John Schneider’s ideal trade scenario, Darnell Dockett & more

“A first rounder to move back into round two? What’s the catch?”

In yesterday’s Field Gulls Podcast one of the things we touched on was the 2011 trade involving Mark Ingram. The New Orleans Saints traded their second round pick (#56 overall) and a 2012 first rounder to New England for the opportunity to take Ingram with the #28 pick. The Pats essentially traded down 28 spots and acquired what turned out to be the #27 pick in the following draft.

Isn’t this just John Schneider’s perfect trade scenario?

It makes you wonder if he harbored hopes of a similar deal last year when Teddy Bridgewater was still on the board. No mad scramble ensued and the Seahawks ended up moving down a few spots for a fourth rounder. He’s already made it clear he’d be open to trading down again this year.

A deal similar to the Ingram trade is unlikely of course. It’s rare to see a team place that much faith in a player that they’re willing to trade a future first rounder. Atlanta did it in 2011 but that involved moving from #26 to #6 to select Julio Jones. The Saints were buying back into the first using a late second rounder. Cleveland did something similar in 2007 to select Brady Quinn.

Let’s entertain the thought for one moment. If there is a possible scenario where a similar deal could materialize this year, I think this is. And it involves another running back (because there’s surely no way anyone is trading back into the first round for a quarterback this year).

Melvin Gordon didn’t have the kind of explosive workout we expected. But he is a coveted player with fantastic character and work habits. He should be a first round pick, but a few teams might be second guessing his value after the combine. If he drifts and is available at #31 — would a team be willing to move up and get him?

We’ve talked about the possibility of only 15-20 players being awarded first round grades this year (and that might be a generous review). Gordon will be rated as a first rounder on several boards. If you’re a team like San Diego — eager to win in a closing window under Phillip Rivers — would you be willing to go offensive tackle or defense at #17 and then trade back into the first for Gordon? The Chargers own the 16th pick in round two (#48 overall). Would they be willing to offer that pick and their 2016 first rounder to get another playmaker?

It’s very unrealistic given the depth at running back, but not totally ridiculous either. There weren’t too many people criticizing the Saints four years ago. If the Chargers intend to win it all next year or at least make a deep playoff run, they’d be aiming to be picking between #28-32 anyway. Gordon is a terrific player at a position of need.

It’s the teams in a ‘win now’ mentality that are more likely to be aggressive. The Chargers know time is ticking away to win a title in the Rivers/Antonio Gates era before the inevitable reboot. They’re not really that close right now, so a bold move to try and close the gap is something to consider. Whether they feel a running back is the the way to make it happen, well I’ll let you be the judge of that.

The Seahawks would be extremely fortunate to receive such an offer — just as they lucked out in 2009 with Denver’s bizarre move for Alphonso Smith. But it’s sometimes the team determined to make a deal that receives the deal. Everyone knows New England likes to move around and that’s perhaps why the Saints negotiated with the Pats in 2011. Schneider pretty much walked around Lucas Oil Field wearing a cut out shouting “Pick #31 for sale”.

Trading back into the late 40’s or 50’s would still allow the Seahawks to bring in a solid receiver, offensive lineman or defensive lineman. You might even move back up in the second round — Seattle traded back into the second to select Max Unger in 2009 after the Denver trade.

There are so many things that would have to connect for this to happen. Gordon slipping, a team wanting him badly enough, Seattle being the chosen recipient of the offer. But it’s something to consider as we move through this process. And you just know they’d love to move down 20-30 spots to get another first rounder next year.

Darnell Dockett is a free agent

A week ago Dockett tweeted he’d be playing in Arizona next season one way or another, adding “think about it”. He was clearly insinuating he would be joining a NFC West rival if he was cut. It doesn’t have to be the Seahawks, it just feels like that way. I’m not sure he’d be making such a excitable remark about joining the Rams or 49ers.

It could be a major assumption on his behalf or just a playful tease. He’ll turn 34 in May and he’s coming off an ACL injury. If the knee clears, he’d still be a terrific addition for this team. The Seahawks need a proven interior pass rusher to add to their rotation. They also need experienced depth up front. Kevin Williams is probably going to move on or retire. They met with Ricky-Jean Francois yesterday before he signed with the Redskins.

A healthy Dockett at the right price would be a coup for the Seahawks. And that’s the key. Is he healthy?

Daniel Jeremiah’s updated mock draft

It’s good to break down some of these mock drafts, compare them to the ones we do and see what players were available to the Seahawks at #31. You naturally have a tendency to overrate the players you like and take them out of contention for the late first round. So I had a look to see who was available in Daniel Jeremiah’s mock that wouldn’t be available in my own (both published this week).

The answer? Cameron Erving and Jake Fisher. The two players I have going at #31 and #32. Jeremiah’s top 30 players were the same as mine, just in a different order. It might be a similar reaction to the combine (eg Byron Jones in the first round) or it might be that obvious this year.

Jeremiah projected Dorial Green-Beckham to the Seahawks and Carl Davis to the Patriots:

“The Seahawks were a play away from winning consecutive Super Bowls. Green-Beckham is a play-making machine. If he passes the character tests, this would be a great value selection.”

I understand why Green-Beckham gets projected to Seattle. There’s a feeling within the national media that the Seahawks are willing to take chances. It’s an overstated feeling. Bruce Irvin was not a character concern entering the 2012 draft — in fact he’d turned his life around through football and kept his nose clean in the JUCO’s and at West Virginia. They traded for Percy Harvin — but that ill-fated move at least came from a position of experience (Darrell Bevell worked with him in Minnesota, Pete Carroll recruited him at USC).

There’s a bit of a difference between those two moves and taking a chance on Green-Beckham. Right now the NFL is embroiled in controversy over its handling of the Ray Rice, Adrian Peterson and Greg Hardy cases relating to domestic abuse. You can argue about DGB’s case being dropped but I would urge everyone to read this article and assess the situation. It makes for a difficult read.

Personally I don’t think any team needs to deal with this right now. I suspect he’ll be crossed off several boards. A Randy Moss-esque combine performance would’ve helped but he didn’t have a great workout. He has an odd body shape — big and tall (6-5, 237lbs) but with shorter arms (32.5 inches) and small hands (nine inches). He ran a decent 4.49 but only managed a 33.5 inch vertical and a 9’11” broad jump. In comparison, 6-5, 305lbs Laurence Gibson also managed a 33.5 inch vertical and had a 9’5″ broad jump. So he has the size and some speed, but he doesn’t jump well and hasn’t got the long reach or big hands.

There’s a real thirst to talk him into physical freak status (I sense based on his history as a top high school recruit). In reality a player like Darren Waller is a much more exciting physical specimen. I don’t think he handled the media well at the combine. I don’t see any reason why the Seahawks would take a chance on him in this draft.

Who could be there at #31?

While we’re talking about mock drafts, I thought I’d quickly run through some of the players I think could be available at #31 that I had off the board in my post-combine projection:

Jaelen Strong (WR, Arizona State)
He had a surprisingly good overall workout, running a 4.44, posting a 42 inch vertical and a 10’3″ broad jump. He also had a good 1.57 ten yard split. Taking all that into account, why couldn’t he separate in college? He has every physical skill you need to win in the short game with suddenness. And yet he looks almost sluggish at times. He’s also only 6-2 (not the advertised 6-3) with nine inch hands. He could go in the top-20 but it’ll come down to whether you believe he can be coached up to take advantage of that explosive lower body power.

Byron Jones (CB, Connecticut)
‘Senator Jones’ as he’s known at UConn broke records at the combine with his 12’3″ broad jump and remarkable 44.5 inch vertical. He isn’t even 100% because he’s still recovering from a torn labrum. He could easily be a top-15 pick because you just don’t see that level of explosion in the legs. He also has ideal size (6-1, 199lbs) and length (32 inch arms). He’s the complete package physically. His tape is boom or bust though. He can cover for sure, but he wasn’t a lockdown corner and that’s why nobody was really talking about him until the combine.

Eli Harold (DE, Virginia)
I’m a big fan of Eli Harold’s but I also really liked Jabaal Sheard in 2011. He ended up going in the early second round and Harold could too. He had a nice combine but didn’t do anything extraordinary (35 inch vert, 4.60, 10’3″ broad jump). He did post a really good ten yard split (1.56) and an excellent short shuttle (4.16 — #3 among defensive linemen). To compare, Cliff Avril and Bruce Irvin both ran 1.50 over ten yards. He’s far better than Dee Ford who went at #23 last year. But I also believe Sheard is/was much better too.

131 Comments

  1. Volume 12

    I know the LOB is banged up, and as enticing a prospect as UConn’s CB Byron Jones is, I just don’t see Seattle changing how they go about drafting corners.

    As likely as it appears that Seattle will in fact trade back into the 2nd round, would Eli Harold or Jaelen Strong still be in that range?

    I’ve been thinking about it and when you said that Julius Thomas is a ‘matchup nightmare,’ the other name that popped into my head was Georgia Tech WR Darren Waller. Yes he’s raw and would require patience and be seen as a project, but while he gets his feet wet, using him as a ‘move the chains’ and red zone target would suit him ideally. Adding a Ty Sambrailo and Darren Waller in the 2nd round seem very ‘Seahawky’ to me, I know 2nd round may be a bit high for Waller, but as we discussed previously, Seattle doesn’t care.

    • Rob Staton

      “Would Eli Harold or Jaelen Strong still be in that range?” If they trade back into the early 40’s no. Mid 30’s? Maybe.

      • Volume 12

        And what do you think about Ty Sambrailo and Darren Waller as 2 potential targets in the 2nd round? Because I agree with you and think that Seattle is going to have a list of players instead of getting 1-3 ‘big name’ guys.

        If they stay at #63 and use it on Waller it’s essentially a 3rd rounder and they just don’t make human beings that are 6’6, 230 some odd pounds that run a 4.4. or 4.5.

        • Volume 12

          Meant to add with his upside and potential. And as others have pointed out, him and RW seem like they’d really get along and grow together. Although sometimes Waller appears to play passed off along the lines of ADB.

          • AlaskaHawk

            Seems like Waller will be about a 5th round pick. Lots of potential but needs training. Probably sit out his first year. If Strong falls to the Seahawks at #31 then they should take him. He won’t be around later when teams get their second pick.

            • Rob Staton

              It took V-Jax four years to post a 1000 yard season in San Diego in a pass friendly offense. It goes to show it can take time to develop. Waller will certainly need time.

              • Attyla the Hawk

                It also takes about 130+ targets a season for V-Jax to get his 1000 yards. Something he won’t likely achieve in 2 seasons in our offense.

                His catch % per target is pretty terrible. Even in his years with Rivers at QB in SD, it hovered around 53%. Which is worse actually than Luke Willson’s completion percentage per target despite his 10% drop rate in 2014.

                Jackson is essentially an incompletion factory. He requires a vast number of throws his direction to achieve his productivity. Something he’s never going to get here in Seattle where Wilson spreads the ball around to the open man.

            • Rob Staton

              It took V-Jax four years to post a 1000 yard season in San Diego — in a pass-friendly offense. It goes to show it can take time — and Waller is going to need plenty of it.

        • Rob Staton

          I think it’s possible. Perhaps more so for Sambrailo because I can see him in this scheme and think he’d be an excellent fit at LG. Waller has almost identical size and physical tools to V-Jax. If they want him badly enough they might take him a round early. The hard part is working out where exactly Waller is being projected. He could go anywhere.

        • Robert

          Waller sure speaks well and seems to have a good work ethic AND he’s from Virginia…just say’n. He was a dominating DB in high school! I am sure he is on our board at some level. He is also a great special teams play maker. Cool interview with highlights: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SyRe16OdqFo
          I hope they decide to nab him despite the fact I expect Matthews to contribute. RW is a GREAT high ball thrower…remember the Pro Bowl?

          • K.af

            If Waller is 6:6 and 240, how big is that old guy interviewing him?

            • Robert

              Hahaha and what’s his 40, broad jump and vertical??? His 40 was probably an anniversary. His broad jump happened after his wife saw the strip club charges on the bank statements and the vertical probably has something to do with diminishing testosterone levels!!!

    • bobbyk

      If we want a CB and Sammie Coates would be okay with a change from dropping passes to defending them (getting his hands on them so the ball falls to the ground, as with WR scenario), I still think he has the most postential of any CB in the draft. Physical. Fast. Quick. Ideal size. Hundred inch arms. Check. Check. Check. Check. And almost check.

      • Volume 12

        I don’t get that. Why all the talk of converting receivers to CB that have no experience with it?

        Nick Marshall is a much better option. Guy shows tremendous grit and competitiveness, and is obviously a team first player to know where he’s best utilized. I really think that Marshall is a ‘diamond in the rough,’ who will go earlier than expected. Like rounds 4-5.

        • Turp

          Someone had to say that. Thank you Volume 12.

          People don’t realize how rare a Sherman conversion is. Marshall has the best shot, and then Lippet…but that doesn’t mean they will be successful at it.

        • StephenMax6

          I agree. While Coates sure appears to have the measurables, it seems this experiment would be better suited for somebody that could be grabbed in the 7th/UDFA range. PCJS have shown the creativity to try and make a conversion like this work, but I don’t like the idea of spending a 2nd/3rd round pick (seems like this is where Coates will go) to make it happen.

          On a side note, I love this website Rob. Heard you on the Field Gulls podcast and thought it was a really fun listen. Hope to hear more from you as we get closer to draft day.

          • Rob Staton

            Thanks Stephen!

  2. MoondustV

    There’re already too many names on DT in this year’s FA. Darnell Dockett is only one of them. I prefer Stephen Paea but I’m not sure of his market value.

    • CharlieTheUnicorn

      The Kracken at DE could be an option, or Suh is the Lions let him hit FA… even his partner in crime Nick Fairley would be worth taking a long hard look at for the Seattle DT spot(s). He would not be cheap, but if they do indeed cut Mebane for cap purposes (saving 5 mil), then they could fit him in for decent money.

      • bobbyk

        Fairley isn’t exactly the hardest worker in the world. He may have talent, but he doesn’t seem to be the type of self-motivated player that Carroll loves.

    • Dave

      I really like Paea also. He was 3rd in QB pressures last year from interior lineman, with 47 pressures only behind Suh and Kyle Williams. Hawk Blogger thought it would take $4M a year for Paea. Cutting Tony McDaniel and $3M salary should give us almost enough to sign him. Plus he’s only 26, so he could be a fixture on an aging interior DL. His versatility defending the run and providing pass rush would be great to pair with Jordan Hill. Don’t forget his ridiculous 49 reps on the bench at his combine.

      • MoondustV

        $4M for Paea? I love that idea but I’m not sure it will actually work. Players like RJF can cost $3M… Maybe $4.5-5.5M.

        • Rob Staton

          Paea is going to get paid.

          • MoondustV

            Right, but if there’s a chance that we can get him at a reasonable price, I’ll definitely take him(Even this means cut Mebane). We need at least 2 players at DT position. What about rookies in late rounds?

          • peter

            Rob,

            Thoughts on SHeard’s Market? He’s the player I want more then Paea who I’d love by the way. I know the Hawks rock Bennett and Avril but they push Bennett inside so often and say what some will but Irvin has become a tremendous LB, that I wonder if Jabaal Sheard would be devastating working opposite of and/or spelling Avril if the price is right.

            • Rob Staton

              Bennett and Avril aside, the market is usually red hot for pass rushers and teams overpay. I think he will get a big deal from someone. He’d be perfect for Atlanta or Jacksonville.

      • TwistedChopper

        Not sure if I’d really take what Hawkblogger says a guy will get paid as anything other than extreme speculation that he probably read from somebody on Twitter or in the media.

        • Rob Staton

          Just my take — but I think it might take more than $4m APY. He had a good season in 2014 on a bad defense. I think Chicago needs to lock him up personally.

  3. bobbyk

    I have never understood why teams don’t try to make more trades with their future in mind. I think you could really stockpile picks to a degree. For example, instead of focusing on trying to get an extra #1 pick, maybe a team like the Raiders or Falcons would be willing to move up from their early second round slot with the Hawks at #31. Both teams have GMs that I wouldn’t say are overly stable in their long-term job. Sure, the Falcons just hired Gus, but rumors are swirling around their GM if he doesn’t have a good draft and things don’t turn around quickly. This could lead GMs like this to trade a 2nd round pick in ’16, as an example, to move up to #31 this year. They shouldn’t care as much because if they bomb, they won’t be around to make the pick anyways. And if they do well and are still around, the pick is going to be a late pick in the second round next year. Either way, it’s a win-win for the GM like I said of a team like the Raiders or Falcons. Sure, we don’t get any benefit for this year, but Schneider and Carroll have clout right now and are in no position to wonder if they are still going to have jobs next year. They are as secure as can be. Why not take some of that clout and build for extra 2nd/3rd round picks for next year? Personally, I’b be perfectly happy if they could drop back into the early second and get an extra second rounder for next year.

    • SunPathPaul

      I agree Bobby. With 10-11 picks this year, we need to add extra picks for next year. Our roster will never absorb 10 rookies with all the talent we have…

      • Volume 12

        It may not absorb 10-11 picks, but it’s all about competition. They can red-shirt guy on IR, try and get a couple through to the PS, or stash them on the ‘ghost roster.’

  4. Clayton

    Rob,
    What do you think of Mel Kiper Jr.’s pre-combine mock draft with Phillip Dorsett going to Seattle?

    • Rob Staton

      I like Dorsett but wonder about the strength of his role at the next level. I could see him being a target, but not at #31.

    • Dave

      The Seahawks need a returner badly. Earl and ADB didn’t cut it at KR or PR. Not to mention Brian Walters, the king of the fair catch, ugh. I think a trade down to 45-50 would be a good range to take Dorsett or Agholor. That’s 4.33 vs 4.41. I think Agholor ran as fast he could, but I think Dorsett can run faster than his 4.33. He’s a track guy and his speed is effortless, effortless like Galloway. Agholor is the more accomplished receiver however, it’s an ongoing debate in my head.

      Taking an OL like Sambrailo with the second 2nd round pick would make for an awesome first 2 rounds. We gain another 4th round pick where we can target DL or Darren Waller or Eric Rowe. This would be amazing!

      • CHawk Talker Eric

        Dorsett vs. Agholor

        For me, no question Agholor. In terms of WR, speed is nice, but it’s not like Agholor is slow. Also, if you watch his game tape, he has a nice burst that gets him past most defenders even if he doesn’t have true break away speed. Maybe I’m being a homer – not for USC, I’m in their home market so I see a lot of Trojan football – but Agholor is as NFL ready as any WR in this draft.

        In terms of KR/PR, it’s a little closer, but I still like Agholor. He’s by far the better PR averaging 14.5 yds per return and 4TDs (compared to 5yds/return 0TDs for Dorsett). KR stats are much closer – 18.5yds/return for Agholor vs. 19.5yds/return for Dorsett.

        Agholor reminds me a bit of Golden Tate – almost identical speed/quickness, same size hands, 2 inches taller/longer, similar gritty/competitive play style. He has the attitude and work ethic to match RW – this article is about a year old but relevant: http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap2000000323314/article/usc-wr-nelson-agholor-the-consummate-pro-coach-says

        I realize many fellow SDBers think he’s a bit redundant in terms of size/skill and not what SEA needs. I disagree. He ticks all the WR boxes except for size, but 6′ 198# isn’t small. He’s also one of the most accomplished PR/KRs in the draft. He has the off field drive to be the best. He doesn’t play angry enough to be “pissed off for greatness” but he’s determined to be great nonetheless. I drool at the prospect of him developing with RW over the next many seasons.

        With regards to a big target, SEA will sign one in FA (likely Thomas) and/or deeper in the draft where you can take a swing on a large/long combine warrior who doesn’t have the game tape to deserve a high pick.

        Agholor is one of 2 or 3 players I really want from this draft.

        • red

          Seahawks can find a WR/PR/KR later in the draft ton of slot guys returners in this draft and after 4TH RD. Also they might try BJ Daniels as PR and in the slot as well so we will see how that goes.

          S Diggs
          A Goodley
          L Norwood
          M Alford
          T Montgomery

          • Volume 12

            Stefan Diggs is a guy I’m paying close attention to. Has the talent of a day 1 or 2 pick, but because of the injuries and horrendous QB play, this guy could end up a steal for someone in the 4th round or so like you mentioned.

            Actually all the names you mentioned are good mid round WR/PR&KR types.

            • SunPathPaul

              Hey Volume12, I just watched Diggs highlights and DAMN! He is very good after the catch. That is supposedly a big part of why they wanted Percy…YAC potential. Taking something simple, and turning it into a big play! He is definitely on my list now!

              Round 4-5, we have comp picks, so taking him there could be possible. Also want us to consider stacking the WR room with using a comp pick on DeAndre Smelter. He’s 6’2″/226. He would be a great reserve addition for next year. If someone gets injured in the WR group, or P.Rich has issues coming back-boom! Solution all ready on the roster! (IR for 2015)

              • Volume 12

                Paul, Diggs to me is the type of player they hoped they would be getting in Percy Harvin. Just a game-breaking, field tilting type of athlete. He has great hands and a 2nd gear that quite a few of these receivers in this class lack. He’s very humble, and describes himself as ‘hungry.’ I love that.

                From what I remember, he was recruited pretty heavily by Miami, and I think Brennan Carroll was there at the time,

          • Ben2

            No more experiments with the kick returner, please. One of our picks has to be a guy that has kick return experience (and is a over average). The Hawks draft against their roster and this is definitely an area for improvement.

        • Ukhawk

          Totally agree Ag > Dorsett. Feel like Dorsett disappears and is an outlet/ 2nd option whereas Agholor is a first option/focus and can dominate or tilt the field more. Simply put, Ag is more polished and has more ways to win. Watching the latest draft breakdown Dorsett disappoints vs GT.

          • tzahn

            First of all, I love both Agholor and Dorsett. Looking at game tape, 2 people can see very different things which is the beauty of scouting. Here’s the GT game referenced http://draftbreakdown.com/video/phillip-dorsett-vs-georgia-tech-2014/

            I see the defense giving him a 10yd cushion on almost every play, similar to how defenses played P-Rich in college. They have to respect his deep speed. Check out the play around the 1:30 mark. Dorsett sits down in the soft spot in the zone, makes the catch, and effortlessly turns on the jets for a huge gain.

            Check out the replay at 2:48. Even though the throw didn’t go to Dorsett, there are literally 5 guys moving in his direction which clears out the play for the other WRs. This can be a huge factor in a game. Those “hidden” plays that open things up for others underneath.

            The replay at 3:49. Very soft cushion and a woefully underthrown ball. However, if a strong-armed QB can get it out in front of him, he’d be wide open. The old saying “if he’s even, he’s open” applies to Dorsett deep. Granted, you’d need a hell of an arm on that play. Just pointing out that even with the soft coverage he would’ve been open deep. Run a dig route off of that, or a comeback similar to what SEA did with P-Rich towards the end of the season and it’s an easy 15 yds.

            Admittedly it’s not his most exciting game, but he really was only targeted a handful of times and aside from the overthrow caught all his targets. The QB play was pretty terrible.

            Dorsett isn’t much of a blocker. My only reservation drafting Dorsett is that he seems to bring the same things to the table that P-Rich did last season. Do they trust Richardson to come back to full strength in 2016 or will they draft a guy like Dorsett in case he can’t? Agholor seems be more of a short yardage to mid yardage threat as opposed to Dorsett. Better PR by far as well.

            Like I said, I love both guys and see them as fits for SEA. Just trying to prove a point that an underwhelming tape to some can show good things to others.

            • peter

              Excellent post!

              I honestly think it’s a bit misleading to cast a Dorsett vs. Agholor scenario. After you dismiss the fact that they are both not BIG WR’s their game is nothing alike.

              A lot of you on this blog have sold me on Agholor recently after having a bit of a prejudice against USC receivers who look so damn smooth in their tape but for some reason due to a host of factors some in some out of their own control are just more of the same on their teams as the Hawks have on their teams. Which is to say role players nothing more nothing less.

              The one recurring theme I see from Agholor’s tape and comments about him that should put a bit of pause on him are references to him just “getting five yards on 3 and five.” I mention this because he does look great finding the soft spots in coverage and sitting down as it were to move the chains. The problem is Seattle hasn’t ran that concept since Hasselbeck left. If the team just simply needed someone to runa quick slant for 4-6 yards you could look at a lot more WR’s and include Agholor. Honestly I would love that concept in our offense but as of yet it never materializes consistently.

              In regards to Dorsett I wonder if he’s schematically not a fit because 1. Willson and CO. do not throw open recievers but instead attack sidelines with jump balls 2. Tate had massive field flipping potential and speed and fairly ridiculous athleticism to battle for jump balls and I think Dorsett would dominate in a system like the Ravens but in Seattle his speed would be negated by how the routes are built.

              • tzahn

                Definitely agree on a lot of what you said.

                In regards to the short passing game, it reminds me of Carroll talking at length toward the end of the season about Russell “getting the ball out quickly” and trying to establish a short/intermediate passing game. I really think that’s part of the game they want to expand.

                A guy who could potentially help this out is Antwan Goodley from Baylor. He’s built like a RB and took some handoffs in the backfield. He’s not as shifty as Tate and doesn’t seem to be as good down the sideline as he was, but he’s very stout and is great in the short pass game. He’s definitely a YAC player. Really a different kind of WR than what SEA currently has on the roster.

                • peter

                  Goodley is a guy I’ve watched thoroughly and think if they really want to build up a bit of a RAC/YAC passing game he could be someone to monitor at the 4-5th round. Plus he was actually a pretty good kick returner earlier with Baylor.

          • Phil

            Ukhawk – speaking of disappearing, check out Agholar vs. UCLA this past year. In what was probably USC’s biggest game of the year, he catches 3 balls for like 22 yds. and a fumble. And, UCLA didn’t have a particularly good pass defense this year. I spent the whole game wondering what the buzz was about him. I guess everyone has a bad day, but when his team needed him, he had disappeared ….

            • Volume 12

              UCLA has 2 fantastic corners. Fabian Moreau and Ishmael Adams are both NFL caliber DBs. Could it be that UCLA schemed Agholor out of the game and rendered him ineffective?

        • Onur

          I want Agholor too.I’m sure he will be useful in many ways.Especially in return game.Our offense always starts on 15-20 yard line.And many times 3&out from 30-40 yard line.We couldn’t sustain drives.I think Agholor will make us start from 25-30 yard line mostly.And he’s very good in short yardage,he’ll convert 3rd-and-5’s into first downs easily.I suppose we need that,especially if Lynch leaves.

          Is he better than Tre Mcbride?

          • K.af

            As much as I like Agholar, he always reminds me of Preach, because he just “looks” small.

            Tre McBride should be available a round or so later than Agholar, and will shade him by about 15 lbs and 1-2 inches. That extra size could be extremely valuable when it comes to absorbing the physical pounding that NFL players take. I also think Justin Hardy out of East Carolina would be a good option as opposed to Agholar.

          • SunPathPaul

            Agholor seemed to me to have the best most focused hands at the combine during the gauntlet drill. I mean he just plucked that ball out of the air naturally! I was concerned that he was a ‘slot guy’, but after reading this:

            Martin credits Agholor’s development to his intense focus, which shined through early on amongst a position group featuring future professionals.

            “Even as a true freshman with Robert Woods being there and Marqise Lee having the kind of season (he had), you could see where he was going to be special as a leader,” Martin said. “The moment never gets too big for Nelson. He welcomes it. He wants to be the guy.”

            In his style of play, Agholor represents a happy medium between Woods the technician and Lee the game-breaking athlete. Agholor has the physical attributes to create explosive gains from anywhere on the field, but is especially effective on intermediate routes that showcase his precise route running.”

            If he can play inside and outside proficiently all ready, then I believe his chemistry with Russell Wilson would be amazing! Whey could bond and start connecting on those 5-15 yard passes we miss so much in this offense. We need to move the ball consistently for 1st downs. Agholor looks like a perfect fit for that…

            Then I believe we need 1-2 more WR/TE on the team. Get Waller or McBride later too. Take a flier on the BIG TE Sifrin. He may be 27, but he is also huge!

      • Meat

        To be fair a great deal of the fair the fair catches were necessary due to poor blocking (injuries too). Pr/kr need an upgrade but the entire special teams needs some new life.

  5. Cha

    With some big cap numbers looming in 2017-2018, now is the time to have good drafts and possibly acquire / make use of your extra draft picks and comp picks. Those players will need to be contributing on their first contract for the Seahawks to maintain their status as a power.

  6. CharlieTheUnicorn

    I love D. Dockett from 2011 time frame, not 2015 version. He is declining and not the force he once was… the money could be spent better in other places on the Seahawks team.

    The blue print in the 2014 NFL draft for Seattle…. WR early and middle rounds, both with unique skills.
    One was more a speed guy, the other one with some size. This is essentially what I see happening. 1 WR early with speed and 1 WR mid rounds with size. I would not be against drafting Dorsett at #31, then with a 4th round pick picking up Waller…… Dorsett helps the return game immediately and provides some speed the WR group needs, Waller provides length, sure hands and red-zone options for RW/Bevell in 2015.

    2nd Round would be OL and 3rd round or 4th round RB. Then draft BPA in CB/S/LB/DL/OL

  7. MoondustV

    I’ve calculated the cap hit numbers over and over again. I thought there is a 7-8M space for us to lure some FAs this year and we can still keep RW3, Wagner and Irvin.

    I’m not sure Irvin is essential for this D, especially if we can land Suh…just let me daydream for a moment: Zach Miller, McDaniel and Mebane simply have no future use for this team after 2015. Cut them or let them go free can save us at least 10.5M$, and what’s the cap number in 2016? 154M? almost 44M space. RW3, Suh, Wagner, you name it. But this plan is aggressive and requires great draft results because we need rookies to fill in other positions immediately.

    Maybe use the cap space to lure a big WR or TE, then extend RW3, Wagner and Irvin’s contract next year is the best solution. But as Rob have said before,dreams of landing a dominating player like Suh are not easily found for Seahawks every year.

  8. Donald

    Agolor or Mcbride, ether would fill both needs at WR and ST.

    The Hawks really need about 3-4 2nd rd picks. Trade whatever combination they can to get them.

    Agolor will not last until #62, so they need to move up to the mid or early 2nd rd.

    Cameron or Fisher would also be a priority.

    Eli Harold is another 2nd rd pick the hawks need.

    Then Waller would be good, but is he any better than Matthews? We already have our tall WR.

    Sign Julius Thomas then book your plane ticket to Santa Clara

  9. Donald

    Actually, If Gordon or Gurley are still available at #31, I wouldn’t trade the pick unless I got a high 2nd and a 2016 1st rd.

    Anything less than that and I would pick the RB for the Hawks, Then move up to mid 2nd rd and get Agolor. Get best available OL mid round.

    Keep Maxwell to keep the LOB together and sign Julius Thomas.

    • CHawk Talker Eric

      If Gurley’s available SEA have to take him.

      Not very bullish on Gordon.

      Yes, yes yes to Agholor. I just hope he’s available to SEA in R2.

    • Robert

      I like David Johnson as a high character guy who interviews well and has great athleticism. The experts say he is too tall and must convert to HBack.He is great at making people miss and has the size to be very physical. He is a phenomenal receiver, as well. I think he might be high on our board as Turbin is running out of rookie deal time and CMike appears to have issues. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dCBm1c2Am-I

      • Robert

        Very impressive KO returner, as well!

    • Rob Staton

      I like Maxwell, but at $10m APY I’ll let someone else pay that.

      • Dawgma

        Yeah, and hopefully collect the associated Rd 3 comp in next year’s draft to go with it.

    • redzone086

      I don’t know why we wouldn’t pick up Ray rice as a dual or triple threat instead of reaching for rbs in the draft.

      • Travis Williams

        Because even before he tried to re-arrange his fiancee’s dental work, he was on a serious downward skid. Honestly, him being out for the year probably single-handedly saved the Ravens season since it forced them to play their best RB.

  10. Attyla the Hawk

    Interesting topic. I just finished a quick study on teams that trade draft picks over the last 5 drafts.

    Of those, here are the most active (trades in 4 years or at least 9 trades total)

    Atlanta
    Baltimore
    Chicago
    Cleveland
    Dallas
    Denver
    Detroit
    Green Bay
    Houston
    Indianapolis
    Jacksonville
    Miami
    Minnesota
    New England
    New Orleans
    Oakland
    Philadelphia
    San Diego
    San Fransisco
    Seattle
    St Louis
    Tampa Bay
    Tennessee
    Washington

    Of those, here are the list of teams that trade up at least 50% more than trading down:

    Atlanta
    Baltimore
    Chicago
    Dallas
    Denver
    Indianapolis
    Jacksonville
    New Orleans
    San Diego
    Tampa Bay
    Tennessee

    These are the candidates most likely to be trade down partners. Some of these teams are almost exclusively trade up organizations. San Diego has traded up 6 times, and never traded down. Trading up in four of the last five seasons.

    When looking for possible trade candidates, these are the teams that should be on speed dial when trying to move out of the #31 slot.

    • southpaw360

      Dang, interesting and nice work!

    • peter

      nice work indeed!

    • CharlieTheUnicorn

      ATL, CHI, JAX and TB all have new FO or Coaches or both.. so past performance can’t predict future behavior. For me, the big wild card is what SF will do with their picks, stay, move up/down and then who will they pick. It feels wide open this year, unlike in the years past. Baalke loves his hurt player draft picks, so this adds even more intrigue.

      As for Seattle, this is the one year I could totally see them moving out of the first, but then moving up in the second and 3rd rounds for the right players (or extra picks, combo of late picks for earlier ones). Yes, this is not in their “normal” character, but this might play into their hands stealing a few pieces away from other teams..

      • Meat

        That was my tbought. FO changes will probably go in the opposite direction

    • John_s

      Good stuff but you would want to add Minnesota to that list. They have traded up to go back I to the first round the last 3 years. History shows that they value taking multiple 1st round picks.

      • Attyla the Hawk

        It may seem like that. But Minnesota has in fact traded down 9 times, but only traded up 5.

        They are one of the more active teams in trading down. Even doing so more than Seattle (8).

    • Cole

      Nice work. Of those trade up teams, I see Jax and San Diego as pretty likely targets. Atlanta would be, but we still have to see what their punishment for pumping in crowd noise is going to be – might make them less likely to part with assets if they lose they’re third round. Jacksonville could trade up above Ten to potentially target an O-lineman, especially if they sign a player like Thomas in FA. Gordon would also be an option – seems like a guy Gus would love.

  11. Attyla the Hawk

    As far as DGB goes, I tend to think he’s polarized draftniks as much as Bryant or Moss did with their red flags. And I’m guessing if you didn’t like the other guys when they were drafted, you aren’t going to favor taking DGB.

    As for the following:

    “Personally I don’t think any team needs to deal with this right now. I suspect he’ll be crossed off several boards. A Randy Moss-esque combine performance would’ve helped but he didn’t have a great workout. He has an odd body shape — big and tall (6-5, 237lbs) but with shorter arms (32.5 inches) and small hands (nine inches). He ran a decent 4.49 but only managed a 33.5 inch vertical and a 9’11” broad jump. In comparison, 6-5, 305lbs Laurence Gibson also managed a 33.5 inch vertical and had a 9’5″ broad jump. So he has the size and some speed, but he doesn’t jump well and hasn’t got the long reach or big hands.”

    He certainly didn’t pull a Randy Moss. He was an absolute freak both measurables and production wise.

    But quite honestly, he is about as perfect of a Dez Bryant clone — both in red flags and measurables and production as one can get. Yes he will get crossed off boards. But like Dez, some team is going to reap the benefit of shortsighted shunning of a quality talent. It’ll simply take an organization that doesn’t really care what the rest of the NFL thinks.

    DGB was slightly faster than Dez at his pro day (so assume quite a bit faster due to Pro day deflation). Also killed him by almost half a second in both the short shuttle and 3 cone. Dez killed the vert 38″ and broad 11’1″.

    Production wise, each player had similar production over their freshman and sophomore seasons. Dez fared better, but was in a pass crazy Mike Gundy offense with Brandon Weeden feeding passes. From a targets to completions/TDs perspective they are almost identical.

    DGB was suspended his junior year. Dez played 3 games before being suspended the final 11 games of his junior year.

    Dorial isn’t going to be Moss. That’s a comparison that can’t be made. Moss was just completely unreal. And his red flags literally make DGB look like a choir boy. Drugs. Domestic assault. Parole violation. Jail. Moss had it all.

    But Dorial can easily be compared to Bryant. They are very similar in terms of ability to take over games.

    It could be easily argued that today’s NFL is more sensitive to these kinds of issues. But I think the opposite. These issues are basically topical. They are the social crime du jour. Next year, it’ll be something else. And people will forget and no longer care about the social ills of 2014 come September of 2015. It’s human nature. What drives us to take up torches and pitchforks today barely merit mention tomorrow.

    This is a league about production. Nobody cares (and barely even remembers) how heinous Moss was as a human being before he made it to the NFL. Fans across the league could care less about the red flags that were part of Dez Bryant’s experience. If their teams had a chance to sign Dez last year as a free agent, they’d be all over that prospect.

    We’re simply not going to care next year or beyond. Unless it keeps happening, the sins of a college student just don’t manifest as lasting issues even a year down the road.

    • Ukhawk

      Agreed on DGB to some extent. Per JS, I think maybe we get fooled in his case by the combine figures. he plays better than he tests because of his blend of talent and instincts. For example, he almost always wins a jump ball and attacks it, maybe he is not as ‘long’ or has a lower vert but his timing and body control are the key. I just can’t decide about his heart – does he want to be great? Does he want to really sacrifice to get better (Curry), is there desire to really learn a pro offence (Tate?), will he go all in as a teammate or let down his team because of drug/spotlight issues (Thurmond)?? I wouldn’t be surprised if he ends up being good or even great but likewise odds are he could be more a waste of talent. I’m still on the fence but erring toward other prospects in a deep WR draft

    • Rob Staton

      Thing about Dez is — he missed his last year at Okahoma State. But the year before he dominated with 1400 yards and 19 touchdowns. He’s was well on his way to topping that in 2009 before the suspension. We saw flashes from DGB but never anything as polished, accomplished or as natural as Dez Bryant.

      Bryant also had a 38 inch vertical and an 11’1″ in the broad at his pro day. DGB managed 33.5 inches and a 9’11”. Bryant is much more explosive and there’s the evidence.

      And I can’t agree that DGB’s issues are just a flavor of the month. The NFL is finally waking up to domestic abuse. He is much more likely to be a Josh Gordon than a Dez Bryant IMO.

      • Jeff M.

        Also, Dez Bryant was suspended for having lunch with Deion Sanders; DGB for shoving a woman down a flight of stairs… Neither the production nor the red flags are comparable.

        • Ralphy

          Thank you Jeff. I have always thought the red flags on Dez are exaggerated. He’s obviously not RW but I don’t think he is Moss, DGB or Ray Rice. His NCAA suspension was ridiculous. A rich Manziel gets suspended for a half and Dez for a season.

        • Attyla the Hawk

          “Also, Dez Bryant was suspended for having lunch with Deion Sanders; DGB for shoving a woman down a flight of stairs… Neither the production nor the red flags are comparable.”

          That’s just ignoring the history entirely.

          Found a decent article, not just on Dez, but on risk/reward in general. Probably worth a read

          http://www.bloggingtheboys.com/2013/7/2/4484452/dez-bryant-a-case-study-in-risk-vs-rewards-aaron-hernandez-josh-brent-dallas-cowboys

          Also:

          http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/more-red-flags-for-dez-bryant/

          It wasn’t just the legal issues, or the domestic violence (yeah he had that too, just like DGB and Moss). It was also the real fear that he wasn’t doing his part to get out of that lifestyle. So much so that they committed resources to babysit him and felt compelled to add additional conduct language in his contract.

          In looking at Dez’s pre draft issues closely, I am pretty much of the belief that his flags were much more serious than DGB’s on the whole. Although the sensitivity at this time in the league is at an all time high. Like DGB, Bryant was seen as a top 12 kind of talent. He slid significantly as well. I’d expect DGB to slide further simply due to the environment of 2015.

          It’s relatively easy to forget just how much red flags affected how a player was drafted. And that’s kind of the point I’m making. These issues very often times just fade into oblivion. Even to the point of our recollection simply and totally forgetting the actual facts. Matthieu/Bryant were two good examples of good players who have grown past their checkered pre draft issues to the point where we don’t even recognize what they really were.

  12. Ukhawk

    Anyone watch the latest post on draft breakdown – Harold vs Cameron? I worry one of my personal great hopes of a player falling to Seattle has burst.

    As much as I lust after Harold and his potential, he is ruled ineffective by Cameron. I like how Harold’s arms keep him clean and how he can push the pocket and set the edge/redirect play sometimes but he rarely if at all pressured the QB or impacts via tackling for losr. He needs to get stronger and has immense upside but if he looked like this vs a player moving inside in the NFL…. Thoughts please?

    Cameron on the other hand…

    • Volume 12

      Cameron’s a great prospect, but if he’s as good as advertised and with his versatility, I’d expect him to come off the board before Seattle picks in the 2nd round, I think their first overall selection could be TE Maxx Williams, OL/G Ty Sambrailo, or a receiver.

      • peter

        I’m surprised you’re still so high on Sambraillo. I just watched the newest cut-up of him against…you guessed it Utah (I’m starting to sound like some kind of Utes honk!) and I will say Sambraillo is very very quick and his mirror/kick slide is very good from a technique stand point. So e has size and quickness that seems to fit in Seahawks land.

        But it seems to me that he has this odd knock of getting to the second level very quickly and decisively but when he arrives he has a very hard time deciding who his target is and I noticed a good deal of times through the tape where he doesn’t finish a play which totally works at the college level but in the pro’s guys who care are going to finish to the whistle and some of those plays that break down and you think are over are strip sack or at least pass breakups when the DE or LB works back to the QB or ball carrier.

        Additionally in power situations he seemed to get ridden upright and lose his lower body not often but maybe more then would be acceptable at the next level.

        And finally as the game wore on it seemed on more then a few occasions that he was getting gassed and began holding more and more often which I know allegedly happens every play and I was watching a lot more intently then I usually do just something I noticed.

        All that said I’m not down on the guy, I just feel that he kind of got run up to the second round early in the draft process pre-senior bowl pre- combine and maybe reflexively he’s sort of hung around in the vague 2nd round territory where in I think he more realistically slots later.

        Plus bias here I like Erving and Flowers a ton more and the cynical wiseass in me respects Tony Pauline but I don’t think that Seattle talking to anyone has any bearing in the slightest in who they draft for all we know they were picking his brain about CSU’s long snapper!

    • peter

      I watched it twice an completely agree with your assessment. With one caveat. Tape reminds be a bit of Irvin in college. In that sure he’s pushing Cameron back and not disengaging (all bad things to a degree,) but on the second time I watched it besides thinking Cameron looked great the other thought I had was where in the hell is the interior presence for Harold? that will happen from time to time and game to game but if you have someone walking back the LT that often, and full credit for the LT holding ground and redirecting, there needs to be someone working inside to get after the QB. Easier said then done perhaps but Seattle has those guys, Hill and Bennett.

      I will say that there is a bit of the just run after the QB to Harold’s game which can obviously pay off from time to time, but he could use more refinement as far as hand fighting.

      As per draft spot I just have a hard time seeing him get to 62 so it’s kind of one of those pick him earlier then you want if you want him propositions.

      • Volume 12

        Completely disagree Peter. Don’t knock a guy for 1 game tape. Does he need more functional strength? Yes. Does he have some bad weight? Yup, Neither of those things are worrisome one bit. All of his flaws are technical or weight room related that can be solved with coaching and a weight & condition program.

        Out of all the guys at the combine, Sambrailo was one of the O-lineman that moved the best and most naturally. He’s a terrific athlete for the LG position, has a very ‘Seahawky’ or big personality to him, is full of potential, and he is a nasty blocker who plays with an edge.

        ‘He has this odd knack of getting to the 2nd level very quickly and decisively.’ That’s exactly what you want out of a LG in a ZBS scheme. Not knowing who to hit may be due to the fact he’s raw and hasn’t peaked or hit his ceiling like most prospects. Again, it’s coachable. Tom Cable seems to prefer O-lineman that he can mold, and will take to coaching and input.

        I too like Flowers and Ervin more, but I don’t think either will be there when Seattle trades back right around the same spot they did last year IMO. Seattle may not draft every guy they talk to or show interest in, but every guy they drafted last year, either was brought into the VMAC, pro days were attended by Seattle, some type of rumored interest, and connections to PC or someone on the coaching staff.

        • CHawk Talker Eric

          V12 I’m curious to know how you feel about Sambi vs. Poole vs. Crisp? All 3 project to OG (though maybe Crisp could backup at OT).

          Take into account their relative draft expense – Sambi somewhere in R2-3, Poole in R4-5, Crisp in R5-7.

          • Volume 12

            Ty Sambrailo: I’m probably in the minority, but I really like this kid. Great athleticism, just a natural, ‘Seahawky’ personality, tough as nails, needs more functional strength, but a perfect fit for the LG position in a ZBS scheme. He’s a former champion in skiing (snow), his family are all athletes. I’ll be surprised if he gets out of the 65-70 range.

            Terry Poole: Former JUCO guy and basketball player, really good athlete, versatile in college, but will probably play G in the NFL, I think he’s still learning the game like Sambrailo is. Strong, tree trunks for legs, another big time character. I know the least about him out of these 3. Rounds 4-5 sound about right to me.

            Rob Crisp: Rob turned me onto this guy. Another really good athlete. Great feet, has battled back from multiple injuries, big time character guy. Takes kids out shopping for Christmas as part of a program at NC St, great length. I don’t think he can play G in the NFL, probably strictly a tackle. But I could be wrong. He may need to get stronger. A real sleeper prospect.

            IMO Sambrailo is the best out of these three guys. Crisp would make a great back-up tackle at both RT and LT. Poole is really good to and would be my choice if they wait until the mid rounds to replace Big Carp.

            I think the rounds you have them projected at are actually quite good and they should go in that range. I hope this helps you out my man. If not, feel free to elaborate or ask some more.

            Remember the MWC (Mountain West Conference) isn’t in the Big 5 per se, but is by no means a bad or downgraded conference. Joel Bitonio did come from here if I’m not mistaken.

            • Volume 12

              Forgot to add that I’d take Ty Sambrailo in the early 2nd, and I wouldn’t be surprised if he is Seattle’s 1st overall selection. Of course I’m assuming they trade back into the 38-45 type of range.

              • CHawk Talker Eric

                You turned me on to Poole and I’ve been leaning towards him in the mid rounds, mostly because he reminds me of a (slightly) leaner, quicker version of Carp. He could almost (almost) back up RT. I wonder if he has any C chops.

                I’m not opposed to Sambi earlier. But I really (really) want Agholor and I think he’s gone somewhere in early R2.

                • Volume 12

                  Carp isn’t a bad comp. Although a slightly smaller version of Michael Bowie may be more apt.

                  Yeah Nelson Agholor would be a sweet selection. But, Darren Waller, Jalen Strong, Tyler Lockett, Kenny Bell, Tre McBride, possibly Chris Conley are all really good options. I’m not worried about receiver, LG, or even CB in this draft. I think Seattle will knock it out of the park this year. But, expect some a project or two and a no name (Jimmy Staten) or two as well.

                  • Volume 12

                    Oops! Add Devin Smith to that list as well.

        • peter

          Fair points to be sure and I like you don’t necessarily go based on where the “pundits” are predictin gplayers but after the senior bowl and the combine it seems to me that his stock has slid a bit. I actually think he’d be a pretty good fit in Seattle, I just think first pick for Seattle’s draft may be a bit high for him. Or even at the 62nd spot if that is Seattle’s second pick.

          I’ll watch some more tape to be sure and like I said I thought he was a good athlete with some really nice quickness, I just wanted to see more of that edge that people talk about, and when I watch the cut ups I always pick the team/player’s hardest opponent first….Sambraillo vs Utah per example, David Johnson vs. Iowa…and then go down the list to the other games. I’ll be the first to admit when I’ve called it wrong but right now all of Seattle’s starting Oline men come from the power 5 conferences show this would be a first for them.

          And I totally agree that Seattle always makes some sort of contact…..though I think the story goes that they never said word one to Russell Wilson!

          • Volume 12

            Interesting about all of Seattle’s O-lineman coming from the Power 5 conferences. Now that you say it, I realize in fact they are.

            JS never said one word to RW, they did talk to him, but didn’t reveal it until after.

            I don’t think 2nd round is to high for him at all, and even if he is say a 3rd rounder, remember Rob’s point. Seattle doesn’t care if they take a guy 1 or 2 rounds before where the ‘experts’ say he should go. I think you could make the case that all of Seattle’s picks except for ET and Okung went at least a round or 15 picks before everyone said they should.

            • peter

              Watched san Jose st. Again quickness absolutely present throughout. Volume12 full disclosure about Ty….i realize I’m a bit biased towards a consistent nod at taking high oline men with the first through third pick and it colors my opinion towards that position a bit.

              I get you win in the trenches but definitely see less attention draft wise to the dline or my current desire to see more WR firepower on the team.

              That said Sambrailo I could see as a great guard with the speed to push to the second level and probably like him just south of Erving and north by about two rounds of everyone else.

              • Volume 12

                Peter, that’s what I like you about buddy. You keep an open mind and aren’t so stuck in your ways that maybe your mind could be changed, or maybe you missed something in a prospect, but went back and took a second look, whatever. You get my point.

                I’m a bit confused about the second part/paragraph of your post.

                • peter

                  Oh I just meant I’m a bit down across the board on Oline in general so all prospects I’ve been more nit picky then necessary. The trenches comment is because the front office has spent a ton of picks on line relative to d line and I’m not sure the plug and play FA thing totally works and would like to see them develop a bit more on the d line

  13. Ukhawk

    Feel like the draft and free agency is lining up so well for the Hawks. Love how the FA depth at DT is stacking up which plays into how/why we usually go FA DL due to lack of strength/power in fixing via draftees. Rob need to do a mock ‘draft’ of free agents

    • CharlieTheUnicorn

      The team has weaknesses in DT, OL and WR. Guess which 3 positions are deep in the draft… bingo. Add in some of the quality players out in the FA market, they could still get an impact player on the cheap.

      Here is a guy I liked long ago.. and has recently hit the FA market Defensive end Jonathan Massaquoi 6’2″ 264. He was needing a change of scenery, lets see what he can do in Seattle. 1.59 10 yard split in 40 / 4.68 40 at pro day. I’m in!

  14. Hawkfan77

    Dockett is a guy I could see fitting in nicely in our locker room. I think he’s got that football, want to win, personality that could be a good fit. I’d like to see Kevin Williams brought back and then Docket on a one year deal. That’d greatly help our DL depth. Plus it frees up the Hawks draft strategy. Not that they go out of their way to draft for need, but better DL depth before the draft just helps with the BPA route.

    The best part about signing Dockett? He doesn’t cost against our compensatory picks for next year.

  15. EranUngar

    FA is linked to the draft potential. When teams perceive that the draft is deep on a certain position they will be inclined to cut players in that position and/or avoid the rush to overpay for FAs in that position.
    I think we see just that right now with the flood of DL players hitting the FA market.

    It seems that the DL FA market this year is becoming a buyers market and i hope the Seahawks make good use of it. It’s looking like the 2013 FA market that landed us Avril and Bennett. They may go for an elite player at a bargain price (Sue, Paea etc.) or use the market to get a vet like Dockett at a cap friendly deal. Either way, i already predicted that the Seahawks will be active picking a DT FA and it looks like it’s the perfect year for it. If they go for a big name, they will release McD and his 3M cap hit will go into that deal. If they go for a low cost vet, it keeps the JT dream alive. (If they do not have the “YES” from Lynch prior to FA they will go big in FA…)

    FA will be very meaningful this year to predict the draft.

    Once the combine effects calm down, team are balancing what they already knew about players with their combine measurements. They trust what they saw all year long more then the combine measurements. Players like Weller/Conely will be available on day 3 in spite of their measurements. I’m sure we can get one in the 4th round. The only way this FO will not trade back from the 1st round is if a player they had on their top 15 list suddenly drops back to them. That rarely happens. When they trade back, they get that Weller/Conely type of player in addition to their pick 6-10 spots later. It’s too good to ignore.

    Still, until we see what happens in FA we are working in the dark.

    • kyle

      I would love it if the hawks got Gurley in the first and worked out a deal to drop back in some rounds and still ended up walking away with conley and weller. Throw in McBride and I’d cry out in joy.

    • Ho Lee Chit

      Dl’s and WR’s are flooding free agency which makes it less likely we select a guy at either position with our first pick. CB and OL is shaping up as the place where need will match opportunity at #31. I realize most on this board do not think highly of our WR group. IMO, they are not bad. While there are no stars in the group, they get the job done. The emergence of Chris Matthews and potential of Kevin Norwood and Douglas McNeil gives us a lot of depth to start the year. Once the season begins, we will get PRich back. Frankly, I do not see the need for a pick in this area unless a standout is available. I expect we hold off drafting a WR until round three or four and use those early picks at other positions. At that point in the draft, Phillip Dorset might be the guy. First and second round picks should step in and start immediately. Only the top four or five WR’s in this draft would start next year for the Seahawks. Even Richardson could not do it. Norwood barely saw the field.

      • peter

        I’ll take the bait and play devils advocate here.

        With Tharold Simon having an additional year to work his game and a guy like AJ Jefferson out here to go with Burley and a recovering Lane it could be said that we are covered at DB. Plus Bailey, Gilliam, Petrick Lewis, and if Scott can ever play again the Oline is pretty well set.

        I’m just screwing around of course and there are definite needs for improvement in those areas, but to be fair citing an Arena League player, a guy with four catches (Matthews) a guy with nine catches (norwood) a guy who Pete Carrol said his knee situation may be worse then expected (I sense arthritis when I hear that to go with two torn acl’s) in Prich, Jermaine Kearse who has averaged 15 catches, 1 td, 230 yds a season, and finally a 29 year old 5th year player in Ricardo Lockette who has managed 3 td’s, 18 catches, in his whole career so far and say “well we’re good at that position,” is short sighted.

        You may be right that the team feels that they are set at that position. Honestly I could totally be wrong. But as Lynch ages and the fact that when/if he leaves there will literally never be another one of him. It may be time to attempt to work a little harder on the forward pass. The seahawks have a great deep ball thrower and scramble play artist and as much as I love the potential of Matthews and love Baldwin’s grit and attitude I’m basically ready to see about 3 new WR’s in that group. I’d like to see some explosion at the position, some one who can actually work a broken play like Mike Evans, I’d love to see a Waller/ Matthews combo and get Pete Carroll back to his twin towers world theory of WR play.

        Bottom line for me the ship can set sail on Walters, Lockette, and Prich may have a whole year off so that’s three spots there that all need an upgrade. We still can’t tell if Matthews was coming on or a total superbowl aberration, and if Norwood will ever shine due to age and fit. There are just too many unknowns with this group and for all the talk year in and year out about marshall, vjax, a botched up to put it lightly trade for Percival harvin, the seahawks have been awful about drafting or even aquiring quality players for Willson to grow with. Every great QB needs a player that he can work with.

        The Seahawks to me are literally the most jacked up about getting Willson help out of all the teams in the league. Brady apologists complain about his talent level, but he’s had Welker, Moss, a good young Branch. Romo and Bryant plus Witten, Stafford and Megatron/Tate, Kaepernick and bringing in an effective Boldin, Manning and his 15 year career of pro bowl all pro talent, Roethislburger has always had good to great talent around him, Cutler is a jerks store but they get him Brandon Marshall, Indy drafts Luck and the next pick is Fleener at least an attempt to give him someone to work with, Joe Flacco-anquan Boldin, steve smith…….

        I’m not trying to be argumentative but beyond the trade that literally was useless for Harvin who have the Seahawks got to help Willson out? The best Offensive players were here before in Lynch/Miller/Baldwin the next best choice would be one player in Prich who you can’t predict acl injuries so I’ll rate that as a positive attempt, then following that Wilson a raw as get out TE who has been thrust into duty probably too soon so I’ll count that as a bit of a positive. But other then that which isn’t much of a list there hasn’t been any help and frankly I think it’s been well past time to do something about it.

        • SunPathPaul

          I agree completely. I would love to see 2-3 WR, and a TE drafted if we attain none through FA.

          Agholor, Lockette, Waller would be a nice Trio! McBride, Conley, Sifrin would be nice!

          Waller, Bell, Diggs would be sweet too! (Diggs really runs well after the catch)

          We need an INFUSION of fresh talent at the WR/TE position…Can’t wait to see who!

          • peter

            Right there you list nine players I would be stoked to see on the Seahawks.

            I recently reboarded the Devin Smith train btw. I just think he may fall to the third for some reason and his whole career so far has been about making the most of limited opportunities. Plus as a fan of “lunch pail,” players WR’s from high profile teams who take pride in being gunners are always a plus to me. I have a lot of time for Dorsett and get his appeal but think Smith’s skillset actually fits what the Hawks do quite a bit better.

            • peter

              addendum….I meant fall to the late second. I don’t know why but it’s just a feeling.

              • Volume 12

                Looking at this roster, wide receiver is the one area that’s clearly in need of at least 2 upgrades. I’m not sold on WR Kevin Norwood in the slightest, and as I’ve said previously, I hope I’m wrong about him.

                • SunPathPaul

                  I think if you look back at that awesome catch he had on a slant that RW threw early, it hit him as he looked, and he caught it for a 1st down. Norwood has skill, I just see that RW likes to so safe with the ball, that due to Norwood being hurt in training camp, they never got to develop that chemistry and trust. RW ‘barely’ started trusting P.Rich. Then he goes down…darn it!

                  I feel Norwood will be solid and reliable. A quality clutch 2,3,4 WR…

                  Now let’s flood the ranks with talent!!!

                  • Volume 12

                    Your probably right. Like I said, I hope I’m wrong about him, because I do like him, think he has a nice NFL skill set, and he’s a guy you want to root for knowing his back-ground and what he overcame,

                    IMO Seattle will take a guy with size, or a guy like Tre McBride that plays bigger or plays like a big receiver, and then a Stefon Diggs, Tyler Lockett, Nelson Agholor, Antwan Godley, Ty Montgomery,etc. Someone that will contribute on special teams and be a field-tilting type weapon/athlete.

      • EranUngar

        I’m sorry but IMO going for a CB at 31 just because this year is a poor year for CBs is being forced to overpay. I agree that CB is a problem. You solve it either by boosting your DL to help your CBs and/or by plugging in a temp that gives you some depth and options (Thurmond and Blackmon are out in the market, know our system and will be very cheap backup options).

        We are too good to be forced to pay expensive draft capital over lesser talent just because we miss a guy. We should play the board to our advantage not fight it.

        The board sais there is deep talent at WR, possibly at DL. Those should be our quality targets at FA/1st round. That’s were the most talent per capital should be gained.

  16. SunPathPaul

    I heard an interview on 710 ESPN Seattle with WR Tyler Lockette. I wouldn’t be surprised if they target this guy. I know he smaller, has small hands. etc, but he is talented and sounds like the perfect fit for a long term marriage with RW.

    Lockette Seems very Seahawky… Round? Hmm… he is good at PR/KR too, so some team will want that package.

    • red

      I think most people have Lockette as 3RD Round top 100 player on big boards. Lockette and Hardy from
      ECU seem to be the two best pure slot guys and maybe Crowder from Duke but he had a bad combine.

    • Volume 12

      Lockette is indeed very ‘Seahawky.’ Great work ethic, film rat, good bloodlines, reminds me of a Randall Cobb type guy.

      • Volume 12

        Miss St HB Josh Robinson was also on 710 ESPN Seattle this week too. Another guy that fits Seattle’s style. Tough, hard-nosed, amazing back-story/upbringing, fantastic pass catcher, good blocker, high character, flashy personality.

        I know he ran a sluggish 40, he did express disappointment in his combine performance, but his play speed is completely different. As Rob said on the last post, he’d make a good 3rd down back. IMO he’d be an exciting part of a RBBC for the future. Maybe even a Mike Tolbert lite type of back.

  17. bobbyk

    If we got Devin Smith in the 2nd and Darren Waller in the 3rd, I’d love it!

  18. red

    I just was looking at the draft value chart, and I think we could do something like 7 picks in the 2nd- 4RD if there are only a dozen or so first round grades in this draft lets move that 31 pick down to the low 50s. So the chart says if we move down about 20 spots we should pick up a mid 3RD and a mid 5TH. That would gives us a mid second and a late second and a mid third and late third trade the two 5TH RD picks and turn that into mid 4th. We could probably get a good mix of the guys we want and need WR Agholor/Smith/Dorsett /McBride OL Shambroilo/Marpet/Thomas CB Rowe/Carter/
    jones.

    Picks
    2nd Round
    50ish
    63

    3rd Round
    80ish
    95

    4RD
    115=120 ish
    130
    135 comp

    5thRD
    2 Comps

    6th Round
    Percy jets trade pick and comp

    7th round
    normal pick

  19. drewjov11

    I keep looking at the wideouts and I keep coming back to smith. I love his ability to get deep and his ball skills. He’s special in that regard. I really like Cameron Erving as well. These might be my two favorite “realistic” picks at 31.

    • peter

      Honestly I’m with you with those two. people will cry Smith was picked to high I that happened but again he wouldn’t make it to the 62nd so what’s to high really.

      dream set up….number one: Drop down five spots take Devin Smith and at the natural 62nd take Ty Sambrailo.

  20. drewjov11

    I’m not as big a fan of Ty as some here. I think I would rather see if rob crisp falls to that spot. He seems to have more length and power. Maybe he allows Britt to move I inside.

  21. Forrest

    Draft/FA Wishlist:

    FA-Pick up either Julius Thomas or Suh, and cut older/injury prone vets such as: T-Jack, Miller, McCoy, McDaniel (examples). Let Carpenter and Maxwell go.

    Draft-Trade out of Round 1. From there, let JS/PC do their magic. However, here is a quick list of players I really want to see:
    Jake Fisher OL (day one starter imo, can easily replace Carpenter, might still be available if they trade down)
    Darren Waller WR (underrated, tall, fast, consistent, my personal favorite reciever this year, maybe available end of Round 2, or early Round 3)
    Kenny Bell WR (4th Round or later, great blocker, every time I see his tape I see a “Seahawk” reciever)
    Xavier Williams DT (4th Round or later, personal favorite d-linemen in the draft, diamond in the rough)

    • Ribert

      With a glut of DL on the market, I hope/think the price comes down. And Suh apparently wants to play for us because we are a great team, great D and he would be closer to home. I think adding Suh would make our D legendary! And the cost might be within reason when we subtract other salaries that we would cut. Darren Waller looks like a great prospect, but pretty raw. I like David Johnson as a mid round RB prospect https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dCBm1c2Am-I Turbins rookie contract time is coming to a close and CMike seems to have issues.

    • Volume 12

      I feel the same way about Kenny Bell. Big fan of his. Love his ‘Afro Thunder’ persona.

  22. Brian

    Personally, I’m hoping that we stay away from everything but the bargain bin free agents. With Maxwell leaving (presumably), that’s a third round comp pick, plus cap room to keep our guys. To be honest, I would rather have Miller/Irvin/third round pick than Julius Thomas. Win forever/young forever? I think we do that with solid drafting, retaining all of our own guys that we want (or collecting picks when they leave), and not spending money on expensive, aging free agents.

    That being said, I certainly wouldn’t mind a Suh or JT… just don’t think it’s the right choice. I feel like our front office has a lot of good directions they can go. go hawks!

  23. Dean

    Seahawks tend to focus on a special quality and that’s why I think Devin Smith is still alive for the Seahawks. His special strength also aligns with RW ability to throw the deep ball.

    Rob could you see Seattle targeting him? He seems to have fallen out of conversations when discussing the Seahawks.

    • Rob Staton

      Yes I believe he could be a Seahawk. They love difference making traits and production. He’s been the best deep ball receiver in college football the last few years statistically. He high points the ball brilliantly and makes special grabs. He knows how to set up a corner to open up the sideline creating a big target zone. He’s also an excellent special teams gunner.

      • CharlieTheUnicorn

        If he is able to slip past both Denver and Indianapolis, then he could be in play. I just do not see him making it past both of these teams. Specifically Indy. They love to throw the ball deep and need a legit outside threat.

        The best part of the 2015 draft, there are some very unique size/weight/speed type of guys that could be a fit… so let’s not get too down if our favorite “draft crush” get’s picked up. There are other outstanding prospects in the top 4 rounds in 2015 NFL draft at WR. 😀

  24. New Guy

    With Suh on board I don’t know how opposing QB’s are going to have the time to accurately target whatever Seahawk cornerback is opposite Sherman. It’s kind of a two-fer.

    We’re going to lose Maxwell anyway. It’ll take a while to get some home grown cooking happening in that area. We will grow some reasonable from within the organization. With Suh we can have a stout and aggressive D line, fast and intelligent LB’s and an overall very good back end. It will be stifling to the opponent and will almost completely occupy their coaching staffs each week to deal with it.

    We could swing this deal and be overall a much stronger team. Our nascent offense will be greatly benefited. I didn’t really think it was possible until reading some of Rob’s threads a few weeks back. Now I’m fascinated.

    • Volume 12

      We will probably lose Maxwell, but at the same time, I wouldn’t be surprised if the re-sign him, This is a guy they drafted in the 6th round, developed, patiently let him work out the kinks in his game, and now he’s an integral part of this defense.

      ‘Why should someone else reap the rewards of PC/JS and the DB staff’s hard work and effort?’ That’s how I’m guessing Seattle is looking at this. Yes, the price tag may be to high, but damn.

      • CharlieTheUnicorn

        Paying 4 members of the secondary top money would not make sense. Seattle can;t sink that much money into one position group. Roughly 8, 10 and 12 million already is committed, adding another 8 million would be too much for the position group. Seattle needs some cheap/good guys in the secondary to start at CB2 and back-up the big guns in the LOB, paying Maxwell doesn’t fit/make sense long term.

  25. Trevor

    Had a bad dream last night!

    Draft Trade that blows up twitter and NFL server

    Tampa Bay Picks Jamies Winston #1

    Comissioner goes to Mic and announces there has been a Trade

    Seattle trades Russel Wilson to the Tennessee Titans for the # 2 overall pick as well as the Titans second round pick and next years #1.

    Seattle selects Marcus Mariotta with the #2 pick.

    Seattle trades Mariotta to Philadelphia Eagles for this years 1st and 2nd picks + Nick Foles and next years #2

    So basically Seattle would have
    Nick Foles
    An extra first round pick this year Phil
    Two extra second round picks this year Ten, Phil
    An extra first next year Tenn
    An extra second next year Phil

    Also a ton of cap space without Wilson’s new deal over their heads

    Made me think for a moment but I still prefer Russ.

    • Ho Lee Chit

      That is a nightmare. You bettfor er lay off the sauce before going to bed. Seattle would do no better than 8-8 with Foles and be looking for a QB for the next decade.

    • drewjov11

      Good lord, someone was playing madden last night. That’s a heck of a strange dream, but that would be terrible. Nick Foles is a not ok.

  26. RealRhino2

    Well, I’m all over the map now! At first I was on the “trade up for once!” train, to take advantage of our window and get a special player. Then reality set in, and I was nodding my head along with Rob to the idea that #31 isn’t appreciably better than #41, so trade down and get something for it.

    Now I’m not saying trade up again, but I’m coming around to the possibility of sticking put. Just checked out a couple of last year’s mocks, and in each case there were 6-8 guys that people thought would be gone by #32 that were still there. So odds are that a handful of the guys you are seeing mocked between 20-31 are actually still going to be ours if we want them.

    • Ho Lee Chit

      In the first and second round a team should get an instant starter on a rookie contract. It is necessary to keep the pipeline of low dollar, high talent players who are out performing their contracts, flowing. Trading back gives you more chances but with a higher risk of failure. I agree that staying put is a wise move this year. I do not see a trade scenario at the moment that would benefit the team more than staying at #31. The only question is which position group will have an opening for a first round talent.

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