Thoughts on the roster after two pre-season games

Seattle’s backup O-line struggled in Minnesota

Quarterbacks

Paxton Lynch outshone Geno Smith against Denver but he struggled against Minnesota. He looked frantic. Part of that was the offensive line play. Yet his overall performance was reminiscent of previous pre-seasons where Seattle fielded an incapable backup QB and didn’t really learn anything about their offensive depth. For example, Lynch has really zoned in on Jazz Ferguson as a safety net. Ferguson received seven targets against Minnesota (making two catches). John Ursua had two and Gary Jennings had one. If Lynch and Ferguson can help each make the roster, fair enough. But in the next game we need to see what Ursua, Jennings and some of the other receivers can do. And that’ll mean Lynch or Smith not just looking for the big guy on most snaps.

Smith’s stock received a boost without even playing. He’s the more conservative option for sure, with more pro-experience. It depends how much Seattle wants to develop a prospect versus having an older head as the backup. The hit on Lynch was so appalling it could cost him a chance to make an impression against LA and Oakland. Fingers crossed he returns quickly.

Running backs

Chris Carson and Rashaad Penny will be #1 and #2 respectively. Penny needs to be more decisive at the line and get more out of his runs — but the pile-on post-Minnesota seems like the latest example of a Seattle scapegoat. Travis Homer’s special teams value and a nice cameo against the Vikings puts him in a strong position to make the roster. One of C.J. Prosise or J.D. McKissic will probably make it. Prosise’s never-ending injury issues probably give McKissic the upper hand. McKissic is also well liked by the players and staff.

The most intriguing question mark is Nick Bellore. We’ve barely seen any of him as a fullback throughout pre-season. Why? He was signed to a two-year deal worth more than the minimum. We know he’s useful on special teams and it’s possible they’ll keep him for that and target specific games to incorporate him on offense. Yet the sheer amount of running they do out of the gun these days neglects the need for a full back.

Wide receivers

Tyler Lockett is all set for a quality season and Jaron Brown was impressive against the Vikings. D.K. Metcalf will have a frequent role on the offense and David Moore’s familiarity with the scheme and quarterback will secure a roster spot (even if he’ll be on a short leash to make plays early in the season). It could be that they only keep five receivers and if that’s the case, at the moment John Ursuah makes the most sense. He just seems to have something about him. He also has a very different skill-set to the big targets.

I previously thought the Seahawks would stash Gary Jennings to avoid losing him. However, Russell Wilson’s frank admission that Jennings ‘needed’ a good day at practise last week was telling. He was also a non-factor against the Vikings. Malik Turner is a wildcard given he received some snaps with the starting unit in Minnesota. Don’t sleep on him. Jazz Ferguson has made an impression but increasingly I think the Seahawks will roll the dice on him making the practise squad. Given his character flags in college and raw skill-set — there’s much more chance of him making it than some of the other names discussed here.

Tight end

Ed Dickson, Will Dissly and Nick Vannett are almost certain to make it. Jacob Hollister has received several positive reports from camp and could be kept as more of a pass-catcher. Keeping four TE’s for this offense isn’t unrealistic especially if they cut Nick Bellore. George Fant will be utilised as an OL/TE hybrid.

Offensive line

The starting unit impressed in Minnesota and looks big, nasty and the identity of this team. The injury situation, however is a concern. They’re banking on players capable of featuring in multiple positions. Ethan Pocic is a valuable depth player because he can play center, guard or tackle. At the moment, however, he’s having to start at left guard because Mike Iupati’s injured. Thus, they need another backup at left guard and center to cover the fact Pocic is starting. George Fant is another really useful player because he can feature at tight end but also cover spots at tackle and guard. The fact he’s injured at the moment is, again, a problem.

Jordan Simmons showed he can start in the league last year but he has a significant injury record. Jamarco Jones missed last season through injury and has been banged up again. The Seahawks have a good starting five and decent backups but the injuries are thinning things out. The decision on who makes the roster and who doesn’t will be heavily impacted by who’s healthy. Hopefully Phil Haynes can make an appearance before the end of pre-season.

Defensive line

The two big areas of concern right now are pass rush and cornerback. None of the nickel-back contenders are jumping out and Shaquill Griffin getting burned by Adam Thielen was unnerving. However, nothing is more concerning than the pass rush. The Seahawks traded Frank Clark and are without Jarran Reed for the first six games. That’s 23.5 sacks you’re taking out of a team that wasn’t a great pass-rushing unit in 2018. They’re hoping Ziggy Ansah can replace Clark but throughout his career he’s been banged up and currently he’s nursing groin and shoulder issues. Jacob Martin continues to look like a better role player than starter. Rasheem Green was practically anonymous again in Minnesota. L.J. Collier is injured and facing his rookie season. Depending on Ansah’s availability, their top pass rusher might be Cassius Marsh. The unit looks painfully weak and increasingly it feels like they have to do something before the season begins. It doesn’t have to be a blockbuster trade for someone like Jadeveon Clowney but additions are required — either via trade or after perusing the cuts from around the league. Barkevious Mingo has struggled in camp as a pass rusher but it’s worth noting Carroll said today he’s counting on Mingo to be a factor (he’s also seen as a key special teamer).

On the plus side, Poona Ford was exceptional against Minnesota and when Reed returns that could be a forceful pairing at defensive tackle. Al Woods also showed well which is reassuring, considering he’ll fill in for Reed. The Seahawks have consistently succeeded in finding useful defensive tackles without investing major draft stock or finances.

Linebackers

Seattle possesses the strongest group of linebackers in the NFL. Bobby Wagner, K.J. Wright and Mychal Kendricks is a starting trio any 4-3 team would love to have. Cody Barton has received rave reviews in camp. Austin Calitro won a job 12 months ago and appears hellbent on repeating that achievement this year. The big question is whether Ben Burr-Kirven has done enough to warrant a stash. Shaquem Griffin’s injury could turn into an IR job to protect him because at the moment it’s hard to see how he makes it.

Cornerback

Shaquill Griffin and Tre Flowers will start but there’s increasing pressure on Griffin to finally deliver on his potential. The depth is a worry at cornerback. Neiko Thorpe will almost certainly make it as the special teams captain. DeShawn Shead is mainly being tried at safety but he has the versatility to play corner too. Aside from the starting nickel, is there anyone else you’d keep around? Do they retain Akeem King for his ability to play slot and outside corner? And who even gets the gig in the slot? Jamar Taylor’s experience could be crucial (he will start vs the Chargers) but Carroll talked up Kalan Reed last week. None of the three shone against Minnesota. This is a position we’ll need to track for the next draft.

Safety

Tedric Thompson is another one of Seattle’s scapegoats. I feel for him. Imagine having to replace someone like Earl Thomas. The reality is, most teams have a starting free safety like Thompson. There are about 3-4 athletes like Earl Thomas in the entire league. He lacks the quickness and playmaking quality but clearly has earned the trust of the coaches and Seattle’s scheme is predicated on discipline and doing your job. Bend but don’t break. That’s why it’s very likely Thompson or Lano Hill will start next to Bradley McDougald. Ugo Amadi and Marquise Blair appear locks to make it and Amadi could even win the job at nickel corner. Shead will provide a hybrid DB capable of covering multiple positions.

Closing thoughts

With two pre-season games remaining a lot can change. However, it seems pretty obvious that there are two glaring weaknesses at corner and pass rush. Seattle’s kick-step scheme is difficult to pick up on the fly and it seems unlikely they’d be able to incorporate a new player into a potential starting role this late in the day. They can still add another pass rusher though. One way or another that feels like a necessity if the Seahawks want to be truly competitive.

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99 Comments

  1. Gaux Hawks

    starting to feel and look like Clowney is a necessity rather than a luxury… fingers crossed.

    • Rob Staton

      It doesn’t have to be Clowney. They need more though because the guys they’ve brought it — Ansah and Collier — are hurt.

  2. Fan0001

    I’m getting the feeling this could end up being a looong year.

    Way too many question marks on d.

    Injuries up front on the O line.

    A single proven WR.

    It feels like it’s going to be a season constantly fighting uphill. A bottom 1/3 defensive backfield matched up with a bimonthly 1/3 d line. Gonna be tough.

    • Rob Staton

      Seattle had the worst roster in the NFL in 2010 and still finished 7-9.

      The Seahawks have a floor under Carroll which is about 9 wins. They’re too well coached and built. They have an elite QB.

      I think 10-6 is likely again even with the issues. They need more to take the step to 11-13 wins which is what they realistically need to be competing for the #1 seed and playoff home games.

  3. Bigten

    Kind of frustrating seeing another relatively high draft pick at WR come up a blank. Especially when we could have picked up someone on defense to alleviate our CB or rush need (Mack Wilson and cominsky are the first that come to mind). Jennings is looking the part of Darboh.

    • Rob Staton

      Let’s be right here though — where does Mack Wilson fit into this team? As the 5th or 6th linebacker? And is Cominksy a solution to the pass rush concerns?

      Jennings screamed Seahawks receiver and it was a predictable match. They might stash him and in a year he might be a terrific pick. Me writing what I did in this piece doesn’t mean he’s a write off. Let’s see what happens.

      • Coleslaw

        Agreed. I would have loved to have Mack Wilson, but Barton and Wilson wouldnt have made sense. No room for Bobby, Barton and Wilson.

        Gotta remember too that Jennings has only been on the field after injury for a month. Missed like half of training camp.

        I’ll say that if Jennings doesnt get a lot of looks in the next 2 games, he probably will be cut though. How intent they are on getting a look at him will be very telling. If he doesnt get the looks I will personally believe that Ferguson (or someone else) has passed him for the last spot.

  4. j hawk

    For me, I see Carson,Penny,Homer,Turner, and Scarbrough as the RB kept. These are all tough runners. I hope we get healthy in a hurry. Simmons,Haynes,Fant,and Jones healthy would make me feel better.

    • Coleslaw

      Turner has really looked good for us. Tough runner like you said. Hes not going down easy. Not Beastmode, but not Robert Turbin either.

      He hits the right hole every time. His vision is outstanding, even with a terrible OL he was hitting the holes consistently. I think he can certainly make the roster and should be considered right alongside Scarborough.

      Also I just wanna add that McKissic was never in doubt of making the roster. We know what he can do. Him and Homer will play the 3rd down role. That leaves 1 spot if we keep 5 RBs. I think they use Vannett at FB and keep Scarbrough or Turner. Prosise is done even if he plays the next 2 games.

    • Rob Staton

      A year ago they kept Carson, Penny and Davis as the top three and retained both Prosise and McKissic. They won’t cut both Prosise and McKissic for starters. They need variety. I think if they were going to keep Turner he would’ve had more than two carries against Minnesota. Don’t really see much chance of Bo Scarborough making it. No camp buzz and got hurt in the first pre-season game. If they keep five I think it’ll be Carson, Penny, Homer, Prosise and McKissic.

  5. Henry Taylor

    As well as I think Calitro has played in preseason again, I don’t see him making it again. The team is 4 deep with LBs they will feel confident in starting, BBK offers cheap control and upside, Griffen is a special teams ace and is playing SAM, whilst Calitro has been playing Mike/Will where there is much greater depth.

    I think Calitro will get a spot on someone else’s roster, and good for him, but I don’t see him here.

    • Rob Staton

      Calitro’s played with his hair on fire though and flat out earned a job a year ago. BBK has shown practically nothing while Calitro’s out there again in both pre-season games flying around. I wouldn’t put money on Calitro being on the roster or anything but I know who is more likely to be useful in a game based on what we’ve seen so far and it isn’t BBK or Griffin.

      • cha

        I’m as much of a Husky homer as anyone and I’m strongly leaning towards Calitro as well. BBK has been almost invisible so far.

      • Henry Taylor

        My position is less about who would help be the better lb this year, and more to do with feeling extremely confident in the depth already and preferring special teams, club control and upside from the guys behind the 5th and 6th LBs.

        • Rob Staton

          Is BBK better on special teams than Calitro though?

          And has BBK shown anything worthy of desiring to keep him around long term? Has he shown anything at all since he returned from injury to think it’s worth stashing him for the future?

          Compared to Calitro who continues to play like his life depends on it.

          I actually think if they cut BBK he’s been so anonymous so far he probably makes the practise squad. Who picks him up?

          • Henry Taylor

            Draft pedigree plays into thiat though, he was an extremely productive college player and someone else must have had him on their radar. I think they’d both be picked up if cut, which suggests this is a good problem to have. I haven’t seen BBK make any special teams plays (he does feel like he’d be a dude there with his skill set however) but neither has Calitro so, for me, this one would come down to cost and upside, I think we’ve seen Calitro’s ceiling as a replacement level guy.

            This isn’t a hill I’m willing to die on or anything, you absolutely cou be right as Calitro has played better and is above him on the depth chart. I just see more long term benefit to keeping BBK (I feel I should mention I’m not a Husky fan, just in case anyone accuses me of Homerism).

            • Rob Staton

              Yeah I understand your position. Personally I just think he’s shown practically nothing so far. Calitro is a warrior and to me that’d be better to have this year for all facets than a redshirt for BBK. I wouldn’t lose any sleep if he was picked up by someone else to be honest. At least not based on what we’ve seen so far.

              • Denver Hawker

                BBK is a football guy, gets to the ball and makes tackles. Hawks love those guys. Problem is they have 5 other LBs who do that better. BBK is undersized and hasn’t shown how his plus speed can offset that at the position- same issue for Griffin. I’d hate to see BBK take a roster spot over Jennings.

          • charlietheunicorn

            For what it is worth, Dave Wyman has been glowing about Calitro all preseason. He said he has had an excellent camp and has been one of the top LB on the field, for either team, every preseason game. Awareness and relentless pursuit were 2 traits mentioned. The dude is making the team. I watched him specifically in game #2 and thought he really was flying around and making plays. He also mentioned that he thought if Calitro was cut, he could be a starting LB on about 40-50% of the teams in the NFL.

            • hawkdawg

              I have appreciated Calitro for as long as he’s been here. He has always had Hawk qualities of effort and physicality, and he appears to be learning the defense well now. I don’t think he’s a good coverage LB, and I think BBK has a higher ceiling in this area.

              I also think that BBK is headed to the PS, because he’s the least likely to get picked up off that squad by another team–injury history already, hasn’t shown in pre-season, etc. But I would not be surprised if he eventually turns into a pretty good pro, despite his size limitations.

        • cha

          We’re not talking about a past-his-prime veteran who makes $3m vs a hot standout rookie though.

          Calitro is actually making a little bit less than BBK this year and is an ERFA next year. So the next two years will be at a minimum.

          Wright and Kendrick’s injury problems last year revealed a lack of game-ready depth at LB. Calitro fills that gap nicely – and at an extremely reasonable rate.

          What I was hoping BBK would be in the future, Calitro is now.

          • Henry Taylor

            I didnt realise Calitro was making so little, I thought he was on a veterans minimum type deal, I also thought he was a bit older than 25 and was therefore already at his ceiling (which could also still be true).

            Honestly that does cause me to reevaluate my position a bit, with this info I’d call it a 50/50 split, just because they do clearly like BBK and was getting great reports early in camp before his injury. Would still put Griffin in as more likely than either of them.

            • jujus

              im like 99% sure his injury was during rookie camp. so any reports of him doing anything vs rookies means Nothing.

              BBK is a undersized barely fast enough LB who will be lucky to get a paycheck this year.

              • Henry Taylor

                4.56 40 and a 6.85 3 cone is barely fast enough?

                • juju

                  when your undersized typically YOU ARE FASTER.

                  So yeah being light in the pants and Not even sniffing Elite speed is Barely fast enough.

  6. cha

    I’ve posted a projected 53 a few times in the last 3 weeks or so, but I agree Rob it seems more open than ever. Every time you think there’s a lead dog at the end of the position group, he gets hurt or doesn’t show well in game action.

    I really wish one of Naz, Green, King, Taylor, or Reed would step up. That would ease a lot of concerns. They’ve all been essentially gift-wrapped the opportunity to start and make an impression and haven’t differentiated themselves much.

  7. king.

    Formerly jdk here. Keeping it consistent on all forums.

    Bend but don’t break is great against 75% of NFL offenses, but it fails against the top offenses. Pete likes to believe that offenses will eventually make a mistake if you don’t give them the big play, but the well-oiled machines the NFL is trotting out these days don’t seem to want to comply with his thinking. From 2016 to 2018, or post defensive glory days when the defense had the dogs to execute Pete’s vision, Seattle has struggled mightily against top 8 offenses. Of course everybody does, but when bend but don’t break too often just means giving up a long scoring drive against top teams, it really means there is very little chance of pulling off an upset.

    Oh, it will happen occasionally (KC), but the chances of this offensive scheme outscoring multiple good offensive teams is en route to a deep playoff run are slim. Bend but don’t break translates to winning 9-10 games and maybe winning a wild card game before bowing out gracefully with your high floor, low ceiling philosophy (putting together one of history’s greatest defenses did a lot to raise that ceiling, right, but that defense ain’t coming back anytime soon).

    As for Seattle scapegoats, I really don’t think Penny is one. He is what he is, and what he ain’t is a physically imposing running back. He does his best work in space. Be fun to see him in a progressive offense, but he seems to be miscast in Seattle’s physical running style.

    The issue isn’t Penny so much as the selection of a player that doesn’t really fit the system being taken with so much draft capital. I suspect Pete will feel an internal pressure to stop asking Penny to be what he isn’t and find ways to let him shine this year. At least I hope so.

    In fact, my bold prediction for this season is that both PC and BS expand out of their comfort zone and we see a much more modern offense that will actually vault Seattle into true contention. There are enough pieces in place on offense to score with the best of them, provided they take some risks, both with roster and play selection.

    • Rob Staton

      1. Bend but don’t break enabled the Seahawks to beat the Chiefs last year and Aaron Rodgers and Green Bay. They lost games to a Case Keenum led Denver, Mitch Trubisky led Chicago and Nick Mullens led San Francisco. So I’m not sure what evidence there is for ‘bend but don’t break’ only works against bad teams. Seattle had some good wins against good offense’s in 2018. The idea is even if you’re giving up drives to make it count in the red zone. Which is something the Seahawks have always been good at in the Carroll era.

      2. Rashaad Penny is a classic scapegoat. Seahawks fans love a scapegoat. There are always a handful of players the fans love to get at. Even in the Super Bowl years it’d be Breno or Carp. There always has to be someone to moan about relentlessly. Penny hasn’t even started his second regular season in the NFL and Twitter was going nuts after that Minnesota game. People need to chill. He was playing behind, in some cases, a third string O-line with a QB who wasn’t in the league last season. He seemed to fit the system just fine when he was making plays last season. I’m confident we’ll see even more in 2019.

      3. I wouldn’t get your hopes up on a change of offense. Pete has a style of play. A tried and tested formula. We all saw what happened in weeks 1&2 last year when they came out throwing. Trying to mimic the Chiefs or Rams isn’t his style. He’ll want to be the Seahawks. That means a physical running game complimented with explosive plays downfield. We’re 10 years into this now, we know what Carroll runs.

      • Seahawcrates

        Seahawk Scapegoats who the mob eventually moved on from:
        G. Ifedi, and J. Britt. Examples along with Breno and Carpenter I especially like
        because line play is so difficult to evaluate without knowing assignments on any
        Specific play.

      • Del tre

        The reviews I’ve seen of penny have been brutal, you can’t be decisive getting hit the second you’re handed the ball, he hasn’t had space to run. Chris Carson would have looked bad on every single carry Penny got, any back would have, Marshawn would have struggled in those spot carries. The way people are completely turning a blind eye to the horrid offensive line play when penny is on the field is mind-blowing to me. I have faith in the kid, we made a mistake not starting him over Davis last year. Put him with the number ones and he’ll definitely show his value during the regular season
        We can talk about the other backs playing well behind the O line but the difference is they had space to run and were not as substantial a threat to break off a 50 yard run. Teams are lining up to stop him, if Carroll were more willing to use him the Rams use Gurley we could see his ability properly

        • Kenny Sloth

          Tbf and I completely respect and agree with your point that the critiques on the guy have been mostly unwarranted and OTT which seems par for us 12’s.

          I was definitely not a huge fan of his coming out and was gutted when we selected him tbh. He seemed like a system back that was following his awesome line and FB into gaping holes against, generally, weaker competition. His stats were insane, but idk if I’ve ever really see him hit a hole decisively. He’s smart, but is he instinctive? I need to see something from him this year before I consider rating him.

          Not to “got there” but we literally could’ve had Lamar Jackson 😭😭😭😭😭

          • Hawkdawg

            Lamar would still be sitting if we got him, though. The concern about Penny I have read that makes sense to me is that as a pro, he has problems between the tackles, but is very good in space, and the question is whether Pete will eventually acknowledge this, or insist–in the fashion of our playoff game against Dallas–on pounding him inside as if he were just Carson Part 2. The dude has a knack in space, let him use it, and mix in interior runs to keep the defenses honest.

  8. RWIII

    I hope that Gary Jennings is NOT going to turn out to be the Wide Receiver version of C.J. Prosise. Talent wise Jennings has the IT factor. It would be sad if he turns out to be another C.J. Prosise.

    • Kenny Sloth

      DK Metcalf*

      🚪 I’ll see myself outt 😆

  9. Coleslaw

    I tend to agree. I think BBK could easily be the one cut too though.

    If Bobby gets hurt, (knock on wood) they will need size at MLB. So I think Kendricks or KJ would slide in instead of Barton. If its Kendricks, they wont start Shaquem at SAM. I suppose Barton could be a good SAM based off of what weve seen, but I feel like they might REALLY like Calitro there in that case.

    If its Wright who slides into Will? Kendricks?

    Im gonna leave the stuff above but after typing it and seeing it on paper – You know what I think you’re right. The depth would take a hit but our depth is so good that we probably wouldn’t get Calitro BBK or Shaquem on the field even with an injury to a starter. So maybe they do just go for club control.

    I wonder if Calitro could net us a draft pick before cut downs.

    • Coleslaw

      This was supposed to be a reply to Henry.

    • Henry Taylor

      Just based off the way the depth has been in camp and preseason, Barton has been getting most the MLB #2 snaps (fwiw I think he’s next man up at all three spots) and Calitro has played zero SAM (from what I’ve heard only Barton and Griffen have backed up those spots) so I really only see him as a candidate for the Will and Mike roles.

  10. Sea Mode

    PC Preseason Week 3 Wednesday Press Conference notes
    https://youtu.be/Q9RglolD8hk

    In General:
    – At the halfway point. Happy with the first-string performance last week. Expects everybody to play this week.

    Injuries:
    – McKissic, Prosise, Darboh and Delano Hill are all back and looked good in practice. Will play.
    – Metcalf surgery was very minimal. Could have waited, but decided to take advantage and get it done now since he’s already shown us what he can do. Is now week to week, but it shouldn’t be long.
    – Marquise Blair had back spasms in the game. Is day to day. Tried to go today but couldn’t.
    – Shaquem Griffin has a bruised knee. Day to day.
    – Paxton Lynch will be held out this week. Not quite back from concussion protocol and we need to see Geno anyway. Neck still sore and we’ve got to take care of him.
    – L.J. Collier injury is frustrating because we haven’t even been able to see him, where at least the other injured rookies have been able to show us what they can do.
    – Naz Jones is struggling with his knee. Tendonitis related. Analyzing the situation this week.
    – Mike Iupati is the starter at LG. Is a race to see if he will be ready for the opener. Pocic did well filling in.

    Defense:
    – Poona played RB in high school. When asked by reporters, he said he would be willing to play FB if asked. PC not considering it, but he has shown Poona’s RB highlights to the team. “He was definitely NOT a scat back…”
    We had to come to appreciate his uniqueness. Stature, style, length and very instinctive player: in time, he will know where the ball is going every snap. We should have played him more last season.
    – Amadi made a perfect play with a perfect Hawk tackle. Has made a play every time he’s been on the field. Punched a ball out today in practice. Is competing at the nickel spot.
    – Jamar Taylor will start at nickel this week. Really fast 4.3 runner. Competing for spot.
    – Jacob Martin is ahead technique-wise as an EDGE rusher. Mingo is making progress and has better size and length.

    Offense:
    – Keenan Reynolds has been solid. Valuable utility guy at several positions. Most productive TD maker in the history of CFB…
    – Joey Hunt’s effort on the fumble recovery was exemplary. Blocked his guy, full sprint to the ball, then even got up and covered the guy who recovered it. Can’t ask for a guy to compete any better than that. Has been shown to the team already and will now always be one of “those plays” about what it means to compete.
    – Rashaad Penny is doing “fine”. He’s had a lot of plays that “hasn’t had much space”. PC hasn’t evaluated him based on these plays. Pass pro and awareness have improved. Is competing for snaps with Carson and we love to have two guys like that. He’s leaner, stronger, quicker. Really good off-season.

    • Gaux Hawks

      this is awesome, thanks!

    • charlietheunicorn

      I am down on Pocic normally, but I thought he did a solid job when with the 1st team OL on running and passing plays. When they subbed in some #2 and 3 players, things went south fast of the OL. Not sure how much he actually played past the first 2 series.

    • Jamho3

      Thanks

  11. Sea Mode

    Here are the Seniors to start taking a look at if anyone wants to get an early start!

    https://www.seniorbowl.com/watch-list/

    • Kenny Sloth

      And follow Jim Nagy on twitter, people, I can’t stress this enough

  12. Coleslaw

    Jazz is probably lit right now. His brother Jaylon just got PAID. I hope the media asks him about this. It would give a lot of insight into who he is.

    • icb12

      His brother was a 3rd rounder this year for the Ravens right?
      3rd round rookie contract, signed a while ago.

      Are we talking about the right Jaylon?

      • Rob Staton

        I think he’s got mixed up with Jaylon Smith.

  13. Gaux Hawks

    anyone know what is going on with jamarco jones?

  14. Denver Hawker

    Clear emphasis on special teams too which have looked strong. I recall seeing Reynolds in the mix regularly against the Vikes- I think he makes the team. I’ve long thought Mingo is odd man out this year especially given his cap, but they like him on ST too. If they make a trade for a pass rusher, I’m guessing he gets cut.

  15. CHawk Talker Eric

    I thought Prosise was injured. I guess I’ll retract my previous comment about moving on from him pending how he holds up in the remaining 2 preseason games. Even if he does, I just don’t know. I think I prefer McKissic simply because he’s able to play more often. It’s just that Prosise has talent (that probably seems sweeter because it’s only flashed previously).

    Barton has really impressed me so far. I think he’s great insurance for Wright (injury) or Kendricks (jail). If he continues to play as well as he has, he could spell Wright consistently, which only helps Wright stay healthy and fresh, which was a major concern last year. SEA were a different defense when Wright was on the sideline. Maybe Barton solves that problem.

    I’m having a hard time seeing Mingo make the final roster. He’s basically obsolete at LB, and he’s not yet shown he can be a LEO or DE. I also think they’re going to have to make a trade for someone, maybe Clowney, maybe Griffen, and maybe Mingo goes along with a 2020 pick in the swap. Mingo’s not quite an asset, but he’s also not a liability either. And he’s got the size/length teams want. I dunno. I’m just guessing. I think Calitro has a better shot at the 53 than Mingo, not that they’re in direct competition for the same roster spot.

    I feel pretty bullish about Tre Flowers. He looked good to me vs MIN, notwithstanding that one clear PI. He’s light on his feet, fluid in his movement, recovers extremely well, and has the size/length to be able to make a play in most situations. I think he’s got a high ceiling. Maybe not Richard Sherman, but I think he’s the top corner by the end of the season. I like Griffin fine. I think he’s a decent starter. But if this is the LOB 2.0, Flowers is the Sherm while Griffin is Maxie. Not sure who’s the new Browner.

    • Jamho3

      Pretty sure Prosise made the team last year because of JD being injured. Ironic aye?

  16. Kenny Sloth

    Oh yeah! Anybody want to set up a SDB fantasy league? I’d love to do one with you all.

    • Bigten

      I’d be down for that!!

      • Ashish

        Count me in

    • Huggie Hawks

      Ohhh tempting…

      • Sea Mode

        Same here. Would have loved to a few years ago, but I’ve given up fantasy sports since I found I had too many hobbies that were taking up too much time. (and to me it doesn’t seem worth it or fair to the other players in a league just to go through the motions. It really forces you to keep up with the entire NFL week to week to be able to optimize lineups according to matchups, play the waiver wire, etc.)

        • charlietheunicorn

          I feel you. I had too many other things going on to keep up with FF. I would set-up line-ups and watch NFL football from sunup to sundown on Sundays (and Thursdays and Saturdays and Mondays)….. so I cut back to just Seahawks.

    • brendon light

      I’d definitely be down

    • Simo

      Would love to! What’s the stakes and the particulars?

    • Kenny Sloth

      I’m not gonna be commish, but save me a spot if you set it up.

      Rob’s usually already in a few by now lol

    • Haystacker509

      Count me in!!

  17. ZB

    Strange to think that our O-line is the identity of our team after all.

  18. cha

    Roster Look

    QB
    Locked (1)-RW
    Good Chance-none
    On the Bubble (2)-Smith, Lynch

    RB
    Locked (2)-Carson, Penny
    Good Chance (1)-Homer
    On the Bubble (4)-McKissic, Prosise, Bellore, Scarborough

    OL
    Locked (6)-Brown, Iupati, Britt, Fluker, Ifedi, Fant
    Good Chance (2)-Pocic, Hunt
    On the Bubble (4)-Jones, Simmons, Roos, Nkansah
    Possible PUP (1)-Hayes

    TE
    Locked (2)-Dissly, Dickson (possible IR return)
    Good Chance (2)-Vannett, Hollister

    WR
    Locked (4)-Lockett, Brown, Moore, Metcalf
    Good Chance-none
    On the Bubble (4)-Jennings, Ursuah, Reynolds, Ferguson, Wright, Turner

    OFFENSE
    Locked – 15
    Good Chance – 5

    So that’s 20 spots with a high degree of confidence.

    Means about ~5 spots are up for grabs. 1 is obviously a QB, 1 will likely be a RB, 1 will likely be a WR. Room for a 6th WR, a 10th OL, a 5th RB.

    OL backups are fluid. Hayes’ injury status and lack of practice time makes it interesting.

    Too much ambiguity in the WR 5-6 spots to make a good call at the moment. They could go with a high draft pick who hasn’t shown a lot (Jennings), a low draft pick who has some unique traits to his style (Ursuah), a no draft pick who has good potential (Jazz) or versatile all purpose types (Reynolds/Turner/Wright).

    DL
    Locked (5)-Ford, Ansah, Woods, Martin, Collier
    Good Chance (2)-Jefferson, Marsh
    On the Bubble (4)-Mitchell, Mone, Mingo, Green
    Suspended (1)-Reed

    LB
    Locked (4)-Wagner, Wright, Kendricks, Barton
    Good Chance (1)-Calitro
    On the Bubble (2)-Shaquem, BBK

    CB
    Locked (2)-Flowers, Griffin
    Good Chance (1)-Thorpe
    On the Bubble (3)-King, Taylor, Reed

    S
    Locked (2)-McDougald, Blair
    Good Chance (2)-Amadi, Thompson
    On the Bubble (2)-Hill, Luani, Shead

    DEFENSE
    Locked – 13
    Good Chance – 6
    On the Bubble – 10

    More wiggle room here. 19 in the top 2 boxes, so ~6 spots up for grabs. Definitely will want 2 more DL and 1 more CB. So 3 more spots. Maybe a 10th DL, a 6th LB, and a S or CB.

    ST
    Locked (3) – Ott, Dickson, Meyers

    TEAM TOTAL
    Locked – 31
    Good Chance – 12
    Spots Left for Bubble – 10

    There appears to be room for a “stashed redshirt” type guy, somewhere on the 53 man roster.

    • Spenny Dunks

      Would love for Shead to be moved back to CB/Nickel. Seems like none of the other guys are stepping up there, and Shead has had some big plays and has proven he can play CB in this system. That combined with the fact that we have so much safety depth.

  19. Robeetle12

    I cannot recall in my over 40 years of being a Hawk fan, having so many injuries before the season even starts. Is it that these dudes now are so much bigger and faster that their bodies can’t keep up with that?…Or something else totally random?….

    It’s a tough one to figure out and just when you think they have a lot of depth there are dozens of injured depth players.

    Regarding Penny. He had the same o-line as Lynch and it was so obvious that he couldn’t do anything behind that atrocious blocking. NOBODY could.

  20. Volume12

    Love Metcalf, but that knee injury is worrisome. Had em at Ole Miss and they tend to not ever go completely away. Especially on such a big, leggy body.

    Hope it’s a one time thing. Fingers crossed.

    • Logan Lynch

      Have you heard that audio from Metcalf’s interview with Steve Smith that was making the rounds on the radio? I’ll paraphrase, but Smith asked DK what he was looking forward to and he answered being on the field for his first snap. Smith said something like “What if your first snap is on special teams?” Without hesitation, DK replied “I’m gonna f*** someone up on special teams” or something to that effect. I love that!

      • Volume12

        No, I haven’t heard that. Awesome to hear and love the mentality.

        Just want him to remain healthy over the course of his career because he has everything to be special even if it’s in a…well, specialized role.

        • Kenny Sloth

          2nd round Ricardo Lockette

          • Jamho3

            On Beastquake 2.0 Lockette had 4 blocks.

            That’s what it takes for SPECIAL moments. I’ll take it. Plus he blew up the players on the Rams a few times. All the best to RL

  21. DCD2

    Cowboys seem like a good trade partner or cutdown target based on our needs and their depth. They just posted an article about Taco Charleton (recent 1st round pick) being 6th on their DE depth chart. Yesterday they had one discussing CB depth and who would be the odd man out.

    Both articles are on bloggingtheboys dot com. (Stopped posting links as they tend to land me in moderation)

  22. Trevor

    Brian Burns is a stud. I think that kid is going to be a star.

    • Volume12

      Can flat-out get after the passer.

  23. Denver Hawker

    (Venting here)

    Preseason is insufferable. I understand a lot guys need game speed reps and teams need these games to evaluate roster bubble players, but from a fans perspective, it’s awful. I enjoyed the 1st quarter of the vikes game only because it was played by guys who will make the 53.

    McVey is a genius not letting his starters play at all and risk getting injured. But that means they have to sign a bunch of scrubs to run out there. No one wants to watch a bunch of guys that won’t make the team’s 53-man.

    Owners make nice money on these games being included in season tickets so I don’t see them going away easily in the next CBA unfortunately. But how terrible is it that every year a handful of top players are lost for the season in these games that mean nothing. They aren’t even paid more than a couple hundred dollars.

    • Rob Staton

      Yep, pre season is terrible. Two games for the fringe players to make an impression is suffice.

  24. Pran

    Prosise and Griffin are cut.. Griffin will make it to PS. Prosise will be traded for a bag of chips if he plays next 2 games.
    Jennings will be stashed.. Remember Darboh?

    Some players will be traded for day 3 picks.. who are those going to be?
    Geno, Calitro ( if they want to keep BBk), Taylor, one of the safeties, one of the Nickels?

    They will also retain one or two players on 53 who will be cut later for pickups from other team waivers.

    • Kenny Sloth

      Why would anyone trade for these guys we’re going to cut?

      Why would anyone even want Geno Smith if he lost out to Paxton Lynch?

      In the last several years, we’ve made one trade including an outgoing player before the season began.

      And it was Jermaine Kearse and a 2nd rounder for a 1 year rental of Sheldon Richardson and some change.

      The last time before that was in 2015 when we shipped out Kevin Norwood and Christine Michael for a 7th rounder a piece.

      The only other one’s are Matt Flynn to Oakland for a 5th in 2013 and Josh Wilson to the DC team for a 5th in 2010.

      • Kenny Sloth

        Historically, we’re far more likely to trade FOR someone else’s back-ups/reserves than we are to be offered any compensation for our talented depth.

        It’s the cost of having one of the best coaching staffs and talent evaluation teams in the league.

        It’s no secret that Seattle castaways are highly talented.

      • Pran

        Teams would for players under cheap contract with some potential or backup roles due to injuries, risk of losing on waivers whatever. Last year Hawks traded a CB picked up in street FA to Vikes. Similarly Hawks traded for unknowns like Coleman, Hollister despite knowing they may be cut. Only exception is players with problematic contracts or busts. Lynch is not exactly lighting up for teams to expect Geno to be cut; depth can be traded for late round flyers if teams see value or need.

        • Kenny Sloth

          Depth can be traded, but I’m just telling you that the Seahawks don’t make a lot of outgoing player-for-picks trades in preseason. In an historical context, it’s just not as likely as us trading FOR someone.

          Who was the Street FA we traded to the Vikings last year for picks?

          I just take exception ti the premise that “some players are going to be traded for day 3 picks”. A little declarative and not necessarily substantiated by our past transactions.

          In fact it seems that we’re more likely to trade players-for-players in a straight up swap. Not trying to be contrary, just providing some context

          • Kenny Sloth

            Ohhh my bad, I see now that I forgot to include our shipping of Cash Marsh to NE for a solid 5th that we turned into Jamarco Jones and we also traded Tramaine Brock to the Vikes back in ’17.

            It should be kept in mind that we have a decent agglomeration of picks in this coming draft.

            I could see us shipping a package deal containing a player and picks for some decent depth/a rotational guy/stop gap veteran and a 7th or something like that

            • Pran

              Tramaine Brock

              Agree.. we get more players in trades than we ship. JS need to up the game if we truly have good depth at certain positions to fill the gaps elsewhere.

  25. Sea Mode

    (Not very mobile friendly, at least on my slow, old phone:)

    http://www.espn.com/espn/feature/story/_/id/27342304/how-dabo-built-clemson-monster

    Is Clemson the PC-style while Alabama is the Belichick-style?

    • Kenny Sloth

      Yes or yes?

  26. SebA

    Absolutely love this article, thanks so much Rob.

  27. Pran

    Who is the 7th round and UDFA diamonds in rough from this past draft ala Carson, Poona, Moore.

    • Rob Staton

      Probably John Ursua and Travis Homer based on what they’ve shown so far.

    • Simo

      What about Bryan Mone, an UDFA defensive lineman? He has been playing pretty well and may have a shot to make the final 53 if he keeps up his strong play and stays healthy!

  28. WALL UP

    Preston Williams. It’s nice to see him seize the opportunity, and get off to a great start. Hopefully, he’ll keep his head down and keep working.

    What if, JS had made that call?? Oh well..He will be fun to watch.

    • Rob Staton

      Move on buddy.

  29. calgaryhawk

    Just throwing it out there, I wouldn’t mind seeing Bo Scarbrough getting some reps at FB. I think he has the size (barely) and if he could pick up the blocking, he could be kind of useful to keep around as FB,RB depth. He’s still young so he might just end up on the practice squad.

  30. FlappyHawkLord69

    Nice write-up. Should be a fun year! I foresee some high scoring games…

  31. Bigten

    Yikes. Looks like David Moore is now out with a serious shoulder injury.

    • cha

      Early reports say surgery not necessary. So that’s something.

    • Logan Lynch

      Well, that’s one way for a guy like Malik Turner to make the roster. Keep Moore for the first 53 man and then put him on IR…designate him for return. Sign Turner back after he clears waivers.

  32. CHawk Talker Eric

    Thinking of going to the game vs LAC tomorrow night. Any SoCal SDBers going too?

    • Rob Staton

      Enjoy (if you do go). Wish I could be there.

      • CHawk Talker Eric

        Thanks! If I go I’ll try to take some photos to share with the group

        • Chawk Talker Eric

          Just got my tickets. 20 yard line, 25th row from the field on the Visitor (Seahawks) side.

          GO HAWKS!

          • Rob Staton

            Enjoy!

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