The first 2020 mock draft of the season

Georgia’s Isaiah Wilson is 6-7 and about 340lbs

We’re only three games into the season and it’s still a little early to determine what the Seahawks key needs will be in the off-season.

However, three areas stand out at the moment:

1. Playmaking and physicality in the secondary

2. Replacing prospective free agents on the defensive line

3. Replacing prospective free agents on the offensive line

More importantly though, as discussed already this week, something is seriously missing in the BAMF department.

Teams used to hate coming to Seattle. They had to face Marshawn Lynch and Kam Chancellor. How often did an opponent play the Seahawks and nearly always lose the following week? Remember when we used to talk about that? Seattle beat other teams up. They were the toughest team in the league.

Everything played off the attitude, intensity and fear factor of that duo. Granted they were supported well by other players who were a mix of supremely talented and gritty. The addition of Russell Wilson at quarterback was the final piece of the puzzle.

I do think you need more than one factor though, beyond just the quarterback, to succeed. That’s perhaps where the Seahawks currently suffer. Wilson has developed into a fantastic quarterback and the focal point of the team. Is he supported well enough though?

Sean McVay’s offense is electric. Yet teams are absolutely scared to death at the prospect of facing Aaron Donald. Take away Donald and the Rams are nowhere near the same force. The dynamic offense plus Donald is a winning combo.

New England has Tom Brady. They also have Bill Belichick who game plans on defense better than anyone. Look what he did to stymie the Rams in the Super Bowl. He’s a master tactician and the two have enjoyed unrivalled success as a consequence.

The Chiefs have Patrick Mahomes and based on what we’ve seen so far, he could turn into the greatest quarterback to ever play the game. I suspect, however, he won’t convert that to Championship’s until he’s complimented in some way. The Chiefs are trying to build up their defense. If they trade for Jalen Ramsey to go with Frank Clark and Tyrann Mathieu — would you bet against them winning it all this year? Without a great defense, are they going to face the same fate against New England in the playoffs that they suffered last season?

Wilson’s in the same boat. He can’t do it alone, no matter how talented he is. He helped the Seahawks to win a Super Bowl alongside the intensity brought by Lynch and Chancellor. Given Pete Carroll’s chosen philosophy and style of play, they need that back. They don’t have it. No turnovers, no big hits, no real imposing of will.

We’ve only had three games so there’s still time for players to emerge, grow and develop into long term pieces on this (still) re-setting team. It’d be wrong for me or anyone else to make final judgements on this roster so early in the season. Yet I feel somewhat confident this is a need we’ll be talking about for most of the year.

Identifying the players to help fill this need won’t be easy. Who could’ve realistically projected fifth round safety Kam Chancellor would be so integral months before he was drafted? How many of us thought it’d be possible to acquire Marshawn Lynch for a fourth round pick and a bag of football’s?

The Seahawks had a knack of finding the right guys in the early years under Carroll and Schneider. Chris Clemons, Richard Sherman, Brandon Browner. The way they found a role for Red Bryant because he added so much in terms of personality and toughness. Breno Giacomini at right tackle. They didn’t become the toughest team in the league with first round picks. They found these players in so many different ways.

Now they have to repeat that, some how.

They don’t need a team of physical tone-setters either. Lynch connected the offense and defense practically single-handed. Chancellor was the godfather of the defense. If it was the right player, it might only take one addition to bring back some of that brutality and connect everything again.

Let’s go back to the specific positional needs as we assess the situation today.

1. Playmaking and physicality in the secondary

Last season the Seahawks didn’t have enough turnovers in the secondary. Earl Thomas and Justin Coleman combined for four interceptions and have since departed. Bradley McDougald had three picks. Shaquill Griffin had two (both in the same game against Chicago) and Tedric Thompson caught a Hail Mary.

In three games so far, the Seahawks have had only one interception — Bradley McDougald’s on a botched attempt at a catch by Donte Moncrief.

They need help from the pass rush for sure. It’s also difficult to force mistakes when you spot an opponent 20 points like the Seahawks did on Sunday. Yet something is still missing in the secondary. It’s unrealistic to expect the second coming of the LOB. They need to be better than this, though.

There’s no hitting, no playmaking and nobody helping to set a tone. Marquise Blair was drafted to provide some of this and hopefully sooner rather than later he’ll be ready to play. It might even be worth him taking some lumps over the coming weeks to learn on the fly — just to get the hits he provides. There needs to be some fear factor for opponents.

Even if Blair becomes a starter, they’ll still need more. At cornerback and safety.

According to Mike Garafolo, a big trade for Jalen Ramsey is unlikely:

This seems like a good draft class for cornerbacks. There are several that could go in the top-45. The Seahawks haven’t entertained the possibility of a high pick at corner though. The scheme is supposed to make the position interchangeable. Plug-in-and-play. Yet without a top safety, the cornerbacks are more exposed.

The safety class at the moment doesn’t look as strong. LSU’s Grant Delpit will go in the top five or six picks. Isaiah Simmons will also likely go in round one but he’s a bigger strong safety and surely they have that role earmarked for Marquise Blair. After that, there aren’t currently any obvious first or second round alternatives.

It’ll be interesting to see how they approach this but we need to closely monitor the defensive backs in college football this season — especially those making big plays and playing with physicality. This is an area that must be addressed one way or another in the off-season barring a big turnaround in the coming weeks. They’ve tried to draft and develop cheaper players to replace the LOB and it just hasn’t happened.

2. Replacing prospective free agents on the defensive line

Jarran Reed is yet to sign a new contract while Jadeveon Clowney and Ziggy Ansah are both on short term deals. It’s too early to say whether any or all will be kept. Clowney has had a quiet start with only a few flashes. It’d be unfair to judge Ansah on his limited performance against New Orleans but he’s already missed two games and he doesn’t have time to settle into top form if he’s going to earn a longer deal. Reed is suspended and will be a difficult re-sign given the potential cost of keeping him after 2018’s 10.5 sack season.

They’ll hope L.J. Collier and Rasheem Green continue to develop. It’s still hard to imagine Green turning into a dynamic force for this team based on what he’s shown so far. He’s making slow progress and they’ll need to see a jump eventually. It’s too soon to judge Collier but having invested a first round pick in him they’ll want him to turn into a starter. Quinton Jefferson has had a good start to the 2019 season.

It’s a massive shame they couldn’t sign Calais Campbell when he left Arizona to go to Jacksonville.

The Seahawks have a projected $75-80m in cap space for 2020 so they’ll have room to make additions. Yannick Ngakoue and Leonard Williams are big name free agents but will likely cost mega money. Von Miller and Everson Griffen are possible cap casualties. It feels like they need some proven experience.

Hopefully Clowney can take a step forward and warrant consideration for a long term deal. He’s at a great age and he has everything physically. He needs to start impacting games though.

3. Replacing prospective free agents on the offensive line

Germain Ifedi, George Fant and Mike Iupati are all free agents in 2020. We’ll see what the Seahawks decide to do there. Fant could be retained modestly given his limited starting experience. Phil Haynes could be the long term successor for Iupati. They’ve opted to go for veteran experience on short term deals recently so that’ll likely be reviewed again. However, with some decent right tackle options eligible for the 2020 draft they could invest a high pick at the position if Ifedi moves on.

Onto the mock draft. Don’t pay too much attention to team needs at this point.

#1 Miami — Tua Tagovailoa (QB, Alabama)
Some teams think conventionally. Tua is the favourite to go #1 overall but rightly or wrongly some teams won’t want a 5-11, left handed quarterback.

#2 New York Jets — Andrew Thomas (T, Georgia)
Supremely balanced and consistent — Thomas looks the part of a NFL left tackle. His footwork is superb and he anchors brilliantly.

#3 Cincinnati — Justin Herbert (QB, Oregon)
Tall, mobile and with a strong arm. Herbert has all the qualities teams look for — he just needs refinement and the right scheme to flourish.

#4 Miami (via Pittsburgh) — Grant Delpit (S, LSU)
Arguably the top draft eligible player for 2020. Delpit has the range and tenacity to play safety and the ball-skills, recovery speed and athleticism to play corner.

#5 Denver — Jeffrey Okudah (CB, Ohio State)
He will destroy the combine and was a 142.56 athlete at SPARQ. Sticky in coverage but packs a punch as an open-field tackler.

#6 Washington — Jerry Jeudy (WR, Alabama)
Lean, sudden and can beat you in a number of ways. Jeudy is capable of getting downfield to make the big explosive play but he’s equally adept on WR screens.

#7 Arizona — Tristan Wirfs (T, Iowa)
If you can lift 450lbs in the hang clean, breaking the Iowa record by Brandon Scherff, NFL teams will take notice. He also jumps a 35-inch vertical and a 9-5 broad.

#8 Cleveland — Chase Young (DE, Ohio State)
Super-quick edge rusher who’s flashed for a couple of years. Will need to test well to max-out his stock and measurable’s will be important.

#9 Jacksonville — Derrick Brown (DT, Auburn)
Physical, tone-setting defensive lineman with the size, stoutness, quickness and ability to penetrate with speed or power. He can play any down/distance.

#10 Oakland — Dylan Moses (LB, Alabama)
Talent-wise he’s a sure-fire top-10 pick but there is some doubt after he suffered an ACL injury. He’s in the Devin White and Roquan Smith mould.

#11 LA Chargers — Jordan Love (QB, Utah State)
Capable of making all sorts of throws on the run and has the arm/mobility that will appeal to teams looking for the next Mahomes or Murray.

#12 Tennessee — Trevon Diggs (CB, Alabama)
Incredibly competitive cornerback who does an excellent job tracking the ball and breaking up passes. Highly athletic but with an injury history. Stefon Diggs’ brother.

#13 Atlanta — Raekwon Davis (DT, Alabama)
Playing under the pressure of expectation at Alabama but the fact is he’s a mean, highly athletic 6-7 and 305lbs defender whose best football is still to come.

#14 New York Giants — Tee Higgins (WR, Clemson)
Incredibly smooth, quick and reliable. Clemson receivers are always well coached and Higgins looks the part of a productive NFL receiver.

#15 Tampa Bay — Javon Kinlaw (DT, South Carolina)
He’s +300lbs but carries minimal body fat. His ability to convert speed-to-power is incredible and he dominated Alabama’s O-line at times last week.

#16 Carolina — Walker Little (T, Stanford)
Has suffered a season-ending injury. Ran a 4.40 short shuttle at SPARQ and scored an overall 107.25 (the top score by an offensive lineman in 2016).

#17 Philadelphia — D’Andre Swift (RB, Georgia)
A big play threat with the power to get the hard yards. He looks like Dalvin Cook but with more explosive power and quicker acceleration.

#18 Oakland (via Chicago) — Isaiah Simmons (S, Clemson)
Will be valued for his leadership and ability to make plays dropping in coverage or operating at or near the LOS. A tone setter.

#19 Seattle — Isaiah Wilson (T, Georgia)
He’s 6-7 and 340lbs but carries it very well. Great length and power at the point of attack and capable of driving big running lanes.

#20 Minnesota — Prince Tega Wanogho (T, Auburn)
Very much a right tackle prospect who lacks the foot-speed and drop to be a great pass blocker but he delivers a great punch and has value as a run blocker.

#21 Indianapolis — Travis Etienne (RB, Clemson)
Highly explosive running back with a similar running style to C.J. Spiller minus the elite track speed. Can be a X-factor at the position.

#22 Baltimore — Tyler Biadasz (C, Wisconsin)
Blocking form is inconsistent. He leans too much and defenders often jump back so he loses balance. When he locks on he can control linemen.

#23 New Orleans — Laviska Shenault Jr (WR, Colorado)
Has been slow to get going this season but at his best he’s a swiss-army knife in the Percy Harvin mould. Imagine him in the Saints’ offense.

#24 Detroit — Kristian Fulton (CB, LSU)
Big, physical cornerback who tracks the ball almost as well as Trevon Diggs. Despite his size Fulton does a job kicking inside to cover the slot.

#25 Miami (via Houston) — Lucas Niang (T, TCU)
Too upright and his footwork is poor leading to off-balance sets. However, he flashes athleticism and he recovers well. Not often beaten but technique needs refining.

#26 New England — Henry Ruggs (WR, Alabama)
Catches the ball well with outstretched arms and has a surprising catch-radius. Expected to run in the 4.2’s at the combine. Big-time playmaker.

#27 San Franciso — Jonathan Taylor (RB, Wisconsin)
Some of his cuts have to be seen to be believed and when he finds a crease he’s capable of going through the gears to turn a big play into a scoring play.

#28 Dallas — Jabari Zuniga (DE, Florida)
Typical Florida defensive end with a great combination of size and speed. Got off to a good start this season but left the game against Kentucky with an ankle injury.

#29 Buffalo — CeeDee Lamb (WR, Oklahoma)
Not quite at the level of some of the other receivers in this class but still very talented and capable of getting downfield to take the top off a defense.

#30 Green Bay — Najee Harris (RB, Alabama)
A dynamic athlete capable of running through arm-tackles and hurdling defenders. Has a burst of speed. Scored a spectacular touchdown against South Carolina.

#31 LA Rams — C.J. Henderson (CB, Florida)
Could be a dynamic nickel at the next level. His tackling is inconsistent but he’s a 4.3 runner in coverage. At SPARQ he ran a sensational 3.92 short shuttle.

#32 Kansas City — J.K. Dobbins (RB, Ohio State)
A SPARQ god who led the nation in 2016 with his 146.76 score. Has ideal size and athleticism and can get the tough yards and be a home-run hitter.

Thoughts on Seattle’s pick

Isaiah Wilson looks like their type of player for many reasons. He has incredible strength, length and power. He’s a good run-blocking tackle who drives defenders off the line and creates big running lanes. In pass-protection some of his drops are a little deep and he can improve by playing more inside-out. However, he’s extremely talented and if Germain Ifedi moves on they’ll need to look at their options. They’ll need those two second round picks to help produce talent in the secondary.

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78 Comments

  1. TomLPDX

    Thanks Rob! I think the funnest part of this was seeing where you ranked all the teams. Good call for our pick…it’s time to start planning for that now.

    • Hawktalker#1

      Not sure if planning for a poor season is critical at this point, but nothing wrong with being conservative.

      I’m actually happier about where the Pats are on the list!! Hahahaha

      • TomLPDX

        Not planning for a poor season, planning for replenishing our OLine if we decide that Ifedi isn’t our RT (or he is better off at G) plus we need to be prepared for Duane getting hurt, etc. Adding quality OLinemen, especially if we want to continue with the PC doctrine of run-first, is just smart.

  2. Sea Mode

    Yay, a mock!

    Agree on the team needs at this point. As you say, we should know a lot more by the end of the season, especially about where the DL stands.

    Can you imagine if PIT really does end up picking that high and ends up giving up the chance to draft Delpit in order to acquire Minkah Fitzpatrick?!

    Looks early on to be a loaded offensive draft class: QB, OL, WR, and RB heavy in talent this year. You’ve got 11 defensive players compared to 21 offensive! Of course, it is just a first mock, but already seems heavily slanted one way. This might play in to the Seahawks decisions on re-signing the DL as well.

  3. Ukhawk

    Agree we are BAMF Lookout

    Like the idea of a big ugly in R1, how serious is Wilson injury, does he play too upright and what’s he like against speed? Some attractive weapons for RW follow in layer picks like Ruggs and Taylor.

    I think Pete will continue to want to build the defense around young studs. Are we certain Blair can’t play FS? He seems fast enough. Isaiah Simmons would be my pick as a potential BAMF. This guy can line up as SS, Coverage LB or big nickel. IMO He could be modern version of BamBam and give the dense all sorts of flexibility in base. Case in point:

    http://www.profootballnetwork.com/isaiah-simmons-next-hybrid-superstar/%3famp

  4. mishima

    Agree on team needs.

    Keep Reed, but let Ansah, Clowney, Ifedi go (comp picks!). Prioritize edge rush and OT, early and often. Pick up some CB competition in FA and later in draft.

    Geeked for a mock draft, 3 weeks into season. Embarrassed, but grateful. Thanks!

    • Hawktalker#1

      Way too early to write off Ziggy and Clowney. That needs to play itself out before we can know where the value is, or isn’t.

      • mishima

        Why?

        Estimate $12.5m for Ansah; $20m for Clowney. For the money, I think they can do a better job improving the pass rush. Take the comp picks, sign one in FA, draft more than 1 edge/rusher (/smh only taking Collier).

        Hard pass on both, regardless.

        • Rob Staton

          They had no choice taking only one rusher in the 2019 draft.

          There were none worthy of the Blair pick and is there seriously anyone out there who wishes they hadn’t taken DK Metcalf? He’s the only rookie doing anything!

          • Robert Jorgensen

            Rob I enjoy your article one thing kinda of concerns me is lack of turnovers the are defense is creating I believe are defense tackle has more pics then the Seahawks cornerbacks. Sometimes I wish the Seahawks use the jet sweep more often.

          • mishima

            Truth.

            I liked Ferguson, Winovich, Allen and Walker but probably wouldn’t have taken any of them over Blair, Metcalf or Barton. Case of too many needs and the board drying up.

      • TomLPDX

        Agreed, too early to determine if either is going to be effective or not and we should watch and see how they do over the long haul. Also think QJeff is quietly becoming a consistent player who can make a difference. We’ll see…

    • Pickering

      We’ll see how Reed plays once back, but I think the team’s previous statements regarding DV make his being in Seattle next year unlikely.

      • Gaux Hawks

        Very interested in this storyline, but ultimately hope they figure out how to keep Reed (for obvious football reasons).

  5. New Guy

    Wow, the fourth tackle off the board…

    That’s going to take some significant scouting, wisdom and luck to pull the rabbit out of the hat.

    .

  6. Aaron

    Nick Vannett being traded to the Steelers per Schefter.

  7. cha

    Schefter says Hawks trading Vannett to Pittsburgh

    • cha

      Pelissero says the Hawks get a 2020 5th round pick. I like that return.

      • mishima

        Considering he’s set to be an UFA, great return. Not sure what Pittsburgh is thinking or doing.

        • Aaron

          Their TE Vance McDonald is injured

        • Hawktalker#1

          Agreed. I have no idea why they’re paying that much for him.

          But I’ll take it, no doubt about that.

        • Pran

          Trading 2020 5th for a possible 2021 5th if he leaves in FA.

          • cha

            Are you suggesting the Steelers will net a 5th round comp pick in 2021 for Vannett?

            A contract of $6-7.4 million / year netted a 5th round pick in 2019. That type of money is top 15 TE money. I really doubt Vannett will score that kind of contract this offseason.

            • Pran

              5th or may be 6th. Its like our clowney trade, if it works out keep him else get a comp pick. we paid a 7th to pats for Hollister who is a lock for roster. its a fair cost for #2 TE for Steelers not like JS scored a huge deal here.

              • mishima

                Steelers would have to lose more significant FAs than they sign + Vannett’s new contract would have to be signed in first wave of FA and qualify for a comp pick (approx. top 32 FA salaries + other).

                They gave up a 5th with no guarantees of netting a comp pick in return.

                Correct, if wrong.

          • Simo

            I don’t see the Steelers netting that high of a comp pick for Vannett. He’s not proven capable of handling TE1 duties even though he was a R3 pick. Stranger things have happened though, and will continue to.

            I like the deal for the Hawks. Willson fits better with our offense anyway, and didn’t cost much to scoop him off the scrap heap!

      • Sea Mode

        JS really lining his pockets for this year’s draft… or accumulating stock for a trade…?

        • Rob Staton

          Probably just a case of received a good offer for a player out of contract they didn’t feel they were likely to keep.

  8. Rik

    I do not want to see the Niners end up with Taylor. That would hurt.

    I’d love to see PCJS go some mix of OL and DL with the first 3 picks. We need turnovers, and I think pressure up front will hurry throws and help our young secondary make plays.

  9. Saxon

    Thanks for doing this, Rob. You’re too good to us.

    Would love I.Wil! Wilson blocking for Wilson who’s throwing Wilson.

    • Saxon

      …to Willson.

  10. Dale Roberts

    Rob what’s your opinion on the philosophy of trading into the top ten given the inconsistent history of top draft picks? With all the youth coming into the rotation over the next couple of years and a team that looks like it will remain a contender would this be an appropriate time to trade up for a guy like Delpit or is it just too expensive? I know the Hawks have a “more is better” philosophy but do you think they would consider that kind of move?

    • Rob Staton

      I don’t. It would cost a kings ransom for an unknown. They’d be better off trading the house for a Ramsey type.

  11. Awsi Dooger

    Surprised not to see joe Burrow on that list. Tons of buzz right now. He is vaulting while Fromm is dropping. I’d say they have already intersected and now Burrow is above.

    Hard to believe Urban Meyer preferred JT Barrett above Joe Burrow for two seasons. That decision may have changed Meyer’s fortunes late in his Ohio State tenure, plus the college football landscape in general. The Buckeyes wasted a ton of talent during those years due to Barrett alone.

    Burrow is averaging 12.3 YPA. If he maintains anything close to that level he almost certainly will be a very high first round pick. You really don’t have to look at any other category. Oklahoma is the only program to consistently put up numbers like that recently. Jalen Hurts is now at an other worldly 14.4 YPA. Obviously that will be scrutinized because he wasn’t worth anything close to that number at Alabama. But no question Hurts looked more relaxed than at Alabama, and with greater touch.

    Jordan Love lost his running backs from 2018 so not surprisingly he has been forced to throw 40+ times in every game. Interesting matchups next week when Utah State travels to Baton Rouge.

    Is Tua really 5-11? I thought he was 6-1 but admittedly it hasn’t been a concern. Tua is still cruising along with a YPA 3 yards above Trevor Lawrence, identical to 2018.

    Clowney wasn’t great in some of the analytic twitch categories than identify edge rushers. Not awful but not close to elite. He needs to proper matchup for his power style to dictate via a handful of huge plays. Week to week he simply isn’t explosive enough.

    Chase Young looks like he should be picked higher than #8. But his test scores do not always align with apparent athletic ability…only a 30 inch vertical

    • Rob Staton

      I’ve acknowledged Burrow in several articles but for me it is too early to say he’s a R1.

  12. Gohawks5151

    Mock draft! Glad to see Tristan Wirfs in the top 10. Dudes a freak athlete. I made mention on the last post, keep an eye on this Iowa offensive line. More dudes to come. U of Oregons line as well. I like the Wilson pick. Can he be a LT? I’d like to think they keep Fant. He has been good in spot duty. Hard to see Ruggs, Shenult, and Zuniga go after our pick but I get it. I’d be interested in who you have in mind for the secondary with the 2 second round picks

  13. king.

    Did anyone suggest Wilson had to do it on his own?

    Now someone may have suggested an a flexible identity given the personnel on the roster.

    • Rob Staton

      What?

  14. CaptainJack

    It’s really a shame we drafted LJ Collier (ineffective) and Marquise Blair before Terry McLaurin.

    • cha

      DK Metcalf says hi

      • CaptainJack

        Yes but imagine having Metcalf and McLaurin

        • Rob Staton

          There will be plenty of fans out there saying, ‘imagine having Metcalf’. I loved McLaurin as a prospect but the fact is they acquired another receiver who is showing immense potential.

          • Jared Marshall

            I think it’s a fair lament, only because we drafted Gary Jennings not too much later in the 4th. While the story obviously isn’t written on Jennings’ career, I feel comfortable saying it will not add up to McLauren’s. The what-could-have-been of drafting two rookie impact starters at WR in the 2nd and 3rd round stings a bit. Especially because it was so obvious that McLauren had that special something to him. He was my favorite player in this draft, and I had a 1st-round grade on him; my stomach was in knots as I watched him tumble down the board until we grabbed Metcalf (which I considered an incredibly palatable consolation prize). But then when I saw where he went off the board, and we drafted Jennings (who I honestly liked too) just a handful of picks later, I pretty much assumed I would be feeling the kind of what-if I am today.

            • Rob Staton

              I had McLaurin in round one too. But it’s easy to sit here after the fact and say they should’ve done this or that. They drafted a receiver who has looked excellent so far in round two and then moved on to other needs. Jennings hasn’t worked out so far but he’s a rookie and looked tailor made for the Seahawks.

              As I said before, how many teams right now wish they hadn’t passed on DK Metcalf?

              • Simo

                I’m sure quite a few teams regret not drafting Metcalf, but so far probably not as many who regret passing on McLaurin! Imagine his stock only improves once Haskins takes over at QB! Both are exceeding expectations for most rookies.

                • Rob Staton

                  As I said, I was a big fan of McLaurin. I think it’s interesting though that people are gazing at him while not particularly mentioning we have our own great rookie WR.

                  • Simo

                    Fair point for sure. If DK keeps playing well, continues earning Russ’ trust, and keeps improving his feel for the game, people will be arguing about what a steal he was.

                    McLaurin has really burst on the scene so far, and plays like a very savvy rookie. This may not last though. What’s your take on Chark in Jax? Another rookie who has really shined, but many don’t feel he can sustain his success.

                    I’m pleased we have Metcalf, like you mentioned he’s really our only rookie contributor so far!!

                    • Rob Staton

                      Chark did well in the pre-draft process. Very athletic. Intriguing to see him doing as well as he is in Jax. Lean and sudden.

  15. CaptainJack

    Anyone else feel a little dissapointed with Clowney overall?
    Ziggy didn’t have anything against NOLA besides his bull rush.
    Both lack elite lateral quickness.

    If neither pick it up over the season? Move on.

    • HovaHQ

      Everyone’s saying it’s cuz the QB got rid of the ball fast. Ansah is also likely rusty.

    • DougM

      Clowney forced the pass that was almost intercepted by Wright

  16. CaptainJack

    I’d rather have Lamb than an OT.

    Lamb is so good. I don’t agree that he’s that far behind Jeudy.

  17. Barry

    If we have the opportunity sign Miller. No to Williams. Even if Miller is not as long or pretty of a number.

  18. HovaHQ

    Can Jamarco Jones /Fant play RT? They might cut Britt too after the season. How would you feel about Hunt at C?

    Personally hoping the Seahawks load up on D and land a shutdown type CB, FS and pass rusher with the 1st, two 2nd rd picks.

    Would be great to get a CB like Paulson Adebo in the 2nd. Another Stanford CB.

    • Pran

      Fant played LT while Duane is out..It will be interesting to see how he has graded.

      • TomLPDX

        I read that Fant’s PFF grade for last Sunday was 71.4. 35 total snaps with 23 at left tackle.

        • Pran

          Thx..see that, top 5 offensive performance on the team and 3 out of 5 are OL.

  19. cha

    Seahawks bring back Luke Willson

    https://twitter.com/LWillson_82/status/1176728358639431681

    LOL!

  20. Jared Marshall

    I think you’re definitely onto something, but I also think we had what we thought were some BAMFs. Last year we had some — and had that edge to us — and the same two guys are still on the roster today. The truth is we were counting on Fluker and Carson to be the same BAMF-element they were last year. So far they have come into the year with a sorry whimper. I think against the Cardinals we need to kind of force-feed this issue, and attempt to get their angry mojo back. If not, then we will likely forgo that element to the team this year.

    • Rob Staton

      Fair points.

    • HovaHQ

      Hasn’t Fluker always been a BFG?

    • astro.domine

      I agree here. This is our opportunity to re-establish the mentality that can carry us us down the stretch.

      We just have to hope the defense can rise to the occasion, make a few splash plays.

  21. Robeetle12

    I LOVE getting Willson back at TE. Basically got rid of Vannett, get Willson AND a 5th round pick.

    EXCELLENT work again Mr. Schneider !!!!!!!

  22. Murphy

    Rob, this is the kind of excellent content that separates this blog from everything else. Your post game analysis is excellent, your breakdown of college football prospects is illuminating, and your analysis of possible team moves (trades, acquisitions etc) is spot on. However, it is these articles where you look at the big picture (coaching philosophy, how they won in the past, what’s missing, and how do we fix it) that really is next level! So thank you.

    With all that being said, looking back over the last few seasons, there were a number of times that they got burned by BAMFs. Not always in the same way. Older BAMFs causing problems, newer potential BAMFs getting hurt (McDowell). Calling McDowell a BAMF may raise some eyebrows but I think that’s what they thought they were getting. His college tape flashes that. The problem with BAMFs is that often there is an edge or a risk to them (Kam played so hard he it ended his career, Lynch couldn’t be controlled ever). So I think what they tried to do was get a young consistent core. Players they knew would be there, work hard, and grow together. Look how they talked about drafting an RB last year (no red flags, no risk…Penny). Now that they have that core (and I believe they do), this next draft feels like the one to take that risk and regain that edge (Blaire, Metcalf, and Collier do feel like at least one could grow into a BAMF). Go Hawks!!!!

    • Rob Staton

      I wouldn’t personally call McDowell a BAMF. His effort was inconsistent, he had an odd personality. Kam and Marshawn were adored within the locker room and everyone fed off their incredible physicality. Teams feared Seattle because of Marshawn and Kam. McDowell had extreme talent and potential but I think in that instance the Seahawks were hoping to get a rough diamond rather than someone who would be the heart and soul of the team.

  23. Denver Hawker

    If they do slot somewhere between 18-22, will be interesting to see what they do. Too early to tell where the R1 grade shelf is but could be right there.

    They have the draft capital to make a similar trade up that the Steelers/Broncos made last year to get to pick 10. Could then trade their other R2 back to get picks in the 3rd.

    R1 has rarely been the MO of this Front office, but could be exciting if they had an opportunity to grab a Top10 player who slips.

  24. Volume12

    Well sh**. This was a great piece.

    So glad I didn’t see Stanford corner Paulson Adebo’s name here. Incredibly overhyped.

    https://twitter.com/i/status/1176679350231420928

  25. Matt

    Great analysis Rob. Don’t love the idea of a R1 OL who will struggle to pass block but I can understand the rationale.

    I really hope we prioritize a player in R1 that can have a big effect on the passing game (turnovers, sacks, TDs, pass blocking). Don’t care what position it is, but I think in an ideal world we get a playmaker in the secondary. We’ve had too many years of average players who are just good enough not to be bad – none of them really make plays and to me, that’s why this defense is “good” but isn’t at the next level nor does it have any “teeth” to scare other teams. It has been disheartening to watch 3 middling QBs look confident against us. Not saying they were all-world, but it’s the comfort in which they played with that was most troubling.

    For Pete to really have a chance at a Super Bowl – it’s imperative he gets a defense that creates turnovers. Otherwise, we will continue to see maddening football of square peg, round hole.

    Good stuff, Rob.

    • Rob Staton

      I don’t think the passing game is the priority. With Russell’s deal, Brown’s deal, Lockett’s deal, the second, fourth and seventh round picks they spent this year, the development of Dissly… they’ve invested a lot in the passing game. They want to be the bully. It’s time to focus on that aspect because it’s severely lacking. They also need playmakers in the secondary and more pass rush.

      • Matt

        I meant passing game, either offense or defense. I think they desperately need a play maker in the back end.

  26. CHawk Talker Eric

    Delpit, Okudah, Thomas, Brown are my faves so far in this draf, approximately in that order.

    Kinlaw and Simmons are interesting too. Beyond them, not sure if I don’t prefer them trading down per usual to have 3 picks in R2.

    Apropos of nothing, my RB crush this year is Johnathan Taylor. Don’t really need him with Carson, Penny and Prosise, but I think he’d crush it for SEA.

    Another bit of excellent GMing from JS to get a R5 pick for Vannett and replace him with Luke Willson. I’ve been pretty down on Vannett this season. His receiving is ok, but his blocking has been atrocious. I think Willson is as good a receiver and a better blocker FWIW. I said previously that Dissly is a legit pro bowl contender. What I meant to say is, after only 3 games, he looks like a legit contender. Didn’t mean to get ahead of the season. Assuming Dickson returns healthy (and no other injuries to anyone at that position), I think a rotation of Dissly, Dickson and Willson is pretty good.

  27. dnc

    Perhaps this has been covered elsewhere, but I’m surprised to see Jacob Eason not included here. As a UW fan I’m highly confident he’s going to declare, and can’t really fathom him falling out of the first round. Is your evaluation different, or do you just think he’s coming back?

    • bmseattle

      Rob has expressed skepticism toward Eason when his name has been brought up here before.
      My guess is that he wants to see him perform at a high level against better competition, before labeling him a sure 1st round pick.
      I tend to believe that you are correct, though. The NFL covets arm talent like Eason, and teams have overdrafted less talented QBs than Eason….even guys who didnt win or put up number against upper level competition.
      Eason will likely play well enough the rest of the way that he will be drafted high on pure talent/potential alone.

    • Rob Staton

      We’ve talked a lot about Eason in the comments section. I’m not putting him in the first round after four games, one of which he wasn’t great against Cal in a loss, with the wins coming against Eastern Washington, Hawaii and BYU.

      He’s always had the arm talent and he passes the eye test. But he’s essentially four games into his career after what happened at Georgia. There’s a lot more football to be played before we can start calling him a first round talent. I’m open to reaching him that point but we have to let this play out a bit first.

      • dnc

        Thanks for the reply Rob.

        As I assume you know he played a lot better against Cal than many think, as he had 7 passes dropped. It was the worst performance by UW receivers I can remember in a long long time.

        I get the skepticism, I was highly skeptical when he transferred. I’m not anymore though, his accuracy has come a long way and decision making has been stellar. He’ll be an easy first rounder this year IMO, probably top 10.

  28. GoHawksDani

    Just a quick note: Blair is an FS on the official Hawks roster. Not sure why, but they might wanna use him as FS then they’d look at SS at the draft (if they wanna move on from McDougald as SS)

  29. RWIII

    Rob: Totally agree on Isaiah Wynn.

    • Rob Staton

      *Wilson

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