He’s a beast.

  19. James

    John was quoted this week as saying that trading down to acquire more picks is “fun”… well, has it really been fun that that these shenanigans have resulted in our initial picks or trades being Rashad Penny, Malik McDowell, Jimmy Graham, Percy Harvin and Germain Ifedi? Had we stayed put and selected the best player available, those players would certainly help us more this year than any if those “fun” guys.

    • Hawktalker#1

      This post subject appears often . . .

    • Rob Staton

      That’s a pretty short-sighted way of looking at it, James.

    • Group Captain Mandrake

      Well, let’s think about each of those players. The previous year, the running game was horrible and they needed to replace Lacy and Rawls. So Penny fits that spot regardless of what you think of him, and he started a run on the position so if they wait longer, they probably don’t get what they want. I was more of a Chubb and Michel fan, but let’s face it, they probably know more than we do about what they want.

      I was not a big Malik McDowell fan for reasons that Rob has gone over many times, but he was a fantastic player and no one can plan on career ending offseason injuries.Unfortunately, his injuries made the Hawks go after Sheldon Richardson and lose a high draft pick.

      Both Harvin and Graham were attempts to “get that final piece.” At the time, I thought trading Unger for Graham was a good bet since Unger was missing more and more time due to injury. Who knew he would have a resurgence? But you can’t really plan for that based on the situation at the time. Graham was a good pick up used poorly. Harvin was a headcase and a waste of a first rounder, so I’ll give you that one, but at he time he looked like a great weapon.

      Germain Ifedi was the answer to a major weakness at the time. Were there better players available? Maybe, but he was pretty highly rated and fit the need. Maybe he works out, and maybe he’s a bust, but you can’t plan for that part. Look at how many top 10 picks wash out. If you could plan for that, they would never get drafted, but that’s part of the deal with the draft.

    • Stephen Pitell

      You are cherry picking and ignoring that by trading down we get more picks … who did we pick with those picks? We found Bobby Wagner in the second round and he’s become a HOF and best inside LB of the last three years, and along with Kuechley (who was picked in the top ten of his draft class) has been the best inside LB’s of their generation.

      There is a huge list of those guys, though not always necessarily HOF players, but some of them …wasn’t Frank Clark picked in the late 2nd? Probably after we had traded down. Lockett we traded up for after earlier trading down…..

  20. Nick

    Pauline reporting that Seattle has interest in Ben Banogu in the second round.

    • CaptainJack

      Dear god please no

      • Kenny Sloth

        +1

        • Hawktalker#1

          No no no and more no thank you.

    • Coleslaw

      I think it would be a great pick in the 40s. He had a really good combine, and has pretty good tape. He needs to learn how to tackle, and needs to refine his pass rushing, but hes got all the tools to be a really nice player.

      He ran a 4.62 at 250, and it shows on tape. He covers ground like a linebacker. He ran a 1.47s 10 yard split for crying out loud. Best among DL. 11’2″ broad jump, longest by DL since 2003.

      This guy’s ceiling is Cliff Avril.

      • Volume12

        Hed be a 1st rounder if Al Davis were still here.

        High ceiling/high floor guy. Unless they feel Rasheem Green is gonna come on strong this year, IDK if he’d add enough right away.

        It never fails. One of Seattle’s 1st overall selection are always guys like this.

  21. Rob4q

    Great read Rob, so much awesome work done here! Lot’s of info on many of the prospects the Seahawks will be looking at! This blog has become my main stop for Seahawks and draft info!

    I think the latter rounds of this draft could produce some solid players, as well as some of the UDFA too. So many prospects in the latter rounds…here are some that could be late round picks or UDFA that might also be on the ‘Hawks radar:

    Keelan Doss, WR UC Davis
    http://draftanalyst.com/keelan-doss

    Trey Pipkins, OT Sioux Falls
    http://draftanalyst.com/trey-pipkins

    Jordan Brown, CB S. Dakota St
    http://draftanalyst.com/jordan-brown

    Ricky Neal, EDGE N. Iowa
    http://draftanalyst.com/rickey-neal

    Malik Dorton, DE USC
    http://draftanalyst.com/malik-dorton

    Jay-tee Tiuli, DT Eastern Washington
    http://draftanalyst.com/jay-tee-tiuli

  22. Greg Haugsven

    Off topic a little but I still believe the Seahawks would be interested in trading a next year pick/picks for this years draft. Not sure exactly how but just have a feeling. This years draft, 4…Next years draft potentially 11.

    • Hawktalker#1

      I’ll give a six pack of coke against a single they don’t do that. They’re already talking about how much they’re looking forward to all of next year’s picks. I think, and hope, they have learned some lessons recently.

    • Rob Staton

      No… they can’t push this problem into next year.

      • Greg Haugsven

        We will find out shortly.

        • Hawktalker#1

          Just a coke? 🙂

  23. Troy

    What a monster article Rob, us Hawks fans are truly spoiled.

    It seemed like the Dline prospects would never end, what a crazy year for dlinemen!

    Man it sucks we aren’t currently sitting with our second. If we were, we could conceivably sit tight, grab one of the best falling dline prospects at 1, grab best available WR/DB in the second, then let the rest of the draft fall to them. I really hope they can get another second or first either through trade or some other means, would be a shame to only grab one of these high level Dlineman.

  24. Pugs1

    Really want to keep an eye on those edge rushers if Gary, Sweat or Burns fall to 21 I believe the Seahawks would feel more comfortable letting Clark go for less than a first. I’d love to keep Clark but the combo of his contract, lack of draft picks coupled with a deep DL draft. The Seahawks will be hard pressed to keep B Wags, Clark and Reed. They could be better off walking away with a couple of picks this year and 20 million in cap space for the future.

    Rob, thanks for all your hard work! Every fan base should be as lucky as we are to have you.

    • Hawktalker#1

      Why is that? You don’t really still think they’re keeping that #21 pick after all the comments here and comments from JS do you? I hope not as you might be seriously disappointed.

      • Tecmo Bowl

        I too am all for rolling with Clark. There could be a scenario where JS sticks at 21 and picks a Gary, Sweat or Burns. Trade Clark to Indy for 34 and 90. Then trade down from 34 to Atl for 45, 118, 187(something like that). Leaving the Hawks with Clark, but a cheap replacement and a full draft class.
        21- Gary DE
        45- Hill DT
        84- Crosby DE
        90- Edoga OT
        118- Mitchell WR
        125- Moreland NB
        160- Wesco TE/FB
        187- Thomas CB

    • RealRhino2

      I don’t get why so many are ready to deal Clark. If we do that we might as well just write off the season. I honestly believe that. Our pass rush situation is that dire. Where will our pass rush come from? MAYBE Burns (who won’t last to 21, much less any farther down).

      According to PFF, Clark accounted for something like 25% of all our the team’s sacks, pressures, and QB hits (something like that), 5th-most % in the NFL. Didn’t he sign the tag? Why not play him and deal with Wagner, Reed, Clark next year? Figure it out.

      • Rob Staton

        There’s a difference between talking about a trade proposed by the main players in NFL reporting as a distinct possibility and ‘wanting’ to trade Clark.

    • Pugs1

      I don’t know, I just think it’s possible if they get a replacement for Clark at #21 and trade him for a late first or a 2nd & 3rd or 2nd & 4th and walk away with two pass rushers from this draft it might be the best long term option for the Seahawks. I certainly would love for them to pay Frank and keep everyone but that may not be what JS/PC think is best moving forward. We will see Thursday!

  25. charlietheunicorn

    Guys I’m keeping my eye on during the draft process / actual draft

    Day #1
    Rashan Gary (DE, Michigan)
    Terry McLaurin (WR, Ohio State)

    Day #2
    Michael Jordan (G/C, Ohio State)
    Trysten Hill (DT, UCF)

    Day #3
    John Cominsky (DE, Charleston)
    Trevon Wesco (TE/FB, West Virginia)

    and wildcard guy to watch
    Miles Sanders (RB, Penn State)

    Rob, I also appreciate knocking a few of the high round guys out of consideration.
    The late round or UDFAs are probably on the mark.
    A couple of these guys will be signed by Seattle… 100% confident of that.

  26. Dan

    Great article, Rob! What do you think of Quincy Williams? Nobody’s talking about him. He hits like Kam!

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5UFseMzfZk8

    • Rob Staton

      I haven’t studied him, it’s hard to get tape on smaller school guys.

    • Hawktalker#1

      He appears to have some phenomenal short distance quickness. However, a lot of that tape is of highlights where he is absolutely unblocked. He will also need to learn how to tackle with his head up. Promising for sure.

    • LLLOGOSSS

      😳 goddamn. Those are some devastating tackles, he does hit like Kam — he even has Kam’s celebration.

  27. Awsi Dooger

    I think Diontae Johnson of Toledo is a good value day three receiver. Canes defensive backs were raving about him each of the past two seasons. Johnson had two touchdown catches in each game. Last year Miami put Michael Jackson on Johnson most of the game. Johnson beat Jackson will quickness off the line numerous times and it equated to a couple of deep over the shoulder catches down the right sideline. Then Johnson defeated double coverage over the middle for a catch-stop-pivot play that ended up in a waltz touchdown.

    Without Logan Woodside the Toledo quarterbacking really fell off. That’s why Johnson’s stock dropped below rightful. He also didn’t run as fast as expected. But after watching him in both of those Miami games he is an annoying player to face. When someone excels against the Canes, especially multiple times, I tend to take note of it and much more often than not that player succeeds in the NFL.

    Johnson offers kick return ability also

  28. LLLOGOSSS

    Is Renell Wren no longer considered a candidate at the range he might go? Was it an arm length thing?

    • Rob Staton

      I will add him. Just think his worst feature is gap discipline and that’s Seattle’s vital area.

  29. Madmark

    It’s the last for mocks, so I’ll throw one out with trade downs for the last one we had here.
    33 Tysten Hill DT UCF
    This guy put himself in the 2nd round with his combine performance. He absolutely screams Seattle especially with the questions why he was in the dog house with coaching staff.
    85 Chase Winovich LEO Michigan
    This guy is a perfect fit in a Chris Clemens role my opinion.
    93 Marvin Tell III NB USC
    Watch the guy thru out the year and I believe covers everything this team wants.
    104 David Sills V WR WV
    This is my sleeper for the draft. He a touch down machine, a goal line specialist, and he’s has great body control and hand fighting to get advantage. In our offense a TD every 3.7 catches would be incredible.
    124 Foster Moreau TE LSU
    He’s more than he appears. He has the attitude do blocking but will need some time in the pass game the last guy I said that about was Travis Kelce. I don’t believe this guy is Travis Kelce but he could be in a couple of year.
    160 Oli Udoh OL Elon
    A road grader like D.J. Fluker looking to the future.
    216 John Usrua WR Hawaii
    Going to try this guy at slot receiver spot hoping to find Baldwin replacement which will be happening sooner than we think.
    I think Seattle would be comfortable trading down to 38 to 45 before they decide to pick if they can get a deal done. With all the trading down I think in that range they would receive better picks.

    • Robert Las Vegas

      Rob I really liked your lastest article very informative .I was thinking about this I would really like your feedback . Pete and John have liked guys from Alabama in the past from James Carpenter and Jarred Reed and Picking up Bo Scarborough and even Eddie Lacy . The one guy in this draft is Christian Miller.it makes some sense if the Seahawks really like this player. I wouldn’t be disappointed if they drafted him.i really see need for a slot corner I Know you have discussed this before the next slot corner could be on some other team roster perhaps next mid August John will try and make Justin Coleman part Two .by the way that was a tremendous trade John made getting him from New England I believe for a 7 round pick.

      • Rob Staton

        I like Christian Miller. If he’s there in R3 that would be decent value.

    • McZ

      Nice mock.

      Marvell Tell is a bit early, I don’t know where people are coming from drafting him Top 100 in this good S class.
      Trysten Hill could turn out McDowell, part 2.

      • JohnH

        You think Hill is likely to have a freak vehicle accident that leaves him medically unable to ever play?

        • Hawktalker#1

          Funny

  30. H

    The prospect of Gary falling is an enticing one. 4 picks be damned, if he’s there at 21, and their medical evaluation is fine (a big if if he does fall that far), Im taking him and being incredibly happy. He and Clark would be one of the best DE duos in the league.

    Absolutely cracking article Rob, you make being a Seahawk fan such a privilege.

    • Hawktalker#1

      If the number of pics is not an issue, we could always trade up for an upgrade.

  31. EranUngar

    WOW…thank you so much Rob. This is the kind of fantastic work that makes this site unparalleled.

    There are some players that are not considered a good fit for our DL because there are more of a pure pass rushers than the type of edges we are used to see on base defense. However, I believe that many of the run stuffing deficiencies we saw last year had more to do with missing K.J./Kendricks in the from 7 and missing the Kam effect near the LOS. A healthy LBs trio should help a lot.

    I also believe that if Green takes that 2nd year leap he will be the perfect Dion Jordan replacement and could man the position on base defense.

    I am quite partial to drafting a fierce pass rusher that may not be the kind of run stuffer we desire.

    With Vannett, Dickson & Fant on the last/only year of their contract I believe that TE may be higher on their shopping list than many envision. TEs take the longest to adopt to NFL play level, It would be risky to have an empty shelf next year.

  32. McZ

    One player that got worked out by the Hawks and has an impressive frame is Jahlani Tavai, Hawaii.

    If we can get him depends on market dynamics. If teams draft on strength in deep positions, he will be there in R4. If the many LB-strawn teams think, let’s get the very best out of a thin LB class, it is bye bye in early R3.

    Dre Greenlaw is a huge find, Rob.

  33. Bobby54

    Amazing piece of art, Rob! Really appreciate your great work!

    Man, our pick situation is very tough. Not only do we only have 4 picks, they might also be in the worst areas of the whole draft. Every DB or WR I really like, will go somewhere between early 2nd and early 3rd. As you have mentioned before, thats where you find the best value in this years class. Unfortunately, we pick right before and after that best value cluster between 40 and 75. At #21 and after the real impact players will be gone, the other players I really like will be considered reaches (Thornhill, Savage, Nasir, CGJ, Terry, Paris, Deebo). And at #85, everybody might be gone by then.

    Yes, there is a chance that a Amani Hooker or a Mecole Hardman will be available there. Or a guy like Rapp falls really deep. But those players would not excite me as much as the other players. And they could be gone as well. After that, there is a huuuge cliff. Honestly, I would rather be in the position of HOU and pick #54 and #55 instead of #21 and #85. Higher chance of getting two high quality players.

    So what to do? We need more picks in the top 60-75, either by trading down multiple times, using some 2020 picks to trade in or up or by trading Clark. If he would net us 2 top 75 picks, I would pull the trigger. BTW, #21 and Clark to the Chiefs for #29, #61 and #63? Who says no?

    At #29, you might trade down again or pick a Dliner that falls (Burns, Gary, Sweat or more likely Wilkins/Dexter). #61 and #63 for WR and DB (dream scenario Terry and Savage) and at#85 you go for another Dliner (DeAndre Walker, Collier, Omenihu, Miller).

  34. JC3

    After reading Rob’s write up, I got a theory that they are planning to trade Frank or at least try to.
    Fact: This is loaded defensive draft.
    1. Gain picks so they don’t have to force to trade down if Gary or Wilkins is still there, or get a earlier picks to secure one D lineman.
    2. Gain 17 mils cap relief and sign a veteran DE & a DT to fill their current voids. Bailey & Perry?
    Sort of replace quality with quantity and fill needs.
    3. 10+ mils cap space is enough to extend Wagner & sign rookies without further borrowing into future cap.
    4. Get a DE/DT, a WR/TE, CB/slot in one single draft.
    My Board in first 3 rounds after the trade:
    1. Gary (trade with Jets after they trade down)
    2. Campbell/ McLaurin
    3. Sternberger
    4. Savage

  35. Robeetle12

    What an amazing write up. How could anyone not be informed after reading this. It had to take many hours.

    Thank YOU !!!!!!!

  36. Trevor

    Just read Albert Breer’s most recent weekly article on MMQB. He seems to be fairly well connected and seems to put some thought into his work.

    He says the Hawks will try to trade back but has then taking Rashan Gary. Maybe JS had him in for a visit because he knows that he might slip.

    Interestingly MOntez Sweat and Dexter Lawerence were sill on the board and go at the end of Rd#1 .

    Any of those 3 guys (Sweat, Gary, Lawerence) certainly would meet the Hawks criteria of having unique / special traits for the first pick. I would add Jeffery Simmons it that group as well.

    • Volume12

      If the highest rated player on your board (whoever it is) is sitting there, don’t trade back. Get your A1.

      • Rob Staton

        It’s much more complex than that though.

        This isn’t a one player draft. If your ‘top player’ is there at 21 it’s for a reason.

        Look we know the facts here. They aren’t picking at 21 unless Clark is dealt. No chance.

        • AlaskaHawk

          Or unless the trades back are really lousy because every team knows the sweet spot is in the 2-3 rounds.

          • cha

            I think that is a familiar narrative. ‘Hawks will have a hard time finding trading partner’ but they always seem to come through. Somebody falls in love with a particular guy or they know there will be a position run coming and they want to get to the front of the line.

            • AlaskaHawk

              Actually there have been a few rumors about times they weren’t able to find a good trade back. That guard Carpenter comes to mind.

              • cha

                Carpenter 8 years ago vs being able to trade back the last 3 years straight? I’ll take that bet.

  37. Trevor

    There is a ton of buzz about the Clark trade. It seems like a lot of people who are well connnected think this deal gets done. Peter King even projected it in his mock this week.

    Was really hoping they were going to lock him up long term but if they can’t and can get the 1st rounder + change people are talking about then I hope they pull the trigger rather than letting him walk next year for a 2021 comp pick.

    • Greg Haugsven

      I agree, hearing a ton about the Jets, Colts and Chiefs. Chiefs dont really make sense since they just traded Dee Ford. Not sure what the Jets would give up. By the way King’s mock was absolutely dreadful…lol. They wont take two defensive backs early.

      • JohnH

        Chiefs may not have thought Ford was worth paying, but think Clark is. He’s demonstrably better than Ford so that makes sense.

        Jets I think the common assumption is that they’ll trade back from 3 and use some of the picks garnered from that to get Clark.

  38. clbradley17

    First, great long fantastic pre-draft article Rob, probably the best one I’ve seen you write draft week in years of following SDB. Way to break down all the players at each position and at each level.

    Didn’t know about Valdosta St. DB Stephen Denmark, 6’3″ 220, until Tony Pauline wrote about him a few days ago in his Under-The-Radar Small-School Prospects – Defense article. http://draftanalyst.com/under-radar-small-school-prospects-defense
    Kam Chancellor size but faster with sub-4.5 speed and more explosive – his 43.5″ vert. would have been 2nd only to UVA DB Thornhill at the combine. Had 55 tackles, 8 TFLs, 3 int.(1 pick 6), 1 FF and 1 sack in 2018. Would love to see us get him either as a UDFA or very late day 3 if we pick up a 7th in a trade-down, and see what Pete can do with him.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PRV7BKW5ZHs
    https://steelersdepot.com/2019/03/2019-nfl-draft-player-profiles-valdosta-state-cb-stephen-denmark/

    • Hawktalker#1

      Appears to be a very exciting prospect. I’ll be watching his name through the draft and hope he falls far enough for the Seahawks to pick them up near the end or as an UDFA. Seems to be very Seahawkey.

      Thanks for this post.

  39. Trevor

    How about this for a crazy draft day deal. Hawks trade Clark to Indy for #26 overall

    Pick #21 Gary
    Pick #26 Sweat

    Gary, Sweat, Green, Martin would give them 4 young and versatile pass rushers to build around. Then use the savings from the Clark trade to lock up Bobby and Reed to lead this young group.

    • H

      I still think the most likely trade is draft day with the Jets following a trade down, let’s say they send us pick 41 (rd2) they get from Denver in a trade and pick 93 (rd3). You can still double up on the Dline, Gary (pick 21) and Walker (pick 41) would be an ideal pairing, then target guys like Gary Jennings and Marvel Tell with your 2 3rd rounders. Or you could use your second pick on a WR or Secondary (Mclaurin or Savage) and take advantage of the Dline depth in the third. Or you could trade back more in round 1 and really stockpile picks on day 2.

      I don’t like the thought of trading Frank, but i think a deal such as the one I’m proposing gives us a lot of options and would be more appealing than just a first rounder.

    • Logan Lynch

      I’ve been wondering how Gary’s supposed fall could effect SEA’s willingness to trade Frank. For example, say they get Gary at #21 like you have above. Maybe they would then be willing to trade Frank for a high 2nd instead? Or if they could get a late first, maybe they trade that one back and gain more picks. Like Vol said above, I think if your top rated guy falls to your spot, you should strongly consider taking him despite the possible ramifications.

    • lil'stink

      I still like the idea of Clark and #21 to Buffalo for #9 and #40.

      Then trade #9 to Washington for #15 and #46, as they are desperate to draft a QB and want to leap frog Denver and Miami to do it.

      The Eagles, wanting to grab a top LB/WR/DE, trade #25 and #57 for our #15.

      Jacksonville, wanting to move back up into the 1st round and having a 3rd round comp pick, trade #38 and #69 for #25.

      In the end we turn #21 and Frank Clark into picks #38, 40, 46, 57, 69.

      We then go on to drat Terry McLaurin, CGJ, Trysten Hill, TJ Collier, Trevon Wesco…

      See? Being an NFL GM is easy 😉

      • cha

        Unless they have a really clever plan to manufacture some pass rush in 2019 I wouldn’t be happy with that haul.

  40. CaptainJack

    I am wondering why we are crossing Noah Fant off the list.

    He is a tremendous athlete. Has a higher ceiling as a receiver than Hockenson does, although Hockenson will be an all around better player from day one.

    Still, if Noah Fant slips a little, why wouldn’t the seahawks consider adding another dynamic pass catching tight end to replace Jimmy Graham, but with a better team attitude? From what I read, Fant was very gracious about sitting second fiddle to Hockenson.

    I think he’ll go earlier, but if he falls to late round one, is it really crazy to think of the seahawks drafting him?

    • Rob Staton

      In no way do I see the Seahawks spending their first pick on an athletic tight end.

    • Madmark

      One reason I think pick 21 would be such a valuable pick to trade up for is it will be were WR and TE will start to come off the board. I could see the Patriot’s trading 32 and 73 to move to 21 to get a Noah Fant to replace gronk.

  41. CaptainJack

    And if Gary falls, still trade back? I think they kind of have to no matter what.

    • Rob Staton

      The only way they don’t trade back is if they trade Clark for picks and can manipulate the board that way.

  42. Georgia Hawk

    So many if and maybes with the Jets and Colts, but…

    I think Clark will be traded and that will drastically alter the strategy. Dee Ford netted a 2020 2nd, which puts Clarks value at least a 2020 1st, if not a 1st this year…supposedly JS’ asking price. If they can get the 1st this year, my hope is they stick with at least one of the 1st and grab the best pass rusher available. I really don’t want Clark gone, but I don’t see them coming to an agreement anytime soon. Id be very happy to see one of the Ferguson/Winovich/Walker types pulled in the late 1st round, then use the extra second or trade down fall out to grab a WR.

    Gonna be a long night Thurs waiting for the inevitable trade out if nothing happens early in the night.

  43. Volume12

    Rob, this might be tacky IDK, have you ever thought of doing a community mock? Like a final mock draft on Wednesday or something before the draft. You present the options A,B,C,D or whatever and the blog votes.

    Do you still submit yours to the Huddle report?

    • Rob Staton

      I do submit to HR.

      I’m up for a community mock but there might not be time now. Maybe something for next year

      • Volume12

        I know you do it for fun and it probably doesn’t matter, but what’s your score or ranking these past few years?

    • Trevor

      Would be fun to have some kind of community / blog contest I just don’t know how that that would work. Maybe you just post a blog and people end their final mock and get get points per pick correct or player selected or something.

      • Volume12

        That or Rob could do a big board, presents options in each round, we vote. Or tally everyone’s mocks.

      • Eli

        They do a community mock like thing over at Fieldgulls, basically you just choose and rank 30 players you think might get drafted by the team. Could do something similar

        • Eli

          Would also give the ability to compile all the rankings and say for example “of the 100 lists submitted Trysten Hill is believed to be the most likely drafted player by us” etc.

        • Simo

          Set this up Eli!! Gotta get it done in the next couple of days though.

          • Eli

            I would have to respectfully defer to Rob on this one, if he were interested in me setting it up I absolutely would be happy to but I don’t want to step on any toes!

  44. Gohawks5151

    This is amazing work. Many people say it but once again thank you for all the great work. It is so great to wake up and see all this great analysis and discussion. Here’s to a great week and thanks again Rob!

  45. TRUMP

    You say carson will never be a 16 game bell cow?? WRONG!! what makes you think he wont be??

    • Rob Staton

      The fact it has never happened in either college or the NFL.

      • jdk

        Exactly. Seattle is in almost exactly the same scenario this year as they were last year. They have a great back, but very little reason to believe he will make it through the season. Other than that, they have some depth they are hopeful about, but hasn’t panned out yet.

        Carson is not coming off an injury, but it is probably only a matter of time until he loses some time.

        Unless you are bought in on Penny as the answer, RB is still a concern.

        Josh Jacobs might still be around even after a trade down. You can never have too many backs.

        • Rob Staton

          Hard pass on Jacobs.

          If they want a back just wait until later this year. There are some options.

          • jdk

            I was just pointing out that if Carson goes down, it is going to look like 2017 unless Penny steps up.

            I just threw Jacobs name out there as an example. I don’t understand why there was such urgency last year but apparently none this year. Because Carson broke a bunch of tackles?

            You have your ear to the ground with regard to what Seattle is looking for, both in terms of the kinds of players and what they might be looking for in a given year.

            Last year, you were all over Seattle addressing RB early.

            This year, it is highly unlikely that Seattle will take a RB early and that is how you are covering it.

            You read the tea leaves very well.

            But the situations aren’t that much different: An injury risk in Carson and a bunch of question marks behind him.

    • Simo

      Carson may not be a 16 game back, but I’ll take what we got from him last year without a single complaint!! I suspect we’re going to see more of a split backfield this year with Carson and Penny, so this may help keep each of them fresher and less prone to injury. Could be good/great!!

  46. Zxvo3

    Hey Rob, what are your thoughts on Mike Edwards from Kentucky?

    • Rob Staton

      Hard to get a complete feel for him without testing numbers

  47. Greg Haugsven

    As always Rob, we appreciate the work you put into this. This post especially as I know this probably took a lot of time. Thanks for all that you do.

    • Rob Staton

      Thanks Greg

  48. Lastonehere02

    I was able to grab us a good amount of players listed in my latest mock after trading 3 times out of the first:

    Round 2, Pick 7: Terry McLaurin
    Round 2, Pick 31: Parris Campbell
    Round 3, Pick 6: Juan Thornhill
    Round 3, Pick 20: Anthony Nelson
    Round 3, Pick 33: Lonnie Johnson Jr.
    Round 4, Pick 2: Christian Miller
    Round 5, Pick 8: Benny Snell
    Round 5, Pick 20: Trysten Hill
    Round 5, Pick 21: Trevon Wesco
    Round 5, Pick 23: Nate Herbig
    Round 6, Pick 22: Jamal Peters

    Interesting to see what could happen if we don’t prioritize what every other team might (DE) with our first selection and trade multiple times out of the first to get as many selections between rounds 2-5.

    – 2 of the top 3 WR scheme fits
    – 3 second tier D linemen
    – the top tier defensive back and another late who fits the scheme
    – scheme fit TE / FB who is block-first
    – a 3rd down power-back in Benny Snell
    – decent later round guard prospect

  49. TCHawk

    Awesome content Rob! Kudos and thanks!

    I think their 1st pick will be a stud DL, based on PC’s comments about that being their biggest need since Stephen left.

    I think Clark stays. All this trade talk is mainly posturing for contract negotiations, unless of course someone just blows them out of the water with trade compensation. JS has said on multiple occasions that they can afford a pay a top QB and a top DE rusher. Six years at $20M/year will seem like a good deal after year 2. Clark has really produced, and taken on the role as a leader of the defense. That can’t be overlooked. If he would leave, who would mentor the young guys, especially the pass rushers? PC/JS know the value of established, talented leadership in the locker room who buy in to the PC way.

    Rounds 1-2 I’m hoping for the best DL prospect(s) available as Rob outlined above.

    At WR I like McLaurin, Harry, or Arcega-Whiteside in Rd 3.

    At QB I think we can only afford UDFA targets, so my favorites are Taryn Christion (athletic, dynamic live arm, low turnovers, winner), and Gardner Minshew (great leader, confident, OK physically but not great, successful against very good competition).

    I can hardly wait for this weekend.

  50. GauxGaux

    Rob, this is brilliant ~ thanks again!

    Really hope we don’t trade Clark (I shudder when I picture that headline).

    Trade down and add depth… they’ll find one/two diamond(s) in the rough (DL/HYBRID).

    Juan Thornhill
    D’Andre Walker
    Trysten Hill
    Garry Jennings
    Foster Moreau
    Derrek Thomas

    Go Hawks!

    • Trevor

      Yeah I agree there is no real way to see the Hawks be better next year by trading Frank. Perhaps long term but not next year.

      Nice group of players I would be happy if the Hawks drafted any of hose guys.

  51. Trevor

    The least # of picks the Hawks have made in a draft in the PC/JS era is 8. How do they get from 4 to 8+ picks that is the question.

  52. Del tre

    Rob,what about the possibility of Hakeem Butler for the Hawks? He’s huge, can make circus catches, and he has elite production in his final season.

    • Rob Staton

      He also has too many drops

  53. John_s

    Interesting comment from a NY Jets beat writer when someone asked about the Jets and Frank Clark

    http://twitter.com/Connor_J_Hughes/status/1120366270178897922

    “@SamNeu_ When you see what the return haul for Clark is, you’ll understand why the Jets don’t have enough“

    He says that the Chiefs have the best shot so maybe the Chiefs 1+ additional pick may be out there

    • jb9

      I’d be happy with a late 1st/early 2nd but this guy makes that sound like peanuts…

  54. jb9

    Of course this won’t happen, but…you know….

    Trade Clark to Colts for #34. Trade down a couple times to around pick #30 picking up an extra 3rd and 4th.

    1st Sweat/Gary/Ferrell/Burns
    2nd Jeffery Simmons
    3rd DE
    3rd S
    4th WR
    4th TE
    5th CB

    • GauxGaux

      I’d rather keep Clark and scratch Simmons from the list…

    • Trevor

      Hope they don’t have to trade Clark and they can sign him long term.

      But if they can’t then that would be a nice backup plan. I might switch DE for Slot CB/ Safety in Rd #3. Would really like the first two picks.

    • Tecmo Bowl

      Posted above something very similar.
      I too am all for rolling with Clark. There could be a scenario where JS sticks at 21 and picks a Gary, Sweat or Burns. Trade Clark to Indy for 34 and 90. Then trade down from 34 to Atl for 45, 118, 187(something like that). Leaving the Hawks without Clark, but a cheap replacement and a full draft class.
      21- Gary DE
      45- Hill DT
      84- Crosby DE
      90- Edoga OT
      118- Mitchell WR
      125- Moreland NB
      160- Wesco TE/FB
      187- Thomas CB

  55. RWIII

    Besides the defensive lineman. There are two players that I think John Schneider/Pete Carroll are absolutely in love with. Juan Thornhill/N’Keal Harry. John Schneider/Pete Carroll are always thinking outside the box. I could see John Schneider trading down a couple of times and taking Juan Thornhill. It seems like safetys are becoming a bigger and bigger deal. Look what Keanu Neal did for the Atlanta Defense. Look what Derwin James did for the San Diego defensive. These guys are difference makers. Remember I am a guy that believes that games are won/lost in the trenches. I think that Juan Thornhill might be the same kind of player that Derwin James/Keanu Neal are. Also the more I read about N’Keal Harry the more I see that John Schneider/Pete Carroll loves this player.

    In regards to trading out of the 21st pick. There is no doubt in my mind that John Schneider is going to do everything he can to move down. The question is? Why would you trade up. But EVERY YEAR there is a team that HAS to HAVE this player or that player. Every year? Let’s hope John Schneider can find a couple of trading parters.

  56. ZB

    I honestly do not see Clark going anywhere. I see one player in this draft could possibly replace him and that’s Bosa. Which will be off the board by pick 2 probably. We need Clark pretty badly and we generally keep our home grown studs.

    • JohnH

      Really depends on what he’s asking. If he wants to get Donald/Mack money and won’t take less I see no reason not to move him in a draft that’s historically deep at his position.

    • AlaskaHawk

      I totally agree. It took four years to develop Clark into a core player. That is starting with a guy with some talent. I think they want to keep him if possible.

      If the Seahawks hadn’t screwed their draft board so bad = would we even be talking about trading Clark? I think not! Two wrongs won’t make this team better. Do the right thing and keep him.

      And for those of you wanting more draft picks, there will be roughly 1000 players available in August-September. Either cut or on someone’s practice squad. Even practice squads will have roughly 400 players to evaluate.

      • JohnH

        If possible is the key word here. It takes two sides to agree to a contract. I think if Clark was willing to take a reasonable deal it would be done already.

  57. Volume12

    Man, I really want to put WR Deebo Samuel in my mock, but am so conflicted on where they take a receiver.

    I’m fine if a wideout was their first overall selction. But IDK if they go DL, S, WR/DL, WR, S. That being said, I feel pretty confident those will be the positions they spend their first 3 pick on in some order.

  58. GauxGaux

    Rob, any trade value for CJ Prosis?
    I’d imagine NE would jump on him for a 6th… thoughts?

    • cha

      Zero. Less than zero. We’d get a bag of used jockstraps in return.

      • JimQ

        Perhaps a round 5 or 6 pick on a very versatile RB/WR/KR to replace the oft injured Procise and the now departed Davis? I figure if they draft a RB at all, he will need versatility and he also should add special teams value by relieving Lockett of his KO return duties. Here is that guy that is different than a BAMF like Scarborough & could add a different dimension to the position with his versatility. Well worth consideration in say round 5/6 of the draft. This pick then would also add value in keeping Lockett healthy to do his WR thing & stay productive as a WR. Pollard has plenty of tread left on his tires and is a decent RB even w/o his KO returning capabilities, so to me there is good value to this later round pick. A RB selected in this draft will likely be #3 or #4 in the RB rotation, however Pollard would add instant value in KO returning rather than just sitting on the bench waiting on a RB opportunity or injury with only occasional spot carries – (if he’s lucky).

        RB-Tony Pollard, Memphis, 6-0/210, 4.52/40, Ran a 4.37/40 at pro day. ***had food poisoning at the combine & wasn’t 100%***, 13-reps, 35″-Vert, 121″-Broad, 30″-arms, 9.5″-hands.

        2018: 14-games, 78/552/7.1-YPC/6-TD’s rushing, 39/458/3-TD’s receiving
        27-KO returns, 667-yds, 24.7-YPR, 1-TD (Total: 144-touches for 1677-yds, avg. 11.65-yds/touch).

        CAREER: 40-games, 139/941/6.8-YPC/9-TD’s rushing, 104/1292/12.4-YPC/9-TD’s receiving. 87-KO returns, 2616-yds/30.1-YPR/7-TD’s. (Totals 330-touches for 4849-yds, avg. 14.7-yds/touch).

        NOTE: Pollard had **4-KO return TD’s in 2017** That is #1 in NCAA history (One of, if not THE most exciting plays in football) & his 7 career KO return TD’s is tied #1 in NCAA history (with Rashaad Penny).
        Well worth a round 5/6 pick IMO.

      • RWIII

        Well the jockstraps better be clean. Otherwise. No deal.

    • Rob Staton

      None at all unfortunately.

      • jb9

        Hopefully they finally try him out in a Percy Harvin type role

  59. j hawk

    so cha, you are saying there is some value in a CJ trade?

    • Robert Las Vegas

      Rob I have a quick question and I could be 100 percent wrong but it’s been rumor that Frank Clark trade . I don’t think you could trade until he signs the franchise tag I don’t believe he has signed anything . Even if you found a team you still have to get Frank to sign he could always say no .I don’t think Frank is going anywhere at least not this year. Once again I could be wrong

      • Rob Staton

        The tag doesn’t matter. What happens is a team makes an offer, if it’s accepted they are permitted to speak to Clark to agree terms. When it’s done Clark signs the tag and the trade is finalised.

  60. Stephen Pitell

    I’ve been amazed at other sites top 100 or top 300 lists which swing wildly on some of these players. That combined with previous years’ talent often still available in the later rounds that I am always willing to forego that “one guy” who too often underperforms, so I favor trading both first rounders if possible and get at least 4 picks in the 2 and 3rd round and 8 picks in total.

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