Why Tyler Lockett could be a “legitimate game breaker”

In 2013 the Seahawks ranked #1 for defense, #7 for offense and #5 for special teams according to Football Outsiders’ DVOA system. Cumulatively it put them at #1 overall. The most complete team in the NFL.

Denver came in at #2. They had the #1 offense but only the #15 defense and the #21 special teams unit. Stop the 2013 Broncos offense and you’re facing a league average team. Seattle exploited that in the Super Bowl.

The Seahawks were perfectly balanced in comparison — capable of beating you in three different ways.

In 2014 Seattle again ranked #1 overall in FO’s final DVOA rankings. They had the #1 defense, the offense improved slightly to rank at #5 but the special teams slumped to #19 — a drop of fourteen spots.

While the offense and defense remained consistent and actually showed gradual improvement, Seattle’s special teams performance dropped off significantly last year. With fair catch specialist Bryan Walters manning the returns — there wasn’t any threat. They were totally ineffective the moment Percy Harvin was traded to the Jets.

The defense hasn’t lost any key personnel (they replaced Byron Maxwell with Cary Williams) and actually added talent through Ahtyba Rubin and Frank Clark. The offense gained Jimmy Graham. There’s every chance that both units will once again rank in the top five according to DVOA.

Improving the special teams ranking of #19 is distinctly achievable. If they can get back into the top ten the Seahawks could return to 2013 form overall. But it wasn’t going to just happen. They needed to do something about it.

Welcome, Tyler Lockett.

Back in March I asked Draft Insider Tony Pauline to give me a name to look out for as a specialist returner. If you fast forward to 7:20 below you can hear his response.

I’ll note it in word-form underneath:

“The top guy would be Tyler Lockett of Kansas State. He would add some speed at the receiver position… he’s a threat to score any time the ball is in his hands. He is a legitimate game breaker at receiver or as a return specialist. So if they’re going to take one or they’re looking at one in those first three rounds — Lockett might be the type of guy they have to take in the second round because he may not be on the board when they select in round three. But that is the guy if you’re looking for a return specialist.

He is head and shoulders above everyone else and what else he’s going to do is loosen up that interior of the defense because all of a sudden when he steps up to the line of scrimmage your safety can’t come up to the box and play Marshawn Lynch. He’s not going to be able to defend the run because he’s going to have to move five yards back to guard against the deep pass to Lockett so that’s a guy that if they’re looking for that type of player late in round two or if they trade back from two or trade up in round three — that’s somebody they would look to.”

Not only did Pauline correctly project the range where Lockett would go, he noted Seattle would have to trade up in round three to get him.

He also called him “head and shoulders” above any other return specialist in the draft and a “legitimate game breaker”.

Are you still wondering why Seattle traded up for this guy?

Included among Lockett’s many records at Kansas State is the tally for most kick return yards. In 2014 he led the nation in punt return average. He had six career touchdowns on returns.

He isn’t Cordarelle Patterson or Percy Harvin. Few players are. He is, however, an accomplished returner who will start immediately in 2015. There won’t be any debate over Earl Thomas fielding punts this summer. It’s Lockett’s job from this day forward.

Was it worth giving up a package of picks to get the best return specialist in the draft? Arguably yes. Again, this is the one area a loaded roster can realistically make a big jump in 2015. Lockett is more than just a returner and we’ll get onto his receiving skills shortly. But it should be no surprise Seattle prioritised this role. This is the team that made a move to acquire Leon Washington to be a specialist returner. Part of the motivation to add Harvin was his ability as a return man.

If they’d waited until pick #93, Lockett would’ve been gone. That’s why they moved up. Ty Montgomery — another appealing kick returner — was taken right ahead of Seattle’s original third round choice. If the intention was to add a dynamic return man, sitting and waiting until the third round wasn’t going to get it done.

You also have to match up value. If you want to argue that they could’ve taken an offensive lineman in round three and another kick returner in round four with the extra picks — that’s an argument. But it’s unlikely Seattle had a return man ranked as highly as Lockett and there’s every chance the O-line value wouldn’t have matched up in round three either.

So what makes him such an effective kick returner? Patience, setting up blocks and enough athleticism to exploit opportunities. He’s more of a Leon Washington than a Percy Harvin. He isn’t going to fly past everyone and attack holes with the same aggression as Harvin. That doesn’t make him any less effective.

See for yourself:

You see the patience to find the crease and then he’s gone. He’s going to need a little help at times to make the truly game-changing plays but he does have the talent to exploit an opportunity. He runs hard too and is surprisingly tough to bring down.

Personally I think Montgomery is a more creative returner in the Patterson style. Lockett is a little more opportunistic. The pressure is on Seattle’s entire special teams unit to take a step forward now. Their blocking has to return to 2013 form. If they achieve that, Lockett can be very successful.

As a receiver there’s no getting away from the fact he’s undersized. He’s 5-10 without any great length (30 inch arms). He has 8 3/8 inch hands and only weighed 182lbs at the combine. What he achieved in college despite the lack of size — and his performances on tape — is really the exciting part.

I was guilty of writing off Russell Wilson as a college prospect because I never thought a 5-10 quarterback could work. That’s what conventional wisdom told us. My perspective on smaller players totally changed after making such an ignorant mistake on Wilson. When I watched Lockett for the first time properly it was a game against Oklahoma in 2013. I didn’t know his measurements. I was surprised when I went online and read his size and height. He dominated with three touchdowns and 12 catches for 278 yards.

I remember thinking he had a little Golden Tate to his game. He isn’t Tate — and it’s by no means an exact comparison at all. Yet he has a little extra size in his lower body. It enables him — like Tate — to make the explosive high-point grabs. Lockett had a 35.5 inch vertical at the combine. Tate managed 35 inches. The Seahawks missed Tate’s ability to play beyond his height and size last season and Lockett has some of those traits.

At 1:11 in the video below, this play just felt so ‘Tate’ to me. Tough down the field grab in double coverage, playing beyond his size to make the key play:

He’s very capable of these kind of chunk plays downfield. It’s been said many times over the last 48 hours that he’s nearly always open. Technically he’s very assured. He sells routes perfectly before working over the middle. He’s got a terrific double-move. He varies his play-speed perfectly, lulling the DB forward before exploding into space. He’s a perfect combination of suddenness (Seattle LOVES sudden receivers), technique and intelligence.

It’s unclear whether Lockett will ever be a prolific outside threat due to his lack of size. That doesn’t mean he won’t make the occasional big play down the sideline or breaking over the middle. What he will provide is some of the shiftiness Tate provided on the screens and working underneath. Remember the touchdowns against Carolina and Chicago in 2012? Seattle pretty much lost that when Tate departed for Detroit. It’s back on the table with Lockett.

He’s not a ‘catch everything’ type of player. He’s certainly not unreliable — he’s just not automatic. He’ll let the occasional high throw slip through his grasp. He’ll fail to bring in a low grab. There aren’t any worrisome concentration drops. He’s not as frustrating as Breshad Perriman or even Amari Cooper at times. His catching technique is sound and he certainly knows how to high point. Playing with a more accurate quarterback will help — just don’t expect too much if he’s on the receiving end of one of Wilson’s notorious ‘safely too high’ passes. Leave those for Jimmy Graham.

One of the big plus points of Lockett’s pre-draft process was the Senior Bowl. He shone during work outs and eventually the game. In our live in-game thread I noted at the start of the third quarter: “Tyler Lockett — perhaps the most impressive player so far — makes another eye-catching play. Quinted Rollins (CB, Miami, OH) should get an interception here, but he loses concentration and tips the ball kindly towards Lockett — who taps his toes to make a big first down.”

You can see the play at 1:33 in the video here:

In my closing notes I added: “The most impressive player in the game outside of the running backs (Varga, Abdullah, Cobb, Johnson) was Kansas State receiver Tyler Lockett. He looked smooth, crisp and made several impressive grabs.”

I think the touchdown at 4:21 below highlights exactly why he can be so effective, especially 20-30 yards from the end zone. There’s still enough room to work a conventional route. He knows how to win 1v1:

He uses a head fake to the outside before darting inside on the hard slant. He totally sells this at the top of the route. It’s a terrible throw, truly horrific. Even then he tracks back to the ball and makes a difficult grab. Any NFL quarterback worth his salt throws this in stride and it’s the easiest touchdown of the season. All because he wins with the route.

If you watch a lot of Lockett you notice he’s adept at working back to the quarterback. He eats up a cushion quickly before breaking back to the QB. He’s already doing this at a pro level. He’ll pick up the quick 6-7 yards and the occasional first down with a quick release. There are several examples of this in the Texas Tech tape above — including a touchdown at 5:49. This type of receiver play makes the back-shoulder throw so easy to execute. He just makes life easy on the quarterback.

Kyle Posey talked about how Lockett wins at the top of his route in a lot of detail in this article.

He’s compared himself to Antonio Brown. That’s the go-to comparison now for any undersized receiver. Brown is 5-10 and 186lbs and only ran a 4.48 forty. Lockett says his premium weight is in the 186lbs range and he too is 5-10. He ran a 4.40 at his combine.

The thing is — Brown is so rare. There aren’t many players like him. Pittsburgh’s tendency to lob the ball around under Todd Haley also helps. Lockett is never likely to get the same number of targets as Brown. Yet this is the first time John Schneider has made a really aggressive move in the draft to go get a specific player. He didn’t even do it for Russell Wilson. They’re not making that move for a pure kick returner only. They see something in Lockett. His ability to get open gives him a shot.

He certainly doesn’t lack confidence. When asked by Steve Mariucci who he’d like to score a touchdown against, of course his answer was Richard Sherman:

Note the “My dad taught me…” quote in that video. The references and respect to his father sounds extremely Russell Wilson-esque. Lockett in many ways resembles Wilson. He’s a highly productive, record breaking football player despite being undersized. He’s extremely positive, competitive and dedicated to the game of football. He has NFL bloodlines. He’s probably been written off a few times because of his size.

He’s considered a film rat. Is it any wonder this team coveted him?

His initial role will be to provide a special teams boost to a slumping unit. His long term role could be much greater. We talked about finding a receiver Wilson could grow with over the next 5-6 years. Don’t be shocked if it ends up being an undersized, highly competitive production machine. Just like the QB.

157 Comments

  1. David M2

    Great write up Rob,

    Hopefully Steel will have a better week this week because of your great penmanship.

    • JW

      ha!

      Yes! I love this pick. I think I feel as good about him as I do any mid round prospect. Myself and others have liked him for months on these posts. Brock Huard loves him.

      This guy has it. If he were sizable any bigger, he’d have been a top 10 pick, imho.

      He can play. And matching him with R. Wilson is very exciting and promising.

  2. Trevor

    Another great scouting report Rob!

    The short arms and small hands had me worried but when you watch this kid play he just has that “It” factor. I will be shocked if him and Wilson don’t instantly bond.

    He is on par with Amari Cooper with regard to route running he just lacks Coopers size. Thus he is a 3rd rounder not a Top 5 pick. Reminds me a lot of when Wilson went in the 3rd round and RG3 was the can’t miss scrambling bigger QB who was a top 5 pick.

    • Brandon

      Nice caparison between RG3 and Russell to Amari Cooper and Lockett. Hopefully as we saw with Russ and RG3, Tyler becomes the more accomplished and productive player! Not trying to take away from Amari’s game though. Seems like a great kid.

      • hmabdou

        Realistically it’s probably more like comparing Andrew Luck and Russell.

  3. Trevor

    As for Special Teams it was hard to watch for us last year. Can you imagine how Pete Carrol felt? He preaches field position and loves those splash field tilting plays. He preaches it in fact and even has Kam and Earl etc on kick team.

    Last year with Walters and our poor coverage and blocking on ST must have killed him. There were numerous games our ST blew for us or almost did. Ie St. Louis.

    I am certain it will be a focus this offseason. With Lockett on board I will be really surprised if we are not back to being a top 5-10 unit. That could have a huge impact on our season.

    • CD

      I agree and wonder if Pete beats himself up for not keeping Tate. He didn’t return kicks, but PR was a weakness and took up a roster spot, and another roster spot by adding P Rich due to losing Tate as a WR. Now they have used a lot of draft capital on replacing Tate just 13 months after letting him walk. Sure he is more expensive, but his deal wasn’t Maxwell like and they could have probably done so much more by keeping the picks spent on P Rich and Lockett at maybe just the expense of having to find KJ replacement. Oh yeah, and there is a good change they win SB 49 with Tate.
      I know Pete is a positive guy, no need to look back, but I see Lockett addition as admission that letting Tate go (for what he signed for) was a mistake.

      • CC

        I’m sure in hindsight they realize they shouldn’t have traded for Harvin, which would have likely kept Tate here.

        • Robert

          So unfortunate. We likely would have won 49 and had another 1st and 3rd developing all this time. I am sure not critical of the decision in hindsight though. I just wish Bevelle would have admitted that he would never allow PH to run a crossing route and that he would only use him for bubble screens and quick hitters. That would have killed it.

  4. sdcoug

    I have said for months, this kid just knows how to play football. He may not be the big target some of us wanted, but anyone who actually watched K-State games last year will know he just has a grit factor that can’t be denied. Time and time again, he makes plays…even with the Defense knowing exactly who the QB is looking for.

    At the price of several draft picks?…ok. We basically spent those picks for TWO players. A highly productive receiver with a knack for getting open and a reliable, dangerous Punt and Kick returner; both areas in need of upgrade.

    • SunPathPaul

      You could say he fills 4 roles…

      WR, KR, PR, ST (He is a good gunner)

      Thus we swapped 3rd’s and gave 3 extras…4 for a guy that fills 4 roles, and fills them with electricity!!!

  5. Ed

    Wanted a player like this, pretty sure we could have gotten both with Lockett in 2nd and Clark in the 3rd. 4 DL (Anderson/Davis/Hunter/Cooper) taken in 3rd and a lot of teams had him off their draft board.

    • Rob Staton

      I’m almost certain Clark would’ve been gone by Seattle’s third rounder. If Seattle willing to take him, someone else would’ve been shortly after. Schneider mentioned three teams contacted him to say as much.

      • Jason

        While I have no reason to agree with your assessment, it seems like every time there’s someone that it’s a little controversial to take early (Irvin comes to mind), Schneider and Carroll announce that another team that drafted right after told them they were crushed that Player X was gone. Maybe teams do call to say that, but I’m skeptical.

        Also, these write-ups are fantastic, thank you!

        • lil'stink

          I agree. Maybe the intel PCJS had lead them to believe that Clark would go before them in round 3, but I can’t imagine another GM saying they would take them with their next pick if they really wanted that player. It does kind of sound like JS is using that rationale as another way to spin this pick to the media and public.

          FWIW I think Clark does deserve a chance by the media and the fans, but the way JS is trying to spin this decision is coming across kind of sleazy.

          • rowdy

            Except other teams came out And said that themselves. I don’t think he cares what other people think, he’s proven time and time again that he knows what he’s doing and he doesn’t need to justify it. It’s pretty common for teams to call people and congratulate them on players they wanted after they been taken.

          • arias

            I’m not really sure why it’s so hard to believe. Doesn’t even have to be another GM. Could be the scout on that other team that had spent all his time scouting a kid and calling up a former scout colleague on the hawks saying, “damn you got our guy”, or some such. How do you think “intel” in this business works?

          • joel

            I work in a small but highly competitive and specialized industry where people move between the various employers in our field quite often, a lot like the highly-specialized and insular world of NFL scouting and team management. We gossip amongst ourselves about our jobs and what is going on in the industry all the time. After an event like the draft, we’d all be discussing it at length and I would not hesitate to tell a former coworker “Hey, nice job on drafting so-and-so. We had that guy on our board too.” or I know “blah-blah really wanted that guy, you ruined his day.” It’s not like you’re giving away trade secrets, especially when blogs like this one exist for every team in the league. Word just gets around.

            I don’t get why this is so hard to believe. The majority of teams in the NFL don’t even have competent front offices to begin with.

      • GeoffU

        Ah, Schneider responds with that comment every year someone says they picked a player too high (which is every year). It may be true, and I do think he generally knows where a player is going to go and to whom, but personally I don’t care. I’m just glad they do their best to go and get the guys they truly want to have. That is key.

        • AlaskaHawk

          All the teams cover each others butts like that. Pretty soon 2-3 other teams will say that they would have taken Clark if the Seahawks hadn’t.

          • AlaskaHawk

            Though after reading his measurables and looking at the game tape, it was a miracle for the Seahawks that he slid to #63. I don’t feel sorry for New England, they got a good defensive guy in the first round.

    • Nichansen01

      Maybe New England was looking at Frank Clark at 64…

    • Robert

      JS probably didn’t think of that…too bad you didn’t call him before he foolishly wasted all those picks.

      • JW

        haha right?

        I find the supposition that we, as complete outsiders, might have a better perspective on what the GMs who are talking to each other for months, scouts talking to each other for months, and other insiders might have to be completely unwarranted.

        Sure, GMs might say things like “we know other teams wanted him there”. But JS has also said “We don’t care what others have for rankings. We draft for our roster.” Both of these picks make a ton of sense relative to their roster.

        But what’s even more likely is we, out here in couch surfer land, have less than zero clue about how other teams are thinking compared to any GM.

  6. matt509

    Not sure if this has been mentioned but I have been thinking about it lately. I remember watching you’re live feed of day 2 and saying that PC seems to be explaining him self instead of everyone clapping hands. Maybe there was confusion on the pick or there were two players they liked. I think some wanted to go Lockett first and thought it would be easier trading up for Clark. Im just glad it worked out

  7. AlaskaHawk

    Will anyone miss Walters? I’m going to mark him down as one of PCs puzzling choices. Even more puzzling was PC sticking with him all season. Also puzzling was that he was one of the receivers during crucial game winning moments. Hmmm. Maybe I’m missing something. Lets see, stats are 6 catches for 57 yards last year. No I didn’t miss anything. Sayonara Walters. Hello Lockette.

    • Trevor

      I have to agree I never understood how Walters continued to get reps at KR or WR. There had to be someone off the street even who could do a better job at kick return. Surprised someone like Daniels did not get a shot .

      At least we don’t have to worry about that this year. I will be excited when the other team punts now instead of holding my breath.

      • Carl

        Poor Walters, he seemed like a good dude, but the highlight of his Seahawks career was winning a free throw shooting contest.

        • arias

          He seems to have a great attitude and cherishes his time in Seattle from a radio interview I heard of him. Local boy that got to play two Super Bowl seasons with his home team and win one ring, that must have still been thrilling even if he was a bench warmer the SB season.

    • CC

      I think I heard that the one thing Walters had on someone like Rociardo Lockette was that he knew the routes better and could play a couple of the WR positions and that was why he might have played more than Ricardo.

      I am happy that we have upgraded the returner position. Lockett will at least make some yards and likely will break a few long ones.

      • Robert

        He’s a smart kid and a hard worker. But he is just lacking in the raw talent department. He will probably have a short football career. But he’s making some $ to jumpstart his life and having some great experiences that will open doors for him when he begins to create a career after football.

    • David M2

      Any time I turn on a Mariners games these days I miss Bryan Walters. So, yes he’s missed.

      • David M2

        In fact, maybe the Mariners could use Walters. He would be perfectly suited to play the position of the guy who goes out and waives the white flag before the beginning of each game signaling they have given up on the season and have conceded defeat… It’s a very similar motion to signaling for a fair catch.

    • joel

      I won’t miss Walters but the problem was as much the horrible blocking on special teams as it was Walters. Hard to return the ball when you’ve got 3-4 defenders in your face before the ball even arrives. Injuries killed ST last season, hopefully that won’t be a problem this year. But we’ll miss the guys that left in FA either way.

  8. OC Hawk

    This is the player I’m most excited about out of this draft (even though I’m pretty stoked about all of the picks)! I really think he’s going to come in and be something special for our Seahawks.

    Correct me if I’m wrong, but while everyone wants to make the Antonio Brown comparison, doesn’t he have VERY similar measurables to DeSean Jackson? His 40 is just .05 seconds slower, he’s the same height, slightly heavier, etc… I wouldn’t mind a player of that caliber with the high character similar to our beloved quarterback!

    • John_s

      I think DeSean has more long range speed. He is never caught from behind. Lockett has been caught from behind similar to Tate

      • bobbyk

        That’s such a misconception. Lockett is usually “caught from behind” when he burns a CB and then has to wait for a poorly thrown ball. That’s how the CB “catches” him.

        Rob… I have been waiting for this Lockett piece all day from you and you certainly didn’t disappoint. Great job. Fun read. Can’t wait to see this guy!

        • Volume12

          I actually think he’s more Randall Cobb than anything.

          • Volume12

            Oops. Should have said anybody, not anything.

            • arias

              lol! We understood what you meant and I think both expressions actually work there. 🙂

            • red

              I think closest comp to Lockett maybe Eddie Royal, people forget that Eddie Royal was super productive his first three or so years in NFL

              • Mr. Raymond Luxury Yacht

                Eddie Royal is sneaky good, I’ve loved that guy since his days at VT. But none of my teams have ever grabbed him. All he does is produce.

                I think Lockett’s floor is Royal, which is a great place to be.

  9. CC

    I’m very happy about the Lockett pick. I heard him interviewed this morning and he talks about how he wanted to be the best at everything – sound familiar? Best receiver, returner – and a great route runner.

    That ability to run a complete route tree is important for young receivers. Golden Tate is a great example of someone who had the ability, but hadn’t really learned routes. Corderelle Patterson, another talent, who has work to do – and it has kept him off the field.

    Lockett could become Russell’s Wes Welker – and even if he becomes Julian Edleman, we could be happy fans.

    • Phil

      I love the kid, but what I haven’t seen from him is his ability to improvise. With RW prone to scramble outside the pocket, will Lockett know when to break off his route and find the open spot on the field? I have no doubt he can, but this will have to become a big part of his game.

      • Johnny

        Lockett has plenty of experience with improvising. The QB play at Kansas State was laughably bad, to the point that Lockett was forced to come back for 5-10 yards for a terribly thrown ball that would have been an easy TD if the QB had even made a half decent throw. If he can make plays with a QB that bad, I have every confidence that he can replicate that ability with someone of Russell’s capability.

  10. Hawksince77

    Concerning special teams, what have the Seahawks done to improve that part of the game other than drafting the best PR/KR in the draft? Do we see any improvements on the other 10 players on the field?

    As has been pointed out, the blocking seemed to be sub-par. Was it due to injuries to key special team impact players?

    I really don’t know. Thoughts, anyone?

    • Robert

      I expect the units to be infused with enthusiasm and an urgency to block much better because Lockett is lightning in a bottle and will dramatically impact games with just a little crease to work with. They can all take pride in working hard to create those opportunities and share in the glory.

      • Volume12

        Well, your getting back KPL, Ryan Murphy should replace Jeron Johnson, Helfet being healthy will be big, Derrick Coleman is one the most underrated/under-appreciated players on this squad, he’s healthy, if Quayshawne Nealy makes this team than Coyle can focus on STs, Bailey or Pinkins will be playing STs, Mike Morgan can focus on STs instead of filling in for an injured KPL or backing up the SAM spot, Marsh will be out there, it’s why they re-signed ‘Rocket’ and Shead, and Blackmon brings tremendous STs abiity. So yeah, I think it’s improved.

        Also it’s tough to block for a guy when you have no faith in him. Yes, the blocking was bad, but to think that’s the reason our STs suffered is just kind of making excuses. They create a wedge and seams, they need a guy back there that fits their style, and that’s Lockett.

        • joel

          “Also it’s tough to block for a guy when you have no faith in him.” Sorry, but that’s a bullshit attitude if that is what lead ST to the dropoff it experienced in 2014. These are the Seattle Seahawks, a Super Bowl contender.

          If our special teams players can’t get up and make blocks on every single opportunity for whomever is returning, they shouldn’t be on the team. I don’t think Pete Carroll would tolerate that from any of these guys if that were the case.

          • Volume12

            I think you may have misinterpreted what I meant. Walters never really fit their style. They’re STs unit knew he was supposed to protect the bal, or fair catch it at any costa. They can only do so much. If a PR/KR doesn’t have tje vision or anticipation skils that’s on the returner, not the STs unit as a whole. Ur returners last year made some very bad decisions.

            They’ll let a kickoff or punt team run by when the ball is kicked into the endzone, not expecting P-rich for example to take the ball out 10 yards deep in the end zone or have Walters fair catch on the 5 yard line instead of letting the ball bounce into e end zone.

            I get that the blocking as a whole was bad, but it’s almost like some people expected the STs unit to carry Walters or P-rich into the end zone. There’s also a reason they never signed a guy off the street. No one fit their style.

            And if PC had any faith in Walters that he could break a game open, flip the field, etc., not sure he would of had him fair catch it 9 x out of 10.

            If the blocking was that bad, would they have prioritized getting Lockett when and how they did?

            • Volume12

              Man my typing is bad! LOL.

              Should have said our returners not ur.

        • purpleneer

          I don’t think anybody’s increased focus on ST will have any impact. The injuries hurt the talent level and continuity of the units, but nobody really needs to focus on it to maximize his performance there. No way Coyle or Morgan is on the team if they are not at least spending significant practice time preparing at their defensive positions. How many guys do you think there is room for as ST-only contributors? The vast majority of the non-specialists are no further than one injury from being needed on O or D.
          Good NFL punters make a decent number of their punts close to unreturnable anyway, so it wasn’t much of a decision to de-emphasize big gains there in response to the injury bug and blowing the rams game.

  11. Mylegacy

    Tyler – my oh my. OK, he’ll give us a top five punt and return unit – check.

    BUT – in my mind I see this water bug running beside Graham while Graham glides this little bug darts – right, left – and really important he can turn defenders inside out.

    Third down, four yards to get a crucial first down. Tyler darts out fakes the four yard catch and beats his man for six. They’ll be so scared of that they’ll just give him so much room he’ll have to take the four yards. In which case, thank you very much – we just got another much needed first down.

    Does the season start next week?

    • SunPathPaul

      I’m with you Mylegacy.

      The pick of Tyler works that much better BECAUSE we traded #1 router for Jimmy!!! 6’7″!!!

      These 2 together r going to CrusH it! Like u say.

      Imagine Jimmy with the size mismatch. Now add Lockett with the speed/quickness/suddenness aspects, and we are very dangerous. I also have a hunch Douglas McNeil is going to come out fierce. That is another deadly weapon because of the “chemistry of the group” of catchers…with the topping of Lynch/Wilson running dynamic as the special sauce!

  12. Jim Q

    I’ve been very keen on WR/KR-Tyler Lockett since December & he was my #1 dream pick in this draft. The stat I like best (of MANY) from Lockett’s 2014 season is:

    #2 in FBS in long pass receptions:
    Of his 106 receptions………65 at 10+yds, 21 at 20+yds, 9 at 30+yds, 4 at 40+yds, 3 at 50+yds, 1 at 60+ & 1 at 70+.

    If my math hasn’t failed me, that leaves just 2 of his 106 receptions that were for less than 10-yds. Let me be overly brash here and be the very first to state publicly that Lockett has a shot at O-ROTY in my humble opinion. The season can’t come soon enough.
    STATS:
    http://www.cfbstats.com/2014/leader/national/player/split01/category33/sort01.htm

    • GeoffU

      Dear God that would be an unbelievable stat if true, however it doesn’t add up that way. The 65 10+ includes all the other over 10 yard catches (20+, 30+, etc…). For example, the 1 at 60+ and 1 at 70+ are the same catch. So he had 41 plays under 10 yards.

      Still 21 explosive plays (minimum, there are many more since explosive pass plays are considered 16+ yards) is good. For reference, Seattle had 74 last year with Baldwin getting 20 (on 98 targets). Would be interesting to see Lockett’s ratio of target per explosive play.

    • Carl

      Your math has failed you, but if I were you I would blame it on your high school algebra teacher.

  13. hmabdou

    Tyler Lockett will develop a great bond with Russell Wilson – they’re both undersized and overlooked coming out of college, and they both have an incredible work ethic and attention to detail.

    Lockett will catch 80-100 passes per year pretty soon.

    • CharlieTheUnicorn

      50 Catches / 750 Yards / 5 TDs; would be perfectly acceptable in the Seahawks run first offense.

      Rumor is that he will take Baldwins spot after this season, as the new slot WR. So 75 catches and 1000 yards might be plausible in 2016.

      • Volume12

        I have to ask, where did you here that rumor?

        They’re not similar, at least I don’t think so. One of the main reasons this team brought in Jimmy Graham was to help other guys on this team, not be ‘the’ guy, and IMO it’s specifically to help out Baldwin’s game. If anyone is going to benefit from Graham as much as Lynch and RW, it will be ADB. They know Douggie is RWs ace in the hole, but, so did every other team.

        • JeffC

          It was probably spawned from an interview (forgot who) on 710 that said the hawks agreed to let Baldwin test FA after his current deal expires. This was months ago.

        • Hawksince77

          PC said that Lockett would be ADB’s back-up, at least to begin.

          So that’s not a rumor. What happens next is anyone’s guess, I suppose.

      • Meat

        Rumor?! Where did you read this?
        Anyone can make up a rumor. I don’t see anyone that matters in the Seahawks org. that would state such a thing before the kid even takes the field. I just don’t see this anything more than someone on the internet stating as such.

    • Phil

      80-100 passes per year in this offense? Hmmm, might have to include the passes he catches in practice …

      • Robert

        hahaha…and the passes he catches during the basketball shootaround!

  14. Seahawcrates

    I’m looking at the return teams significantly improving not only because of Lockett’s upgrade there, but also from so many special teamers coming back from injury. Marsh, KPL, Coleman were really missed and with the addition of some of the draftees and eventually Lane, things should improve. People like to focus on Walters’ lack of production, but the coverage teams also significantly regressed which points to a wider special teams issue.

  15. rowdy

    Can’t disagree with anything you said. The part about him needing help to be a great blocker is something I felt as well and is the reason I didn’t think Montgomery was the best returner. Montgomery probably had the best return blocking in college but he knew exactly how to take advantage of it. But even if are blocking doesn’t improve are we are way better of with lockett back there.

  16. Brandon

    Jeez, I knew that Lockett would have an impact, but his production at Kansas State was insane! His quarterback seemed like he didn’t know how to do anything except look for him and throw in the general area. I think once he gets paired up with Russ and his deep accurate throws and can finally catch in stride rather than coming back for the ball, he’s gonna get some TD’s. He looks great in the slot too, but I hope Russ will train to get his throws down a little more and not overthrow Lockett. I’m getting really excited this year! If the defense comes back healthy and with all the depth, I think we can have a top 5 (maybe even top 3) Dline. I hope that we sign Lael Collins, but if we don’t I hope Poole can secure the guard spot. I hope Sokoli learns the Center position fairly quickly, but I still like Patrick Lewis. If Marshawn gets the same production as last year that would be fantastic. And Finally, I hope that Chris Mathews and Kevin Norwood are as good as we hope. Then let Russell lead an OFFENSE with the #1 back in the league, and a receiving core that consists of Jimmy Grahm, Kevin Norwwod, Chris Mathews, and Tyler Lockett, with Baldwin being a player who can play any of the receiving positions. This is my dream, and I do not think that it is that far from being ridiculous!

    • David M2

      Also, imagine when they get Richardson and Lockett on the field together. If Richardson retains most of his speed after the ACL they are going to have a set of players that can really take the top off the defense. This is going to really open up the running game for Lynch and Wilson. Defensive coordinators are going to have fits.

      • JeffC

        It wouldn’t surprise me if we never see Richardson play again. Same ACL.

        • SunPathPaul

          And PC said at one point that it was ‘more’ complicated…so I wouldn’t count on him…ever, yet.

  17. Donald

    Thank you Rob for the thorough and detailed analysis, I appreciate it very much. As everyone else have said, you do a fantastic job.

    I am one who was against the picks of Clark and Lockett last weekend, but your analysis of the two has me softening my stance somewhat. I always saw the logic behind the picks, but I am now seeing how talented these two men really are, and the value was too good to pass up. I knew they were good, but they appear to better than I thought.

    If Conley and Coleman blow up and have probowl years I am going to be pissed because we could have had both. They are very talented, and you seldom find that in round 3. The Hawks have delayed the enevitable task of finding an upper echelon beastmode replacement for Lynch for another year. Lets hope Lynch can carry us to the promise land this year without injury.

    Thank you Rob. Go Hawks!

  18. Dawgma

    My only quibble is that we wouldn’t have had to toss four picks at him if we’d just drafted him at 63 and let some other chump blow a pick on the dirtbag we actually selected.

    • CD

      Did you have an issue rooting for McDaniel or K Williams last year?

    • Belgaron

      **This**

      …is why the Seahawks didn’t just draft La’el Collins in the 7th or show early interest in signing him.

    • Rob Staton

      I’m happy for people to disagree with the pick — but less of the ‘dirtbag’ stuff Dawgma. I know emotions are running strong but we don’t need to go there with name calling.

  19. red

    You can see Pete wanted to upgrade the special teams even think Gwacham and Murphy were picked with an eye towards Special teams. Gwacham could be a good guy to have the hands team for onside kicks also with his length he might be able to come off the edge and block a punt or two. Murphy is a good gunner and can return kicks as well. Not only was our return team below average I kind of had the feeling that our coverage teams could have been better as well and Jeron Johnson has left in Free agency so I think this needs to be address as well.

  20. Volume12

    Rob, once again my man, great breakdown on Lockett. What a perfetc fit for this team and RW!

    Another thing he adds to this offense is high % throws. Quick hitters, buuble screens, tunnel screens, hitch routes, etc. That’s money in the bank with this kid man.

    Lockett was so damn ‘silky smooth’ in college and just played at a different speed or pace than everybody else, or at least his opponets.

    He’ll be an amazing addition paired with Jimmy, our big wideout ‘Hardball’ Matthews, and a reinvigorated Money Lynch. As someone else already said ‘can we play some ball next week or something?’ Damn.

    • GeoffU

      Along the same lines, Lockett can get separation, something this receiving group lacks. Russ often seemed to play it safe and wouldn’t throw when perhaps he could’ve, well, that shouldn’t be a problem with Lockett. He should be able to exploit those one on ones. I guess the only question is, how does he do against press coverage? Any of you film watchers have an idea?

      So we got someone who can separate and someone who doesn’t need to separate (Graham). Oh, and some very promising shiny new offensive lineman. Pretty outstanding offseason for our passing offense. This year’s gonna be fun.

      • Robert

        I am not sure about Lockett’s current skill at getting off press coverage. But his footwork precision and quickness combined with tremendous work ethic in an environment where the LOB will create the ultimate challenge with ADB, the master at defeating press coverage to get off the line providing tips all bode well for Lockett to quickly become very adept at his releases.

      • Volume12

        Geoff, as Robert said, goinf against the LOB and having ADB taking Lockett under his wings will only improve his ability to beat press coverage, and you know his dad has plenty of advice for him.

        But, if you watch a lot of Lockett’s tape, he shows that he’s actually very pysical. Likes to hand fight with the DBs and try to push off which bodes well for beating press in the NFL. He might be small, but like Tate, as Rob pointed out, he plays bigger than he is.

        • purpleneer

          Yeah, I noticed at least a couple times where he initiated contact and basically committed PI, then expected to get a call his way. Just one of the things for him to learn as he gains NFL experience, but nice to see some physicality.

    • Robert

      I like those screens, but Bevelle looked like he was retarded last year the way he overused them at times with PH without any counter plays to set them up. Hopefully the fail is that they decided PH could not run a crossing route, which reduced him to a 1 trick pony. Pretty pathetic fail with an incredible talent. Lockett is a terror with his sudden cuts and ability to create separation. Hopefully that makes the screens and quick hitters more effective.

  21. EranUngar

    Lockett is a clear and immediate contributor on PR/KR. A much needed one. As a receiver his is clean, polished and savvy for his age. He is not a developmental project. You can use him immediately. The flip side is there is no huge potential upside. What you see is what you get. It’s nice to have something in hand you can immediately put to good use. He could turn out to be Baldwin ++ for us.

    I agree that he was picked in the nick of time and would not be available at the middle of the 3rd round or later. That in itself seems to justify the huge trade up for him but I’m not sure it does. I think he could be picked right were he was more or less with a trade back from our 63rd pick netting us a 4th pick. I think that new 4th plus our original 3rd round pick would move us ahead to mid 3rd round and Clark would still be there. This move would enable us to keep at least 2 of the 3 extra picks we used to trade up for Lockett.

    As for Lockett’s contribution to our passing game – I do not share the 60-80 catches a year forecast. It would happen if he was in DEN, NE, GB. Our passing offense places ball security over everything else. RW is not encouraged to throw receivers open. His reads are to see a receiver open first and then fire the ball. Lockett’s savvy route running may not be enough to have him constantly open when RW makes his read because RW is not always free to make those reads on time. Nothing disrupts timing and precise route running more then an OL that doesn’t keep the pocket clear enough for a 5-10 QB to concentrate on those reads. A lot will depend on how Lockett adapts to improvisation outside his route tree when RW is scrambling for his life. We’ll find our soon.

    The reason I was constantly advocating for bigger/taller targets was to overcome the need for “separation on time” by giving RW a target he can use when he needs to get the ball out even when it’s covered. Golden Tate was a prime example that you can do that even without an ample size miss match. Maybe Lockett will show us you can do it at 5-10 with 30 inch arms and less then 9 inch hands.

    Still, having Lockett on the roster upgrades the receiving and PR/KR core that made it to the last SB so consider me happy. (not ecstatic but happy…)

    • Philip

      You’re essentially suggesting we should have traded 63 and 95 (our original 2nd and 3rd round picks) for 69 (where we selected Lockett) and a high enough 3rd round pick to have still taken Clark. Applying the draft trade value chart, picks 63 (276 pts) and 95 (120 pts) are worth 396 pts total. Pick 69 is worth 245, leaving us with 151. That only would have been worth pick 88. It’s doubtful Clark would have still been available then.

      • EranUngar

        Add a 5th to it and he would still be there. That would leave you with the 4th and 6th we gave up.

        • EranUngar

          Just imagine having Waller and investing a flier on Collins….that ain’t so bad.

          • Volume12

            RW doesn’t struggle (in the SB) because he supposesly ‘can’t see over the LOS.’

            • EranUngar

              No he doesn’t. It’s not his size. It has to do with “protect the ball” philosophy that prohibits pulling the trigger before a receiver is open. It has to do with an OL that is hand picked and trained to “tattoo people” rather then “Play pin cushion”. I can go on and on.

              It’s not a bad thing. It’s a philosophy that got us to the last 2 SBs.

              It’s a philosophy that is better served by receivers you can pass to when they are covered and trust them to come down with the ball or at least not allow anyone else to come down with it.

              It works better with size over speed.

              Lockett is a great receiver. He will do great in the return game. He will help as a WR like PRich did. He will get better and have his share of the passes etc.

              He will not catch 60-80 balls. He will not get 60-80 targets.

              He is a good pick. A must pick for his return skills. At WR we’d do better with a bigger guy.

              I keep hearing he could be the next Walker. That small guy that made it big catching passes from Brady and Manning….see a pattern here???

              • Volume12

                I get what your saying. But drafting a big receiver just for the sake of having size, while passing over more talented players or better fits in the locker room seems like bad decision making.

                When Seattle steps off the bus come game day, they’re the smallest team in the league, and it’s not accidental.

                • EranUngar

                  I did not advocate for picking anybody in particular. We both know that there are probably quite a few Bigger receivers who would fit just as well in our locker room just like the faster smaller Percy didn’t. Fitting in the locker room is not size related.

                  As for the overall size, we will disagree. It is one of the biggest accidents that has actually happen to them. They were so proud at 2012 when they were scaring teams as they were getting off the bus. They were bigger, more physical and scary. They were the huge 2 CBs, Bam Bam and company. They wanted to stay that way.

                  However, talent comes in different shapes and forms. The ZBS OL works better with 310 pounds player then with 340. The LBs on a 4-3 D need to be faster rather then bigger. The best receivers ended up being the smaller UDFAs rather then Kris and Chris…

                  They became small by accident. It works. Lockett may end up being the best thing that ever happened to us. Being so talented got him picked. Being so small is accidental.

                  Lockett was actually the 3rd pick in this draft. The first was a 6-7 TE, the 2nd was a 271 pounds edge rusher. They are not all small….it just happens….

              • arias

                I agree with you Eran that the offensive philosophy is what appears to make Wilson gun shy on throwing to the guys before their breaks than the fact that he can’t do it. I absolutely believe he can, and his willingness to throw it up to Baldwin does demonstrate he has it in him to do it.

                But I think you’re being WAY premature in saying he won’t get 60-80 targets. Maybe not in his rookie year while Wilson is still getting comfortable throwing to him and Kearse still likely to be Wilson’s 2nd read, but let’s not ignore the fact that Tate got 99 and 68 targets his last two years here, the first of which he spent as the #2 read behind Sidney Rice before his injury. Also Doug Baldwin 98 and 72 targets the last couple years, the first of which he was the second read behind Tate.

                I realize that Jimmy is going to grab a lion share of targets this year, but I don’t think 50-60 targets is out of the realm of possibility for him either.

  22. Greens24

    Here is Lockett’s combine video.

    http://www.fieldgulls.com/2015/5/4/8547735/nfl-draft-results-seahawks-wr-tyler-lockett-combine-workout

    I really enjoy watching this kid run routes.

  23. Bernardo De Biase

    Ton of snaps outside. I’m sold. He’ll make a difference right away. He’s much sharper in the short/intermediate game than Richardson, where he was used last season. Can’t wait to see him and Richardson out wide with Baldwin and Graham through the middle, with Wilson and Marshawn making playaction/read option.

    Maybe next season for the #1 receiver stereotype.

  24. Trevor

    Sounds like La’el Collins is in play with the Bills and Dolphins already pushing hard. I am surprised we are not showing interest.

    We have an open spot at Left Guard and he could ideally be ready to switch to Left Tackle next year which would allow be to get a much bigger contract in 2 years when he can renegotiate a new deal. Not to mention he would have a shot at being a starter on a SB contender.

    Is is possible Cable does not think he is a good fit for our ZBS. He looked pretty athletic to me.

    • Hawkfan77

      With the way everyone freaked out and is still freaking out over the Clark pick, maybe they are going to be extra careful when it comes to Collins. BTW, did he end up speaking with police already?

      • Belgaron

        You think it’s bad now, what if they signed him and then he was charged with hiring out that murder? The words Seattle or Seahawks would be included in every story and all the self-righteous fans who threw what PC/JS said about their careful approach with Clark under the bus could also say this organization goes out and signs possible a possible murderer of a woman. Plus you have have all the haters around the country that will have more fodder for their vitriol. They just don’t want any part of that action.

    • Rob Staton

      If he’s cleared I think all 32 teams would be interested.

      Whether all 32 will make their interest public is another matter entirely. If they’ve been given intel he wouldn’t be interesting moving to the extreme North West, there’s little point making any big push. I think he ends up relatively close to home.

    • hawkfaninMT

      From what I have read just about every team has made the call… Bills and Dolphins stick out because they are having true visits with him.

      I would be interested to which teams have an opening right now at LG or at LT that he would be able to come in and play right away for. I would assume that is his number 1 priority. He doesn’t get a huge 2nd contract sitting as a back up for Zach Martin, ya know?

    • arias

      I was listening to the MMQB podcast where Andy Benoit and Robert Klemko were discussing the La’el Collins thing. There was a feeling that there was a pretty strong reason no team bothered to take a flyer on him with a 7th round pick. There’s a lot of stuff in cases like these that journalists can’t write for liability reasons, but Klemko mentioned that there was a general bafflement among agents as to why prior to the draft Collins remained so silent on the issue whereas if he didn’t have any involvement he should have been front and center on ESPN and other media outlets proclaiming his innocence so it wouldn’t affect his stock. This is standard operating procedure for agents advising athletes that are in risk of having their draft stock impacted by rumors and suspicions that have no basis.

      Anyway, it’s always possible he’s just getting bad advice since his agent seems somewhat incompetent not knowing that it was always impossible for Collins to re-enter the draft next year. Looks like some teams are hedging their bets with Collins by meeting with him, but there’s a feeling that if he had no involvement the cops would have cleared him by now. I’m not sure about that, since they don’t want to rush to clear him without a thorough investigation. They really need to find the guy that did it before they can really clear him.

    • Phil

      How does signing an UDFA work? Are teams allowed to spend whatever they want on a guy? Will it be a straightforward bidding war for him?

      • arias

        UDFAs are all on the same cost controlled contract and signing bonuses are limited to the same pool each team is allotted to reserve for UDFA signing bonuses.

        The benefit of a UDFA contract over getting drafted is that he would be able to hit free agency after his 3rd year.

        So all teams are in the same boat as far as what they can offer him in terms of money. That’s pretty much set in stone, although he can improve his chances to make more with a likely playoff team. But the most decisive factor will be to go somewhere that he can play right away so he can maximize his value once his contract is done.

  25. Hawkfan77

    I think for those disappointed that the Seahawks traded up for a WR that’s not 7ft tall will be pleasantly surprised with Lockett. He’s such a seahawky player and fits exactly what this offense needs to be successful. He will be great at chunk plays with the ability to go deep and burn a secondary. I can’t wait to see Lockett and Richardson on the field at the same time with Graham in the middle and Beast and Wilson in the backfield.

    Obviously his return skills speak for themselves and those alone were worth the price of the trade up.

    • EranUngar

      Hawkfan, I’m the greatest advocate for that 7ft WR.

      The reasoning behind it has nothing to do with Lockett’s capabilities. They have everything to do with RW, the OL and the offensive philosophy.

      Lockett looks like a great player. His production, speed etc sound very much like mid 2nd round receiver we picked last year. PRich and Percy were going to blow the top of differences, get chunk plays, burn the secondary etc.

      I loved it at the time. Speed helps speed just like size helps size.

      A year later those words sound hollow.

      Without his PR/KR skills i’d be disappointed with this pick. With them i’m happy but not ecstatic.

      I hope you are right and i am wrong.

      • Meat

        I too love the Lockett pick, but I also would have loved a tall pass catcher. Mostly due to the fact the squad lacks height, but even more so because Wilson throws high often.

      • AlaskaHawk

        Yes I like the Lockette pick, but it really looks like Russell Wilson does better throwing to tall receivers. Lockette is another Baldwin or Richardson. Useful when open and when RW can see him over the linemen.

        • arias

          I agree AlaskaHawk, being able to utilize Lockett is my only concern because I agree with you that he’s much more comfortable throwing to taller guys.

          This will really be a test to the growth of Wilson as a passer and a willingness to better trust airing it out to shorter receivers who are fantastic route runners like Lockett. He’s got to be willing to throw it to him before he makes his breaks and even if he can’t see him, he has to trust his preparation and all the reps he’s done with him in practice that the receiver will be there and come down with the ball.

          The only receiver I saw him consistently be willing to throw to on timing routes last year was Baldwin. There was no implicit trust with any other receiver prior to their breaks.

          Drew Brees took his great leap forward as a short QB when he learned how to do this. He learned to trust throwing to a spot where his receiver was supposed to be without a clear view of the receiver running the route. He’s mentioned how challenging it was to just trust your instincts like that but you can’t argue with the results when by doing so he took his game to a different level and turned into one of the most accurate passers of all time.

          Wilson no doubt idolizes Brees enough to be aware of this stuff. And when he does figure it out, like Brees, I have no doubt he’ll take his passing to another level.

          Lockett working with a QB like Brees IMO would easily catch for a 1000+ yard season and be considered among the ranks of the best short receivers in the game. For him to garner the same respect in Seattle will depend on Wilson’s evolution.

          • EranUngar

            Your comments are spot on but they are not directed at the right target.

            The issue is not RW. He has all the talent in the world to do it good.

            It is the offensive philosophy of the team. RW will pull the trigger on those passes if he would be told to do it. He would do it very well if the OL would be built to constantly give him 3 seconds to do it.

            I believe that he is told to avoid taking those risks unless the house is on fire. They do not mind risks on deep bombs on 3rd down, those interceptions are like a punt. They will not risk it sideways on short over the middle unless we trail by 10 5 minutes to the end of the game.

            They believe in the run game. They believe that a packed box will get those guys open before the pass. They believe that worse case they will punt and let you face our defense.

            That philosophy got us to the last 2 SBs. It is what it is and that’s not necessarily a bad thing.

            Lockett is talented enough to be a contributor in this offense. Just don’t expect him to have the type of numbers of Brown, Walker, Desean or others like them. That’s not how our offense play.

            • arias

              Well said and I agree. I don’t think we can expect them to open it up until we’re in the post-Lynch phase, and only if they have to because they haven’t found a replacement the demands the attention Lynch does.

      • peter

        I wonder if the pick fails I has more to do with bevell then Wilson. I mean took and abbredis weren’t exactly juggernauts at Wisconsin and Wilson was extremely accurate there

        • arias

          What would be ‘failure’?

          • peter

            I’m speaking to the doom and gloom crowd.. That perhaps Wilson doesn’t need bigger targets he needs Better routes run by better recievers because he destroyed in college without a big serious threat just two dudes who haven’t done much if anything in the league

    • Belgaron

      He has some Largent-like qualities that the team needed more of, he runs tight routes and has show very deft double moves in college, he understands how to make people bite in coverage.

      • Volume12

        Didn’t Seattle bet their big target in Jimmy Graham? He may be listed as a TE, but in all actuallity, he’s a hybrid WR.

        • Phil

          Graham, Matthews, and Willson are all tall receivers. The simple fact is that all the tall receivers in this draft were out of reach, or did not offer what PCJS were looking for.

          • Volume12

            Exactlty.

            A WR might have great size, but as you said, do they have or play with the qualities PC/JS look for and want?

  26. jj

    I really like this play at the end of the this game, especially based on game situation. Down by 12, under 2 minutes, ball on the 29. The defense’s only goal is to not allow a quick score and they are clearly playing prevent. Yet, somehow, Lockett gets 5 yards past the defender by the time he reaches the 10 yard line. The tape, https://youtu.be/rhayolNAcX4?t=503, doesn’t show his move or the defender’s mistake, but to get that open in that game situation is impressive as all get out.

  27. Jarhead

    I am just here to curb your enthusiasm. I see statements like top 5 kick and punt return units, OROY, and other ridiculous things, and it is crazy to me. This kid hasn’t played a down in the NFL. I am always going to be that guy that says, “Let me see him on the field.” College production and ability means less than nothing to me. Everyone lost their minds in ’13 about Michael and how he was going to be our most potent weapon. And said that Richardson could become our version of DJax going as far as to say that he was given #10 for that reason. Then what? They ran in to NFL competition, that’s what. I want the Seahawks to be champions again. I want us to destroy everybody we play. I especially want to house GB in THEIR building because GB along with NE have the most insufferable fans in the NFL. Anyone who has read an ESPN post knows that as well as I do. Now that being said, I am not going to just pencil us in to a top 5 passing offense and Special Teams unit because of this one player. I think we should all just chill out and see what he can do on an NFL field. This ain’t the sorry ass Big 12 with next to no NFL quality DBs. This is the NFL. So let’s everyone cool our jets and maybe just hope he helps the offense improve their 3rd Down conversion percentage, and is able to provide some solid depth for WR. Training camp starts soon, let’s wait for him to make it through before we throw a parade

    • Radman

      College production may mean next to nothing to you, but we know it means a lot to Pete Carroll and John Schneider. BTW, production wasn’t the driving force of the Michael pick, potential was.

      I wasn’t aware of a parade.

      • peter

        If you look at draft picks like you mentioned Radman, college production is,a huge factor for the Seahawks.

        Jarhead I understand that you aren’t stoked on the pick but sorry ass db’s? What conference produces good defensive backs? If you look at,Seattle the lob past and future have come from every conceivable conference.

        • Volume12

          And the BIG 12 actually has some very good NFL caliber DBs. Oklahoma CB Zack Sanchez, W. Virginia CB Darryl Worley, Baylor CB Xavien Goodman?, Texas CB Sheroid Evans, just to name a few off the top of my head.

          • arias

            Exactly Vol12. Saying the Big 12 doesn’t have talent in their DB ranks is a complete mystery to me. They’ve recruited their share of NFL caliber talents.

            • Jarhead

              Name 3 that have made an all pro team since Earl Thomas came out. Revis, Sherman, Patrick Petersen, none of these guys are from the big 12. Don’t let your honking get in the way of realism. Seriously, 12 you named like 3 guys who aren’t even in the NFL yet. I think that the SEC, the PAC 12 and even BIG 10 are stronger conferences for DBs. It is about the NFL man.

              • arias

                You cannot be serious. You’re going to judge a conference’s defensive backs on how many of them make NFL All Pro?!?!?

                LOLOLOLOL!

                Did you know 8 guys in a league even qualify for that title every year? All Pro says nothing about the overall quality of cornerbacks coming from a conference. Gee, and you’re even trying to limit that pool down to “since Earl Thomas came out”.

                Well yeah, I guess if you just look at Revis, Sherman, and Peterson like 3 guys says anything about the conference they came from then I guess there’s no arguing. Focusing on a handful of guys as if such a tiny sample size says anything is pretty ridiculous though.

              • arias

                BTW: Chris Harris Jr, Aqib Talib, Jason Verrett are just 3 off the top of my head.

                Not all are All Pro, but all are among the best DBs in the game.

    • Hawksince77

      Jarhead,

      Such caution is always warranted. For every sure fire pick that succeeds, there are two sure fire picks that fail. That’s a fact.

      Instead of guarantees, we see JS/PC bring in talent and potential, and then allow them to compete for their positions. Sometimes it works out, sometimes not.

      As fans, we get excited about the possibilities, and certainly over-project what would be considered reasonable, and that pertains to our response to Tyler Lockett.

      But there is one thing that makes this pick a little different, and similar to the RW pick. Both prospects were dedicated to the game, had already demonstrated elite college production, were college-elite athletes at their positions, and both fell in the draft due to their size.

      What sets them apart as successful NFL players? Character, pure and simple. Both players are intelligent, work extremely hard, and promise to continue to do so.

      While undersized, Tyler Lockett is an outstanding football player, and a top athlete at the position. Working with RW, he has every chance to be a powerful weapon in the offense. Is he ideal, another Amari Cooper? No, he wouldn’t have been available in the third if he was. Is RW Andrew Luck? No, but if he was, he wouldn’t have been available in the third.

      To me, that is what sets Lockett apart from many other college prospects, and why I believe he has a far better chance to make an impact for the Seahawks then say, Christine Michael or even Paul Richardson.

    • Robert

      Can you create a succinct list of your rules for appropriate fandom? I like to be very hopeful this time of year and imagine upside from the optimistic perspective of what is possible(?). It is reasonable to hope for a big improvement in our offense this year. RW continues to evolve. We just added J-FKG-G, who will transform our previously mediocre red zone and 3rd down efficiency while occupying FF and LB’s who previously stack the box to clog our running lanes. This could allow the Beast to run wild! And Lockett has special quickness and route running skills to be a matchup nightmare VS many teams and cause the FS to delay quick decisions to patrol elsewear. There is good reason to hope that someone or two emerges as a significant contributor from McNeil, Matthews, Norwood and even Hill. I am enthusiastic and plan to stay that way despite your silly warning.

      • Robert

        *elsewhere

        • Jarhead

          What did I JUST say? Read the post. I said I hope we blow every team away. Is that realistic? Of course not. If people read the post then it clearly illustrates that I think it is better to create a realistic expectation for rookie performance. Once again, people are so busy honking that they read the first 2 lines and respond. I am not as negative as Steele but certainly I won’t set Lockett expectation to be to change our whole team by himself. If people want to honk then honk, but I think going crazy and saying that he is going to be the OROY is a little dramatic

  28. AlaskaHawk

    Looks like Clark pick made national news. This story has legs.
    http://deadspin.com/the-seahawks-didnt-care-whether-frank-clark-punched-a-w-1702249803

    • arias

      Yep. I’m not sure the Seahawks quite anticipated the levels of scrutiny and media firestorm that’s erupted. I think it’s unfortunate that all this stuff is being dragged out of the mud again. The alleged victim has been called repeatedly by reporters seeking questions and have been hung up on. That’s just obscene IMO. She obviously has no interest in reliving all this stuff when she refused to even be interviewed by the Seahawks when they were doing their investigation.

  29. Ron

    Like the pick, and agree with potential impact on ST’s, but nobody seems to be addressing the loss of key players from our ST’s unit (farwell, robinson, maragos, etc.)

    Drafting Lockett helps, but we need key ST players to return the ST unit to it’s former level

    Rob – which current players do you view as core ST contributor’s, and whom of the recent drafted/UDFA camp invites do you think might have impact? Any players on other teams or potential cuts we should consider for improving our ST unit?

    • Rob Staton

      Core special teamers are guys like Mike Morgan and the backup CB’s before they got injured. I think Austin Hill has a genuine shot if he can regain some of his 2012 athleticism. Best thing SEA can do to improve special teams is stay healthy in 2015.

    • Robert

      Also, Derrick Coleman was greatly missed on ST after his injury last year.

  30. New Guy

    I ask this innocently since I don’t know.

    Why did Deon Butler fail? Similar measurables, 5-10, 182, speed demon, high level of college production.

    .

    • vrtkolman

      This is my fear, though Deon Butler’s situation was more injury related than anything.

      • AlaskaHawk

        It is great when a smurf has a long career. But you can’t expect that because they are so small and light. Health percentages will go up if you have 3-4 smurfs, you can probably count on fielding 2 healthy smurfs. Of course limiting their roles and playing time will limit chances of injury.

        • peter

          So its Lockett, Baldwin, prich…..? Smurfs I mean. But then Matthews, McNeill, Norwood, and kearse aren’t Smurfs….its hard for me to draw,a corollary to size and injury. Williams, Scruggs, Mebane are huge and injured. Derrick Coleman is pretty big and injured, Wilson not huge not injured. Earl/kam/sherman all different sizes all injured. I think it feels like it should be true but isn’t actually a factor in health.

          • AlaskaHawk

            Most of the guys you mention are on defense and expected to hit and tackle.Yes the whole league is injury prone, just the nature of football. Lets just say for a minute that Kam Chancellor gets a free shot at someone. Who do you think will hold up better? A 170-180 pound receiver, or a 250 pound tight end? I’m pretty sure the tight end will hold up better. Now lets try that experiment again and give Kam 10 free shots at them. I’m guessing the smurf will be down and out by then.

            • arias

              I’d agree, but I don’t think you’d want to limit playing time to smurfs that prove they can play just because you’re worried about them getting injured. There’s also something to be said about smurfs that are agile enough to avoid the big hit, and therefore not be as prone to getting injured as others who can’t. Just like Wilson’s success as a mobile QB but flipped on wide receivers, same concept. Welker has had a long career and the big hits are only catching up to him now even though he’s a diminutive 5’9″ because IMO his elite ability to change direction allowed him to avoid the monster hits that would shorten a guy’s career.

              • AlaskaHawk

                Yes, I always get a kick out of receivers with the ball that run along the sideline until they are about to get hit, then step out of bounds. So frustrating for the defense.

            • peter

              How many jams are there really? Tate didn’t deal in injuries and he has 15-13 pounds the weight if one of dogs. I just can’t see it. Also graham by comparison bests jam and was eliminated when they played against each other. I just don’t think there’s a corollation. Beast mode takes hits from guys with 1-5 inches on him as does Wilson and 60-90 pounds I just think its too hard to say realistically what the causation is. Size? Maybe but you’re telling me that earl who takes and gives hits all the time and has one injury if note is less likely to get hurt then a guy who gets drilled all the time and yet has been playing that position his,whole life where he’s defenseless. It just doesn’t make sense orich torn his acl on a bad wheel not because if his size.

              • arias

                During the SB the commentators made the point that Lynch, because of his running style and unusual shifting center of gravity, is what makes him really difficult to wrap up unlike any other back. They even gave a graphic to illustrate the point IIRC. I’d agree that it’s way too simplified to just say it’s about the size of the player that makes one more injury prone over another. It seems to be more about being able to avoid direct hits. Size is only one consideration among many that would make a player more or less durable over the long term.

            • Robert

              Someone could really compose a thesis on this subject. Some guys just do not get hurt, ever or very often. And some of those guys are tiny. Conversely, there are big, strong guys in the league that are hurt all the time. There are many factors including luck. ET was bullet proof until the flukey shoulder injury despite playing like a human missile. Tate seems to ricochet rather than absorb the energy of contact. Despite his back spasms leading up to game time, the Beast always plays and finishes.

      • GeoffU

        If I recall correctly, Deon had amazing straight line speed and was pretty quick, and yet he was paradoxically extremely bad at getting separation. He couldn’t break tackles either, or juke people. Somebody touched him and he’d just drop. He seemed to fall down a lot just making a catch.

  31. New Guy

    Deon Butler, from NFL site:

    COMBINE
    STATS:
    Vertical Jump – 34.5 inches
    40 Yard Dash – 4.38 Secs
    Bench Press -12.0 reps
    Broad Jump -118.0 inches
    60 Yard Shuttle -11.32 secs
    3 Cone Drill – 7.01 secs

    STRENGTHS
    Positives: Wiry strong receiver with long arms. Reliable hands; uses his hands outside his frame even when challenged and high-points the ball. Has the initial quickness off the snap to get into his route. Good vision, elusiveness and stop-start acceleration in space. Able to run through cornerback tackles to extend the play. Set up corners well for out-routes, pressing them inside and using his arm and quickness to separate. Negatives: Short, lean receiver who is knocked off his routes by larger corners. Will struggle to get off the jam. Makes the effort blocking on the outside but lacks the strength to sustain. Questionable value as a deep threat against man coverage; will be best in the slot.

    • sdcoug

      Similar measurements doesn’t necessarily mean similar results. Perhaps one is just a better football player?

      Butler (College): 179 rec; 2771 yds; 22 TD. (most reception in a season: 48). 50 games

      Lockett (College): 249 rec; 3710 yds; 29 TD. (most reception in a season: 106). 47 games

      • GeoffU

        Lockett kickoff returns: 77; 2,196 yds; 28.5 avg; 4 TD
        Lockett punt returns: 32; 488 yds; 15.3 avg; 2 TD

        Butler kickoff returns: 0; 0 yds; 0 avg; 0 TD
        Butler punt returns: 0; 0 yds; 0 avg; 0 TD

        • Volume12

          Some guys don’t have the work ethic, natural abilities, grit, desire to be great, can’t break down film, etc. As sdcoug said, similar measurements do not guarantee similar results.

          How many ‘big’ WRs have flamed out? I could list probably 20 just in the past 3-4 years.

  32. Volume12

    This doesn’t have anything to do with WR Tyler Lockett, but I thought I’d bring him up.

    IDK if this kid is on Rob’s list of potential Seahawks for the 2016 draft, but he’s one of my favoritw players this coming CFB season and IMO will be a position of priority, obviously.

    Keep an eye on Utah HB Devontae Booker. Former JUCO kid from California. Teammates, coaches, and fans call him ‘baby Marshawn Lynch.’ This kid runs with Lynch’s power/toughness/grit, has C-mike like speed, and catches the ball just as well as Turbo does out of the backfield. Also comes from a zone-read/shotgun based offense. Love this dude, and he’s one to monitor.

    Check him out on draft breakdown.com or his youtube highlights.

    • sdcoug

      oops, I meant my post below as a reply to your comment

      • Volume12

        Interesting. Thanks for the heads up. I never knew that.

        • peter

          Nope! That’s my guy to watch! I love his game and his catching. A smidge short but looks fast and thickly built

  33. sdcoug

    If I remember correctly, this guy signed with Wazzu out of high school but never made it in. Not that it matters much, but he was thought pretty highly of back then

  34. Misfit74

    Lockett was one of my favorite receivers in this draft class, and certainly my favorite non-big WR. He’s a perfect fit for the many reasons you outlined. I watched a ton of his tape pre-draft, and I can’t wait to see him on the field. I hope Matthews can round out the group, displacing Kearse in the starting pool of regular players with targets. The fact Wilson is one of the best deep-ball throwers in football, TL helps running, passing, and special teams. Hitting the occasional deep shot will be really fun to watch and the room it gives Lynch means bug dividends.

    I’m surprised we didn’t do more with the offensive skill positions, such as a guy like DaVaris Daniels or Zach Zenner late, but we loaded up on linemen and that was a must. I was surprised, though love, the Clark pick. It was as if we knew he’d be there all along and just waited (and waited). Great draft. Lockett was mandatory.

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