A few days ago we looked at options for the Seahawks at #26 in a sort of ‘worst case’ scenario. Here’s a complete two-round mock draft with thoughts on Seattle’s picks.
Round one
#1 Tennessee — Laremy Tunsil (T, Ole Miss)
The Titans have a nondescript defense and two top-12 picks on their offensive line already. So of course they’ll draft Tunsil at #1.
#2 Cleveland — Paxton Lynch (QB, Memphis)
With his combination of accuracy, mobility, size and arm strength — Lynch provides the greater upside of the top three QB’s.
#3 San Diego — Carson Wentz (QB, North Dakota State)
How interested is Philip Rivers and his ever-growing family in moving to LA? Time to start planning for the future, perhaps?
#4 Dallas — Jaylen Ramsey (CB, Florida State)
I can see why some teams are wary of Ramsey but he’s a physical corner with the ability to play safety.
#5 Jacksonville — Myles Jack (LB, UCLA)
The Jaguars need to keep adding pieces to their defense. Jack can play all three linebacker positions. Fantastic athlete.
#6 Baltimore — Joey Bosa (DE, Ohio State)
This would be a no-brainer for the Ravens. A pass-rusher to help kick-start that defense.
#7 San Francisco — Jared Goff (QB, California)
Right now the 49ers don’t have a good option at quarterback. Reports say their relationship with Colin Kaepernick is still strained.
#8 Miamia — DeForest Buckner (DE, Oregon)
D-line, linebacker and cornerback. Three need positions and the Dolphins will have options at all three in this spot.
#9 Tampa Bay — Eli Apple (CB, Ohio State)
Cornerback is a huge need for the Buccs and Apple is a fantastic prospect destined for big things.
#10 New York Giants — Darron Lee (LB, Ohio State)
The Giants tend to do things differently in this range and were right to draft Odell Beckham Jr and Ereck Flowers. Here’s another underrated player for them in Lee.
#11 Chicago — Mackensie Alexander (CB, Clemson)
Any pick on the defense makes sense. Alexander slots into the line-up immediately. Big character.
#12 New Orleans — Noah Spence (DE, Eastern Kentucky)
There isn’t another player like Spence in the draft and that should ensure he gets picked up early.
#13 Philadelphia — Taylor Decker (T, Ohio State)
Underrated tackle. Very athletic, strong and gritty. He can slot straight in across from Lane Johnson.
#14 Oakland — Robert Nkemdiche (DE, Ole Miss)
Line him up inside and out. The Raiders might be willing to take a chance on his character to add another dynamic defender.
#15 Los Angeles — Jaylon Smith (LB, Notre Dame)
The Rams waited it out for Todd Gurley and were rewarded. Will they do the same with the ultra-talented Smith?
#16 Detroit — Ronnie Stanley (T, Notre Dame)
They could add a defensive lineman but tackle is a need. Stanley can be overly passive but he has the physical profile to be a good pass-protector.
#17 Atlanta — Sheldon Rankins (DT, Louisville)
Fantastic get-off, quick-twitch interior lineman who dominated the Senior Bowl practises. Just the type of player Atlanta’s defense lacks.
#18 Indianapolis — Ezekiel Elliott (RB, Ohio State)
They’ve shied away from obvious needs in recent years to make surprise picks. Elliott is the real deal.
#19 Buffalo — A’shawn Robinson (DT, Alabama)
He plays within himself and should be better — but he has incredible upside and fits as a 3-4 DE.
#20 New York Jets — Jason Spriggs (T, Indiana)
A good combine to follow up a solid Senior Bowl could have teams moving quickly to snap up Spriggs’ athleticism and size.
#21 Washington — Jarran Reed (DT, Alabama)
Scot McCloughan is trying to create a tough, physically imposing football team with plus athleticism. Reed would provide a real edge to their D-line.
#22 Houston — Corey Coleman (WR, Baylor)
He could be the big winner at the combine, forcing his way into the top-tier of players. Explosive, physical playmaker.
#23 Minnesota — Laquon Treadwell (WR, Ole Miss)
The Vikings need a consistent target for Teddy Bridgewater. Treadwell can provide that. Value pick.
#24 Cincinnati — Andrew Billings (DT, Baylor)
The Bengals pair Billings with Geno Atkins up front to provide a formidable duo at defensive tackle.
#25 Pittsburgh — Kyler Fackrell (LB, Utah State)
We know the Steelers love to draft linebackers in round one. They need a pass rusher who gets home. That’s Fackrell.
#26 Seattle — Jack Conklin (T, Michigan State)
Tough, physical and excels in the run game. Conklin could move inside to left guard or start at right tackle.
#27 Kansas City — Vernon Hargreaves (CB, Florida)
The Chiefs might need to replace Sean Smith. This is the range I think Hargreaves falls.
#28 Green Bay — Vernon Butler (DT, Louisiana Tech)
Butler combines length, strength, size and mobility. He lacks Muhammad Wilkerson’s college production but he’s similar physically.
#29 Arizona — Nick Martin (C, Notre Dame)
He just gets the job done. He’ll come into the league and start immediately. He’ll be as steady as his brother in Dallas.
#30 Carolina — Darian Thompson (S, Boise State)
He misses the odd tackle but Thompson’s range, ability to play in the box and playmaking skills are enticing.
#31 Denver — Shon Coleman (T, Auburn)
Maybe age will be an issue? I’m a huge Coleman fan. The Broncos were willing to draft 25-year-old rookie Sly Williams in round one.
Round two
#32 Cleveland — Will Fuller (WR, Notre Dame)
A dynamic weapon to compliment Josh Gordon and Gary Barnidge.
#33 Tennessee — Leonard Floyd (OLB, Georgia)
Athletic, rangy outside linebacker. Can improve as a pass-rusher.
#34 Dallas — Derrick Henry (RB, Alabama)
Doesn’t it seem inevitable? He’s a good fit for their scheme.
#35 San Diego — Keanu Neal (S, Florida)
Favoured in league circles and the Chargers need to replace Eric Weddle.
#36 Baltimore — Tyler Boyd (WR, Pittsburgh)
Underrated, prolific playmaker. The heart and soul of Pitt’s offense for two years.
#37 San Francisco — Cody Whitehair (T, Kansas State)
A no-nonsense lineman who will switch to guard or center in the NFL.
#38 Miami — Kendall Fuller (CB, Virginia Tech)
Having addressed the D-line in round one, Miami go for a talented corner here.
#39 Jacksonville — Shaq Lawson (DE, Clemson)
Powerful DE who can play inside and out and compliment Dante Fowler.
#40 New York Giants — Chris Jones (DT, Mississippi State)
A former 5-star recruit with major athletic potential.
#41 Chicago — Reggie Ragland (LB, Alabama)
Ideally suited to play in the 3-4, Ragland would make plays for Vic Fangio.
#42 Tampa Bay — Adolphus Washington (DT, Ohio State)
Dynamic interior rusher. Washington is streaky and needs to be more consistent.
#43 Los Angeles — Michael Thomas (WR, Ohio State)
A big target with surprising agility. He could go much earlier.
#44 Oakland — Su’a Cravens (S, USC)
They need to rebuild their secondary. Cravens is a versatile defender.
#45 Los Angeles — Kevin Dodd (DE, Clemson)
They love to collect pass-rushers and might need to replace Chris Long.
#46 Detroit — Kenny Clark (DT, UCLA)
The Lions add another piece to their new-look defensive front.
#47 New Orleans — Austin Johnson (DT, Penn State)
The Saints need an athletic nose tackle. Johnson has a fantastic motor.
#48 Indianapolis — Jonathan Bullard (DT, Florida)
His effort is superb but is he special enough to go earlier?
#49 Buffalo — Jordan Jenkins (OLB, Georgia)
They need another edge rusher with experience in this type of scheme.
#50 Atlanta — Deion Jones (LB, LSU)
Dan Quinn copies the Seahawks and goes for elite speed and playmaking at LB.
#51 New York Jets — Hunter Henry (TE, Arkansas)
Arguably the best all-round TE in the class. The Jets keep adding weapons.
#52 Houston — Christian Hackenburg (QB, Penn State)
Bill O’Brien takes a chance on his former protégé.
#53 Washington — Ryan Kelly (C, Alabama)
The quest to get tougher in the trenches continues.
#54 Minnesota — Germain Ifedi (T, Mississippi State)
Underrated, powerful tackle in excellent shape. Could play left guard too.
#55 Cincinnati — William Jackson (CB, Houston)
This guy can play. Great size/speed/length. Could rise much higher.
#56 Seattle — Alex Collins (RB, Arkansas)
Seeks contact, former four-star athlete, keeps moving after contact.
#57 Green Bay — Braxton Miller (WR, Ohio State)
Give him a bit of time and he could be superb.
#58 Pittsburgh — Darius Latham (DT, Indiana)
A 6-5, 300lbs basketball player for the Steelers defensive front.
#59 Kansas City — Joshua Perry (LB, Ohio State)
Every time you watch Ohio State, Perry shines. Incredibly tough. Leader.
#60 New England — Josh Doctson (WR, TCU)
Tall and wiry but makes plays. The Pats need to upgrade Brandon LeFell.
#61 Arizona — Kamalei Correa (DE, Boise State)
Athletic edge rusher ideally suited to OLB in the 3-4.
#62 Denver — Connor Cook (QB, Michigan State)
The Broncos take a punt on Cook to compete for the gig in Denver.
#63 Carolina — Shilique Calhoun (DE, Michigan State)
A frustrating player to watch at times — but with bags of upside.
Jack Conklin to the Seahawks
Whether it’s James Carpenter, Justin Britt or Terry Poole — the Seahawks are attracted to using guards with tackle experience. They seem to like size at left guard (Conklin is listed at 6-6 and 325lbs) and they emphasise run blocking. Conklin ticks every box. They might try him at right tackle first (like Carpenter and Britt) but this could be their best opportunity to get some size and nastiness back into the interior O-line.
A running back in round two?
Hear me out. The value on the D-line at #56 in this projection wasn’t any better than it’s likely to be in the late third. There will be options in the next round. Pete Carroll at USC liked to collect talented running backs and use them all. He hasn’t needed to do that in Seattle due to the brilliance of Marshawn Lynch. Thomas Rawls will be the #1 in 2015 all being well but adding another to the group would be wise — especially someone with the physicality they’ve lost in Lynch. Yes Christine Michael will be back — but let’s not forget he was essentially dumped by three teams in 2015 before a late season revival.
There’s likely to be a run in round three on running backs where the likes of Alex Collins, Jordan Howard, Devontae Booker, Paul Perkins and Kenneth Dixon come off the board. By taking one at #56 they can secure the guy they want. The projection here says it’s Collins (I was tempted to stick with UCLA’s Perkins). He seeks contact and doesn’t go out of bounds, keeps moving after contact, has the ability to find a gap and explode for big gains and has some pass-protection upside (search online to see him blow up A’Shawn Robinson).
Collins is no slouch either — he’s a former four-star recruit in High School and had interest from schools like Florida.
Collins isn’t Marshawn Lynch (he does a good impression at 0:53 in the video above) but his physical style would be a nice compliment to Thomas Rawls. He can carry the load if needed and you’ve secured him for four years on a cheap contract.
Senquez Golson, the #56 pick in 2015, has a contract worth $1m APY. His rookie cap hit was $727,462. That’s value at a position where you get an immediate return.
The Seahawks put a ton of emphasis on their running game. Look at their investment at the position so far — trading for LenDale White, Leon Washington and Marshawn Lynch, drafting Robert Turbin, Christine Michael and Spencer Ware. They’ve always been conscious of the position.
Some people will cringe at this — but if you consider waiting until the late third and your favourite 2-3 backs are gone and you’re left hoping Rawls stays healthy and Michael stays consistent — you might not hate this quite as much. They could possibly trade down into the early third round before making a pick like this.
In this projection I’d have the Seahawks taking Graham Glasgow and either Ronald Blair III or Willie Henry in round three. Glasgow to compete at either guard or center and Blair III/Henry to add some help to the interior D-line. There’d be plenty of alternatives on the D-line too.
The one pressing concern in this scenario could be linebacker. Assuming they lose Bruce Irvin, they’d probably like to at least add some further competition to Kevin Pierre-Louis, Brock Coyle and Mike Morgan. They might be able to do that with an athletic safety convert or take a chance on Travis Feeney. This draft is not flush with athletic outside linebackers. The options are very limited once Jaylon Smith, Darron Lee, Myles Jack and Deion Jones are off the board. Keep that in mind for round one if the Seahawks are able to bolster the O-line and D-line in free agency.
If the Seahawks want to be tougher in the trenches and more physical — Conklin, Collins, Glasgow and Blair III/Henry would improve that situation. By retaining Brandon Mebane and Athyba Rubin and possibly adding another veteran defensive and offensive lineman — the Seahawks might be able to address their biggest off-season priorities.
Wow, I wasn’t expecting that one! But it could make sense if the board falls that way.
Thanks for the mock.
Anyone who dabs, I don’t want on the team *sarcasm*
Thanks for the new 2 round mock!
I’d be okay with this, especially with all of the top tier d line man not available, which seems likely. The board falling this way would assume the scenario outlined in your last paragraph. Rubin and possibly Mebane (or a Mebane replacement) and OL help is found in free agency.
I still want a versatile pass rusher first and foremost if there’s one available with our first pick. But if there isn’t, I hope it’s Coleman or Conklin.
If we can find equal value at OL and DL later in the draft, then I’d rather they trade down and play the numbers game at the line positions. Get more bodies into camp and see which ones rise to the top. Picking an RB who ‘checks all the boxes’ would not surprise or disappoint me either though.
I think if you can get a Ronald Blair III or Willie Henry in round three — the value in round two at that position is much worse than it would be to wait until R3.
If they go DT in R1 I think it has to be someone with quick-twitch, major upside. And really that kind of limits them to Sheldon Rankins.
Agreed on fast twitch for DL. And also agree those two are getting nowhere near us. All of your reasoning makes a lot of sense. As usual.
Adolphus Washington could end up being the Kawann Short of this draft. There wasn’t a lot of buzz with Short, but now we’re seeing there should have been a lot. There isn’t a lot of buzz with Washington either, but he’s the only other quick-twitch DT there is in this draft. If he is available at 26, and the Seahawks feel he can approach what Kawann Short has done in the NFL, I think they seriously consider it.
I thought Short had decent buzz predraft, but some of the measurables were less than ideal. He still went 2nd round if my memory serves me right.
Short’s issue was motor, conditioning and age.
This great. Nice work Rob! Also for later round linebacker picks don’t forget about Dadi Nicholas
Like the upside of Nicholas with great length and athleticism. Montese Overton is one that im really warming up to and is one to watch at the combine. He checks a lot of boxes in what we look for at the position. Think he’d be a great fit to replace Irvin in day 3. Anyone have any thoughts on Overton?
Not a fan of Dadi Nicolas to be honest. Can’t see him at linebacker either — just an edge guy.
I don’t think that Irvin is what they like at SAM, he just could fill 2 roles for the price of one so they converted him. They like guys like Malcolm Smith.
You make me watch that Arkansas rb, and. All I see it Sebastian tretola sprinting to make blocks, so many runs on his side…
Yeah. I say let’s grab both. Tretola did a great job in this video of getting to the 2nd level and driving guys into the ground.
Don’t forget Denver Kirkland. He’s the left tackle who projects as a guard in the NFL. I hope Kirkland or Tretola play LG for us next year.
I’ve liked the notion of drafting the Collins-Tretola duo since I watched my 2nd Arkansas game this past season–Tretola (and the rest of that beefy Razorback O-line) regularly gave Collins huge lanes through which to dart. Tretola has massive strength and moves well for a guy his size. Conklin and Tretola on the Seahawks O-line? Talk about a nasty reboot.
Another cool possibility would be to reunite Cody Whitehair with his former teammate Tyler Lockett. I like the idea of drafting Conklin, but Whitehair wouldn’t be too shabby of a get, perhaps if Seattle does decide to trade down into the early 2nd.
I know Glasgow can play center but I would take Tretola before him. I would also take Tretola before Collins but that’s just me.
Tretola is the real deal and shined in the highlight reel above.
A lot of comments were made on the last mock about trade down scenarios, most of them having Seattle move down a few spots into R2 and pick up an extra R4. The history is there and they like to do it if they can.
I was just wondering whether it might be possible/fair value to swap R3 picks instead of asking for the other team’s R4 pick.
Say trade partner is SF. Would you move down, say 11 spots out of R1 (to R2 #6) in order to move up 20 spots in R3 (from #26 to #6)? Might this be more beneficial than an extra pick for the flexibility it would give Seattle in how they attack the board? Would they need to throw in a late round pick too to even out the value?
I like the Conklin pick, but at Rd. 2 #6 we might still be able to get Coleman, Fuller, or Martin for example (though obviously not in this mock), and gain value later.
I like the idea of trading down from R1 to R2 and swapping R3 picks, but trading 26 + 90 for 37 + 68 isn’t advantageous for SEA points wise. Also I don’t see that kind of trade between division rivals.
It does makes sense with DAL, SDC, CLE or TEN though. For example, SEA could trade 26 + 90 to DAL for 34 + 67.
It’s not a very fair trade though — a team giving up nine spots overall to the Seahawks. The Niners or whoever made that deal would have to want the guy at #26 badly.
Thanks to all for the thoughts.
Rob, do you have a value chart you refer to for trading picks or do you just go by overall spots? I’ve heard the traditional chart is not always a sure point of reference any more.
I did not run through this before posting the hypothetical trade scenario above, but the traditional value chart would yield:
SEA gives: 26 (700) + 89 (145) = 845
SF gives: 37 (530) + 69 (245) = 775
So it would actually seem like SEA would be getting the short end of the deal. (allow me to throw in that gettin SF R4 pick– I’m estimating #105 taking into account comp. picks– instead of swapping R3 would be worth even less: 84 pts.)
Another idea, probably even less likely, that I would be very interested in would be to trade our R1 pick for a potential top 10 pick in R1 next year. Especially since from what you guys are saying 2017 looks to be great for edge rushers and comp picks will be able to be traded.
Anyway, just dreaming up scenarios for our Hawks and keeping all options open.
I just go off what we’ve seen in recent years and what sounds realistic. The trade chart is very outdated these days.
Not really. Go back and check any trade SEA have made in the past 4 drafts. Virtually every one lines up with the trade chart value-wise.
I’m referring to the entire league. When teams are moving back into round one by swapping 5th rounders and giving three first round picks to move up four spots — they’re basically doing whatever they want.
I disagree here. Even with relatively limited value at #26, dropping 11 spots from there is quite a bit and significantly bigger to me than gaining 20 spots that much later. I’m not eager to drop that far, even with good value.
“A lot of comments were made on the last mock about trade down scenarios, most of them having Seattle move down a few spots into R2 and pick up an extra R4. The history is there and they like to do it if they can.”
Myself included. This mock shows what we would be missing out on by trading down even just 6 spots-Conklin, Coleman, Martin and Butler. Staying and getting an instant upgrade at RT/LG is a too great an opportunity to pass on. Conklin or Coleman is a win-win scenario. I’d be ecstatic getting either one in the 1st round.
Agree – passing on Bitonio and trading down to get Richardson stil hurts a bit…especially since Rob convinced me to share in his man crush on Bitonio. I think Martin might be this years Bitonio, figuratively speaking. Just pick Martin at 26 an immediately improve a key position.
Love the Conklin pick, Rob. He could be there at 26 if teams don’t view him as a LT but for us, assuming we resign Okung, a 320lb grinder LG is major need. Add Glasgow in R3 to compete with Lewis or Glowinski and I feel much better about our run game and RWs health.
I’ve been assuming DL in R2 and RB in R3, but if the value is there to go RB then DL, it makes sense.
Rob very interesting Mock. Couple of notes.
-I think you nailed the Redskins two picks dead on Reed and Kelly. They fit Mcloughin’s style and the team need perfectly.
-If Atl comes out of the first two rounds with Rankins and Deion Jones that would be considered an A+ draft and they would be well on their way to rebuilding that defense. If those guys are available when they pick I think you are dead on.
-If Coleman is still on the board then I really hope he is the pick. If not Conklin is a nice consolation prize.
I just watched a video of Okung giving a talk at a big Tech conference. It was very interesting because he was discussing a lot of Pete’s principals on competition and team etc.
The reason I mention this is because it took place well after the season and he constantly referred to the the Hawks as his team and used us and my brothers etc. He did not sound like a guy who wanted to leave Seattle in any way shape or form. Even led the group in some Hawks chants.
Now this could have just been an act to play up to his audience but it seemed pretty legit.
I’m happy for him to come back — at the right price and probably shorter than longer term. Would allow them to keep some consistency and look to draft an athletic developmental tackle later. Let’s say Le’Raven Clark is still around in rounds 3-5. Or even a Willie Beavers. Someone with upside. You can work on their technique over two camps
I dunno about Beavers. Maybe Stephane Nembot instead.
Yeah Trevor, I saw some of Okung’s presentation too and was struck by the tone – he’s not talking like a FA looking to shop himself around the League.
Completely agree. Getting Okung back on a 1-2 year deal and drafting a Clark or Beavers, in the mid rounds, would be the ideal situation at OT going forward.
Yeah I hope we resign Okung to a reasonable deal. I’d rather not start the season with a completely shuffled OL and wait until week 7 again until they figure it out. Resign Okung, keep Gilliam at RT and just upgrade the interior. Don’t blow it all up in one off season.
Yeah a line of Okung-Conklin-Glasgow-Glowinski-Gilliam sounds pretty good to me!
That does sound like a very capable and serviceable line. Though also just very young. Signing Okung probably means we don’t get a FA lineman, unless it’s very cheap insurance, and we are only bringing back Rubin and one other FA (maybe Mebane).
And other than Okung, the youth movement remains well on track.
The one big problem, of course, with using continuity as a reason to bring back Okung is the likelihood he will miss significant time yet again in 2016, necessitating the plan B we are already considering. If we bring back Okung, it needs to be for some other reason than continuity, because he won’t provide that.
That’s my thoughts. Keeping him would make it easier to go for developmental upside a bit later, but the financial commitment to Okung really should not be long-term.
Not name dropping but I have been present for MULTIPLE conversations with Okung and other players and have had several brief conversations with him personally. This is how he speaks with his own teammates. He and Golden Tate were talking one night the Monday evening before the SF NFCCG in particular, and Okung was very pointed in telling Golden that Bevell has a ‘championship game plan’. It was utterly clear that he believed it. And Golden did too. Golden was having a quiet playoffs that year and he clearly wanted to contribute more. Okung was something of the quieting, emotional leadership presence. Listening to them talk, I was left with zero doubts that they were going to beat SF in that game. I still don’t think the cap room will be there to sign Okung. But he is a true believer in that team. No doubt about it.
Love it!
What do y’all think of Jeremey Cash as a Deone Bucannon moneybacker?
In fact, what about Deion Jones vs. Jeremy Cash vs. Eric Striker vs. Miles Killebrew?
Forgot to add Su’a Cravens
I like all those guys to be honest Jones, Cravens and Striker would all make great additions to our D.
Cravens might be the most versatile and best cover guy. Striker is the best pass rusher and Jones is by far the fastest. Each of them brings a slightly different quality but all would fit I think.
Jatavis Brown in that role.
I may be in the minority, but I’d prefer to trade back and take Ifedi over Conklin. On tape, I think Ifedi looks stronger and more athletic than Conklin. Jordan Howard would be a good second option if Collins is gone in the second. He’s another power runner with speed.
Though I wouldn’t hate Conklin at 26, I agree that moving back for Ifedi would be better. I might even be talked into Ifedi at 26 over Conklin.
Even if we draft Jack Allen for continuity with Conklin I wouldn’t be happy… I’m personally not big on Conklin, because he (to me) doesn’t project to the next level as a Tackle, and if PCJS are wanting to draft a Guard in the first I’d rather have a better known Guard prospect/commodity. I know of our track record of Tackle to Guard ect. But look where that has gotten us in the past in the drafts… Versatility is one thing, a comfort with a position p l ayed, to be taught better techniques is another.
There is not a single guard prospect who is round 1 worthy who didn’t play tackle in college. (who fits our size ideal)
I’m not talking about converts IN college, I’m talking about a walk-on, 3 year Tackle in college (with not great tape and subpar arm length for our Tackle position), getting drafted as a Tackle to move him to Guard, a position he has Never Played. When you could draft a more experienced Guard from 2-4. Our Type of Guards are Road Graders… Conklin is not, ask Justin Britt how his conversion from his college Right Tackle (his college and pro position) to Pro Guard went.
That’s reasonable, sorry I thought you meant for them to go guard in the first.
Just misinterpretation, our F.O does value versatility for sure. But you’re right there are no Guards who are valued as a 1st round, maybe Whitehair but why reach when the middle class talent is just as good as the top end of the scale. Which does bring the issue if we Do lose Okung or he doesn’t recover well enough for our resign standards… what do you do?
We Value arm length and from what I’ve read prematurely, from a Length perspective there’s basically nothing much of value to meet our standards in the mid-late rounds. So you’re almost forced to the top of the draft. In Decker, Coleman, Clark, Spriggs, Theus, and I think Murphy, All basically 1st-TOP 3rd round grades. IMO Decker and Coleman won’t make it to us, and unless Rankins or Zeke slips. I would hope we could opt to trade out and take La’Raven Clark as our guy. Let Cable fix his technique and I think we could get a steal….. BUT ONLY if Britt isn’t playing next to him.
Can’t argue with getting Conklin and Collins with our first 2 picks. Conklin is an upgrade along the OL. Looks like a guy Cable will fall in love with. Collins is a highly talented RB whose style is a great fit to our ZBS. Personally don’t view RB as a big need, but wouldn’t be upset in the least in getting Collins. Rawls, Collins and Michael!? Forgettaboutit
Christine is a free agent, no guarantee he comes back and that would leave us with one halfback..
Michael is a restricted free agent. Making it a lock that we can keep him, if we want to. His ‘rebirth’ to finish the season was very encouraging. No reason to think he won’t be a Seahawk next year.
All that means is that we can match offers, I don’t see them giving him any more than league minimum on a short deal.
We can put a 2nd round tender on CM. Meaning a team would have to give us a 2nd round pick to sign him. This is a player who was on the open market twice last season. Highly doubt that anyone would give us a 2nd rounder and pay him, when they could just take a RB with said pick.
That costs $2 million though.. At least it did with Kearse last year
You’re right it could cost $2 mil to keep CM. Pretty sure the cap space figure of $18 mil, courtesy of Davis Hsu, includes retaining our RFA’s- CM, Bailey, Shead etc.
Good point!
YESSS!! Finally a projection of the ‘hawks taking Collins!! I’ve been waiting weeks for this!
If I had to bet money on a single prediction in this year’s draft, it would be that Alex Collins ends up a Seahawk. As much as people talk about how we need a ‘compliment to Rawls’ or a ‘change of pace/3rd down’ type of back, I don’t think the Seahawks would agree at all. From what I’ve seen, they would prefer for all of their backs to have the body to handle carrying 20+ times a game, regardless of their role. Paul Perkins is a fine player, but does that dude even tip the scales at 200 lbs? Have fun in Philadelphia, New England or wherever you end up, but I just don’t see him as a Seahawk.
Collins looks to me like what Robert Turbin should have been (given his body type). You know, before we realized that he had the balance of a drunken septuagenarian. He won’t be the once in a generation player that Beast Mode was, but he’ll run with some power, can catch the ball, pass protect, and hopefully unlike Turbin will be able to keep his feet when a gentle breeze rolls through. He can be that ‘complimentary’ back, while still pushing Rawls for snaps on 1st and 2nd down.
I agree.
No scat backs. They got a 3 down back, 2 minute offense guy in Thomas Rawls.
They need another back like an Alex Collins.
This feels really high to take someone that might ride the pine all year. I don’t feel like the Seahawks rotate backs very well. After Rawls had his first breakout games, when Marshawn came back he hardly got any carries. And in the playoffs Michael hardly played after having 2 decent games. I think the Hawks like a lead dog and to go with them. Collins would be pure depth in case of injury. Does he return kicks or punts? If so that would make him more appealing, but if not a 2nd is a steep price for an insurance policy/competition/depth.
No it’s not. Year after year, Seattle has proved how much they want 3 backs.
It’d okay to look ahead when drafting.
A lot of the picks this year are gonna be red-shirted or backups.
“a 2nd is a steep price for an insurance policy/competition/depth.”
Absolutely it is. Don’t see us taking a RB this early, but if we did Collins or Booker(if he runs well) would fit in perfectly. Collins is certainly the type of explosive athlete we target early.
Seahawks don’t see these guys as ‘insurance’.
They see the running game as the focal point of the offense and the identity of the team. They put a high price on the position of RB — as noted by all the moves they’ve made since PCJS arrived.
You’re not drafting Collins to be a backup or depth. You’d be drafting him to help Rawls keep this team the #1 rushing unit in the NFL.
Absolutely we a run first team. I’m not discounting the importance of the position. Just don’t have RB as much of a position of need as OL, inside pass rusher, OLB. So you’re thinking about using more of a true RBBC with Rawls, CM and Collins?
Nobody would argue RB is as much of a need — but the idea of the draft isn’t to pick off the needs round by round. It’s to find value and fill those needs properly. If the DL value is better in R3-4 and the RB value better in R2 you don’t need to fight it.
Very true Rob. Sorry I get focused on maximizing value on pretty much every pick. OK most picks…ok all our picks. haha I’ll try to temper that and focus more on just accumulating big time talent. Collins is very talented no doubt. He’d top off a dynamic RB core of Rawls, CM and Collins.
Maybe it had a lot to do with Marshawn’s personality, but they have sure seemed reluctant to give their #2 back much of a chance to be more than injury insurance.
It also might feel like big-picture comparative value later at DT makes it the right choice, but I think there’s a good chance that the dropoff is actually substantial. I’m not as worried about a passing down specialist as I am about a guy who can play in the base without being a non-factor against the pass, and they’re not so plentiful.
Forgive my grumpiness, but it feels a bit like groundhog day at the moment I’ve had to break this down so often.
The Seahawks’ scheme doesn’t ask for the DT’s to rush the passer much in base. The key is stopping the run and gap discipline. It has been since day one. It’s the core identity — run the ball, stop the run. Force teams to abandon the run and pass, then create havoc/turnovers. That is why they used to line up Red Bryant, Tony McDaniel and Brandon Mebane in 2013 in base, take away the run and then let Avril, Bennett, Clemons and McDonald go to work.
If you need any more evidence of this — then it’s Carroll praising Athyba Rubin as the best three-technique they’ve had in Seattle. Most 4-3 teams put a smaller pass-rusher at the three technique. It’s considered an interior rush position. Seattle has a 330lbs monster who had the grand total of two sacks in 2015. And Carroll has praised him as the best they’ve had. Think about that.
They haven’t ever shifted away from that and whoever they draft/sign will have to fit into that one way or another. The problem in 2015 wasn’t suddenly a lack of base pass rush. They’ve never had that. It was the lack of production they had from McDonald in 2013 and Hill in 2014. If they can get that back they will be fine.
What’s more, the idea a DT who can rush the passer and play three downs will be sitting there at #56 is extreme wishful thinking. The only one I can find in this draft so far is Sheldon Rankins.
I’ve never disputed that that’s been their model, though Mebane through 2013 wasn’t as one-dimensional as he is now. I’m saying the model needs to adapt. The rate that teams run on first down is lower than ever as offenses take advantage of relative weakness by opponent and by down. The teams that sustain success don’t do it by sticking to each detail of their blueprint; they do it by making adaptations to it when it makes sense (being in a division with 3 dysfunctional franchises help too).
I’m not saying we need a base DT to be a great pass-rusher, just not a complete non-factor against the pass. Each of the other top defenses in the league right not have base players who affect both the run and the pass.
in the league *now*
“I’m saying the model needs to adapt”
The model that took Seattle to back-to-back Super Bowls in 2013 and 2014? While the Seahawks fielded the NFL’s #1 defense?
Absolutely. I’m not advocating blowing it up, or changing things willy-nilly or for the sake of change. But when has a model led to sustained success without adapting? I don’t want to be thinking down the line “what might have been.”
Also, I’m curious about your take on my first point. Was their reluctance to give the #2 back more of a chance due to Marshawn’s personality? Will they be more willing to split the load on a regular basis? It seems like you think they will.
Their reluctance to give the #2 back more of a chance was down to the fact Marshawn Lynch was one of the greatest playmakers in the NFL and the heartbeat of the team. It would’ve been silly to not feed him the football every week.
And yes, in the post-Lynch era, I would expect them to spread things around more.
He woud much more than competition or depth.
Seattle is still gonna run the ball. Their not gonna change who they are.
They’re*
What is the thought on Collins running mate Jonothan Williams?
Better player than Collins. I think he is of the best 4 backs available. Injuries may push him down a little on the draft board. Really, I see Williams as a feature back. I’d love to see the Hawks pull the trigger in the 3rd round on him. Then, take Perkins in the 4th. Ha,ha I know…but a man can dream.
Same thing with me. Willias in the third>Collins in the second.
He’s not better than Collins. Alex Collins put this team on his back all the way through the bowl game. Similar to what Zeke Elliott did last year.
Without Williams getting hurt, does he get that team on his back? On a team with two very talented backs, JW was the starter. Don’t get me wrong, I like them both, but Williams pops on tape as an NFL 1000 yard guy. He looks like a late first rounder pre-inj.
Rob – what do you think is the difference between grabbing Conklin in Round 1 and someone like Tretola in Rd 3? Especially if the idea is to move him to LG? It seems like there are some deep options with Glasgow, Tretola, Dahl, and Cooper in the middle rounds that would still solidify the interior line, but linebacker doesn’t look like a good option at that point. So if the Hawks like the interior O line depth in the mid rounds, why not look for the dynamic athletes in round 1 and 2? Take Jones in the 1st, Collins in the 2nd and then make a run on the O line… Or Jones 1st and then Sanchez/Howard CB in the 2nd (still available in this mock). You don’t want the team’s strength to turn into a weakness, and adding some more top talent into the D would help solidify it in the near term, but also make succession easier later on as some guys get older and more expensive.
It’s a plan I could envisage. It just depends on whether you want to risk coming out of the draft having not sufficiently addressed your self confessed top need. Waiting until the end of round three hoping Tretola is still there could be a risk. Plus Conklin has the bonus of having played left tackle in college, which they seem to like.
It’s a bonus if you’re going to use that versatility and can see him handling a tackle spot. If not, it’s just a nice indicator of relative athleticism. And while it is so common for college tackles to be the better athletes and do well moving inside, I think pad level and center of gravity issues are a reason Britt had so much trouble making a smooth transition.
Don’t you think Christine Michael earned trust and carries with his late season/postseason play? At least for 2016 our 1/2 punch of power backs should be Rawls/Michael. If this proves to be a liability, than it’s a 2017 issue. We already have enough 2016 issues to address (OL, DT, LB, CB). A 3rd down, scatback is probably the only subpar passing weapon we have on this roster (given a healthy Graham and one of Kearse/Richardson active for us), and I advocate the use of one pick to address this need, but I think comp 3rd/4th is the highest draft capital the Seahawks should invest in it.
I also think Falcons drafting Grady Jarrett last season might change ATL perception of a 3t need.
The Seahawks almost certainly will not think this way. The running game is too important for them to use language like, “it’s a 2017 issue”. I’ve explained in the article most of the reasons why they might consider an early pick on running back — including the point about value compared to the other positions left on the board at #56.
As for Michael, he earned the trust to have most of the snaps in 2015 ahead of Bryce Brown. He hasn’t earned enough trust to be the unchallenged #2 running back this year. This is a guy cut by Seattle, Dallas and Washington in 2015 and the chances are he signs a one year contract as a RFA. The idea they could be one injury to Thomas Rawls away from relying on Christine Michael for long stretches with minimal depth is scary and a situation I can’t envisage. Pete Carroll used to collect talent at RB at USC. He’s basically done the same in Seattle — it’s just Lynch was so good some of the other guys didn’t get much of a look in.
Grady Jarrett is a one technique not a three.
Your general point about our need for depth at RB is well taken. However, given the fact our heir apparent to Beastmode was an UDFA last year, do you think we could similarly find another RB late with the potential to take over as starter should Rawls go down again (Tre Madden, perhaps), and use that second round pick to roll the dice on Shawn Oakman? If not Oakman, there are still players like Miller, Perry, Doctson, Garnett left on your board I would take over Collins, or any RB, at this spot. The point being, we can more easily find starter-quality depth at RB late in the draft than just about any other skill position on the field.
We are one Rawls setback from being back to the Christine Michael and Bryce Brown platoon. That is a position we can’t be in.
Second point is I don’t want Christine Michael as a front runner for a roster spot. Keep him hungry and motivated.
I’d actually prefer Williams even in the second but running back is a pretty serious need.
I said I agreed with Rob’s point that RB depth, in general, is a need. I’m questioning whether round two is the spot to fill that need, considering the guy we are very concerned about needing to replace should he get injured again was an UDFA. If we are concerned about depth behind Thomas Rawls, let’s find another Thomas Rawls on day three or in UDFA, not round two.
I prefer Jordan Howard to both, if we’re taking a RB that early
Maybe. But let’s be right — they collected Rawls where they thought they could. In 2013 they spent a second rounder on a RB when they already had Lynch and Turbin. So they’re not wired to the later rounds at RB.
Good point Rob. If Collins knocks out the combine like Michael did, and he could, then it wouldn’t be too surprising if we took him at #56. Seems like taking a RB that early is a luxurious pick, but like you said CM was too. Maybe even more so.
I doubt Collins emulates Michael’s other-word combine display — but he would provide a physical, dynamic edge to the running game and a legit partnership at a good price with Rawls for the next 4 years.
Rest assured the Seahawks aren’t just going to hand Lynch’s workload to Rawls and say off you go. Not without a trusted, accomplished supporting act. The Seahawks run game is as important to this team as the defense in Denver and Tom Brady in New England. It’s Seattle’s identity on offense. However good Wilson has become.
You’re right. I should have said Collins could come close to Michael’s combine performance.
Good Job! I’m not sold on the Hawks looking for a RB that early but I like Collins. Rob I’m not going to guarantee it but I’ll be shocked if Robert Nkemdiche is not available when the Hawks pick in the first. I live in Mississippi and have some sources. Let’s just say Ole Miss won’t miss him and his brother. He has had more trouble than just the hotel incident. Do you think JS would pull the trigger if Nkemdiche is sitting there @ 26? I would also like for you to check out WR Michael Thomas from Southern Miss. Not sure if you can get tape but this dude impressed me all year and I hate that he didn’t get a combine invite. Keep up the good work! Love the podcasts!
If you have sources Pugs I think you can answer the question on Nkemdiche better than I can. What do you think JS would do?
I really like the Conklin pick.
I like Collins too but I was hoping for William Jackson III as I was scrolling down (gone one pick before our 2nd). As Collins would presumably come in as a part time player roll player I would be will to risk loosing him (and waiting until the 3rd) for someone with more playing time upside like La’Raven Clark at left tackle. Why not try to swing for the fences on trying to rebuild the left side of our Oline?
In this senerio I could also see Josh Doctson being taken as a Jermaine Kearse/possession receiver replacement. Value pick. You mentioned that an injury to Rawls would make our depth at RB thin but an injury to Baldwin would likely decimate our receiving corps as well. Something to consider.
I think decimated is a bit strong — they will hopefully have Graham, Lockett, Richardson and others too.
Lose Rawls and it’s Christine Michael riding you to the Super Bowl. That scares me more than needing to burden Lockett and Graham with more targets.
We are kind of overflowing with wide receivers and pass catching tight ends right now.
Doug Baldwin
Tyler Lockett
Jimmy Graham
Pual Richardson
Luke Willson
Kevin Smith
Cooper Helfet
Chase Coffman
Kasen Williams
Tyler Slavin
Antwuan Goodley
Jeff Fuller
Deshon Fox
Exactly. Can’t see them going WR early in a mediocre class.
The only wide receivers that interest me at all early are Corey Coleman, Braxton Miller and Pharroh Cooper. If any of those guys is there in Rd #2 when we pick which is incredibly unlikely then I hope we wait till late rounds or UDFA for a WR.
Should add the kids Caroo from Rutgers to that list as well as a potential 3rd rounder. Reminds me so much of Tate.
Paul Richardson is set to be our #3 WR. After that, it’s guys like Smith and Williams (players who started the season the PS… i.e. wasn’t wanted by anyone else). Just because we have guys like Fox, Fuller, Goodley, Slaven, etc. as probable camp fodder, doesn’t erase the need for a WR if Baldwin doesn’t sign an extension this off-season. The main thing for right now is that we have more of a need on the lines of scrimmage than anything else.
You can get by without having 4-5 elite WRs.
Baldwin wasn’t wanted either.
Your not gonna fill every ‘need’ in one draft.
Actually most of the time you can’t, remember so long ago back 1 whole year when Wilson sat in the pocket and ran out simply because no one was open. You get a long scramble drill every time if the defense you’re playing can match up. Pete Carroll has said you can never have enough play makers and pass rushers. Also I don’t think this is a mediocre WR class, it has 4-5 top dogs and is very deep. I’d like to know what you see as a good class…
2014 was a good class, 2011 was a good class.
How many did we have this year?
Passing game and targets looked fine to me.
I can see them go WR late or UDFA, which ae throwaway picks anyways, but having a hard time seeing how pumping in early draft picks into this offense works with the emergence of Lockett and Baldwin.
We can’t rely on Richardson, Lockett and Baldwin can play in the slot or wide, with richardson likely being hurt, that leaves one open receiver spot if we don’t re sign Kearse, we could have a dynamic slot type or a big possession receiver. There is without a doubt room for improvement in our receiver group. Baldwin/Lockett out wide, Graham at TE, and a corey coleman or braxton miller in the slot.
There are plenty of potential steals at WR in the later rounds and among the likely UDFAs. Seattle will probably draft one WR and one TE in rounds 4-7, and snag a few more from the UDFA pool. Even if Kearse leaves I’m not terribly concerned, though they should probably find a 2nd PR/KR to complement Lockett.
Kevin Smith is a kick returner…not sure about punts.
I see 3 people on that list I would rely on week in and week out.
Okay 4 Willson is solid
Can’t find the results of the Houston regional combine held yesterday. Found this:
http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000636103/article/jatavis-brown-trent-corney-highlight-regional-combine
but not much more. Interested in seeing how Justin Zimmer and Jatavis Brown tested and measured out-both had great 40 times. Help would be greatly appreciated.
Brown ran a 4.47 and Zimmer a 4.89. Safe to say both guys are quite sparqy.
I think Justin Zimmer has the potential to be special at a 3 tech DT with a year or two of development. I would love to see the Hawks take him. Seems like he has exactly the type of attitude to fit in our locker room as well.
He also had a 33″ vertical – at 6’3″ 303lbs! The kid is a latent SPARQ freak whose athleticism translates directly onto the field. Plus he’s a chronic overachiever.
He’s training with Olympic gold medalist sprinter Michael Johnson, still looking for a pro day to attend.
John Harris who wrote the article matt cited said Zimmer was clearly “a notch or three above all other defensive lineman candidates” at the Houston Regional Combine.
I really like him. Would love it if SEA takes him at any time on Day 3.
Certainly seems like a character kid who wants it bad. Would like to see the Hawks give him a shot. I wonder what his arm length is?
Arm length is the critical bit of info I’m after too. Zimmer certainly has the athleticism and strength to be a target. Length is a big ?.
Jatavis Brown can flat out ball. Not surprised that he ran a sub 4.5 40 at all. Him and Overton are my 2 favorite day 3 OLB’s.
Still can’t find Zimmer’s arm length, but found his 4.36 SS and 9’7″ BJ.
Rob,
Your mocks are always so much more thought out and realistic in comparison to most other sites. The only pick I really disagree with is Fackrell to Pittsburgh (and, yes, they love rushing LBs) and maybe Andy Reid not picking a lineman because that guy could have 9 Pro Bowl offensive and defensive linemen and he’d probably still take a lineman just for fun.
However, even the Steelers owner has stated publicly that the secondary had better be better in ’16 (not just improve through pass rush). I really can’t imagine the Steelers taking any position other than a corner or safety unless they drastically do something in free agency (and they aren’t a team who usually does that).
I can’t wait for free agency to start. There are so many things that will become clearer. For example, the Browns are supposed to be the main competition for Osweiler. If they sign him, that’s really going to shake things up early with Bosa probably off the board at #2.
Thanks for a website that doesn’t make the off-season so painful. 🙂
I relied on trends for the Steelers pick. They’re a bit like Seattle — know the rounds where they want to take certain positions, know what constitutes a ‘Steeler’. They’ve used the later rounds at corner I think a bit like the Hawks. We’ll see if they change that this year.
That’s interesting. They have taken a LB in the first round for three years in a row and have taken someone for their front seven on defense or the OL for 7 straight years. Maybe they take Conklin then and leave Fackrell to us. I don’t know if any team in the history of the NFL who have used first round picks on LBs for 4 years in a row. Not even the Lions did it with WRs when Millen was in charge.
Pete Carroll coached USC from 2001-2009. Here is what was drafted of USC RBs during his tenure
2001 – No USC RB was taken in the draft (not Carroll recruiting class)
2002 – No USC RB was taken in the draft (not Carroll recruiting class)
2003 – Justin Fargas was a 3rd round pick of the Raiders (I don’t think he was recruited by Carroll?)
2004 – No USC RB was taken in the draft
2005 – No USC RB was taken in the draft
2006 – Reggie Bush was a high first round pick AND LenWhale White was taken in the second round
2007 – No USC RB was taken in the draft
2008 – Chauncey Washington was a seventh round pick
2009 – No USC RB was taken in the draft
2010 (although Carroll only coached through ’09, these were still his kids that he recruited) – Joe McKnight was a fourth round pick
2011 – Allen Bradford was a sixth round pick and Stanley Havili was a seventh round pick
2012 – No USC RB was taken in the draft
I thought this was kind of interesting if we’re looking at Pete Carroll trends at USC. Granted, there was no draft and colleges can try to stockpile every position (easier said than done) but Pete was pretty good at that… he especially stockpiled top talent at OL, DL, and LB.
While he was at USC (and the immediate years after he left his recruiting classes such as giving him credit for bringing Tyron Smith to USC or Nick Perry because, after all, he did bring them to LA), Pete Carroll had 33 players drafted in the first two rounds.
Of those 33 players he had drafted in the first two rounds, 21 of them were OL/DL or LB. 3 were QBs. That means there were only 9 other players drafted at every other position in the first two rounds (RB, WR, TE, CB, S).
It’s easier to “stockpile” OL in comparison to RB b/c there are 5 OL on the field at one time, as opposed to 1 RB (not counting FB). However, it’s interesting to note that in a base defense there are 4 DL and 4 DBs, yet Pete had much more talent on the DL drafted in the first two rounds in comparison to only ever having two DBs ever drafted that high. And one of them (Polamalu) I don’t think was even originally recruited by him.
*I did not count strictly FBs as “RBs” or there were a few FBs (Kirtman, David – as we all “fondly” remember).
Part of the reason so few RB’s were drafted might be that Pete stockpiled five-star recruits at RB and often used them all. They didn’t really have many feature backs from memory (Bush aside).
True. But you’d think that scouts like John Schneider would be able to scout them and see for themselves that they had talent and draft them (and use them if they were good enough). Guys like Matt Cassel and Brad Johnson never played in college but scouts were aware of their abilities and gave them chances. You’d think if a USC recruit was good, that someone would have given them a shot and they would have been good if they’d gotten that shot.
Same reason he passed on Taylor Mays. Not NFL level guys.
Who better than to gauge what a guy could or will be than the man who recruited, and coached them?
That’s my point.
Justin Fargas was a transfer from Michigan.
That second round pick is interesting, Collins doesn’t do a whole lot of wasted steps when approaching the LOS, his initial steps are similar to Marshawn’s. I actually like the value here and provides insurance for Rawls should he hurt himself again (knock on wood). Noticed our run game wasn’t as effective with Michaels in there as oppose to Rawls so this pick could be the 2016’s version of a Lockett-type steal in second round.
That’s what I thought too. Its tough to gauge a player by only watching highlights, but Collins seems to be a very fluid downhill runner who doesn’t dance or take many wasted steps.
1. Jack Conklin
I love this pick and would be thrilled if he fell to us. Coleman, however, is also avaliable here. I can understand taking Conklin over Coleman though because of age and health reasons.
2. Alex Collins
I am a big Alex Collins fan but I am worried about the o-line still. Glasgow is a good pick but I would really love Tretola. If we could reunite Tretola and Collins that would be awesome.
1. Jack Conklin
2. Alex Collins
3. Sebastian Tretola
3c. Graham Glasgow
4. Do either Willie Henry or Ronald Blair drop this far?
Conklin, Glasgow and Tretola would be great additions to our offensive line.
Gilliam, Tretola, Glasgow, Glowinski, Conklin has potential to be a great group. Prehaps target a d-lineman instead of Glasgow? Some mocks have Glasgow still being around by the time we pick in the fourth.
Maybe add Jaye Howard or William Hayes in free agency? The Seahawks always have success with defensive tackles added in free agency. AJ Francis and Jesse Williams are names we shouldn’t ignore or forget.
At linebacker, an open competition between Cassius Marsh, Mike Morgan, Kevin Pierre Louis, Travis Feeney, and Eric Pinkins could be used to accurately locate Bruce’s backup.
Mario Williams might be another option in free agency.
William Hayes is one of my dream scenarios. He is a terror. Would love for that to happen. What is he asking for? The line for him will be long.
I like Hayes a lot, but I have concerns about him (like a lot of other Rams players) where he only shows up against Seattle and no one else. It would be worth it if we could get him on a budget deal though.
I would not count on Jessie Williams. If he makes the 53, great… but I certainty would not pencil him onto the roster yet.
There are a few players on the roster that will contribute next year and probably a couple that will emerge big time that we currently aren’t counting on. Richard Sherman was once on that list!
One things that has not been talked about much on here is the idea of trying Casius Marsh as a replacement for Bruce. He certainly can set and edge and would be stout against the run but would he provide enough pass rush? What do you guys think? I know they experimented with it a little last off season.
I personally think that Marsh is the perfect replacement for Irvin. Maybe a rotation of players, such as Marsh, KPL and Pinkins would be the most effective based on the situation?
I see Marsh as more of a Bennett than an Irvin.
The roster is lacking explosive speed rushers. KPL and Pinkins are more pure LBs who don’t provide that.
I think a situational rotation of Marsh / KPL / Pinkins is likely as well. Marsh for running and occasional blitz packages. KPL / Pinkins for coverage downs and / or in a Malcolm Smith type role if KJ switches to the SAM role occasionally I worry about those two getting lost in space and against the run though.
You have as many sacks the past two years as Marsh does.
Bruce Irvin is good and quick in space and coverage. It was really surprising to see. I remember one play a few years ago where he had a pick and it showed how athletic in space he was. I think it was his second year after he’d started playing SAM. There’s no way Marsh could do that when asked of him. A SAM who can’t cover anyone in space, nor rush the passer, is going to be a very good replacement for Irvin, imo.
Marsh and Clark both are more Bennett than Irvin. Here are clips from preseason 2015 showing Clark, Marsh and Hill (looking as good as they can look)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rbqsnYU7qUM
If anything, the more athletic, twitchier Clark better replaces the Irvin pass rush element better than Marsh. Although I think both would be wasted unless they are used both inside and outside.
Bottom line, please, I want a couple of new pure edge rushers on the roster!!!
Marsh is a LEO, if we can call it that anymore.
Your gonna be hard pressed to find elite, edge rushers in this draft my man.
I had the same thought a couple weeks ago. Marsh seems to be about the right size for the position..and some of those special teams tackles he was making towards the end of the season gives me confidence he has enough athleticism to make plays in the open spaces..
Rob, in this mock, I think you do a great job assessing the needs—of the other teams. And how they fill them. But for the Hawks, I don’t like it.
I don’t think the difference between Conklin and o-linemen further down is that huge to justify a first rounder for him, although Conklin would be a safe and reasonable pick. Conklin over Nick Martin and Shon Coleman? Hm.
I think missing out on d-line and pass rush in the first two rounds would be a huge shame. Missing on Leonard Floyd would be a waste. Vernon Butler, Chris Jones, Kevin Dodd, Shaq Lawson, Darius Latham, Kenny Clark all within range? I would take any of them over a running back.
In other words, trade down into the top of rd 2, then proceed from there.
I would take Michael Thomas over a running back.
Nothing wrong with Alex Collins, but again, I don’t see the reason to take any back that early except for Zeke Elliott. Quality running backs are available throughout, all the way into undrafted free agency!!! Collins just isn’t a generational type to justify it.
Missing out on an edge pass rusher in the first 4 rounds leaves the Victor Ochis and Tyrone Holmes types later. Travis Feeney? Besides being local, what’s he got? There is no footage on the web on him (that I have found).
KPL, Pinkins cannot and do not replace Bruce Irvin’s pass rush. They would have to get a free agent veteran in this scenario or suffer a big deficit.
I think Rob is taking into consideration that Cable would rather have try hard guys who aren’t overly athletic (which is a fact based on Seahawk early picks for the OL in the Cable era), as opposed to guys who might actually be better football players. Conklin will probably be a decent pro but I don’t think he’ll be a noticeably better left guard than Tretola. But Tretola is a funny guy and keeps people loose, so Cable would probably have the guy who “checks all of his boxes” like Justin Britt. Also, the fact that Tretola has never tried to kill anyone in a bar fight or never wrestled in junior high probably makes him ineligible to be a Seahawk. I’m trying to be half-funny with it, too. 🙂
I see rds 2-4 as a huge sweet spot for o-linemen. Good ones in rd. 1-2, but I would rather see pass rush and DT with those top picks. Imagine, for instance, using this board, move down and take Leonard Floyd, and then Darius Latham. Or Vernon Butler and Jordan Jenkins. Then go for o-line after that.
Frank Clark only played in 1/3 of all snaps last year and might end up being a better pass rusher than Irvin. I actually think Irvin hasn’t really panned out as a great pass rusher for this system. Maybe that changes for his next team. His versatility and athleticism will be hard to replace, but I’m starting to think losing Irvin won’t be as big of a deal as some are expecting.
I’m a big fan of Thomas, and even though I’m not sure WR is a huge need if he falls to the top part of round 2 I would love to try and grab him.
Clark most definitely had some “splash” plays in the regular season and he was a one man wrecking crew in the preseason. He’s going to be a good/great player moving forward. How good is going to be the big question. Fingers crossed.
If we want to maintain our speed and athleticism at linebacker losing Irvin is a big loss. Maybe KPL or Pinkins fills that role. But I think it’ll be a fairly early draft pick. Assuming Irvin doesn’t resign.
Big part of our run D was teams inability to go east/west on us.
Clark is just a different kind of pass rusher than Irvin. I really don’t think KPL or Pinkins do it. They are more suited to the other LB duties
You could say that about any position though. No need to draft OL – just get a UDFA like Garry Gilliam. No need to draft DL- just get the next Michael Bennet.
Having a quality backup for Rawls (which Michael is not) is far too important to entrust to the UDFA/ late rounds. Especially given hos injury.
Feeney is a former safety and he had 9 sacks in 2015.
Want to see film. Please post any available links to footage we can see.
Watch the Hau’oli Kikaha footage from last year.
He’s unique,Gwith elite length. Drops back to S, stands up off the edge, can cover the flsts and seams, plays the run, and this year they played him more on the line.
Look where Seattle has drafted LB’s. Other than BWagz, none higher than the 4th round. And Bruce Irvin doesn’t count. He wasn’t drafted to be one.
Yep all that and can rush the passer fairly well. He’s started games at every level on the defense- versatile. Strength and health(chronic shoulder issues) are the 2 biggest question marks.
I’ve gone back to the Kikaha film, and some of the Huskies D highlights. Feeney is a pretty classic LB. Not an Irvin.
You’re watching 2014 film where Feeney played strictly OLB. 2012-13 he played S. 2015 mostly DE.
Butler, Jones, Dodd, Latham, Clark are all off the board at #56. You don’t have the choice of taking them over a running back n this sceanrio.
The more I watch of Conklin, I dislike. Overrated.
Love Alex Collins, think he’s very similar to Thomas Rawls
I haven’t watched Collins much. If I’m watching Arkansas, it’s only been to focus on Kirkland or Tretola on the OL. How good of a runner do you think he’d still be if he didn’t have that dominant run blocking OL in front of him?
Still woulda been good.
Not a fan of Arkansas’ O-line. I’d stay far away from them.
Vol I went back this weekend to watch as much Mich St. tape as I could find mostly because I was interested in Jack Allen as a mid round Center option.
I agree the more tape I saw the less I liked Conklin as an early round pick. He is tough but like Allen is an average athlete. Unlike Allen who was very consistent you are right Conklin has some rough spots and is likely a better LG than RT.
The only true tackles in Rd #1 are Tunsil, Decker and Coleman IMO. After that guys like Spriggs will need time to develop. If we don’t get Coleman in Rd #1 then I think our best tackle option is La Raven Clark in Rd #2.
I think he’s a fantastic run blocker, with the necessary size and skill set to be an excellent left guard.
I think you are dead on Rob he is a quality NFL LG not a tackle in NFL.
I’m OK, I guess, with Conklin at 26, hoping he turns into Hutch-lite at LG. The only thing that bothers me about that move is it admits yet another wasted second round pick. Britt essentially becomes expendable, not that he hasn’t done that to himself already. If we are to replace Britt – and we should – there is just something inside me that would rather hit on a later round prospect, which is quite doable. Conklin at 26 to LG means we will have spent the 26th overall pick and the 64th overall pick in the span of two years to find only a starter at LG. Ouch. It would be nice if we could solidify that spot on day three with a Landon Turner or a Spencer Drango instead.
This is what I don’t like about Conklin. Inconsistency. One game Ohio St moves Joey Bosa away from him, against Penn St DL Anthonjy Zettel works him with a HS level spin move. He slips off blocks, bad stance, bad footing. Average athlete.
All that is okay and teachable, consistency isn’t, but he’s more Jack Mewhort, a 2nd rounder.
Like Drango a lot in the 3rd round. Think he’d be an upgrade over Britt at LG from the get go.
I suspect the FO has already acknowledged to themselves that Britt is not the solution. They don’t stick with their perceived mistakes. Including letting players like Jaye Howard or CM, rather than giving them more time. CM clearly needed it to get him to wake up. Not so sure about Howard through. Either way, I doubt they will be content to ust keep Britt at LG. He and Bailey would be strong depth as backups though. I’m hoping our OL second string this year will be Bailey, Brtt, Lewis, Sokoli, and Jeanpierre. We could get through any injury under that scenario.
Starters: Gilliam, drafted LG, FA Center, Glowinkski, FA or Drafted RG.
Which could also include Okung coming back at the right price (doubtful, he’s the highest rated FA LT). And then Gilliam stays put.
Think about it though — would you want to leave the main priority of the off-season to a late round pick just because Britt was a bust?
Britt is a sunk cost. It’s not wise to dwell on sunk costs and let them dictate your future moves. Busts will happen. JS is very good about knowing when to cut losses no matter the draft capital spend (Harvin for example). If they like Conklin or another LG at 26, I hope they go for it because a dominant line likely won’t include Britt anyways
Rob, can you review why you like Ronald Blair so much? From what I see, he is a base DE interior defender, not an edge, and plays with two hands on the turf.
I suppose having inside/outside versatility types is useful—Clark, Marsh both are—and Blair is another one like that. I just think the roster lacks enough edge.
I have to ask this. Do you like Dadi Nicolas more than Ronald Blair?
(If this question is for me), I think they are different. Blair has two hands in the dirt. I’m looking for OLB edge, and I don’t know if Blair does that.
His two hands in the dirt is a ‘frog stance.’ A lot of guys play that way.
Its’s similar to a a basketball player with a funky jump shot. Like Shawn Marion. If it works for a guy, your not gonna change it.
Having versatile D-lineman that can play inside and out is a good thing. They can still rush off the edge.
Yoy brought up William Hayes, who is almost 280 lbs. Same thing.
Cameron Wake uses the same stance.
Wake, Red Bryant, Charles Tapper are afew who come to mind.
You wouldn’t draft Blair to be an edge player. That was noted in the article. You’d be using him as an interior rusher.
You’re not drafting him to be an edge rusher. You’re drafting him to be a 6-1, 285lbs interior rush specialist. And he does that job at a slightly smaller weight right now.
Ronald Blair is listed as 6-4 on ESPN, and some other websites.
Listed 6-1 here http://www.nfl.com/draft/2016/profiles/ronald-blair?id=2555251
Seen him down as 6-1, 6-3 and 6-4. We’ll find out for sure at the combine.
I like smaller inside guys who know how to use that natural leverage, hope he’s 6-1 haha
I think after the combine we will have some idea if there is a potential edge rush candidate in the draft for the Hawks. If there are any guys that have 6-3+, 240+, 33 inch arms+ and run a 1.55 or less 10yd split then we should definitely take a close look. Until then it is really hard to see a good fit except perhaps a guy like Frackell who I personally just don’t see having the natural bend, balance and fluidity to be a great NFL edge rusher.
Guys like Irvin and Avril are incredibly rare athletes and that is why the command the big dollars. Not many of these guys are late round or UDFA guys who develop.
Guys like Michael Bennet who go undrafted and develop into a dominant pass rusher are few and far between and even he is not what you would call a speed edge rusher.
This is exactly why guys like Spence despite the character concerns will be top 10 picks. They are so rare that they are worth the pick.
As much as I don’t care for him as a football player Dadi Nichols is the one guy who might have the physical traits the Hawks will want as an edge guy. He looks lost on the field but he looks the part from a length and speed standpoint,
Unless the ‘character concerns’ are just off the charts, walk don’t run to the podium Spence is available. We need to get younger at the pass rushing spots. And we need a injury insurance at that position as well with Avril and Bennett approaching 30.
We seem to be able to muddle through if a player like Okung goes out. We are in a world of trouble though if an Avril or Clemons suddenly isn’t available in a playoff game.
Therefore in the simplest terms, I consider a unique athlete, high upside pass rusher > than any line man they can draft on either side of the ball. Had the Percy Harvin money been devoted instead to keeping Clemons we probably win it all again in 2014. Avril going out of that game was the final straw that broke us.
The combine will change almost everything.
Yep for sure Vol it certainly will narrow the list for us to realistically talk about.
I’ll save you guys the time, Spence will be gone by pick #15 (or so).
He feels like an Aldon Smith kind of guy, tremendous upside…. but off the field, you better have a babysitter for him… or it could get ugly.
I think he actually a top 10 pick and agree about the off feild stuff but would not compare him the Smith. This kid is smart All Big Ten academic who seems to have got into the party scene in college. There were no issues prior to that second year at Ohio St. and he seems to have owned up to things and turned the corner.
I remember bringing up Spence early in the year as a 1st round guy and the talk was mid-round at best now he is talked about as a sure fire first rounder. After the combine he will be a lock for top 10. No other edge guys even close in this draft.
And isn’t that unfortunate. Spence is exactly the kind of pass rusher I want the Hawks to pursue.
We’ve looked at the OL and DL a lot. But what is the Kam situation? If he is still in the mindset of insisting the FO renegotiate his contract before his final year, we could be looking for a replacement in the early rounds???
Jayron Kearse of Clemson has some intriguing upside!
http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/2060411/jayron-kearse
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Coce42VjWNM
Kearse is a later round pick for me. Just big. Awful instincts and field awareness.
Kam will be back in 2016. And if he isn’t — I’d be shocked if Kearse was the guy they replaced him with. Probably just Kelcie McCray.
I thought Kearse hurt his team more than he helped them. Specifically in the ‘ship against ‘Bams.
A very cool player is Xavien Howard 6’2 #1 CB Baylor. He’s shutdown with speed.
Some team will think he is Deone Bucannon 2.0 and take a flyer on him. But as Rob said, he has some highlight reel tackles and some highlight reel (for the other team) whiffs. If you view him as a day 3 5 or 6th round project, go for it. If you think he will step in on day one and play….. not a chance with Seattle.
Have we discussed DT Sheldon Day in here very much? Undersized but a good motor.
For around the same price you could get a more active Bullard, if That’s the type of lineman you’re looking for.
Big fan of Day. Would love to get him in the 3rd as an inside pass rusher. Looks like a really good athlete for his size, has better length than you’d expect(32 7/8″ arms, 78 3/4″ wingspan-both better than 6’4″ Austin Johnson), good motor, quick play recognition, quick off the snap, shows some pass rush moves that could be refined. Day, Ward, Blair, Henry are the round 3-4 targets I like-in that order. The combine will likely shake things up.
Would you guys be against the Seahawks signing Okung to a performance/incentive laden deal.
So for example, next year he would get 4M base, then in 2017 8M and then in 2018 12M….. then have automatic escalators or guarantees on the deal related to playing time each year. Let’s say 85% of the games Seattle playing in 2016 season, so on and so on.
I think this would be fair for the player and the team. This would eliminate the “need” to draft an OT early in the draft.. and the team can then pick-up interior OL (OG / OC) and continue to “develop” OL how they have since ~2010.
I’d be fine with that, my issue with Okung is very simple. He’s had reconstructive surgery on his shoulder (not to the extent of Earls), but look how long it took Earl to get back to his old self… EARL, one of the most dedicated ball players on this team.
That said, with Okung representing himself as his own agent, how is he going to focus and dedicate himself to a PROPER rehab on his shoulder?? As the Starting LT in one of the nastiest divisions in the NFL. EVERY.SINGLE.SNAP he’s going to have collisions and high speed attacks on that shoulder. Can he hold up with his rapsheet?
I have had the exact surgery Okung is having when I played hockey and had to wear a brace for another year when playing to protect the shoulder capsule and prevent me from extending too far. I can’t even imagine what it would be like to come back from that surgery and an OT in the NFL where full extension of the arms is critical on almost all plays.
I think the Okung injury is much more serious than the average fan realizes because of the position he plays and will scare off most teams. I would be absolutely shocked if he gets a long term big money deal in free agency. Very likely he is back on a 1 year deal and average money to try and create a market for himself in 2017.
We still will need a plan at both tackle spots IMO because I am sure he will not be 100% to start the year.
Okung also started and is a co-founder in ‘conumer viewed’ video gaming. Meaning, he thinks the future of vido games is a specttor sport. 2 people going at it, in an arena like amosphere, with a crowd on hand.
This company was obviously founded, started, created, and based in Seattle. He says it’s ‘his baby and pride and joy.’
Sure, he could always come back to Seattle for buiness if he leaves, but if this startup company needs his time, attention, and dedication, wouldn’t it make sense if he stayed?
I’m just looking at his FA from both sides of the glass.
Interesting stuff Trevor. Didn’t realize how major Okung’s surgery was. How seriously did you take rehab Trevor? Wondering because when I was young I didn’t take it seriously at all, and am of course paying for it now. haha Perhaps a professional rehab program could expediate Okung’s healing process…
But that’s the kicker, representing yourself as your own agent. Can you dedicate yourself to a proper rehab? To the questionable concerns, I’d rather use his money on Sweezy and our other F.A’s. Lane, Rubin, Mebane, and if money allowed Kearse.
I was playing pro hockey at the time for the farm team of the Montreal Canadiens and my Surgeon Dr. Leznar is world renowned. The technology has advanced like all orthopedic surgeries but it still a major surgery for any sport that requires full extension of the arms as that is when the shoulder capsule is most vulnerable to sub lexation.
He should have full recovery as long as there was no nerve damage but it is a hard rehab as you basically loose all strength and mobility in the shoulder. He would not be able to wear a shoulder harness because of the position he plays so I just don’t see how he is ready for the start of the year.
In comparison it is a far more difficult rehab process than the surgery Earl had because of how hard the OT position is on the shoulder joint. If he was an RB for example I would be a lot more confident.
That’s cool you played hockey in the pros man! Got to take your firsthand word on the severity of the injury/surgery. You’re spot on about about the importance of being able to extend and take the pounding as an OL.
@Trevor,
I’m probably getting into very dicey territory here, so I’ll be careful to code my language. NFL players, and sportspeople more generally, have access to gear that shortens traditional injury timelines dramatically. So that’ll help, he’ll probably play in a brace, and then he’ll be on a crateload of painkillers. I agree he could well get a 1-year deal, but I think he’ll come back just fine.
The pain killers would not make any difference if the shoulder joint is not stable. He should would just sub lex or completely dislocate. Not being able to feel it would just increase the chance for nerve damage. I agree the technology is much better but the rotator cuff and all the stabilizing muscles still need to full heal, then he has the regain strength and mobility.
He will likely come back at full strength I am just saying the start of the year is very optimistic and it will definitely hurt his market in FA.
Hey Rob can you do an article on under the radar receivers in this draft that can could in rounds 3-7 and if there are any guys in this draft class that could be a steal like martavis bryant, t.y hilton, or john brown. Guys with extreme athletic ability that the seahawks are drawn to
Probably have to wait for the combine for that one man
Too bad the Seahawks weren’t drawn to them.
Some under rated receivers: (IMO)
Malcolm Mitchell-UGA
Devin Lucien-ASU
Devon Cajuste-Stanford
Paul McRoberts-SE Missouri St. (possibly not under rated anymore)
Devonte Allen-Marshall
Reggie Diggs – Richmond
Rashon Ceasar – Louisiana Monroe
DJ Foster-ASU (Actually expect him to get drafted as RB, but a very versatile under rated guy IMO)
I don’t know about any of these guys exhibiting extreme athetic ability, and half of them won’t even get combine invites probably. But sleepers/under the radar guys or even UDFAs.
Other Under the radar guys that I personally like; not WRs.
Robert Booker- C- Missouri St. (Reminds me of Unger)
Michael Jordan- CB-Missouri Western (big physical CB)
Aaron Epps-T- Louisville (RT project, big, athletic two sport guy-could see the hawks liking him)
What about Emmanuel Ogbah? Most rankings and mocks have him as a 1st rounder. I don’t think he would last till our second pick, but in your mock you don’t include him at all. He would bolster our pass rush, which is a higher priority than RB and harder to find later in the draft.
I think he’s completely overrated based on production. Third or fourth rounder.
In the middle of the Oline and dline, specifically def tackle, due to the players this year and next year becoming free agents. Sighing okung is a safe thing to do cause all the good offensive tackles will be taken by the time we pick at 26, trouble is he will want a longterm deal and alot of money, js/pc are gonna have to do their homework and be ready for this draft!, cause it could set us back
1. Shon Coleman
2. Sebastian Tretola
3. Graham Glasgow
3c. Ronald Blair
This is what I would do if the board fell this way.
Not a fan of the Collins pick. He’s a fine player but doesn’t offer much of anything different than Thomas Rawls. Both are tough between the tackles type players. Collins is obviously style but to me they are similar players. You still need a 3rd down/2 minute back.
Not sure the USC comp carries much weight to be honest. Pete Carroll used a lot of backs at USC because he could – with 90 man rosters and all. Most of his backs were fairly non-descript and few were true 3 down backs. So yeah it made sense to use a lot of backs. In the NFL teams have limited resources in terms of draft capital, financial capital etc as well as roster spots. All those factors alone are going to require a different philosophy.
I’m totally comfortable with a Rawls/Michael combo at about a 70/30 split respectively. A 3rd down back is truly what we need and I would look in the 3rd/4th round for that.
*Edit – meant to say Collins is obviously bigger (not style).
If you get a back to mix in with Rawls, then he can be that 3rd down back.
Seattle wants punishing RBs. Having Lynch and Turbin didn’t op them from tataking C-mike and Spencer Ware.
It’s who are. A run based offense. I don’t care what RW did this year.
Rawls has the potential to be a 3 down back, and probably is.
But, as Rob said, until they get some depth their comfortable with behind him, they’re not gonna overload or feed him unnecessarily.
I love Rawls but he doesn’t seem like a natural catching the ball out of the backfield. I’m also not overly sold on him stepping into his blocks like Lynch (or Turbin or Jackson). He seemed to fight the ball (and let a few go through his hands) an awful lot on screens in the few chances he got the ball thrown in his direction. We’ll see. Not to say he can’t do it. He’s still too raw. If it were next year at this time, I’d be much more certain if I thought the same thing. It’s amazing what the second year does for most players and that’s part of the reason a guy like Tyler Lockett is so much fun to have on our side.
Fair point.
But, if you draft say Alex Collins, who has something like, 20 catches in 3 years, who’s the 3rd down back?
I’m not on the Alex Collins train for an early pick. I’d be more after a compliment to Rawls in terms of a guy who’d be a great third down back (good receiver) and could share a few carries per game, too. I know Rob is on the Perkins train, too, and would like him as more of a fit but he probably won’t be there late in the third. Free agency is going to tell us quite a bit more about what we need to do with picks.
I like RB Paul Perkins as much as Rob too. Think he has a unique ability to get defenders squared up at the LOS and then make them miss using angles and other things.
Only question I have about him, goes back to a discussion I had with my man CHAWK, is he big enough for what Seattle typically wants in a RB?
I think he is just because Rawls will get a majority of the carries (not as many consistently as Lynch in his workhorse day) and Perkins wouldn’t get that many.
He doesn’t look big enough for seattle and I don’t like how consistently he goes down on ankle tackles
DeAndre Washington from Texas Tech. Major production in the passing game (1,091 career rec yds) despite his small stature (5’8″, 200). Rushing totals? Just under 1,500 as a senior with 6.4 avg. And he could very well be available in the later rounds, or even as a UFA.
From what I saw of Washington at The Senior Bowl I liked, then looked up a few games and those matched what I saw. His decisions are quick, with speed that matches and he just attacks the L.O.S. Just like you noted, man he catches to ball smoothly and consistently. The height/weight range that Seattle is linked to is between 5’10-6’1″ & 210-230, so he is under their “norm” as of late, but let’s not forget Leon Washington and the kid does carry that 200 very similarily.
My mistake Rawls is 5’9″ not 5’10”, either way Washington would be a nice late round addition if he’s the type they’re looking for. Now if they’re looking at more of a bruiser at a higher price I’d rather go Jordan Howard Indiana, than Alex Collins. If they want one at a lower price tag, I’d look at Peyton Barber Auburn.
Washington, Ferguson, Coprich, Madden are some late round-UDFA RB’s targets, who could fill the 3rd down role.
Ware got more of a look at FB who could fill in at RB. Kind of like Coleman.
I sure like the upside of Brandon Cottom, the 260 pound RB/FB who spent last year on the practice squad. He’s ridiculously athletic for a man that size. He destroys would-be tacklers as a blocker or ball carrier. He’s an excellent pass catcher, who often blows up the first defender to try and tackle him after a reception. If he can be an astute pass protector, he may contribute as a 3rd down back for us.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KsJ1mrz3ySQ
It’s not really about finding something different to Rawls. It’s finding another back who fits this team, to help keep the running game at the top post-Lynch.
Carroll runs the ball as his offensive identity. That was the mentality at USC. He isn’t going to just put his faith in Rawls and Michael and risk another situation like at the end of 2015 where they’re scrambling around for a RB.
Been trying to say that. But, you have a much better way of explaining things then do I.
Michigan St CB Arjen Colquhoun-6’0-6’1, 205-210 lbs., rumored to be quite the athlete, was running receivers routes for them.
Very interesting prospect. Let’s see what he does at his pro day and his arm length.
The 1st four rounds of the draft, Seattle always takes combine participants. Just something to keep in mind.
If Forte wants to play for a team with a shot to win an SB and $ is not the priority for him then NE and Sea make the most sense for sure.
What do you guys think of Forte as veteran 3rd down back similar to the role Jackson played this year but with more in the tank. Would like be a better presence in the RB room than a rookie with Rawls and Michael.
If the can get him on like a 2 yr 5mil deal I think it would make sense.
I somehow doubt Forte will take that pay cut. He is going to get plenty of offers.
running backs his age have not been getting big deal on the market.
Matt Forte isn’t going to sign for a team that wants to use him only as a third down back.
He also isn’t taking a deal worth $2.5m APY.
What do you think a 30 yr old back with his mileage will get on the market Rob. He has been linked to NE and Sea and neither of those teams is going to give him a big $ deal. He says he wants to win and have a shot at SB. If that is the case then we will see.
I think he’ll get a gig with a contender that needs a starter for a year or two.
Man, I see a lot of ‘Seattle better do this, this draft will set us back, what about thi position and that position?’
Maybe I’m an optimist and a glass half full kind of guy, but damn man, give guys a chance.
Not every rookie is gonna be Tyler Locketr his first year. How many guys in the league had a rookie campaign like him? 5 or 6? And we’ re suppsed to scoop up all of them?
Let guys like Frank Clark and Cassius Marsh develop. Takes the majority of guys 3 years before they reach their ceiling.
Seattle isn’t gonna change or go away from what they do. There’s probably gonna be more of a focud on ‘toughness and physicality’ this year, but this is a team still loaded with a young core for the next 3-4 years.
It’s almost as if this team doing what they do, getting to 2 straight SBs, and being one half, hell maybe one quarter away from 3 straight NFFC’s. More likely 3 straight years. IMO we woulda crushed ‘Grandpa’ Carson and his Cards.
Finding a couple starters, couple backups or rotation pieces, couple red shirts/projects, and hitting on a couple UDFAs is the best, smartest, most economicalky smart way to approach things.
And they’ll find a starter in FA on onhe of the lines.
Meant to say, ‘it’s almost as if this team doing what they do, getting to 2 straight SB’s, being one half, hell one quarter away from 3 straight SB’s isn’t good enough.’
Nothing wrong with wanting to improve, as if that isn’t the goal every year, but expectations are a bit unreasonable sometimes.
I’ll take killing 4 drafts in 6 years every day of the week that ends in a ‘y.’
Who isn’t doing that? It’s the offseason people come here to talk football lol, I love all the different perspectives. Just keep an open mind and decide for yourself.
On the other hand, you can make a strong argument that the last three offseasons could have been better, and that the lack of quality depth contributed to their losing the SB, and not making the SB this time.
If we’re being realistic, sure, expect JSPC to continue to be patient with existing personnel (even those who have not shown up for 2 years), opportunistically adding depth, and much less often, splashy additions.
But the fun for me is hoping. Hoping that they are more willing to churn the bottom half of the roster, and more willing to do new things.
Keeping an open mind.
Does that include thinking that out of 12 WRs, a couple of them will step up and be fine as 4th or 5th options?
A couple of these CBs will make the team?
They churn the bottom/back end of the roster every year.
Agree about Clark. That guy is just getting started. He made enough plays here and there to warrant an expectation or realistic hope that he’s going to be a good player. Most DL don’t come into the league and dominate from day one and that’s something I don’t think people here understand when they talk about wanting this DL or that DL in the early/mid rounds and thinking that’s going to solve a DT problem (like those players are going to come in and play great right away – they aren’t). Make no mistake, they are needed though as we progress into the future and I definitely hope for a DT by the end of day two.
I will disagree about Marsh developing though. If you’re a Leo for the Seahawks and you are still searching for your first NFL sack going into your third season, I’m not going to hold my breath. Part of the reason may be lack of playing time. However, there is a reason for lack of playing time (you’re not all that good to begin with). He is developing into a good, solid guy in terms of playing him at end on early downs and stopping the run/contain. He’s also becoming a really good ST player. It’s not like I think he’s terrible or anything, I just know he’s not a solution when it comes to the pass rush.
No, he’s not the solution.
But, I think he’s a solid rotation piece. Has gotten better. Granted 2014 he was hurt. And is a ST’s monster, which we know PC/JS love.
His only move is speed. Never was big on Marsh because he just gets blocked passed the QB every. Single. Play.
Jeez it seems like everyone in here hates Conklin haha, not every prospect is going to be packaged in a box ready to be put on the shelf for display. That said, we could do A LOT worse than Conklin at 26..
Wow, ok.
Never said I hated him, I think he’s being overrated. The more I watch of him, the more I see why.
I’m not the type to sit back and say ‘Hate this pick. This draft sucks. Why did they take him over this guy?’
When they draft a guy, I’ll go back and see why they liked a guy.
I like to think I’m pretty open minded, a flip flopper, and a draft whore. But if you say so.
That was meant to be posted in the main thread, wasn’t trying to attack you or anything lol a lot of people have been saying stuff.
Got cha. All good.
Just for the record, my post or rant might be a better word, wasn’t just people here. It’s twitter, eveywhere really. I probably shoulda said that.
Rob does the best job of presenting realistic options, scenarios, and prospects IMO outta anyone I know.
This place is my outlet and I honestly think I’d go through withdrawls if it wasn’t for here. Where else am I gonna talk Seahawks, post a million times a day (yeah I post too much), or just BS?
Definitely, Rob’s input is great. I’ve been on the blog for a couple years but just recently found the comments section haha. Everyone here has good input too, every seahawks fan should read the blog, they’d learn a lot.
That’s it…you’re cut off! No more Internet for you until Wednesday…evening!
I am looking at Sua Cravens. What a dynamic playmaker, what an athlete—and a tweener who can do it all. I specifically like what I saw as a LB, even setting edge and pass rushing. He’s got the speed. Does he play safety, or should he muscle up and play OLB? Like of like Shaq Thompson last year, is this a versatility guy you’d love to have?
He would be best bulking up a little and playing linebacker IMO, but if that slows him down he’ll be a safety
If Kam were to leave he would be a nice replacement IMO. Not the huge hitter like Kam but solid in run support and good cover guy from what I have seen.
Watching the Collins tape, it was hard for me to keep from focusing on Tretola each play. Is there much of a chance he lasts past day 2?
Not likely and if he does there’s virtually zero chance he’ll last until the end of the fourth round when the Seahawks pick again.
I would run to the podium if he is there when we pick in the third.
Sure.
Rob, who do you see as the front runner for the SAM spot? I think it’s Mike Mo, do you think the Seahawks might be comfortable enough with him to rule out taking a LB early? (Barring someone potentially special falling to us)
As of today probably Morgan but competing in camp with Pinkins, KPL, Coyle and probably another.
I think KJ is the front runner to return to Sam. Pinkins and KPL will probably compete for the WILL. I was very disappointed in KPL vs the Panthers last year during the regular season. He was abused in pass defense and seemed to be out of position or blow assignments on a number of plays. I’m rooting for Pinkins. He has 4.4s speed, Safety hips, great athleticism and excellent length. On paper, he has the potential to be a big upgrade in defending pass routes…seems and flats, where we have been vulnerable. I just hope he can use those long arms to get off blocks and reliably set the edge on running plays.
Might be wishful thinking, but here’s 2 possible candidates.
Josh Shirley? Has the athleticism and his 10 yard split numbers matched too IIRC.
2nd guy, and IDK if he’s still on the roster, but last year’s OTA standout, before he tore his ACL, LEO/OLB Ryan Robinson?
I think there is every chance one of those guys gets a shot to compete for the spot. I have real hope for Shirley to make the squad this year.
Shirley’s 10 yard split was 1.58s and he had a 38.5″ VJ and 122″ BJ. But he wasn’t as good in the agility drills (3C and SS).
I forgot about Shirley. And they just signed him to a futures contract. Obviously PC sees something in him to keep him coming back. Having not made the cut two, three times, he is a long shot. He sure was a good pass rusher earlier on.
I sure hope they’re not expecting Shirley to be an NFL LB; I can’t see anything other than speed-rush specialist in him. My hope is Pinkins, but I’m afraid he still needs more experience. Morgan as a one-year guy while Pinkins gets run as a situational backup might be a decent plan if another option doesn’t feel good
Not sure if we’re necessarily wanting/needing a great option at the SAM.
Irvin is a great/athletic SAM backer. Able to cover and stoutly set the edge. And can provide pass rush.
But I never got the impression that this defense is constructed for the SAM to be much more than a role player. Definitely the impact positions are the WLB and MLB positions. The needs out of the SAM position appear to be a lot more modest.
I can’t help but think that’s part of why they weren’t interested in paying out high salary for the role. Irvin is and has been one of our guys. And while I think we very much appreciate his talents there — I get the sense that it’s more or less bonus value. Not necessarily real important value.
I would be rather surprised that we spend high draft capital on the replacement for Irvin.
Rob or anyone have thoughts on Deiondre Hall? 6′ 1″ 195lb with 34 3/4″ arms, former HS WR (PC loves that as much as Cable hearts the wrestling), played S his freshman year before switching to CB and 5 picks last year. Small school but his HC praised his work ethic, tenacity and football IQ. This all sounds very familiar. I know we don’t take CBs before round 4, but he probably won’t last until the end of R4 after we’ve made the blueprint public and I kind of think he might be one of those guys JS can’t live without and we might spend one of our 3rd rounders on the kid especially if we can’t afford Lane or he’s signed to a one year post injury prove it deal.
We have a number of DBs on the roster but none that have done anything and/or stayed healthy. I can’t help but think some of the opponent fear JS said was lacking was the weak links in the LOB. We clearly have some other obvious weak points but LOB was our identify and it’s easy to throw away from one stud CB as we saw. Although you can never have enough pass rushers, another Bennett/Clark type might not have as much value for us early in the draft (pre R3) and you could argue the same with DBs; you can never have enough.
Anyone else out there you think PC/JS can’t live without? There always seems to be a couple each draft. I would suspect one or more of the nasty OL would make the list.
Diondre Hall wasn’t very good in the senior bowl. Tackled poorly, played scared.
They draft a CB every year, but they have never played a rookie corner out of the gate.
Seems like they’d have more trust in SJB, Seisay, Simon, Farmer, Tye Smith, Shead to start this year. It’s not easy playing in this secondary. Better pick up the kick slide real fast.
I think Hall could definitely be a Hawks target based on his speed and length alone. Great athlete with freaky length but not a good corner right now. He would need a red shirt year but I think Pete could turn him into something special. I would be all for the pick in the 3rd round or later.
I also like Robinson out of LSU in the same range. He is also long and fast but a better CB. He has the off feild and character stuff to worry about though. If not he would be a 1st rounder likely.
Hall is going to pass the measurables.
But beyond just bad tackling — Hall really seems almost afraid to tackle. If it were just a technique thing I would expect Seattle to not care and expect to train him properly.
But I think it goes beyond that. I think it’s more attitude/aggressiveness. I really don’t see that mental toughness edge to Hall that I think Seattle is looking for. On the surface — yeah he’s a candidate. But I don’t think he’ll be ‘the’ candidate and I think he’ll be Plan F or G on the list of day 3 guys.
Honestly, we won’t have any real notion of how he rates internally. He doesn’t play physically up to par with his gifts. Seattle likes to have tough tacklers at the CB position and Hall doesn’t appear to have that mindset to embrace it.
Conklin’s most likely end up playing guard or perhaps RT. If there were a choice between Coleman and Conklin, you take Coleman. Coleman has more options for the Hawks. He can play RT, LT & LG. Just for those options alone, he would be a better fit.
I think there’s a growing possibility of Okung returning 2016 and with an option for 2017. This will give both Gilliam more time to develop. A move to LT may be a bit premature. A healthy battle between Coleman and Gilliam would bring the optimum results for the tackle positions.
Hopefully, the competition will result in Coleman at RT and Gilliam back to the blkg TE position, and backup RT & LT. Coleman was used in the blkg TE as well on power plays and sweeps. Regardless, there are plenty of options on the edges with Okung and Coleman as bookends and Gilliam as backup.
The middle of the OL can be stabilized with good communication and leadership. There are capable candidates for this in the draft. I hope that selection comes at 90 from MSU to compete at center. Mad dog should be an improvement in PPro if Sweezy is not resigned, but will need to improve his run blkg. The LG competition should be the most intriguing.
The growth of OL player escalates after their 2nd yr of development. Britt had a disappointing 1st season @ LG, but some of the mistakes were due to miscommunication. Improved center play with correct line checks will help his cause. Additional competition with, McGovern or Young or best option in the draft @ 172, would fuel the competition for LG starter position. Coleman could also be an option.
If this does come to fruition, the OL should start strong right out of the gate.
Outside of C-Mike pick (which I assume they take as a mistake to learn from, not one to repeat), all of the draft pick investments PC/JS have made at RB have come between the 4th and 6th round (trades for Marshawn, Leon, Lendale and selections of Turbin and Ware). That’s what they see as the sweet spot and where they’ll look for someone to compete for the backup spot (plus in UDFA and vet-min deals).
It’s not just C-Mike who flopped out of the 2nd round, either. For every Leveon Bell there are three guys who end up cut from their teams before the end of their rookie deal (Bishop Sankey was the 1st back off the board in 2014 and may already be on his way to joining the Isaiah Peads/Lamichael Jameses/Montee Balls/Christine Michaels of the world). Unless you have a massive need at RB the value just isn’t there.
Rob, you think Justin Zimmer could be this year’s Kristjan Sokoli?
Sure. Has the physical skills. Just wonder about the length.
Sokoli’s pro day #’s:
4.86 40yd, 38″ VJ, 9’11” BJ, 4.36 SS, 31 BP
Zimmer’s regional combine #’s:
4.89 40yd, 33″ VJ, 9’7″ BJ, 4.36 SS, +45 BP (workout video)
Wow! That’s crazy similar. Your right. Length will be key.
I am talking the D-line to O-line convert. But ya’ll knew that. Right?
Ha actually I thought you were talking SPARQ freak. I don’t see Zimmer as a good DL-OL convert candidate. He’s too good a DLer to convert. Sokoli, despite his ridiculous athleticism, just wasn’t an impact player on defense. Zimmer is.
Also, not sure they go that route this year. There are a couple of really intriguing OTs who require about as much work as a DL convert – Le’Raven Clark and Stephane Nembot to name just 2.
45 BP is ridiculous endurance. I’ve always wondered why they don’t have a measure for maximum pushing power.
It would probably be a greater injury risk, but very useful information.
The BP # is mind blowing but makes me think he might have short arms.
I saw the mock last night(my time) and waited for the comments this morning before i add mine. This is what i learned:
There is not enough “value” with our 2nd pick to pick a possible starter or get more help at either side of the LOS or to replace departing starters at LB, CB, WR.
We seem to have enough cap space to address the LOS issues – “By retaining Brandon Mebane and Athyba Rubin and possibly adding another veteran defensive and offensive lineman ”
Losing Kearse does not merit going for a quality WR, the Graham situation does not merit looking for a TE even though we love playing with 2 TEs.
Replacing Irvin and Lane is no big deal and does not call for a top pick.
Bottom line, after being taught here that getting just a pass rusher that won’t play running downs is not enough “value” for a high pic, the “value” with our 2nd pick is a RB that is not some out of this world sparq demon but a solid Rawls copy at best. Said RB will join a comity at best or ride the pine on most of the snaps.
If that is where the “value” of our 2nd pick is in this scenario, I’d rather we use our 2nd pick to trade up in the first round and get someone better than a “probably moves to guard” Tackle.
I read all the reasoning for it and for me they don’y add up. Sorry.
Trade up, trade down, do something other than drafting a 3rd RB in the 2nd round. anything….
Eran I think you’ve missed the point completely on the Collins pick in round two. The article clearly highlights why this wouldn’t just be ‘drafting a 3rd RB in the 2nd round’.
Rob, I did not miss it at all. I understand that you present Collins as a valid possible contributor sharing the load with Rawls. I just do not see it happening. If Rawls is healthy he will get thoe majority of the snaps, he proved himself last year facing NFL defenses.
I firmly believe that this is the most likely eventuality – Collins will most likely end as the 2nd/3rd RB.
It is an important role for the Hawks but not in the 2nd round this year.
I’ll ask you just one question:
If it turned out just like you mocked it above and we leave the first 2 rounds of the draft with Conclin and Collins, will you be really very pleased with this draft considering the 60 other players going elsewhere?
I won’t. I do not know enough to offer a clear alternative without 8 guys telling me that my picks are wrong but i know that those two are not all we can get from the top 2 rounds.
I’m sorry to be negative but this is how i feel. We must do better than this mock.
“I understand that you present Collins as a valid possible contributor sharing the load with Rawls”
That is only one part of it. Nobody is doubting Rawls will get the majority of the snaps all being well. But the Seahawks’ run game is central to everything they want to do. Carroll constantly reminds us of that. Relying on Rawls almost exclusively puts you one injury away from the Christine Michael/Bryce Brown cobble together experienced at the end of 2015. The Seahawks value the run too much to allow that situation to happen. It won’t happen. They’re going to address this one way or another — FA or the draft.
You can say it’s important but not enough for round two — and I’ll highlight their decision to draft Christine Michael in 2013 when they had Lynch in his prime and Turbin under contract — and still drafted Spencer Ware in round six that year too. There’s no evidence to suggest round two would be too high for this. Doesn’t mean it will definitely happen, but we can’t rule it out.
I’d go as far to say the Seahawks will probably start collecting backs. Carroll did it at USC. They didn’t need to in the past because Lynch was so durable and vital, taking nearly all the snaps in the process. And even then they were bringing guys in.
EranU (and a lot of you), are we overestimating Rawls based on a relatively short period of time? As good as he played, he did not impress me as the next coming. Maybe he still might but I think he is more a solid contributor in a committee than a star. He is also coming off of an injury.
A new potential star back is a very worthy, perhaps important, component to add. I am not sold on C-Mike at all. My issue is is whether in this draft, a top pick is a good idea vs. the more pressing needs at the top, and whether they can get away with putting off RB until later rounds. Zeke Elliott is the one guy who would justify a rd. 1. There is also free agency to think about for RB.
Finding good backs is typically a much easier task than other positions, I think.
There is nothing wrong with converting a tackle to guard or center. Players do it every year and some turn out to be dominant guards, Cable likes big maulers at left guard and run blocking tackles provide that. He also said that they have to relearn everything anyway when they come into the NFL.
I’m a firm beleiver in drafting OT’s and then figuring out where to put them.
9x outta 10, they’re the best athletes, most technically sound, and have the best length.
Guys, I just commented on Rob’s picks. Rob starts his explaination with : “the Seahawks are attracted to using guards with tackle experience. They seem to like size at left guard (Conklin is listed at 6-6 and 325lbs) and they emphasise run blocking. Conklin ticks every box”
I.E. – we are using our first round pick to pick a guard.
I have nothing against the concept of drafting Tackles to play guards. I am just pointing out that we are picking a guy to play guard and until a clear alternative of Okung is on the roster to play either RT or LT, i see the Tackle position as a major potential problem. Just remmeber that every time we will face Donald up the middle, we’ll also be facing Quin on the edge.
I’d rather see us draft a tackle to play Tackle unless I see one added in FA. Solid guards or centers are way cheaper in FA than solid Tackles.
As a second thought:
I’d rather we trade back a little and get Coleman and trade a few places up in the 2nd and get TE Hunter Henry.
With Graham possibly facing difficulties due to his type injury, a TE that can actually help the OL blocking and be there from week one for a team that likes to play with 2 TEs sounds better than another RB.
Henry: “Flat-running stud as a run blocker and a big part of Arkansas’ running game success. Strikes into the frame of defenders with inside hands and blocks with a wide, strong base. Able to turn outside linebackers and cornerbacks out of their run fits and sustains his blocks as long as he can. Had no drops and 51 catches this season. Able to secure contested catches and eminent hits won’t scare him away from the catch. Able to work all three levels as a go-to target. Too talented to be covered by most linebackers. Able to run a variety of routes and has no reason to leave the field. “
SSince Miller left, we miss that consummate blocking TE. Cable’s system works better with it, especially in the running game.
He will enable us to flex Graham outside more to play a lot of Kearse role much better than Kearse did. (Graham is much better at getting the contested catch and Kearse did not get separation on his own anyway)
He can be that extra blocker that merits cover when teams play man and helps keeping the D honest.
He is an immediate backup for Graham in case he doesn’t get back to his former shape after rehub.
If he works out, he can either save us a big extension for Willson next year or save us 10M over Graham’s last year.
He can be the starter after 2017 when Graham ends his contract.
I’m in love, I want that guy. I hereby designate him my new Kelce. I wanted Kelce so badly and still feel the pain when I see him play.
Actually Eran, Cable’s system works just fine without Miller. In fact, the stats show it works better.
Seahawks season total team rushing with Miller:
2013 – 2188 total yards, 4.3 ypc, 136.8 ypg.
Seahawks season total team rushing without Miller:
2014 – 2762 total yards, 5.3 ypc, 172.6 ypg.
2015 – 2268 total yards, 4.5 ypc, 141.8 ypg.
Did you cross check that with who we were playing? Last year we put up these mindblowing stats for half of the season, nd it was the easy half. For example.
I think we could use a guy to throw a chip block here and there, double the JJ Watts and give us another plus run blocker on short yardage. Not to mention slide Jimmy out to his natural position, Joker who sometimes splits wide, decoy on a lot of the runs.
And not as an every down guy but certainly in the base on first downs.
the hypothetical inline TE, I mean, coming off the field sometimes, not Jimmie. He should of course stay out there.
But this is abstract, I don’t actually think we should trade up for a TE in the second, or swap Jimmie for Kelce if we could haha, no way, or banter on forever about Jermaine not being good enough WHAT MORE DO YOU WANT FROM A GUY? If a receiver as clutch as Jermaine put up consistent numbers all year, he’d be making 8 or 9 million at least and we couldn’t afford to keep him.
We can afford Jermaine.
I am not a fan of Jimmy Graham’s fit in the system. He is also not really a TE. Willson is there, he’s okay. I’m not against a new in-line classic TE, any more than I’m against a RB. Unless they are immediate star caliber, however, I question using a top pick for either.
And, instead of drafting Kelce with our 62nd pick in the 2013 draft we drafted ………………………………a RB.
KC took him on the next pick at 63.
Let that be a lesson for us. Get that great TE in the 2nd round rather than a RB…..history tells us we should either trade or find UDFA RBs. Nothing else works for this FO.
Wait — so round two is too early for a RB, but it’s not too early for a tight end to the point you actually want to trade UP to get Hunter Henry?
How is TE any more of a need than RB?
And because Kelce was better than Christine Michael that should dictate what they do in this draft?
Sorry man, but this is a swing and a miss for me.
Yes, you are right. A TE is not what we need with our 2nd pick. It makes no sense at all. Kinda like picking a RB. We have Rawls, we have the same backup we had for Lynch – C-Mike. We added one from the CFL and will probably add more later in the draft and UDFA.
None of those pics, RB or TE make sense in the 2nd round.
Kelce is an old itch i can’t stop scratching. I watched that 2nd round in 2013 praying no one will take him just to have us draft C-Mike. The trade up for Henry makes no sense other than me trying to play within the rules of your mock draft.
I like Henry a lot. I’d love us to have him. However, i believe we have bigger fish to fry with our 2nd round pick. Bigger than Henry, and IMO much bigger than Collins.
I understand you do not see it that way and i respect it. I also respectfully disagree with the Collins pick and would rather pick Coleman over Conclin.
As for the need issue – I pray that Graham does recover and we get to enjoy him next year. I also know that it is far from a sure thing considering his type of injury. Lets both hope that by September TE does not become a greater need than RB. It could be…
Eran — There’s quite a lot of detail in the article on why running back is a need. I’m not going to keep repeating myself. I’ll leave it here — Michael was NOT the backup for Lynch. Ever. He was drafted in round two to compete with Turbin to be the #2 and he didn’t win that competition. They drafted a player in round two to compete for a legit #2 role at running back. If that doesn’t make you understand why they might draft a RB in round two to actually share snaps with Rawls and help keep this running game at the top of the rankings — nothing will.
I think the right tight end would do more for this offense right now than a RB to sit behind Rawls and Michael.
Especially with Rawls looking like an every down back and Pete/Larry/bevel having a history of giving one guy the rock.
Pete has a history of giving Marshawn Lynch the rock. Wasn’t that way at USC.
So a TE sitting behind Jimmy Graham and Luke Willson would be better than a RB who splits carries with Rawls and gives you extra security for the identity of your offense in case Rawls is injured?
Michael was cut by three teams in 2015. Let’s not mistake his presence as anything more than a glorified second chance. Hope he takes it — but he’s not the unchallenged #2 back.
Rawls was an every down back right up to the down when his ankle broke. Can you guarantee that won’t happen again? If it does, are you content to let CMike carry the team’s rush load?
SEA’s identity is running the ball, not passing to TEs.
That’s true but when Marshwn went down and Rawls came in it looked like he picked up right where Marshawn left off. He did get injured of course. Does this affect the RB picture?
It looks like Cable has some input on who takes the handoffs here.
CHAWK Marshawn got injured too it happens. I don’t think it will affect the way Pete and Larry want to run the ball but I could be wrong.
A good, well-rounded TE llike Zach Miller wouldn’t be riding the pine, he’d get on the field and put Jimmie out where he belongs. Luke Willson on the trade block.
I think Michael will get another chance, but in some ways I don’t think he got enough of a chance in the beginning. I understand he immaturity thing and the fumbles but Turbin should never have been on the field so much more than Micahel i.m.o.
Backup RB with Michael, Brown, possibly Fred Jackson who is good on third downs I don’t are what anybody says, Coleman and Tuckafoo, to me that’s a stable. Needs in the trenches and ushing the passer trump RB by a million.
So your plan is to try and trade Luke Willson to upgrade the #2 TE and then roll with a running back situation that puts you one injury to Rawls away from all the fun of the Christine Michael/Bryce Brown double headed monster we had to end the 2015 season?
C’mon man.
Every team is an injury away from starting their backup. I think Michael and brown are decent backups.
What saying is if we found the next zach miller, there might not be room for Willson. He’s regular- season-Jermaine Kearse all year, without the blocking.
Zach Miller was drafted nearly ten years ago man. College football has changed.
If it was so obvious Kelce was going be a great TE, he wouldn’t have been on the board. This is a silly argument.
I implore everyone to pick live on the clock this draft, instead of doing that ‘what if’s’ later, see how many picks you bomb out on.
I also love Henry. He’s going to be a good/great one. I just can’t justify a TE when we’ve got so much work to do on the OL and DL. Still need a SAM as well. Potentially a CB if Lane isn’t resigned.
DEs do not often roar off the edges towards Russ. He’s too adept at using their momentum against them with a little juke and then he’s running for a 1st down. DEs often play contain vs Russ. But a great rush up the middle is our achilles’ heal because it flushes Russ into the DEs.
Thank you Robert.
I do seem to recall that every time we faced Quin, he ended up with a few RW sacks.
My old brain even remember the 2013 season before Donald joined the RAMS. I think that both Long and Quin had 4 RW sacks each that year.
Don’t buy in too quickly into the “edge rushers don’t attack RW” mantra. They may do it more carefully. They may avoid going too far downfield when they turn the corner but this is what guys like Quin do for a living and they do it well.
There is a big difference between making an observation that edge rushers are careful to keep RW contained and assuming that we do not need solid, reliable Tackles.
This is the NFL. Every team has solid edge rushers, some teams (like the RAMS) have outstanding edge rushers.. If you do not have someone to slow them down, they will eat you alive.
Building your offense to stop Donald and no one else could be a very costly mistake.
But, like Rob points out a lot, my view of it may not be the right one.
Let’s just line our tackles up BEHIND our Guards to slow Donald and Short down. Russ will just have to find a way to beat the DEs!
Eran, I respectfully disagree with this summary. If you can obtain just as good an OL or DL prospect in round 3 as our spot in the 2nd, then taking a different player at that spot makes sense. Rawls is a nice player, but also extremely unlikely to be as durable as Lynch and our running attack is the kind that is likelier to produce injury. It’s quite conceivable that this FO does not pass on an available RB who checks all their boxes. Especially if they believe that’s the bpa left on the board. And there will be OL and DL players they will be happy with still available later. An RB pick wouldn’t shock me at all. We aren’t in the Marshawn Lynch era anymore.
You have said wise things.
Having another solid RB in case Rawls is injured and C-Mike fails to be a proper replacement should be on the agenda for the 2016 draft.
Having a solid and reliable 3rd WR (if Kearse leaves) and Baldwin or Lockett gets injured should also be a concern.
I pointed out the TE situation as well.
Assuming i agree that we have managed to maneuver ourselves into a situation where “you can obtain just as good an OL or DL prospect in round 3 as our spot in the 2nd” and a LB replacing Irvin is not there either, we may indeed go BPA at that point. Collins is not the BPA. Solid RBs will be available later too. He does not check all the BPA boxes since he is not athletically outstanding.
*Post edited to remove bad language*
I do see your point of view as well. Especially if the FO has identified another Rawls type player who can be picked later or picked up as an UDFA.
I doubt that Rawls’ emergence makes them look at the RB position as something they can always just find in later rounds though. He’s a true outlier. Just as you aren’t going to find a lot of Richard Shermans or Kam Chancellors in the 5th or later either.
Rawls is not an ‘outstanding athlete’ either btw. He has excellent vision, falls forward, breaks tackles, and hits the hole faster than Marshawn did. He’s not an athletic freak though. He’s an ideal style and system fit.
CM is more the outstanding athlete with poor vision, often takes an extra step, goes down on contact more easily, carries the ball in only one hand, which presents ball security issues. But his burst and breakaway speed just jump out at you. And he is strong no question. Better athlete. Not as ideal for our system and style.
I’m not sure how the FO now balances those questions, but we have a pretty good idea in the form of CM getting cut and Rawls making the roster last year. They may value a player like Collins an awful lot is what I am saying. Because on tape his running style sure does look an awful lot like Lynch lite. And not even much lighter at that.
I’m not at all worried about replacing Kearse. He is a nice player, but so many of his production is the result of scheme, when he is singled up on a second or third corner with no safety help. He’s also made some spectacular playoff catches, no question. But he is hardly essential. The two UW udfa’s are his athletic equal and a healthy Paul Richardson is his clear athletic superior, which is a big IF but I don’t think he is done just yet. He seems a Walter Thurmond type story.
A better blocking tight end who can catch the occasional pass in the flat and over the middle would be great as well. But also not a player I think the FO feels is a must have.
Whatever happens, I seriously doubt that we make the Britt mistake again. Tunnel vision on Paul Richardson (a non-Seahawky player to begin with) led to the Britt mistake. When we could have gotten two VERY good players who’d be young cornerstones of our team, if they could have accepted a Bryant or Robinson after picking Bitonio to fill a clear position of need.
What was most confusing about that draft is the P Rich was supposed to be a player who can ‘takes the top off’ so that defenses cannot sit down on our receivers. They didn’t even use him that way most of the 2014 season. It ended up being such a wasted pick on a player who doesn’t fit our core identity and is way to slender to block, stay healthy or do the other things we ask our receivers to do. And we ended up with Britt in the second.
Some of John Schneider’s comments since then have made me think they won’t be repeating that mistake.
I agree with so much of what you said that i will not even argue the need for a TE.
I will just mention that if you see P-Rich the same way i do, you should be mildly concerned regarding a possible injury to Baldwin or Lockett. We should be ok as long as both are on the field but if one of them is gone, we’ll be in trouble.
Lets agree that we hope the draft works in a way that does not force us into this situation.
Sure, maybe they can find a RB in the mid rounds and probably will, but the point of Rob’s mock was this:
All the good options on the O-line and D-line were gone. RB Alex Colins was the best value and fills a need.
I’ll repeat this to my dying days- ‘Don’t fight the board!’
“Collins is not the BPA”
*In your opinion, Eran.
And please don’t swear on this forum please.
Sorry, my bad, won’t happen Rob.
It’s cool.
This thread got my blood boiling, and I wasn’t even apart of it. It’s wise to remember that the mocks here are all uniquely done through certain scenarios. I personally don’t like the idea of an RB in the second, but I appreciate the different looks Rob gives us. I don’t have the luxury of years past to know the positional values in this draft. I see RB as a big need, but I’m hoping they fix the bigger needs first on the LOS. Let’s make sure our $20 mil man is well taken care of. I’m afraid for his well being, and let’s not forget – Fear leads to anger, anger leads to hate. Hate leads to suffering.
So let me throw this out there: at what point do we pickup a new punter? UDFA?
Trade dn to 35 to get Coleman with the 26th pick and throw in the 98th comp pick and receive Dallas’s 67th 3rd Rd pick as well. Then use the 2nd Rd pick 56 to move up to get Jordan Jenkins, maybe a future 3rd Rd pick. Then you get your rotational, and 3rd dn RB in a later Rd.
35) Coleman – if both Conklin and Coleman are still on the board chances are you’ll get one at 35
46) Jenkins – trade with NO who is rebuilding will fill in for Irvin
67) Hargrave – fits that McDonald role perfectly and can spell Bane whom they they keep with Rubin
90) Allen – despite his “squatty Stature” he will play a key role to prevent inside push & good line checks
125) Prosise – Rawls, Michael and Prosise provide versatility at the RB position, and lethal out backfield
172) Young, McGovern, Tretola – best available to compete at LG and provide versatility to OL
215) Heath – rotational player to fill the McDaniel role
223 & 245) – used for trade up where needed
This group would fill their needs and make them more competitive. The FA kept would be:
Okung, Mebane, Rubin, Lane and Shead
Coleman was gone at #31 in this mock Wall Up, and you can’t trade comp picks.
You’re Right. I forgot they ruled it to begin 2017. I’d still take Coleman before Conklin because of his versatility, playing LT,RT & LG. I see Conklin as LG and maybe RT.
I agree also that Denver and Carolina will be looking at LT help in the draft. If Clady does renegotiate his deal as he stated he will, Denver may look elsewhere @ 31 other than OT and pick and OT later in the draft. Beside, their OTs did well against Carolina’s front four.
It’s a risk, but Coleman might just be there at 35. I use Dallas as a trading partner because of past dealings and knowing they need a QB. Jack fills their need at LB probably with their 1st pick, if not Ramsey as you stated.
There could be that hot QB that flashes at the combine (Connor Cook) that may entice Dallas to trade up for. It also may be a possible for them to get Jordon Howard with the 90th pick instead of the 98comp pick in exchange for the 67th pick. He would do well behind their OL. I would take Howard over Collins. Better value.
It would work to take Coleman @ 26. But, there’s a greater value risking he falls, if a trade is possible @ 35. Either way the list of OL,DL,DL,OL,RB,OL,DL fills there need in the trenches, whatever way it’s accomplished.
Allen may be there @ 98comp due to his stature.
Starting in 2017 draft, you’ll be able to trade comp picks.
If Rawls is 100% after a broken ankle, and if he proves to be workhorse, then I love the idea of a Prosise in the mix. Dangerous as a runner and a receiver, would drive defenses nuts. (If Bevell figured out how to use him.)
I firmly believe Seattle will take a blocking TE in this draft.
If they pick Coleman, they will have Gilliam as that blkg TE and backup LT/RT. That was his role as before when he scored his first TD.
Gilliam will start on the line next year for sure. He’s one of the fastest tackles on the league and has a lot of upside. If he adds strength over the offseason he could be a great player next year. I’m definetly excited about Gilliam.
That’s what the camp would decide. Coleman adds competition at the tackle positions. Having 3 to potentially play LT is a good thing. If Gilliam wins out, Coleman could compete at LG. Either way, in case of injury there will be a good replacement for LT & RT and provide a stout blkg TE.
I’ve lost faith in the teams ability to assess talent in the pre-season. There is so little contact allowed they don’t get enough opportunity to make smart decisions apparently, otherwise how did Nowak not get eliminated earlier?
I think that was a reward for hard work in Nowak’s case, and a message sent to Lewis for not having it together yet. It accomplished both, but more importantly, it lit a fire under Lewis to get it together.
Why?
There aren’t any blocking TE’s in college so they’ll do well oz!
There aren’t blocking TEs in college or the NFL.
Guys, name me 10 TEs who are such outstanding blockers that their left on the field.
This.
Also, if you’re adding a blocking TE, you’re taking either Kearse or Lockett or Graham off the field.
This running attack isn’t a 2 TE type attack.
If we do get a blocking TE candidate, he’s assuredly going to be a guy taken late in day 3. Seattle does appear to have some interest in the skill (they keep McCoy on the roster despite the injuries the last two seasons).
A blocking TE would provide something we don’t have. But the rarity of use and the very real limited impact/value of the role wouldn’t necessitate adding one.
The only way I see a blocking TE in day two for us, is if it’s a guy who has significant dual purpose quality.
I think we’re pretty set with Willson/Graham. If we did get another he’d have to be a guy not unlike Willson who just tested extremely well and was still there in R6 or later.
I would sooner take another Gilliam type in UDFA and try to turn him into a blocking TE. You also get a developmental O-liner possibly too.
Rob, there are always players that go earlier and players that go later, what 3 would you say may go closer to 26 and what players would you say may go earlier:
Earlier:
Lawson/Dodd/Ragland
Later:
Reed/Fackrell/Nkmediche
If the draft falls like your projection, I would like it. With so many players still available, I would be ok with trading back as well:
Fuller/Martin/Conklin/Johnson/Washington/Whitehair/Ifedi/Miller
Prospects that could go earlier: Will Fuller, Deion Jones, Cody Whitehair, Keanu Neal, Tyler Boyd, Michael Thomas, Chris Jones, William Jackson.
Prospects who could go later: A’Shawn Robinson, Jaylon Smith, Kyler Fackrell, Jarran Reed, Andrew Billings, Vernon Butler, Vernon Hargreaves, Robert Nkemdiche.
Which of the later would you rather have than Conklin?
Based on needs, none. Smith if he was healthy but if he falls to #26 it’ll be with good reason.
If they can’t get Collins I would like to see them take Dixon. Fantastic player. Great hands, speed, cutting ability and vision. I can see him fitting nicely into what Bevell likes to do. Shovel passes, flair outs, screens, excellent return man also.
I really like Dixon and actually prefer him to Collins. He is a great receiver and good blocker. He will contribute from day #1 with some team.
I like Dodd a lot. Just scratching the surface. Huge upside.
I hate to see him with the Cards. But, there’s a great possibility that the pick him.
I would be fine with Kevin Dodd. Would not be a splashy pick, but I think the kind of guy who contributes and gets better.
It’s safe to say he’ll need a ten-yard split in the 1.5’s to have any shot of landing in Seattle.
It’s fun reading all these names we’ve discussed here and seeing where you could see them landing. Especially the potential Seahawks like Fuller, Spence, Nick Martin, Chris Jones, Ifedi. Really adds something to mock drafts that isn’t there when you skip straight to you team’s pick.
But skipping to the Hawks’ picks, these 2 would be hard for me to stomach. Conklin to pay left guard when we could take Colman for LT? In the hopes that he’d be a better version of Carpenter/Britt? For me that would be a big No Thank You. and we’d be much better off getting a Left Tackle somewhere high, because they’re harder to find.
Loadholdt is we gt him sounds like he’d be a monster at LG, but a matador at RT. Imagine a left side with him next to Colman, we could stuff it down their throats every week. Lewis making the right calls and blocking competently, and say Glow and Gilliam on the right doing, consistent on the run and the pass, Wilson scrambling when he sees an opportunity instead of running for his life. And a good inline TE, like Ben Watson.
That’s how I’d like to see us address the offense. But I get that these are discussion points and what-ifs and different scenarios. Definitely an interesting mock. Well in-range to trade up for Ifedi or Deion Jones in R2, if the FO likes one of them.
Sorry for the typos.
Conklin to play lg
Loadholdt if we get him
Glow and Gilliam on the right, consistent on the run and the pass
I’m willing to bet that unless Okung re-signs with Seattle, Gilliam will be the starting left tackle. Conklin can play RT. Coleman, if drafted, would probably start at RT (or LG) too.
In that case, we’d better hope Okung signs.
Gilliam is actually well suited to LT.
It seems as if a majority of folks here aren’t enamored with a Conklin/Collins duo in the first two rounds. With that being said, I’ll bet everyone here, including myself, will get jacked up if they are, indeed, the picks. We’ll talk about how nice it is to get a big OL and a guy who can share the rock with Rawls. We’ll talk ourselves into loving it. Also, if these are the two picks, you know full well that something happened in free agency that shored up a position or two right now that we think we’d need to have.
Not once in my 30+ years of being a Seahawks fan has the team actually took who I wanted in the first round. That means, as of now, all of you can rest assured that we won’t be taking Kyler Fackrell at #26.
Heck, we could go Hunter Henry in the first and a DL in the second and we’d all be jacked about how they are looking long-term at TE (no guarantees Graham is around in ’17 and Willson set for FA) and getting help on the DL and we’d focus our attention on the “value” we’re about to get at LG in the third round. Really, we can talk ourselves into anything.
The only way our wrath will come out is with revisionist history and the guy we wanted turned out to be great and Henry a bust. Then we’d clobber the pick. But in the year after the pick, we’ll be behind it.
You could tell James Carpenter was a bum of a first round pick and yet all people would do is make excuses for him (because he was “our” pick that nobody wanted but we stood behind him). First, he was fat and out of shape. Then he was fat and injured so he couldn’t be in shape. Then his third year, he even got benched in the first play-off game. Not because he was hurt; because he sucked. Anyone remember that? I think Michael Bowie started for him. Then in a contract year, he was okay. He was better than Britt this past season, but that isn’t exactly saying anything positive either.
I wouldn’t be jacked about a TE pick in this draft.
For any position on offense other than QB or TE, I can name a prospect in this draft that could make a legit impact this year. That includes RB, WR and any OL position. But there isn’t a single TE prospect that makes me think, “oh yeah, that guy would make all the difference for SEA.”
In a comment above, I posted stats demonstrating that SEA rushed for more yards with greater efficiency without a true inline TE like Zach Miller than they did with him. At this point, TE is probably the single least pressing need on the entire team.
So if Henry was drafted and having 1,000 yard seasons when Graham has long since been retired and ended up in the Hall of Fame one day, you’d be mad about it?
How long before Graham retires and Henry starts having 1000 yard seasons?
Gronk/Hernandez? Henry is a good blocker, too. If they did go TE (and I don’t think they will either), you can bet that they will have done something with the pass rush and/or OL with respect to a trade or free agency though.
Also, if Graham isn’t the same after his injury there is no way they are going to pay him $9 million for ’17. That means they enter ’17 with no tight ends under contract. Pretty much the reason Glowinski was drafted was to eventually replace Sweezy. At least that’s what my first thought was. I’m not saying we should take a TE. Not saying that one single bit. I’m just saying that I will support and root for whoever we take at #26, whether it’s a player I want or not. If they do take Henry, you can go ahead and root against him if you want, but I’m going to cheer for him even if I would have rather have had Whitehair, Fackrell, Coleman, Martin, Apple, etc. Realistically, they aren’t going to draft a guy in the first round that won’t see major action in ’16… that’s for the mid-rounds and their redshirt guys. Again, just saying I will support and root for whoever they take – regardless if that player was a guy I wanted or not.
Hold on bobby. I’m not hating or loving any SEA draft pick right now – because they haven’t made any yet. And even if they do make a pick I don’t agree with, I won’t hate on him or root against him. Of course I’ll support him.
At this point, all I’m doing is offering my opinion as to which positions need the most attention, and in accordance therewith, which prospects would provide the greatest impact.
IMO, TE is the least needy position on offense, maybe the entire team. We have Graham and Willson under contract and stats prove SEA don’t need a blocking TE to run the ball effectively. Nor has TE ever been the focal point of SEA’s offense.
Henry is not a good blocker.
What’s ith all take a 3rd TE stuff?
Why?
When the Seahawks sign Brandon Brooks, our draft needs are going to change. They do one thing crazy every year, may as well be attacking the current black hole at LG (although Brooks has played RG).
Going after Brooks wouldn’t be crazy, but he won’t be cheap. I would think there might be better OL values out there.
So the Cap is going to be $155 mil + is that what everyone expected?
More or less.
You guys see this mock? Has Hawks taking Shaq Lawson with #26.
http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/2016/2/15/10990284/2016-nfl-mock-draft-trades-los-angeles-rams-baltimore-ravens?_ga=1.92768925.1682264706.1453496019
Hm. Not sure how much I like Lawson. Prefer Dodd.
Can’t see Lawson breaking the 1.5 10-yard split. That’s big for SEA.
Wouldn’t hate it if it happened. But when I look at Lawson film, I keep noticing Dodd getting around the edge sooner and closing speed is also better. Lawson has power, might be a better run stopper? but in terms of quickness, he’s lacking. Can a guy like that improve his short area quickness?
It all comes down to the split. Avril, Irvin and Clark all cracked the 1.5’s. If they’re drafting a pass rusher they’re going to have to have an elite 10-yard.
Agreed. Seattle is pretty consistent in this regard.
When the Combine concludes, we’ll have a bunch of day 3 names to add to this list.
In addition, given the huge number of DLs with invites we’ll actually need to pay close attention to pro days and other secondary test numbers for guys that didn’t get the invite.
In this draft scenario I think I would take Shon Coleman in the first. This website has given me a small man crush on Coleman. The age doesn’t bother me. His medical history does give me pause but he appears to be healthy (hopefully) and we might not get a shot at someone this talented without the previous medical history. Coleman is a no brainer if he lasts.
In the second I would take Darius Latham. We need help in the trenches and I think he would supply that. I’m not the amateur scouts a lot are here. That is a compliment by the way so I don’t know a lot of the deeper players in this draft. Maybe there is a better D line player than Latham available in that spot. I am learning a ton here and appreciate this website a ton. I visit this site over and over again daily. It’s my fix I guess. I really appreciate Mr. Staton’s writings and love reading the comment section.
Thanks for the kind words southpaw360. I can dig Coleman + Latham.
Looking at the status of contracts, a lot of the most important part of the nucleus is signed through 2018 and beyond. The ones that stand out to me are Baldwin, FA 2017, Kearse FA right now. Could WR be more of a need than we have been discussing? Similarly, possible exits of Lane/Burley moves the slot CB to more of a need. We have not mocked WR or CB in the early rounds, but I wonder if they might really go BPA, including these positions.
When have they ever started a rookie CB right out of TC?
If they said a FA CB couldn’ learn the system in a year, do we expect a rookie too?
Look at the WR position and CB position right now. They’re loading up on them. That in itself should tell us something.
I can see them taking a CB and WR late, but not early.
The roster has a couel holes. O-line, a rotational DT, possibly a pass rusher, and a no. 2 RB.
Well… The last three superbowl winners have all had RBs that started for CAL
Marshawn, Vereen, & Anderson, I’m going to have to pass on Collins and select Daniel Lasco from Cal instead.
🙂
I think everyone needs to remember that this is a mock draft, and putting out the same mock draft every week would be pretty boring.
I personally would be shocked if our 2nd pick is a running back, but this article is about exploring ideas.
Eran, you need to take a chill pill.
Maybe at some point before the draft you’ll get into this. But, we do not have a capable backup QB. And yes, as I’ve explained to my wife, I say we! With Jackson set to explore his market, I could see a QB drafted on day 3. I am a 2016 NFL draft noob, life just got in the way this year. Is there somebody that stands out to any of you as the number 2 for the next few years? For all the talk of backup RB,s and TE’s, if Jackson doesn’t come back this will be a bigger issue. And please don’t say B.J. Daniels, I find my lack of faith in him disturbing.
I don’t know that we take a Tackle in the 1st John Clayton has been on record, saying that Okung’s shoulder injury most likely means he won’t be able to get a big deal, due to not being able to show teams how well he’s come back from surgery, so he’ll miss the first wave of free-agency combined, with the cap going up reportedly to 155 million, I’m convinced they’ll sign him to a fairly team friendly 1 year deal. That coupled with Rob’s saying that interior line is more importanto ala Panthers/Saints lines, makes me think interior line is where they will be going in the 1st. Looking at trends over the last 5 years 1.8 Guards on average go in the first round and other than Whitehair I don’t see a guard that I like in the first, so here is my dream draft….
1st Nick Martin OC Notredame
2nd Joshua Garnett OG Stanford
3rd Sheldon Day DT Notredame
3rd Joe Schobert OLB Wisconsin
4th Daniel Lasco RB California
5th LeShaun Sims CB Southern Utah
6th Tevin Carter SS Utah
7th Kyle Friend OG Temple
7th Montese Overton OLB East Carolina
I heard you out, and am unconvinced we will take a RB in round 2. I’d be surprised if they take one before the 5 or 6. Granted, I am no savant.
Rawls and CMike have us covered. Pick up another UDFA like Rawls……spend the draft capital on OL, DL, and LB.
On Christine Michael — it clearly hasn’t taken much for people to suddenly invest a great deal of faith in him. A few weeks to end the season, a lifeline to a career that was virtually dying.
He still has a long way to go to prove he’s turned any kind of corner. The idea that he’ll be trusted to be the #2 in 2016, almost unchallenged, seems a little far fetched to me. And while they might not take a RB in round one or two — waiting until round five or six now that Lynch has retired and Turbin is gone just isn’t how this team has rolled at the position.
I appreciate your points, and clearly you have 1000 times more credibility than me, but it sure seems to me they would put themselves into a position of not being able to cut a 2nd rounder even if the competition said Rawls, CMike, and then that #2 pick who might not be better than the guys ahead of him. We set ourselves up to having used a #2 pick on a guy who doesn’t even suit up? It seems crazy given our needs are real for OL help.
Your most convincing point for me is that the Hawks have spent a lot of draft capital in the past for the RB position. I get that. But we never had a guy who was YOUNG before. We were always in the position of looking for Marshawn’s replacement.
They spent a second round pick on a running back who didn’t suit up in 2013. Christine Michael.