Mock draft Wednesday’s: 13th February

Another week, another scenario to look at. Yesterday we touched on the possibility of players ‘falling’ in the draft and how this could benefit the Seahawks. This week’s mock mixes things up a bit and considers the possibility of one or two players dropping into range.

I’m a big Alec Ogletree fan. A lot of other people aren’t. When I watched the Ole Miss tape (see above) I felt like I was possibly watching the best player in the 2013 draft. At the very least I thought I was watching a player with the greatest upside. Not many linebacker’s rush the edge for a sack, make a defining tackle on fourth down inches from the marker, force a safety and sprint 20-25 yards in coverage to make a leaping interception. This was perfection.

There are other games where Ogletree’s tape is only OK. At times he seems almost disinterested, appears to avoid contact and he can go through the motions. Throw in a few lingering character issues and a team suspension due to a failed drugs test and suddenly you begin to consider if he’s due for a fall.

The combine could be his biggest friend. It’s the type of platform where he can run a blistering forty, look great in coverage drills and get a team or two to fall in love with his physical potential. Ogletree could be one of the stars of the show later this month. On the other hand, he’s going to have to answer questions about his various suspensions and what if he doesn’t quite live up to expectations on the field? He’s going to be one of the more interesting players to monitor in Indianapolis.

As I mentioned yesterday, don’t underestimate the perception of a ‘safe’ pick. Khaseem Greene is another converted safety playing linebacker. He doesn’t have Ogletree’s length or upside, but he has a flawless character, will perform well at the combine and will completely ace his interviews. And I guarantee there will be a GM or two weighing up the two players and siding with Greene.

Look at the chart below and you’ll see why some people are definitely underrating this guy. It charts impact tackles made by linebackers during the 2012 season. Greene isn’t just ahead of every other player, he’s in a different universe. There’s every other linebacker in college football — and then there’s Khaseem Greene. See for yourself…

If Ogletree gets past the first couple of teams who would consider drafting an outside linebacker in round one (there aren’t many) he could drop a little bit. And the Seahawks need to be ready.

Tony Pauline recently only ranked Ogletree as the 18th best player in the draft while Josh Norris today placed him at #26. If a lot of NFL teams share that opinion, dropping to #25 isn’t exactly a pipe dream.

I would still argue that a fall is not ‘likely’ at this stage, but I wanted to bring the possibility to the table in this weeks mock. He could easily be a top-ten pick and Buffalo would be a good fit if they don’t go quarterback at #8. Ogletree is such a fantastic athlete that GM’s and coaches could easily end up talking themselves into drafting him. At a time when more and more teams value speed on offense, a guy with this kind of range will have value.

Ogletree’s at his best playing deep and swarming to the ball carrier. He’s athletic enough to react and play the ball carrier, work in coverage and occasionally rush the edge. For a team like Seattle that likes roaming, instinctive linebackers he’s a good fit. And while John Schneider may too prefer the leadership qualities of Khaseem Greene — if the Rutgers linebacker leaves the board (do not rule that out) it’s a moot point. Ogletree has to be attractive if he makes it into the 20’s. He has to be.

I suspect that in such an unpredictable draft, we’ll see more than a few shocks in round one. That could mean some unexpected falls. And as discussed yesterday, the Seahawks need to be ready to pounce if certain opportunities arise.

There are a few other changes in this weeks mock and the options at #25 on the whole are pretty healthy. I think out of all the players in this class, Khaseem Greene is still the one that shouts ‘Seahawks’ more than any other — but he wasn’t available this week. I want to stress (again) that this is just another scenario we’re looking at here. So basically, don’t get too bent out of shape if you don’t agree with the picks. We’ve got about ten more of these to do before the end of April and we’ll continue to look at different ideas. This years draft is so unpredictable — and that’s a good thing. I’m not going to dish up the same mock every week.

In round two I have another defensive pick for Seattle. What is Datone Jones’ best position? He’s not a full time five or three technique. Is he a power end? These question marks could keep him out of the first round and his best position might be the one Jason Jones filled in Seattle this season. He could be quite effective as a nickel interior rusher. If he’s on the board at #56 the Seahawks could show some interest.

I’d previously pencilled that pick in for a pass-catcher, but many of the bigger targets are off the board. If the Seahawks target a guy like Fred Davis (ex-Washington and USC tight end) in free agency, that could suggest two early picks for the defense in the draft. At the moment I think if the Seahawks want to draft a big receiver or athletic tight end who can start quickly, they might have to do it at #25. That remains a distinct possibility with guys like Zach Ertz and Keenan Allen potentially going in that range.

First round

#1 Luke Joeckel (T, Texas A&M)
They desperately need a quarterback but if Branden Albert’s back issues are legit, this becomes more likely.
#2 Sharrif Floyd (DT, Florida)
Floyd has a ton of upside. He could play the one or three technique in Gus Bradley’s scheme.
#3 Star Lotulelei (DT, Utah)
They could lose both Desmond Bryant and Richard Seymour in free agency.
#4 Dion Jordan (DE, Oregon)
Speed and height seems to be the order of the day for Chip Kelly’s defense.
#5 Bjoern Werner (DE, Florida State)
The Lions could use an edge rusher, especially if they lose Cliff Avril.
#6 Damontre Moore (DE, Texas A&M)
A partner for Jabaal Sheard is required.
#7 Matt Barkley (QB, USC)
After the fiasco of 2012, don’t expect Arizona to do anything but draft a quarterback here.
#8 Geno Smith (QB, West Virginia)
They have some nice pieces in Buffalo but they must find a quarterback.
#9 Barkevious Mingo (DE, LSU)
The Jets have no edge threat for a defense predicated on pass rush.
#10 Sheldon Richardson (DT, Missouri)
Prototype three-technique.
#11 Eric Fisher (T, Central Michigan)
They need to draft a left tackle. He could go earlier.
#12 Dee Milliner (CB, Alabama)
If he goes here, Tampa Bay hearts sink.
#13 Chance Warmack (G, Alabama)
This isn’t a bad consolation prize if Dee Milliner leaves the board before they pick.
#14 Cordarrelle Patterson (WR, Tennessee)
It seems almost certain someone will fall for Patterson’s playmaking qualities.
#15 Ziggy Ansah (DE, BYU)
This would be a gamble for a 3-4 defense,
#16 Kenny Vaccaro (S, Texas)
Vaccaro would be a nice addition to St. Louis’ defense.
#17 Kevin Minter (LB, LSU)
This could be Pittsburgh’s biggest need.
#18 Johnathan Hankins (DT, Ohio State)
Jay Ratliff’s latest issue could make adding size up front a bigger priority.
#19 D.J. Fluker (T, Alabama)
With a lot of the top defensive players off the board, they could look to the offensive line.
#20 Lane Johnson (T, Oklahoma)
Unless they go the free agency route, this is Chicago’s priority.
#21 DeAndre Hopkins (WR, Clemson)
Imagine this guy across from A.J. Green. Scary.
#22 Khaseem Greene (LB, Rutgers)
Totally underrated. Impact player and turnover machine.
#23 Jonathan Cooper (G, North Carolina)
Plug him in alongside Matt Kalil for ten years and enjoy.
#24 Travis Frederick (G, Wisconsin)
More than anything they need to bolster the offensive line.
#25 Alec Ogletree (LB, Georgia)
If he falls, he could find a home in Seattle’s defense.
#26 Zach Ertz (TE, Stanford)
Donald Driver’s retired, Greg Jennings and Jermichael Finley are free agents. They could go for a pass catcher here.
#27 Keenan Allen (WR, California)
You can never have too many weapons on offense.
#28 Xavier Rhodes (CB, Florida State)
After a rough ride in the playoffs, the Broncos could boost their secondary here.
#29 Jarvis Jones (DE, Georgia)
The spinal stenosis issue could lead to a fall. Someone will take a shot.
#30 Eddie Lacy (RB, Alabama)
An ideal replacement for the ageing Michael Turner.
#31 Desmond Trufant (CB, Washington)
The secondary in San Fran could use a shot in the arm.
#32 Manti Te’o (LB, Notre Dame)
Tough shoes to fill, but the Ravens often look for value in round one.

Second round

#33 Jacksonville – Jesse Williams (DT, Alabama)
#34 Kansas City – Ryan Nassib (QB, Syracuse)
#35 Philadelphia – Barrett Jones (C, Alabama)
#36 Detroit – Tavon Austin (WR, West Virginia)
#37 Cincinnati – Stepfan Taylor (RB, Stanford)
#38 Arizona – Menelik Watson (T, Florida State)
#39 New York Jets – Mike Glennon (QB, NC State)
#40 Tennessee – Larry Warford (G, Kentucky)
#41 Buffalo – Johnthan Banks (CB, Mississippi State)
#42 Miami – Gavin Escobar (TE, San Diego State)
#43 Tampa Bay – Matt Elam (S, Florida)
#44 Carolina – Kawann Short (DT, Purdue)
#45 San Diego – Jonathan Jenkins (DT, Georgia)
#46 St. Louis – Tyler Eifert (TE, Notre Dame)
#47 Dallas – Alex Okafor (DE, Texas)
#48 Pittsburgh – John Simon (DE, Ohio State)
#49 New York Giants – Jordan Reed (TE, Florida)
#50 Chicago – Dallas Thomas (G, Tennessee)
#51 Washington – Phillip Thomas (S, Fresno State)
#52 Minnesota – Robert Woods (WR, USC)
#53 Cincinnati – Arthur Brown (LB, Kansas State)
#54 Miami – Blidi Wreh-Wilson (CB, Connecticut)
#55 Green Bay – Giovanni Bernard (RB, North Carolina)
#56 Seattle – Datone Jones (DT, UCLA)
#57 Houston – Tyler Wilson (QB, Arkansas)
#58 Denver – Sylvester Williams (DT, North Carolina)
#59 New England – Jonathan Cyprien (S, Florida International)
#60 Atlanta – Vance McDonald (TE, Rice)
#61 San Francisco – Markus Wheaton (WR, Oregon State)
#62 Baltimore – Oday Aboushi (T, Virginia)

117 Comments

  1. Zach

    Alec Ogletree? Yes please. If Harvin leaves Minnesota I think they pretty much have to go WR in round 1 unless they get Jennings or Wallace. After looking down the list of players available in the first two rounds I am feeling pretty good about who could fall to us. We will base our picks though on what we do in the FA market.

    FA:
    1. TE Jared Cook
    2. DE Michael Bennett

    DRAFT:
    1. DT Kawaan Short
    2. DE Cornellius Carradine

  2. Michael

    7 offensive lineman in the top 24? God, I hope that happens. Let’s hope that another safety, corner and QB can sneak in there too and effectively give us one of the top 15 players from our board.

  3. Sam Jaffe

    As spectacular a specimen that Ogletree is, I don’t think they pick a linebacker if Jessie Williams and John Jenkins are still on the board. The ghost of Aaron Curry still haunts everyone in the Seahawks organization.

    As you’ve pointed out in the comments section of so many of your draft picks in this mock, free agency changes everything. I suggest that after one week of free agency, you will do a mock draft that is about 75% accurate in regards to what actually happens in April. (BTW, I think that 75% is spectacularly good–the art of predicting drafts is one of the hardest tasks there is).

    However, I don’t think that free agency won’t give us clues as to the Seahawks’ picks. They tend to fill all their holes with free agents, giving them maximum flexibility (and zero transparency) at draft time. Remember the Barret Ruud signing? Everyone knew they had a hole at MLB so they paid a journeyman free agent cheap money to fill that hole. Ruud never started even a preseason game. I predict that they will do the same at 3T DT, TE and WLB: a FA will be signed at each of those spots, even if it’s a JAG. That way they will be able to have a 100% BAP strategy during the draft, instead of having to reach for a need.

    • Michael

      I would argue that this team has been one of the more transparent teams in the league when it comes to the draft.

      • Sam Jaffe

        Michael,
        I think that no team is transparent in the draft. The words that GM’s say in the run-up to the draft are immediately filed into the trash can by every other front office. What matters is what can be objectively observed in a team’s roster. By signing Ruud last year, Seattle filled the last observable hole, making the choice of Wagner in the second less transparent.

        And if you mean that PC/JS don’t publicly lie in advance of the draft, I point to the 2010 post-season comments of PC when he said that they were confident that Stacy Andrews would emerge as their Right Tackle Of The Future. It was all a diversion. They picked James Carpenter and proceeded to cut Andrews shortly thereafter. I don’t think anyone signed him and he’s now out of the league.

        • Belgaron

          You have to remember that the “always compete” program includes the off season and that what they saw in Andrews summer efforts made it easier to draft Carpenter. To say it was a “public lie” is not accurate and I can guarantee you that at that moment PC had no idea they would be drafting Carpenter in the 1st. Things change, plans change, and analysis gets completed for the intersection of where they’ll pick who will drop to them.

          And as far as transparency goes, being open doesn’t mean anyone knew Irvin, Wagner, and Wilson would be the top guys last year outside of their tightest circle and even they didn’t know if other teams would scoop them. Not even Wilson knew they were that high on him.

    • Rob Staton

      Well, Tim Ruskell isn’t making the picks anymore. He’s the only one scarred by Curry.

      • Belgaron

        Imagine if Curry had been a Pro Bowler or even a solid starter, it’d be at least one less hole to fill and it might have led to at least one more win last year. But in 2009, Scheider was helping GB draft a couple of guys named BJ Raji and Clay Matthews. That year, Kiper gave the Seahawks a ‘B’ because they passed over Sanchez and he gave the Packers an ‘A’ for solidifying their shaky defense. Bleacher Report gave Seattle an ‘A-‘ and GB a ‘B’. CBS recently re-graded 2009, giving GB a ‘B+’ and Seattle a ‘C-‘, go figure!

        • Rob Staton

          I wanted Crabtree at the time and still think he would be ideal and superb for this offense. Big, consistent target, challenges in the air with YAC ability. It’s a shame they went Curry instead.

          • Matt Gibson

            I wanted Crabtree as well, but that was only because I had no idea Curry would fall. I still think that was the right choice eventhough today I know it didn’t work out.

            • DavidinBellingham

              I remember jumping for joy when the Seahawks picked Curry. Then when I looked at his tape I was unimpressed. Brian the insurance guy from Washington looked like the best pass rusher, but I thought “what do I know?”. Imagine if we had Raji.

    • Barry

      Curry was replaced by a rookie. A ghost hunts you till the day you exercise it, Wright made it right.

      • Belgaron

        Nah, we essentially flushed a #4 pick overall down the toilet. That pick could have been used on Raji, Cushing, Harvin, Matthews, LeSean McCoy, Henry Melton, or Mike Wallace. Unfortunately, they were probably looking at Sanchez as the other alternative at 4 =P.

        • Michael

          As much as I hated the curry pick, just imagine how much worse it would have been had they taken Sanchez

        • Bishop

          It’s easy to look at it in retrospect. I was excited they were able to grabe the top rated player and a position of need at the time. How he translated into the pro’s is what leaves the bitter taste in Seahawks fans mouths though.

          Mike Wallace was selected in the third round, so why would they have taken him at #4 if they could have had Crabtree? All those you named, outside of Raji, were drafted outside the top 10. Like Rob already said, it was a Ruskell draft, so there you go.

          • Belgaron

            You are right, but in retrospect it shows still how hard it is to fill the first round with the players that will still be considered good picks 4 years later. Seahawks would have been laughed out of the building for taking Melton or Wallace at 4, but they’d be looking like geniuses today, not that they haven’t started to get that rep anyway.

  4. Kenny Sloth

    Wow. Tough choice between Jones and Williams… wow. Really tough choice. I think I’d also go Jones. He just has better speed and penetration ability. I like his burst off the line. I want to see if he can work at the three tech. If Jordan Reed is gone by our pick in the second and Jones is there, he’d be my pick. I just think you have so much more upside with Jones than Williams. Well. If we don’t get a FA DT, we should probably go with Williams. We

  5. Sam Jaffe

    By the way, Rob, you should do a “Mock Free Agency” that predicts where the big names go. Here’s the moves that I think will have the most impact on the draft:
    *Will the Dolphins re-sign Jake Long?
    *Who signs Wes Welker?
    *Who signs Fred Davis, Jared Cook, Delanie Walker and Dustin Keller?
    *Will the Bears franchise Henry Melton?
    *Will the Seahawks sign Randy Starks?
    *Will the Raiders be able to keep Desmond Bryant?
    *Will the Chiefs franchise/re-sign Branden Albert? Dwayne Bowe?
    *Who will the Buccaneers, Eagles and Chiefs spend all their cap money on?
    *Who will be the Brandon Carr of this free agency period–a relatively little-known player that signs a huge contract and ends up being worth the money?
    *Who will be the JoLonn Dunbar of this free agency period–a relatively little-known player that signs a minimum contract but ends up being the last piece of some team’s puzzle?

    The most important moves have to do with where the OT’s, DT’s and TE’s end up–that will have an enormous impact on the OT’s, DT’s and TE’s in the draft.

    • Rob Staton

      Tomorrow I’m going to go over some free agency and draft combo scenarios for Seattle.

      • Jason

        Might have to rename the blog if you keep expanding the scope of what you do. By which I mean, sounds great, and I’m looking forward to it.

      • Snoop Dogg

        Hey Rob! Does Tampa bay already have 1 all pro guard and another pro bowler at the other guard spot? They might be the only team that wouldn’t draft chance warmack.

  6. ivotuk

    I do NOT like Ogletree. He seems like a finesse player and there is no “thump” to his play. The INT was a gimme, the safety was because Jarvis Jones blocked the offensive player and gave Ogletree a wide open shot in to the end zone. The few times he did take on a blocker he got pushed back. The sack was because of speed and the QB got flushed by another Georgia player before Alec got to him but it wasn’t because he blew up a block or anything.

    I don’t like this guy at all and I have the feeling that he can’t take a hit in the NFL. He might be better off as a wide receiver. None of his tackles made the offensive player think “I’m never catching/running the ball over there again.”

    But the usual disclaimer, I’m just a fan with minimal experience watching these tapes. I don’t have the experience that Rob has and I have the utmost respect for what he does. But on this one, I completely disagree.

    Datone Jones seems like a good player but I’m a little reserved on him. He can either be a holy terror that no one saw coming, or he can be another Nick Reed.

    I’m really stuck on getting a DT at 25 with Sheldon Richardson being my first choice, and Kawaan Short a close 2nd. If neither one of them is available then DeAndre Hopkins or Tavon Austin.

    • Rob Staton

      I think that’s quite a harsh assessment on the Ole Miss game, Ivotuk. On the interception he’s covering the slot guy then senses the play so sprints 20 yards downfield to grab the pick. The QB doesn’t even see him because he covers so much ground to get there. It’s a tremendous play. On the safety he actually makes the key play by taking away the inside cut to force the runner to go wide. And it’s only fair he was able to throw down the ball carrier violently to get credit for the play. He also makes an incredible tackle on fourth down to force a turnover and on a bad play early by a defensive back misjudging a route, he sprints downfield at full pelt to make a crucial tackle. He’s not the most physical player in the middle of the field but he has made some pretty violent plays this year.

      • Trudy Beekman

        I haven’t seen a WILL prospect this year that jumps off the tape like Lavonte David or Michael Kendrycks did last year, but maybe that’s because I’m looking for the wrong things. Ogletree has more closing speed than any one person could need, has shown a few times that he can go up and catch a pass, and takes good angles in pursuit. The things I don’t like in Ogletree’s game are his motor, his tackling, and the attitude he plays the game with, and those just so happen to be 3 of the biggest traits I would like to see in our linebackers. I’m just not sold on him yet, as it’s tough for me to visualize his skillset playing the WILL as opposed to the MIKE … all I see are the negatives showing up again.

        In this specific mock I would take Kawann Short there in a second, and maybe Jarvis Jones if there were any hope he could last more than 5 years, but the dialogue is always helpful and appreciated.

        • Phil

          I’m not a big fan of Ogletree, but it might be that IMHO, he’s not suited to play inside (as he did at Georgia) but would be better outside. But, I’ve gone back to watch Phillip Steward on http://draftbreakdown.com/phillip-steward-vs-ucla-2012 and I think that I would pick him over Ogletree. And, in Rob’s mock draft, he might still be available somewhere in Round 3 or later.

          • Rob Staton

            For me Steward is a late rounder at best. He flashes on tape but that’s mainly because he blitzes on a high percentage of his plays.

        • Kenny Sloth

          How, then, do you feel about Greene?

          • Trudy Beekman

            Greene to me is a blue-collar player like Kuechley or Wagner were coming out last year, and is the opposite of Ogletree in a lot of ways. He is a cerebral guy with a relentless motor, which allows him to be in position on a lot of plays and his production is proof of that. Nothing else about his game is elite, and he doesn’t excite me when I watch his tape. He’s not overly physical, but his run and pass D are both really solid. He would be an upgrade to Leroy Hill.

            Ogletree has that splash play abilitiy. The measureables and physical qualities are all there in spades, he just doesn’t ever seem to use them. Too many runs where he stands around on the edge of the pile. Too many passes where he drops into zone and the ball still gets to a receiver a few yards from him. Mix in a play or two per game when he closes 20 yards in a 2 seconds, and it’s just enough to wonder if he could buy in to the philosophy of this team and start laying wood sideline to sideline.

            As for which one I would prefer, I would lean Ogletree even though there is a decent amount of bust potential IMO. I think we’re at a point where we can start taking shots on high upside guys, especially if you think Malcolm Smith could be a serviceable WILL, or if you bring in someone safe just in case. The thought of an amped up Ogletree flying around the field is pretty sick.

            Another guy I’m gonna watch today is Arthur Brown. I watched one of him games a few months ago and remember being pretty impressed.

            • mjkleko

              Ogletree could come in today and play at a higher level then Malcolm Smith. Smith has shown some speed and ability to navigate blockers, but cannot disengage if he gets squared up and can be punished by opposing ball carriers if he doesn’t have a good angle. On a good defense, Malcolm Smith would be a serviceable 4th or 5th linebacker/special teams and I certainly hope that’s his role in 2013.

              I think it’s important to note that with Wagner and KJ on the field, our WIL does not need to be an incredibly heavy hitter, but he does need to be able to read and react at a high level, pursue exceptionally well and make sure tackles on 1 on 1 situations. In the 4-3 under the Hawks play as their base, the WIL is responsible for a lot of space to his right and speed is the order of the day. This is why Bradley & Carroll were willing to play Smith when Hill went down despite his shortcomings, simply to inject that speed that had been sorely lacking at the position.

              The point is, if Smith could be coached up to play the WIL in 2 seasons given his obvious deficiencies, Ogletree could be an absolute stud there. When watching Ogletree in coverage, pointing out whether the ball was completed over his head or not isn’t the point, rather, how quickly did he react to his coverage assignment, how quickly did he initiate his backpedal, did he have to turn and run with a player and if so how fluid was he in doing so, was his coverage technique sound ie could he play similarly at the next level? And I think for a number of these questions, the answer is positive.

              I would be very excited to add either Greene or Ogletree at this point. Both bring some things that have been lacking at the position for some time now. In a perfect world, we would grab the highest rated D-lineman JS/PC have rated in round 1 and somehow find a way to get Khaseem in the 2nd, even if it means trading up to the 40’s. The team has 10 picks, not all will make this team. If we can somehow package a few of those to move up in the 2nd round or secure an extra pick or two next year, that would be phenomenal.

              Also, this wasn’t really meant so much as a rebuttal to you, more just voicing my opinions on the subject.

      • Ryan

        he reminds me of a linebacker version of Earl Thomas. He brings elite pursuit to a defense.

    • Chris

      I agree, although less vehemently.

      He seems a bit too finesse for my tastes. Looks exactly what I’d imagine a talented safety would look like if they were slotted as an LB in college. Can’t take on blocks at all and very light in the pants. I don’t see anything special as a blitzer either other than what you’d expect from a smaller fast guy (any safety will do). That’s not to say I think he’s horrible though. He’s fast, has some nice burst when closing in on plays, and clearly is an all around athlete. Should be good in coverage.

      2nd round I’d have no complaints, but I’m hoping for someone with a bit more impact in the 1st.

  7. Stuart

    Rob, I love your mocks and your opinions. As a “Homer Hawk Fan” this is the place to come for my fix, thank you! At somepoint in the near future would you ever consider listing your other top choices just for the Hawks in R-3/R-7? it would be great to have your opinion on potentional needs and what round they would likely be available.

    For example if the draft went down like this, what type of player would you most desire for R-3 TE/WR?
    R-4 OT etc….

    • Rob Staton

      I try to stay away from too much of a late round focus because it’s so unpredictable. I like to highlight a handful of guys over the year and throw them out there. I LOVE Jordan Hill at Penn State in any round after round two. Kaleb Ramsey at Boston College is another I like – could be R7 or UDFA due to injury issues. Terry Hawthorne at Illinois is a solid later round corner and I like Greg Reid at FSU and Sanders Commings at Georgia. I’d take Bacarri Rambo in any round on day three. On the defensive line – Travis Long and Quinton Dial are favourites of mine. At linebacker — Sio Moore, Kevin Reddick. Wide receiver/tight end — Chris Harper, Ace Sanders, Marcus Davis, Ryan Swope, Mychal Rivera, Brandon Ford, Zach Rodgers.- Ray Graham, Knile Davis, Joseph Randle, Rez Burkhead.

      • Barry

        Willie Carter from Tulsa is a Joker TE prospect. Had some really nice numbers in 2011, but the dipped this last year. Looks solid on film, but theres not a whole lot out there.

      • williambryan

        Rob, what is it that precludes Rambo from a 2nd round possibility? I assume some of the main reasons may be overall depth in this draft and the position of safety? Rambo reminds me a lot of Kam Chancellor but maybe even a little quicker and faster. He’s definitely got a nose for the ball that I don’t think Winston Guy or Jeron Johnson has.

        • Rob Staton

          Character concerns, also wings it a little bit. But man he’s a playmaker with instincts. Always seems to be involved on tape.

          • williambryan

            Would it be kind of “Seahawky” then if he were a second round pick by the team? I guess my question is even though you might not draft him until the third, do you think there may be teams that like him as a second rounder?

            • DavidinBellingham

              We need to think carefully before bringing a guy named Rambo to Washington State. At the very least we need to make sure Brian Dennehy isn’t the DB coach.

      • Leonard

        Some of my favorite late round/FA prospects:
        -TE T.J. Knowles from Sacramento State. 6 foot 8, 255 lbs. pretty good speed and good at winning jump balls. Over grown wide reciever. I think he transferred from South Florida.
        -RB Dennis Johnson from Arkansas. Stronger Leon Washington type.
        -WR’s Josh Boyce from TCU and T.J. Moe from Missouri. Decent size with good hands and very good quickness.
        -QB B.J. Daniels from South Forida. Built like Russell Wilson. Quick release but needs to improve accuracy. Best running QB in draft not named Denard. Maybe a running back if not a QB.
        -DT Chris Jones from Bowling Green. 12.5 sacks and 19 tackles for loss.
        -5tech DE Joe Kruger from Utah. 6-8, 280lbs. with decent quickness and very good strength.

        • Leonard

          Almost forgot one of my favorite linebackers. LB Jon Major from Colorado. Played on a horrible defense but made plays all over the field. Really good acceleration through gaps. Good at shedding blocks, sure tackler and is even pretty natural looking in coverage.

        • Bishop

          Dennis Johnson jumped on my radar a couple months back: short, compact, violent, and has a great burst

          Joe Kruger is another guy I’m interested in, I think he’ll end up on day three, but pretty early.

          As for Denard, he’ll be going into the draft as a WR

          Other players I”m interested in, that haven’t been named yet, are Omoregie Uzzi (OG, Georgia Tech), Manase Foketi (OT, West Texas A&M), Chris Jones, (DT, Bowling Green), and Quanterus Smith (DE, Western Kentucky)

      • AB

        Agreed on the Jordan Hill love. He doesn’t seem to get the publicity he deserves. Too often he’s lined up as a NT and double teamed thus negating stats and impact. Like the size/body shape, attitude, and motor.

        • Rob Staton

          Fantastic player. One I’m pretty excited about.

        • Trudy Beekman

          As Gruden once said about some QB “He’s too short. He’s too short. He’s too damn short.”

          Hill is a monster and if we don’t go DT Round 1, he’s a guy I would like Round 2 or maybe trade back into top of 3 for. He’s up there with Sharrif Floyd as maybe the best pure penetrator of this class, and is an elite tackler. Only concern I would agree with about him is his overall strength. Gets blown up when engaged by a double team, and can get handled even 1-on-1. He has the speed and hands to usually not get put in these spots, but it’s a concern at the next level.

          That goalline play against Wisconsin where he swims down the line to the inside past 2 lineman to get into the backfield and blow up Montee Ball for a loss is just so gross though.

  8. Ely

    That sure would be tough to watch the Rams take those two players making their D that much better. I have a hard time seeing them pass on Cooper in that senario. I would hate to see the Cards end up with Barkley teamed with their recieving core. Likely only going to get tougher to win the division.

  9. TJ

    Rob – after reading your last article about Seattle needing to be “ready” in case a good player falls and then reading one possible scenario with this mock draft, can we take it a step farther and consider a different ‘what if?’ What if an exceptional talent like Eric Fisher or Chance Warmack were to fall to Seattle, while the need positions such as DT, LB, etc. don’t fall the way we hope. Could you see Seattle actually making that type of pick, or would that be an absolute trade down scenario?

    • Rob Staton

      I’m not so sure about Fisher, but if Warmack is there you take him. Too good. Unfortunately for this scenario I think we really would be pushing the boundaries of realism. Too many teams need tackles and Fisher is right up there with Luke Joeckel. I think San Diego at #11 is the worst case scenario for Fisher really. Warmack is just sensational. Almost flawless. There are too many teams he’d have to get by to reach #25. While a guy like Ogletree you can paint an argument for it happening, I’d struggle to find any reason what so ever to drop Warmack.

      • TJ

        Maybe the only reason Warmack could drop is because of his position. Last year’s top guard DeCastro was also too good to last into the 20s, but if I recall, he did.

        In any case, things would really have to set up terribly for Seattle for there not to be a DT, LB, WR, or TE available.

        • Rob Staton

          Just my personal view, but I thought De Castro was pretty overrated. Warmack, for me, is on a different level.

          • Turp

            What about Cooper being available in that scenario? He is very, very good. Looks better than DeCastro to me.

            • Rob Staton

              He is superior to DeCastro. If he’s there, it’d be hard to pass but it’d also be a major luxury.

              • Attyla the Hawk

                Isn’t that exactly what Baltimore does though?

                They don’t go need. They go talent. For example you have them taking Manti T’eo. Yet I think we can agree, their major need is at OT. It’s like their philosophy is to draft for need in day 2/3 (Osemele was a day 2 pick for need). But round 1 is about getting 8-10 year talent.

                If you look at their drafts, they don’t entertain the idea of luxury when it comes to a R1 guy. Other than when they moved up to get Flacco — they don’t really seem to address need much at all on day 1.

                And it makes sense too. Because really how likely is it that the best player you can add to your team happens to be the player you need to fill a liability? Very rarely.

                If you are a team that has a need, then a guy in day 2 should be good enough to upgrade the position so that it is no longer a need. One could even say that about round 3 picks too. Using a first round pick to fill a need kind of implies that the only NFL worthy guy you are capable of selecting is going to be in the first 32.

                We aren’t the Washington Redskins. We can get players to be a DT on day 2. Probably ones that will start for us.

                Baltimore uses a much longer lens when viewing day one picks. It’s like they look at a 5 year window for the team. The ‘need’ of tomorrow being solved with the pick of today. If we want to be truly like Baltimore in that regard, then we have to throw away the ‘need’ lexicon that we have grown accustomed to.

                This team is better now. They are more balanced than Baltimore. We aren’t having to fill gaping roster craters in fire drill fashion. This is a team that is in a position right now to draft like Baltimore and to keep doing so for the next couple of presidential adminstrations.

                Really, Baltimore does the opposite of what we do. We go need in R1 and do our magic in R2-7. And it’s pretty well established that our R1 strategy stinks. I’d go so far as to say that our 2010 R1 draft was in essence a Baltimore draft. Okung AND Thomas were BPA talents that just dropped into our laps.

                I understand why we spent day one picks to fill needs. But was that necessarily an indicator of philosophy? Or was is simply a function of having a roster with numerous holes to fill?

                Does anyone here really think we can’t upgrade our pass rush from the DT spot in rounds 2 or 3 reliably over Alan Branch’s contribution? Or to even replicate Jason Jones’ productivity? If you think that’s even likely to be accomplished, then why would we not be taking the long term Baltimore approach to filling future needs with higher quality talent today?

                • Colin

                  “Our R1 strategy stinks”

                  Yes, two Pro Bowlers and a guy who led all rookies in sacks, “stinks”.

                  You need to justify that statement a tad bit.

                  • Attyla the Hawk

                    Surely.

                    We drafted for need in 2010, 2011 and 2012. In 2010, we had the 6th and 14th overall pick. Those guys SHOULD be excellent and they were. That to me is shooting par.

                    We added a lot of talent outside R1 that year. Chris Clemons, Leon Washington and Kam Chancellor.

                    In 2011 we picked later. So the prospect quality was worse. We took an OT because of need. Even though there were better talents available at that pick (Jimmy Smith and Jabaal Sheard). Sheard would have filled a need too for us. But we had a “#1 need” and that was that. Strategy fail.

                    Alternatively, I was really high on Phil Taylor. He was taken just ahead of us. But certainly not out of the realm of possibility of moving up. He’s basically the best case scenario of what we’re looking for right now in 2013.

                    If we didn’t take Wright in the 4th and Sherman in the 5th — that draft is a disaster. They made that draft.

                    In 2012, we ‘needed pass rush’. We took a guy who led all rookies in sacks. And I’m still torn on him. On the one hand, I really love his productivity on the money down. His lousy stats otherwise are a poor indicator of his worth. He is not a finished product and the book is still open on him. On the other hand….

                    in 2013 we ‘need pass rush’. Now if Irvin was such a good selection, why is it we’re looking at the exact same thing? I’d say again, that Wagner and Wilson made the 2012 draft. Without them that draft abjectly sucks. These guys were productive from day one and there is nobody here that will convince me that their value is less than Irvin’s.

                    And yet again, we were the benficiaries of having a top 10 talent drop to us at 12. We didn’t take Fletcher Cox and in 2013 are sitting here trying to figure out how to get a guy like Fletcher Cox. Cox was the Ravens style choice that we didn’t make.

                    Obviously, this draft for need strategy really only works if we have top 10 picks or guys just drop into our lap (recall we were set to trade out of the 14th pick but when Thomas was left there we scrapped that deal). So since 2012, we’ve strategically drafted for need twice. And those picks were without question NOT the best, or even second best picks we made.

                    So yes, the strategy sucks every bit as much as the results. Unless we expect to have top 10 picks every year. Which at this point doesn’t appear to be the case.

                    If we have such good results picking later in the draft independent of needs — then I have to ask why we aren’t doing that on day one too? Because the constraint of drafting for need appears to compromise our ability to get great talent in that round.

                    Not all first round picks are created equal. And it looks like we’re going to get the less equal first round picks for the better part of the next decade. It would seem a perfect opportunity to modify our day one strategy based on that new reality.

                  • Colin

                    Appartently Pete and John disagreed. They believed Carpenter filled a need and was talented enough to take at 25 and thus did so, and it’s been reported SEVERAL times that the Bears, Packers and Steelers were all waiting to take Carpenter until we did. If your justification for “strategy fail” is that you can look in hindsight and see that Carp had a horrible, fluke knee injury, and would not have a full, healthy training camp until year 3, well anyone can do that.

                    “if Irvin was such a good selection, why is it we’re looking at the exact same thing?”

                    Because who outside of Irvin and Clemons can rush the passer consistently from the defensive line? That’s what I thought as well. You know that with Red, Mebane and Alan branch as 3 of your 4 d-linemen, you are going to have pass rush issues. Putting that off on Irvin is pitiful, really.

                    You are doing nothing but playing the hindsight game. 3 of their 4 1st round picks are big time contributors; what is wrong with that? Find me a team that has done so much better.

  10. Brett Favre

    I don’t think we will go with a WILL backer with all of TE good D-lineman and recievers/tight ends on the board. I would take either Kawann Short or Jordan Reed

  11. Barry

    I love speed and size, who doesn’t. What I worry about with Ogletree is he looks like a tampa2 LB. Watching the ‘Bama game wasn’t pretty for him and that was probably the most run/physical team he would have seen in collage. Speed is nice but in the NFC west with the running teams we have you need more then that. I know the scheme working the way it should on all pistons calls for that LB position to be free to make plays, but a first round LB sound make plays period not get engulfed when playing a good running team.

    • Rob Staton

      Worth noting he played MLB at Georgia. He will not play MLB in the NFL. He’s a much better fit at the WILL compared to working inside.

      • Barry

        This is true, and I trust your assessment even though ya look a bit like Bane. I just hate seeing a TE come down the line and seal him in more then once that was do to not seeing the play on a crack-back they ran a few times.

  12. Aaron

    I would snap up Jarvis Jones in a heartbeat if he were available at #25. I’ve heard it said that he’s the best pass rusher in this draft, and the tape I’ve watched certainly backs that up. I would not be deterred by the spinal stenosis. Leaving aside the ethical aspects of playing him, and stipulating that no one would want to see harm come to him, I would say it’s worth the #25 pick if you could get 2 or 3 high level years out of him given where the Seahawks stand now in terms of a championship window.

    The bottom line is that he is going to play in the NFL. The only question is for whom. Maybe PC would view it that way if Jones dropped into his lap, even given his past decision when at SC. It’s more than a remote possibility that he could have a long and productive NFL career as well.

    • Rob Staton

      2-3 years for a first round pick? I’d want a bit more than that as a minimum… even if you win a title in that time frame.

      • Aaron

        Guarantee me a Superbowl win, and I’ll take the short-term pick and happily give you some money on the side. 🙂

        • Rob Staton

          In that case… I’m officially starting the ‘Jones to Seattle’ bandwagon! 🙂

          • ivotuk

            Somewhat of an expert on spinal stenosis here, at least that’s what the 4 rods and 14 screws in my spine tell me 🙂

            Jarvis Jones could play 10 years without ever developing any major issues, or he could lose the function of a leg in his first month. I believe that the former will be the case based on the fact that he has played several years in Georgia with no trouble.

            My first issue I had pain and numbness in my right leg and a laminectomy on L4-L5 fixed that for about 6 months before the pain started coming back. All they do is clean out the “port” where the nerves exit the column so that they aren’t pinched. Quick and easy and it can be done repeatedly.

            If Jarvis has gone this long without any issues, I can’t see any reason why he can’t continue to play at an elite level for years to come. At the very worst, they might need to go in and clean it up again or fuse it.

            The fusion makes it even stronger than before and since having L3-L5 and T8-T11 done I have no qualms about scrambling around on a mountainside, working on my truck or even moderate lifting. My only issue is that I have less twist in my back and I still deal with chronic pain.

            I would be completely on board with drafting Jarvis Jones at 25 and would be jacked if we got him. Of all the players in this draft that could make a difference in our ability to get to the passer, I think JJ his the top prospect with Ezekial Ansah a close second.

            • DavidinBellingham

              Thanks for sharing your experience with spinal stenosis. I hope Jones has no issues and we get him.

  13. Colin

    If he can stay clean (avoid blocks) at that weakside linebacker spot, he could be an absolute monster for us.

  14. Barry

    I really only see D Jones as a 5 tech. That being said I thought the same about Big Red, and I’d love to see Jones on this team, his personality just seems to be right but I’d love him more in rounds 3

    • Trudy Beekman

      He is the size of a 5, but the plays where he really pops off the tape are mostly him working from the inside and just blowing by or getting good position and then beasting an interior lineman. I agree that his best fit in the NFL might be to put on 10 pounds and work as the Nickel DT for now. I’ve heard that he doesn’t have an ounce of fat on him at 280, so he could for sure bulk up to 300 and become an everydown 3-tech if it didn’t slow him down too much.

  15. Barry

    I like Eddie Lacey to the Rams at #22. Just feels like it. Though I like Lacey more then a lot of people.

    The way you have this draft shaping up is nice in a way I think its accurate that there are going to be a good share of nice prospects falling to and past us. A trade into the middle second round is looking more and more practical. I could handle a draft that goes first round Ogletree, second round Jenkins/Short.

  16. nick

    Rob,
    It has been mentioned before and disregarded shortly thereafter but… What about moving Kam Chancellor to Will and drafting a coverage strong safety? I.e. Barron from last year. Seems like Ogletree and Chancellor are pretty similar with the physical edge going to Kam.

    • Belgaron

      They play a LOT of nickel/dime, their designs on Barron did not include a change of position for Kam. PC’s background is DBs. He’d always be interested in getting high quality talent in that group for each of his packages.

    • Rob Staton

      Personally I wouldn’t be keen. I think Kam had a better season than perhaps common opinion suggests. I’d want to keep that great secondary together personally.

  17. Dan Barber

    Is Ogletree better than Wright or Wagner in the nickel? If not, it seems expensive to spend a first round pick on a player who might miss half of the snaps given how many 3 receiver packages teams employ these days. A 3rd corner or a pass rusher offer more value in my view.

    • Rob Staton

      Unless I’m mistaken Leroy Hill played 89% of snaps in 2011 when he was healthy. So for 89% of the snaps I think you can justify it. Irvin didn’t play 89% last year and I’m not sure any DT drafted plays that number.

    • Attyla the Hawk

      Hill’s snap % is misleading. To answer your question, yes I think Ogletree is a massive upgrade to either Wagner or Wright.

      Hill played 89% of the snaps because our alternatives were a rookie (Wright) or Hawthorne (mega slow). And Wright was elevated to starter status midway through the year. So he was particularly green. We leaned on Hill because there was no alternative.

      Forward one year, and Hill’s snaps drop to 40%. Wagner is in for 87 and Wright in for 80. Wagner was a big speed upgrade and warranted the extra duty. Wright is faster and has enough experience to take on the role. But if Ogletree is added, you will reduce Wrights snap totals and put Ogletree/Wagner out there. That is serious 4.4 speed out there.

      Truth be told, you add Ogletree and you are pushing every LB down a notch in terms of snap distribution. Ogletree takes over the top slot as you’d put him in any dime package you’d run.

      • Colin

        Ogletree’s athleticism is just INSANE. He’s not a guy you want taking on blocks, but man he you can just see the potential. He is going to be a stud.

      • Rob Staton

        Hill’s snaps also decreased due to injury and the play of Malcolm Smith in relief – they ended up splitting snaps. If you draft a LB to play the full time WILL he’l be back up to a high percentage of snaps.

        • Attyla the Hawk

          Good point. I forgot he missed time to injury.

  18. Kip Earlywine

    Good calls on Fluker and Frederick. Fluker has been connected to the Giants many times already. Frederick is being tagged as a likely 1st round pick.

    While I love DeAndre Hopkins and would grade him much higher than his late 1st projections, everything I’m hearing says that Keenan Allen will be the first WR to be drafted. A lot of people are saying it’s not even that close between him and Hopkins. Like you, I do not personally agree with those opinions, but it is what it is. Based on the hype, I would be shocked if Allen almost fell out of round 1.

    • Kip Earlywine

      Also, I don’t think Courtney Greene will be a 1st round pick. Most people have him as the 3rd best WILL linebacker in this draft, behind Ogletree and Brown, the latter of which is generally considered to be a 2nd round pick. Greene is like Bobby Wagner last year in many ways, and Wagner’s draft stock varied between the 2nd and 4th rounds, leading some to accuse Seattle of reaching for him in the mid 2nd.

      I’m all for projecting based on “gut feeling,” but for Greene to go that high his stock would need to go up significantly from where it currently rests. I haven’t seen a lot of reports that indicate a massive rise for Greene. He seems like one of those players that scouts really like, but don’t love.

      Also, I don’t get the hype for Kevin Minter. He is credited for a lot of tackles, but upon close inspection I saw that he struggles to fight off blocks, has poor tackling form, and isn’t very fast. While LSU does have a great defense, it also has a lot of players that are getting 1st round hype undeserving this year.

      • Kip Earlywine

        I knew that would happen some day. Khaseem Greene.

        • ivotuk

          LOL! I was wondering if I had missed something there. I like Khaseem a lot, and imho think he should be a late first round pick, but that’s more hunch than anything. I like the Bobby Wagner comparison as they both seem like the same type of personality. Maybe it’s just the Rutgers vs Utah State difference that’s causing me to subconsciously rate Greene higher.

          • ivotuk

            That’s what it is, thanks Leonard. Khaseem’s duty as a safety is what has me intrigued with him.

      • Morgan

        Speaking of Arthur Brown, isn’t Carroll on record as saying he was one of the best linebackers he’d seen in years, back when he was recruiting him? I wonder what his opinion is now.

        • Rob Staton

          Very true, but things can change. Carroll probably really liked a lot of his USC guys during recruitment, but he hasn’t taken many of them.

      • Rob Staton

        I do think his stock will sky rocket after the combine. Athletic, impact player who will interview brilliantly.

    • Rob Staton

      I think what will hurt Allen is the combine. I don’t expect a big performance there. He might run a 4.5 or 4.6. He’ll also measure shorter than most expect. That could hurt him a little. I’m very interested to see how Hopkins measures and tests.

  19. Leonard

    The question about who sits in the nickle defense is a very good one. Most teams seem to be in nickle defense 40-50% of the time. If not Ogletree then how about one of the former safeties like Greene from Rutgers, Gooden from Missouri or even Stewart from Houston (not necessary in the 1st round)?

    If they like keeping Wagner and Wright in on nickle D then how about going the other direction all together? Would any of the rush linebackers like Porter from A&M, Thomas from Stanford, Collins from Southern Mississippi or the two kids from UCON be able to play Will on running downs and also be depth at the Leo spot on passing downs? Or are they all strictly 3-4 OLB’s?

    • Belgaron

      So far, they haven’t had that type of hybrid. It’s tough enough to find a high caliber LEO or high caliber WILL, let alone both in one guy. A LEO needs to be capable of shooting the gap or the edge with speed, have some capabilities at beating an NFL offensive tackle or TE one-on-one and not be a liability against the run. A WILL on the other hand, needs to pwn the edge on the weak side and be highly capable of dropping back and covering talented receivers in short zones and be able to occasionally put in a ferocious blitz. They are really different skill sets.

      • Leonard

        I understand the two positions. I was asking if any of the players I listed would be capable of playing WILL on most downs but also play at the LOS in the Leo position on obvious pass plays, maybe 6-8 plays a game? All of those guys have proven they can rush the QB off the edge but probably aren’t big enough to play there on running downs. Most of them have also played some as a 4-3 WILL too. Especially Porter from A&M. Aside from Thomas they all run in the 4.5-4.6 range, are good tacklers and have decent lateral agility.
        I wanted to know if any of those guys could play our 4-3 WILL at a high enough level on first and second down? And the two positions are most as different as you think. WILL is responsible for the weak side A gap and needs to be able to scrape down the line to take away a cut back. LEO is responsible for the weak side C gap control the edge, and get to the QB on pass plays. WILL blitzing is a similar skill to the Leo. They both drop into zone coverage, the Leo only on zone blitzes. The biggest difference is the Will has to be able to cover TE’s and RB’s 1 on 1. All of these guys have the physical ability, to different degrees, attempt that kind of coverage. I haven’t seen enough my self to know if they can yet. I would be willing to bet they can do it better than Leroy Hill.

  20. Norm M

    It seems to me like Seattle is in the perfect spot to trade down , pick up a extra third and still get a DL in Short and a TE like Reed. Especially with in a senerio like this one.

    • Belgaron

      That might make sense if that’s where they see a number of guys getting drafted they like. They could still either pick up a pick in that range in a trade for Flynn if the stars align but I think they’ll probably have a guy in mind that they won’t want to risk losing in the 2nd round if they don’t grab him at 25. At this point in their program (3 years in) it is going to be tough for rookies to make the team and they’d be better off going with quality over quantity assuming the quality is there to take.

    • Trudy Beekman

      That would be the dream, but I don’t see how Short even makes it to us at #25, let alone out of the first round without a run on offensive players.

      • AlaskaHawk

        Then we should consider a trade up with some of our 12 draft picks to sweeten the deal. It is more important that we get the best players for our team vs having a large number of late round draft picks.

  21. Darnell

    Rob, I totally agree with your asessment of Ogletree as a player.

    My question would be, however, how do you reconcile drafting Ogletree with both Wagner and Wright in line for pretty large 2nd contracts? Keep in mind that this regime inherited a team that had a lot of capital at the LBer spot with Tatupu, Hill and Curry and they quickly realized they wanted nothing to do with so much being invested in one position group of marginal (relative) importance. Granted, the mediocre play of that group didn’t help their cause.

    But given Wagner and Wright’s career paths and Ogletree’s upside this would force some pretty tough decisions down the road ( ex the Bears letting Tinoisamoa walk because of the contracts Urlacher and Brigs would command). Though it would be ideal to have a star at every position, it isn’t feasible in a salary cap world. Eventually a team of guys playing way above their contract value is gonna force some tough decisions.

    • Rob Staton

      It’s a great point, Darnell. I suppose that is the issue with drafting as well as Seattle has done. It might be that they can’t afford to keep a KJ Wright for example in this scenario. We’d have to see how it goes. The question warrants serious consideration on how it could impact the decision this April. However, I also don’t think you turn down a talent like Ogletree or even Khaseem Greene for that matter because of contract concerns with other players. Getting a WILL is one of the ways they can continue to upgrade the defense after all.

  22. Sawker_Dawg

    I think Ogletree is a tremendous athlete but he has some flaws to his game that his athleticism hides. He plays a bit high, he tackles a lot with his arms and creates contact with his speed, not necessarily power. He also does not shed blocks well or even looks like he wants to, he tends to rub off of the block, even turning his back to the play to get away. This is not just from seeing the tape above. If the Hawks think they can coach him to be more aggressive and take on blocks more and form tackle more, I think he can be special. However, in the NFL, minor flaws like he has might translate to him being on the bench or they will be hidden enough by his athleticism that they won’t be corrected to allow him to be great. He almost scares me away like Curry, lots of athleticism that gets people excited but not enough true football skills. Don’t get me wrong, I think Ogletree is well above Curry in football ability but he plays more like a safety than LB at times.

    • Zach

      Personally when I look at film I don’t see how in the world Arthur Brown gets pass the Seahawks in the first round.

    • Rob Staton

      Very valid observations.

  23. Connor Jackson

    I’ve seen you rave about Ogletree all year long and when I have watched tape I just see a guy that gets blown up vs. the run. However, after reading one of your recent blogs as well as a couple of others it is true that to win the NFC West we gotta beat the Niners. Who do the Niners have? A very fast QB in Kaepernick that likes to run the read option and get out on the edge and fly. While watching Ogletree’s tape vs. Ole Miss the one thing that stood out to me was his blazing speed. He can keep up with Kaep all day and get out to the sidelines. So why this wouldn’t be my favorite pick I can see why it would work! I do agree though that he seems to be a bit erratic and inconsistent. Pete Carroll is never afraid of a dude with some questionable behavior and sky high potential…

    • Chris

      Niner’s also have a very mean, physical OL though. Just being fast enough to chase Kaep isn’t going to be enough out of our LBs. If Hawks can’t stop Gore behind their big uglies, there won’t even be an opportunity to worry about chasing Kaep. Inferior running teams to SF were handing us our lunch late last year.

    • Rob Staton

      He definitely has flaws… boom or bust type player.

    • MJ

      I think the common negative about Ogletree is discipline/toughness in the run game, which I think is fair. That said, and I’ve had this debate with a bunch of draftniks, is that he is totally miscast as an ILB in a 3-4, which Georgia runs. If you view him in the role of a 4-3 WIL, it’s hard not to get totally geeked about his abilities. He has several rare traits for the WIL position, including length, speed, coverage, blitz ability.

      Great points about defending Kaep. Not only does Ogletree have the speed, but also the length which I think is a tough combination to find at WIL.

      • Colin

        I’ve had issues about his style too, but go watch the hit he puts on Eddie Lacey at the goalline in the SEC Title game.

        Issues no longer a concern.

  24. Zach

    My Seahawks Big Board so far. A few we would have to trade up for but I would be happy to see two of these players on our team in the first 3 rounds.

    SEAHAWKS  BIG  BOARD

    1. Sheldon Richardson – DT
    2. Shariff Floyd – DT
    3. Jarvis Jones – LB
    4. Johnathan Cooper – OG
    5. Alec Ogletree – LB
    6. Ezekiel  Ansah – DE
    7. Jesse Williams – DT
    8. Kawaan Short – DT
    9. Zach  Ertz – TE
    10. Keenan Allen – WR
    11. DeAndre Hopkins – WR
    12. Sylvester Williams – DT
    13. Cordarrell Patterson – WR
    14. Arthur Brown – LB
    15. Robert Woods – WR
    16. Markus Wheaton – WR
    17. Khaseem Greene – LB
    18. Cornelius Carradine – DE
    19. Terrance Williams – WR
    20. Justin Hunter – WR
    21. Desmond  Trufant – CB
    22. Jordan Reed – TE
    23. Xavier Rhodes – CB
    24. Zaviar Gooden – LB
    25. Gavin Escobar – TE
    26. Datone Jones – DL
    27. Travis Kelce – TE
    28. Jordan Poyer – CB
    29. Tavon Austin – WR
    30. Robert Alford – CB

    • Attyla the Hawk

      I put together a big board about a week ago. Probably should update it some as there are changes I’d probably make to this list:

      1. Star Lotulelei
      2. Sheldon Richardson
      3. Damontre Moore
      4. Chance Warmack
      5. Kawaan Short
      6. Luke Joeckel
      7. Jesse Williams
      8. Jonathan Cooper
      9. Khaseem Greene
      10. Alec Ogletree
      11. DeAndre Hopkins
      12. Sharrif Floyd
      13. Barkevious Mingo
      14. Zach Ertz
      15. Arthur Brown Jr.
      16. Eric Fisher
      17. Dee Milliner
      18. Datone Jones
      19. Kenny Vaccaro
      20. Jarvis Jones
      21. Brandon Williams
      22. Travis Kelce
      23. Markus Wheaton
      24. Xavier Rhodes
      25. Cordarelle Patterson

  25. Henrique

    That would be a sick, sick draft.

  26. Matt Gibson

    I like the draft, but why take Datone Jones over Sylvester Williams?

    • Trudy Beekman

      Jones is a monster, just doesn’t really fit anywhere. Williams isn’t that great.

    • Rob Staton

      Fair question – I think in this latest projection I would suggest they either re-sign Branch or sign Randy Starks, while letting Jason Jones walk.

      • Attyla the Hawk

        Jason Jones was a DT that was moved to DE by Tennessee. I’m wondering why we wouldn’t necessarily entertain the thought of adding Glenn Dorsey of KC.

        I can’t believe they played him at DE. He seems even more miscast at that position than Jones did for the Titans.

        Maybe Dorsey is this years’ Jason Jones. A guy looking to reprove his value in the NFL while playing in a more natural scheme for him. Seems like both players were in a similar situation one year removed.

  27. Tomahawk

    Rob:
    Sorry if you’ve already addressed this, but how do you feel about Datone Jones playing in Clem’s spot on early downs, with Irvin to sub in on obvious passing downs? Jones isn’t a prototype LEO, but seems like he’d still hold his own there on early downs.

    • Colin

      He’s not an edge rusher really. I think you keep him inside for the best results.

    • Rob Staton

      I think the way they’ve gone about things they’d like to stick to an orthodox LEO. But there’s no reason why he couldn’t take some snaps there if Clemons misses some time early on. Certainly it would save them some $$$$ in having to sign another expensive LEO.

  28. Tomahawk

    Yeah, but how much was Clem rushing off the edge on early downs? PC doesn’t seem to go with conventional wisdom much…

  29. Madmark

    RD1 Khaseem Green OLB Rutgers
    RD2 Travis Kelce TE Cincinnati
    RD3 Chris Harper WR Kansas St
    RD4 Jordan Hill DT Penn St
    RD5 Nickell Robey CB USC

    If Shariff Floyd is at 25 i’ll take him and then i pick Zavier Goodsen in the 4th round but i’m having a hard time seeing that happening
    I’m also thinking Richard Seymour has 2 good years left if there a possibility to get the superbowl or as someone mentioned Freeney either one would be cheaper than Jason Jones but i’d want to see them work out first before any contract is given.

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