Updated mock draft: March 16th

Notes below, including a few thoughts on each round for the Seahawks.

#1 Cleveland — Myles Garrett (EDGE, Texas A&M)
#2 San Francisco — Solomon Thomas (DE, Stanford)
#3 Chicago — Jamal Adams (S, LSU)
#4 Jacksonville — Leonard Fournette (RB, LSU)
#5 Cleveland (trade) — Deshaun Watson (QB, Clemson)
#6 New York Jets — Garett Bolles (T, Utah)
#7 San Diego — Malik Hooker (S, Ohio State)
#8 Carolina — John Ross (WR, Washington)
#9 Cincinnati — Taco Charlton (EDGE, Michigan)
#10 Buffalo — Marshon Lattimore (CB, Ohio State)
#11 New Orleans — Haason Reddick (LB, Temple)
#12 Tennessee (trade) — Marlon Humphrey (CB, Alabama)
#13 Arizona — Jonathan Allen (DE, Alabama)
#14 Philadelphia (via Min) — Gareon Conley (CB, Ohio State)
#15 Indianapolis — Reuben Foster (LB, Alabama)
#16 Baltimore — Jarrad Davis (LB, Florida)
#17 Washington — Jabrill Peppers (S, Michigan)
#18 Tennessee — O.J. Howard (TE, Alabama)
#19 Tampa Bay — David Njoku (TE, Miami)
#20 Denver — Christian McCaffrey (RB, Stanford)
#21 Detroit — Charles Harris (EDGE, Missouri)
#22 Miami — Budda Baker (S, Washington)
#23 New York Giants — Ryan Ramcyzk (T, Wisconsin)
#24 Oakland — Kevin King (CB, Washington)
#25 Houston — Mitch Trubisky (QB, North Carolina)
#26 Seattle — Obi Melifonwu (S, Connecticut)
#27 Kansas City — Dalvin Cook (RB, Florida State)
#28 Dallas — Tre’Davious White (CB, LSU)
#29 Green Bay — Adoree’ Jackson (CB, LSU)
#30 Pittsburgh — Takkarist McKinley (EDGE, UCLA)
#31 Atlanta — Forrest Lamp (G, Western Kentucky)
#32 New Orleans — Derek Barnett (DE, Tennessee)

Seahawks trading down?

There’s possibly going to be a drop off in talent in the second round at around pick #50-55. The Seahawks pick at #58.

A year ago they moved down from #26 to #31 before trading up in round two (#56 to #49) to get Jarran Reed. Trading down in the first again this year could provide the ammunition (fourth round pick) to repeat the act.

With Kevin King off the board in this scenario (#24) they might be able to move down a few spots and still land Obi Melifonwu.

Trading up in round two? Who for?

It could be for one of the cornerbacks they really like. Cordrea Tankersley has size, length and speed. Let’s see if he can improve his broad and vertical jumps at the Clemson pro-day today.

They could look at T.J. Watt. His ability to play SAM and potentially the WILL could be appealing. He’d add another pass rush option as well. His agility testing at the combine almost certainly got Seattle’s attention. Tyus Bowser had a near-identical workout and could also be on their radar. Does either last to #58?

Wildcard options? How about Evan Engram (possibly out of range as a pick in the early 30’s) or Zay Jones?

Would they trade down in round two?

If there is a drop in talent in the pick #50-55 range, the Seahawks might trade out of round two (just as they did in 2011). The late second round is a bit rich for some of the linebackers in this draft. If they move down into the early third round, that could be the range to justify taking someone like Wisconsin’s Vince Biegel.

Who probably won’t be there for the Seahawks in round one?

Garett Bolles and Haason Reddick. They’re destined for the top-15.

Reddick is second only to Myles Garrett in this draft in terms of explosive, natural athleticism. Bolles is a beast at left tackle with the athletic qualities to go top-10. He sets the tone on offense. For example:

It’s also why his team mate (#54 Isaac Asiata) might appeal to the Seahawks. He plays with the exact same intensity.

What does this likely mean at #26?

Get a defensive back. It’s a DB-draft. There could be alternatives (Forrest Lamp for example) but this class is going to be defined by the cornerbacks and safety’s. They will go early and often. Every team is going to want a piece of this group.

There will be good options at linebacker and the O-line in rounds 2-3.

Notes on Obi Melifonwu

Melifonwu gets nitpicked more than a lot of other prospects probably because his physical profile is so exceptional. People expect to see a combination of Kam Chancellor and Earl Thomas. When they don’t, an overreaction occurs.

Here’s a small sample of what he’s capable of. Watch him cover the slot receiver, recover and then break on the ball:

There aren’t many players in the league with this level of short-area quickness and recovery speed, with the explosive traits to make a play on the ball. There are even fewer players that possess this level of agility and quickness covering the middle of the field with Melifonwu’s size. So while you might be able to find that quick-twitch, nimble orthodox slot corner to make a play like this, they’re often 5-10 and 190lbs. Melifonwu is 6-4 and 230lbs. Why is that important? He’ll never be a mismatch vs tight ends and bigger receivers working inside.

The video below belittles the suggestion he plays without instinct and isn’t a good fit as an orthodox safety:

You can see him read the quarterback and flash the range to make a play on the ball. It’s a late throw by the QB admittedly. That said, he feels confident enough to attempt this pass because the safety is covering the middle. This is a throw to the left corner of the end zone. Look how much ground Melifonwu makes up to intercept the ball. That’s range defined.

Notice how in the two videos above he undercuts the route. That’s instinct. It’s football savvy. It’s knowing what you need to do to put yourself in position to make a play. Melifonwu’s athleticism will often get him to the ball — here’s the evidence he can take advantage when he gets there.

Here’s another example:

He’s reading this play and covering ground from centre-field. He might not be smashing people into next Tuesday like Kam Chancellor. Yet his combination of size and athleticism will enable him to make rangy plays all over the field.

Adding to this, here’s an interesting article on his play courtesy of PFF. They’re asserting he ranked ninth in run-stop percentage and seventeenth in tackling efficiency among CFB safeties last season.

It’s not a big surprise. Melifonwu doesn’t always deliver the highlight-reel hits but he’s an incredibly assured tackler. Again, his athleticism will often get him to a ball-carrier. The important thing is the finish. And he’s a finisher.

For a defense designed around not giving up the big play, creating pressure gradually and being bigger and faster than the opponent, he’s a good fit.

PFF’s comparison for Melifonwu in their piece is Kam Chancellor. That’s a little rich given the difference in their playing styles — but in terms of sheer physical potential, they kind of have a point:

This comparison is low-hanging fruit, but the reality is there just isn’t another existing player in the NFL who can play up to Melifonwu’s ceiling based on his size and athleticism. Chancellor’s role is one that many teams try to emulate and Melifonwu is one of the few capable of living up to that type of hype.

He isn’t going to be Kam. Nobody is. But he has the potential to be really, really good with the right guidance. There is a chance he could be tried at cornerback but his best fit is likely big nickel and strong safety. Essentially he’d provide depth behind Chancellor and the potential to take Jeremy Lane’s 71% of defensive snaps working the slot.

Melifonwu is set to visit the VMAC according to reports and the Seahawks are clearly doing their homework. The key to this fit isn’t likely to be his physical potential and tape. It’s the mental side of things. How does he fit in the locker room? Can he handle being part of a defense littered with alpha-males? We’ll never know how the Seahawks assess him in that regard. It’s probably the only hurdle he has to clear to secure a spot in round one.

Possible round-by-round options

This is a very tentative and most definitely incomplete list. It’s just a guide for now if you want to look at possible options.

In terms of what the Seahawks might look for specifically at linebacker and the O-line, I’d recommend reading these two articles:

Trying to crack Seattle’s linebacker code

TEF results 2017: What did we learn?

I’ve also discarded some positions (eg running back) in the early rounds. It seems unlikely they’d spend a high pick on a RB after adding Eddie Lacy this week.

R1 — (DB) Kevin King, Obi Melifonwu, Budda Baker, Justin Evans, Tre’Davious White

(Expectation — Garett Bolles, Haason Reddick, Marlon Humphrey and Gareon Conley are unavailable)

R2 — (LB/SAM) T.J. Watt, Tyus Bowser, Jordan Willis, Zach Cunningham, (DB) Cordrea Tankersley, Ahkello Witherspoon, Josh Jones, Quincy Wilson (OL) Taylor Moton (WR) Zay Jones (TE) Evan Engram, Bucky Hodges

R3 — (LB) Vince Biegel, Duke Riley, Anthony Walker Jr, Elijah Lee, Alex Anzalone (OL) Isaac Asiata, Nico Siragusa, Adam Bisnowaty (TE) George Kittle, Jonnu Smith, Marcus Maye (DB) Shaq Griffin, Rasul Douglas, Shalom Luani, Jadar Johnson, Rayshawn Jenkins, Delano Hill (WR) Robert Davis, Jehu Chesson, Malachi Dupre, Josh Reynolds

R6 — (DT) Carlos Watkins (LB) Ben Gedeon, Jordan Evans (DB) Marquez White, Treston Decoud, Brendan Langley (WR) DeAngelo Yancey (K) Zane Gonzalez

R7 — (RB) Chris Carson (WR) Quincy Adeboyojo (DB) Brian Allen, Montae Nicholson (DT) Josh Tupou, Rod Henderson

If you missed it earlier in the week, don’t forget to check out the Sea Hawkers podcast appearance. The draft talk starts 30 minutes in:

213 Comments

  1. Volume12

    Great piece my man.

    • Sea Mode

      Was just gonna say the same.

      • southpaw360

        I agree. I can’t wait for the draft. I always have a little draft party at my house. My wife thinks I’m crazy but my friends don’t. We enjoy some nice Bourbon watching the draft. I always sound smart to my friends because I bring up stuff brought up here. Thanks again Rob!

        • Vista

          I tend to make lobster roles for friends for day 1 of the draft, just a little tradition.

        • D-OZ

          Southpaw? that’s more like a 180, right. Half way around the Rose.:)

    • Trevor

      +1

      • Greg Haugsven

        Every time this year I look at the damn calender and say: holy crap 6 weeks away is forever. But the night before the draft is awesome. It’s like Christmas Eve.

  2. X60

    Quick poll:
    Bolles, King, Davis, Obi, Mike Williams and Watt available at 26.
    Which do you pick or trade down to early 2nd?

    • Frans Geraedts

      Trade down.

      • Spirite Seahawk

        I think it depends on how much they want Obi. My personal opinion is that if we dont take him at 26 then the Falcons will at 31.

        • Kenny Sloth

          That’d be a little redundant with their selection of Neal imo

        • D-OZ

          Everyone right behind us would be salivating!!!! I am fearful of someone moving up ahead of us to take OBI if he is still there. As I stated this morning, I think he has the potential range of Kenny Easley. The year the Hawks drafted him I bought season ticket’s and he has always been my favorite since. Obi’s talent is in that range, with more longevity without the impact-full collisions.

          • Greg Haugsven

            Or the Cowboys. They fell in love with Byron Jones last year. I could see them trading up in front of us scared that we will take him

    • Redhawk87

      Trade down. That’s a lot of excellent talent remaining that the Seahawks would be happy drafting early. Trade back with Cleveland, do one of the two below options:
      1. Trade away picks 26 and 58, gain 33, 51, and 108. (Gets us much better positioning to move up in 2nd to grab before the initial drop-off.
      2. Trade away pick 26, gain 33, 108, and 139. (Two 4th round picks, gap between 3rd day picks down to 71 from 104, resulting in most picks of any team in rounds 1-4).
      Cleveland wants/needs more 1st round picks, and they could go up and grab a good QB at 26, and they can afford to lose a couple day 3 picks, so they are a very likely trade partner.

    • Poko

      I am surprised,if they miss Bolles.
      The market is crazy.

    • Sea Mode

      In that scenario, Bolles (but he won’t be there), so of the rest I take Davis straight up. No trade down for me.

      • Kenny Sloth

        Was just gonna say the same

    • Shadow

      The only way I want a trade down out of the first round is if we get pick #33 (among others, of course.) Otherwise some player I want is going to drop into Round 2, I’ll get my hopes up, and then some other #$*#($)$ team will trade up with Cleveland and steal him away. My heart can only be broken so many times….

    • Misfit74

      Corey Davis or Jarrad Davis?

    • D-OZ

      What? OBI!!!! COME ON MAN!!!

    • C-Dog

      Bolles, no question.

    • dingbatman

      Bolles

  3. Frans Geraedts

    Love this post, site, community.

    Looking at this mock draft and thinking about the draft i begin to get evermore convinced that the seahawks could and should trade down several times. The talent in cb, s, te is ridiculously good. There is starter potential all across the first three rounds. To my mind that means it is important to get as much picks as you can in those rounds. The SH have five; would it not be even better if we had seven?
    Would i like to have either king, meli, baker? Sure. But i would prefer to get more picks.
    I can live with having 2 out of the robs r2 list and then 5 out of his r3 list.
    For example: watt, witherspoon; siragusa, kittle, douglas, luani, biegel. Doubling up, both at lb and at cb.
    What makes it even more attractive to trade down is that i think that this mock draft is just a bit to seahawky: it is as if all the teams share the seahawks big board. I can easily imagine teams taking a handfull of players inside of the first round that rob did’nt. Which would mean that one out of king, meli, baker could be available in the second round. Maybe even two.
    That would then produce something like: baker, watt/bowser; douglas, griffin, kittle, siragusa/asiata, luani.
    What do you guys think?

    • AlaskaHawk

      Every year fans make an argument for trading down based on getting more selections. A few thoughts:

      The Seahawks don’t need more selections. They need quality players who will be starters. Those players are mostly found in the first three rounds. If you can trade down and get extra 2 and 3 round picks this might be of use. Mostly you will not get a pick that high.

      The Seahawks also tryout a large number of undrafted players. People like Rawls. They already have plenty of other players to pick from.

      Lastly – trading down guarantees you won’t get a choice of players who are picked before your new trade down position. Witness the latest discussion about how the Seahawks wanted Eddie Lacey and got Christian Michaels. Was it worth it???

      • nichansen01

        I actually disagree with this. The seahawks DO need more selections. We only have 7. We have a lot of depth we need to refill, we need two defensive tackles, at least another o lineman and 2 would probably, two or three safeties, a corner, at least two linebackers, another tight end.

        Not saying we will draft all these players, but we could use all the picks.

        • nichansen01

          probably be best*

        • Jujus

          Amen!! we need more selections. Anyone saying otherwise is accepting KPL, Marsh, and other PS level players being on a championship caliber team… WHICH IS MORONIC. The Entire PC Philosophy is about always competing and guess what there is no competition at LEO, Sam, BAckupLB, SAFETY SS+FS, and DT past Reed.

          • Sea Mode

            Hard for anyone to compete with the elite players we have at most of those positions you list, even first-rounders would find it tough. So do you really expect a rookie late-round pick we acquire by trading down to legitimately push Bobby, KJ, Earl, Kam for their jobs this year? Then why trade down just to get more of them?

            There is nothing moronic about developing players on the practice squad, IMO.

            • Jujus

              Im not talking about our starters, We dont even have a backup safety of any kind on the roster atm, Those backup LB’s are trash, marsh is trash, and 3 empty DT positions With no Leo is pathetic.

              I see depth in this draft that yes could easily beat out our “Depth” while adding to the level of competition.

              HELL MAYBE WE DONT BELIEVE IN ALWAYS COMPETE ANYMORE. JERMAINE KEAERSE IS STILL ON THE TEAM AND HE WAS 1/14 IN THE REDZONE. MCEVOY > KEARSE.

          • Tbone4444

            We don’t really do that here….calling people MORONIC….Do that shit somewhere else

        • D-OZ

          TAKE THE BEST PLAYER ON THE BOARD IN THE FIRST!!!!! Trade down in the 2nd if YOU REALLY FEEL THE NEED. Although I wouldn’t do that either. Trade back @90. Team’s are going to want to get into the second day to get the player they want. HELL trade 106!!!

      • Sea Mode

        I totally agree, Alaska.

        Our “round 8” is UDFA and we can get all the depth and competition we need there. So let’s target the Seahawky players early on and do what it takes to get them, trusting in UDFA for the rest.

        Now, I’m about to post a Seahawks mock that trades down, but it’s only because we trade up before that. 7 picks is fine with me.

        • AlaskaHawk

          If you really want a lot of players to select from – every year every team cuts 30+ players in preseason. That is 900 players to pick from. Of course the Seahawks would have to release even more players to get a player cut from another team. My point is that there are plenty of later round players to choose from.

          Seahawks need quality starters. The percent of players who make it to 5 years declines with every round. In round one it is over 50%, by rounds 5 or 6 it is down to 20% or 1 in 5. Instead of trying to get more picks it would be better to bundle the last few rounds and move up. Which is exactly what the Seahawks did to get Lockett.

          • southpaw360

            I agree with you Alaska. Stay put other than trading a comp 3rd to move up in the second. We need quality not quantity in my opinion. Seattle is the best with UDFA so I’m fine getting the quantity there. We all know there will be great players they find there too.

            • Frans Geraedts

              I agree with everybody that it is not just about more picks. SH capability to scout good candidates out of udfa takes care of that. The point that i am trying to make is that in this particular draft there is so much quality in specific categories that being able to draft seven in the first three rounds would make a big difference.

  4. cha

    I haven’t heard any noise about Jacksonville and their QB situation. With Bortles in the last year of his rookie deal and regressing pretty bad last year, you’d think there’d be a little more smoke around the position. Is anyone out there mocking them a QB at 4?

  5. CA

    It’s midsession form for draft talk and Rob is putting out straight fire emojis. Keep up the great work Rob. Land me 2 DBs, an OT and a pass rusher with these first 4 picks and let’s get to work

  6. Totem_Hawk

    Glad you included Rasul Douglas in the mix for round 3…he doesn’t get alot of media but he fits their scheme perfectly and would allow the Seahawks to focus on other positions in the first two rounds.

  7. Sean-O

    Rob,

    Do you think after the solid 40 time Mike Williams posted today he’s back in the 1st round discussion? Clearly not in the mix for SEA but it just means another good player(s) drops a bit.

    • Rob Staton

      I’ve seen it quoted faster, but some tweets said mid 4.5’s. Add a tenth on for fast track and it isn’t that great to be honest.

      • nichansen01

        4.56 is so meh.

        • Sea Mode

          OK, but

          Dez Bryant, 6020, 225, 4.52 40yd at his Pro Day.
          M. Williams, 6035, 218, 4.57 40yd at his Pro Day.

          Not every good receiver has to be John Ross. Sure, his time is not great, but there are other ways to win at the WR position.

          • Volume12

            That’s not a bad time for him. It won’t affect his stock that much if at all.

            • Misfit74

              Agreed. That’s plenty of speed to succeed at the NFL level, especially considering ‘where he wins’. He’s similar to Alshon Jeffery, Dez Bryant, Terrell Owens, Demaryius Thomas, and Brandon Marshall in how he has potential to dominate with ball skills, a big body, physicality, and strong hands. He has true #1 WR ability and that 40 time doesn’t change that. It’s a projection, of course, and he could be Laquan Treadwell, but I really like his game, especially with a QB will guts enough to throw to him even when covered. He doesn’t necessarily ‘win’ with separation like Corey Davis (who I like better), but he’s going to be a. Ery good player.

            • Sean-O

              You wouldn’t think it would effect it too much but this mock has one WR in the 1st. Others out there have three WR’s in the 1st.

              Take SF for example, if they draft the DE Thomas in the 1st then a WR (either Corey Davis or Mike Williams) they’re off to a hell of a start draft wise.

    • D-OZ

      Has he ever been out of the first?

  8. Poko

    I love this Mock and Obi!
    If it is possible,I’m very happy.
    R1:Obi R2:Witherspoon
    R1;King R2:Watt(or Bowther)

    • DJ 1/2 Way (Sea/PDX)

      The most Seahawky thing Obi did? He was not satisfied with his vertical jump. He jumped like 44″ and was pissed off. Same thing after the broad jump.

      • Kenny Sloth

        He knew he could do better than Byron Jones x0

        • Poko

          wow!

      • Volume12

        That was great. Loved the competitiveness it showed.

      • Sea Mode

        +1

        (although I must admit the little fist pump after the broad made me think he was satisfied with it. Couldn’t see his face though, so maybe I misinterpret it.)

        http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-combine/0ap3000000790851/Obi-Melifonwu-2017-Combine-Workout

        • Ben

          I mean, I’m not going to knock him for being satisfied with the second best broad jump in NFL combine history.

  9. Sea Mode

    @RapSheet

    The Falcons and DT Dontari Poe agree to a 1-year deal worth $8M, source said. He can make up to $10M with incentives.

    9:56 AM – 16 Mar 2017

    Wow, they really wanted him.

    • Hawk Eye

      only a 1 year deal, good deal for Atl
      He was expected to get a multi year deal for $10+/yr, but I guess the injury history hurt him

  10. nichansen01

    Obi isn’t going to be Kam. That is because he will be much better than Kam ever was.

    • D-OZ

      🙂 OCEAN OLYMPIC??? Nick?

  11. nichansen01

    Nervous about Obi and Dallas. I would take Obi at 26 all day and all night long.

    • Misfit74

      No doubt. Dallas lost Church and Wilcox. Byron Jones is there as a FS. Obi could cover OBJ!

    • Jujus

      From what i hear they need pass rushers incredibly bad, I get your worry with Byron jones being there but I think were fine.

    • rdgaydeski

      I tend to agree, I think if we want Obi we will have to take him at 26 because Dallas is too big of a risk to grab him. If nothing else Jerry Jones loves him some explosive athletes and Obi is about the most explosive there is in this draft.

  12. Volume12

    VMAC visit alert!

    Portland St CB Xavier Coleman- 5’11, 190 lbs.

    4.48 40, 4.13 SS, 6.86 3C

    • Volume12

      40″ vert, 17 reps on the BP, and a 10’5″ broad jump.

      This is a program PC loves. Could be looking at our rookie nickel right here fellas.

      • Sea Mode

        (Possibly) lose 1 Portland St. CB, add another? 🙂

      • Volume12

        As it stands now.

        VMAC visits:

        Obi Melifonwu, DB/S, UCONN
        Josh Tupuo, DT, Colorado
        DeAngelo Yancey, WR, Purdue
        David Jones, S, Richmond
        Xavier Coleman, CB, Portland St.

        Missing anyone?

        • Sea Mode

          That’s all I’ve seen, Vol. Keep posting the whole list every time someone is added. This is great!

          • Volume12

            Workouts:

            Shalom Luani, S, Wazzu
            Caleb Kidder, EDGE, Montana St.
            Alex Armah, FB/LB, W. Georgia
            Dylan Donahue, EDGE, W. Georgia
            ? Rod Henderson, DT, Alabama St.

            ?= meeting or some type of workout

            • John_s

              Good stuff!

              Thank you so much V12 for keeping track of all of the visitors and which pro days Seattle has gone to.

              • D-OZ

                RIGHT ON 12!!!

            • Misfit74

              We met with these via http://walterfootball.com/ProspectMeetings/ByTeam

              [Seattle Seahawks]

              Isaac Asiata, G/C, Utah (SR)
              Antony Auclair, TE, Laval (EW)
              Budda Baker, S, Washington (COM)
              Zach Banner, OT, USC (COM)
              David Jones^, FS, Richmond (PRI, PRO)
              Javancy Jones, OLB, Jacksonville State (EW)
              Shalom Luani, S, Washington State (COM)
              Obi Melifonwu^, S, Connecticut (COM, PRI)
              Carroll Phillips, DE/3-4OLB/OLB, Illinois (SR)
              Cordrea Tankersley, CB, Clemson (COM)
              Dalvin Tomlinson, DT/NT, Alabama (COM)
              Josh Tupou, DT, Colorado (PRI)

              Key
              SR – Senior Bowl meeting.
              EW – East-West Shrine meeting.
              COM – Combine meeting.
              INT – Interested.
              VINT – Very Interested.
              PRO – Pro Day or campus meeting/workout.
              LOC – Local visit. Prospect making a local visit.
              PRI – Private visit. Prospect making an official 30 visit.
              WOR – Private Workout. Members of an organization working out a player in private.
              STM – Some Type of Meeting.
              % – indicates more than one meeting at an event.
              ^ – has met with team at more than one event.
              # – indicates meeting set up outside of the 2017 Senior Bowl or the 2017 East-West Shrine Game

    • teejmo

      Portland St also happens to have an offensive lineman who completes TEF qualifications: Cam Keizur, with a 35.5″ vert, 9-3 broad, and 29 lifts on the bench.

      • CharlieTheUnicorn

        This is the guy to really follow. Right in the priority UDRFA wheelhouse.

    • bigsmooth27

      Any info on his arm length?

  13. Sea Mode

    Playtime and Pro-bowl incentives, that’s the way I like it!

    @AaronWilson_NFL

    Neiko Thorpe ((SEA) $3.5M, $600K signing bonus, salaries $800K, $1.6M; $15,625 per game active, $350K playtime-Pro Bowl incentive, escalator

    10:57 AM – 16 Mar 2017

    • Sea Mode

      @bcondotta

      Bob Condotta Retweeted Aaron Wilson

      Details on contract signed earlier this week by Neiko Thorpe. Two-year deal indicates some commitment to a guy who could be key in 2017.

      11:03 AM – 16 Mar 2017

      That, and locking down a great gunner.

  14. Volume12

    Clemson DT Carlos Watkins and TE Jordan Leggett getting some rave reviews at their pro day. Both are very appealing.

    • C-Dog

      Sweet! They’ve talked with Watkins.

  15. Shadow

    Great work, Rob! Hoping you’re wrong about King coming off the board before #26 though….

  16. Jeremy

    Rob,
    Thank you so much for all that you do on the site. Your analysis is so good and so well thought out. I hope you are finding some time with your new child.

    Thanks.

    • Rob Staton

      Thank you for reading and the kind words. Having some time off from the day job this week for family time.

  17. Sea Mode

    Found this article from last year on Justin Evans.
    https://www.todayspigskin.com/nfl-draft/justin-evans-is-part-of-a-new-breed-of-athlete-at-safety/

    Honestly wonder though if he won’t last until mid-late R2 with the good safties at the top. Like Peppers, needs a lot of coaching.

    Also very interested to see his Pro Day, as I’m not sure from the tape that his athleticism is as truly over-the-top as we think it might be. Will be good, just not ready to say great until then.

    FWIW, didn’t really shine in the interviews I watched like some of the other guys. Not bad or anything, just seemed kind of dull and boring compared to some of the others we have mentioned.

  18. DJ 1/2 Way (Sea/PDX)

    Elijah Qualls ? UDFA? Could he also play fullback? A 300 pounder leading the way for a 250 pounder?

    • Matt

      I’m slowly thinking that Qualls is going to fall big time in this draft. His arms are really short and his athletic profile, which was supposed to be great, ended up overwhelming. I’d love to grab him in the 6th or 7th, but UDFA would be cool too.

      • Rob Staton

        Qualls in fairness is one of the explosive testers from the combine. Round three IMO.

        • D-OZ

          🙂

  19. Volume12

    Did JLC say that Seattle might have interest in O-lineman Ryan Clady & Jermon Bushrod?

    • Sea Mode

      Yeah, Condotta kind a poked fun at it though. Not sure where JLC got it from.

      https://twitter.com/bcondotta/status/842414869831868416

    • Trevor

      Does not seem likely but he is one of the few national guys I actually listen to regarding the Hawks as he had be spot on in the past with some things.

      • Volume12

        Yeah and Bushrod resigned with Miami anyways.

  20. Sea Mode

    Seahawks Post-Combine Mock 3.0

    R1P26- DB Obi Melifonwu

    *Trade up with R3P90
    From SEA: R2P58, R3P90
    From BUF: R2P44 (they only have 6 picks and might look to add more)

    R2P44- TE Evan Engram
    R3P102- OG Isaac Asiata

    *Trade down last R3 comp for R4+R5 picks
    From SEA: R3P106
    From CIN: R4P138, R5P153 (they have 11 picks, 2 in each of Rds. 4-7)

    R4P138- LB Elijah Lee/Vince Biegel/Carroll Phillips
    R5P153- CB Marquez White/Jeremy Cutrer
    R6P210- DT Stevie T/Josh Tupou
    R7P226- RB Chris Carson/Devante Mays

    UDFA- SS Yamen Sanders, WR Keevan Lucas

  21. GeoffU

    Isaac Asiata looks like one nasty mo-fo

  22. Robertlas vegas

    I just heard bill belichick went to Vandy pro day in person maybe Zac Cunningham?he did not go Clemson but Vandy interesting.I think linebacker might be and jarred Davis is somebody I am keeping my eye on

    • Misfit74

      Cunningham was my #2 LB up until I learned of Hassan Reddick. I like him a lot. Tough to choose between him and J. Davis.

    • Kenny Sloth

      Maybe their Tackle in this draft? He’s real solid

    • Volume12

      I think Belichick is from there, lived there, or something like that.

      The Giants GM was there to personally check out Cunningham. They’ve desperately needed help at LB for quite a few years now.

  23. Rowlandice

    Another GREAT read Rob! It’s why I visit this site every day and also read all the commenters opinions as well.

    • Rob Staton

      Thank you

      • D-OZ

        Ditto Rob. Nice work…

  24. Awsi Dooger

    Applause to this blog and specifically to Rob. I’m in my later 50s and a life long Dolphins fan. Two of my best friends growing up in Miami were sons of Dolphin assistant coaches during their early ’70s glory years. Consequently I saw fascinating BLESTO scouting booklets on their dining room tables when visiting, and we talked personnel in the neighborhood all the time.

    IMO, tape has been a miserable failure. I’ve heard touted tape all my life. Guys on football sites everywhere and particularly on Dolphins forums still try to use terms like tape, schemes and system fit to mesmerize and intimidate. I know more than you do. Laughable. It’s a flawed process being passed down to the next generation of flawed processors. The connect percentage is ridiculously low given how open everything is. After all, from college to pro you’re evaluating players within the same sport, immediate transition, and it’s not like everything is concealed in a closet with the lights off. If other endeavors identified the cream of the crop as ineptly as tape study reveals the ideal football players there would be one back room solution session after another, and heads rolling.

    I didn’t learn anything new until recent years. That’s what I’m getting at. It was preposterous stagnation and the stubborn tape-alone types are to blame. The edge criteria, arm length, 3-cone and explosion variables have been so refreshing and interesting. Long overdue. The Seahawk bloggers lead the way. Make no mistake, other fan bases have taken note. Lots of admiration combined with jealousy. Nobody else recognizes the likely targets like you guys do. And I’m sure you’ll make further discoveries and advances.

    I spent 25 years betting sports in Las Vegas. It was similarly prehistoric and stale. From the day I arrived in 1984 I couldn’t believe that everybody was using the same method — handicapping every game as an individual entity and relying on nothing but subjective judgments. Matchups and injuries, blah blah blah. I saw second guessing and failure everywhere. They were starting from scratch every day with zero carryover benefit. Unbelievable. Instead of logical systems and formulas designed to calm the mind and steal a few percent here and there while bumping the baseline from 50% to 55% they were attempting to win 100% of the time and therefore struggling to reach 50%. I left town with a nice bankroll only because I found methods to do all the work years ahead of time and merely apply the angles while stealing that few percent more often than not.

    That’s not much different than having a leg up on the opposition, so to speak, by recognizing the value of 32 inch arms.

    • Rob Staton

      Thanks for the kind words and for visiting

    • Volume12

      Very cool. One of the more fascinating comments I’ve seen on here as it relates to different fans perspectives.

      • bankhawk

        Awsi-really interesting perspective you bring. Thank you for helping me do what I wouldve thought impossible-appreciating Seahawks Draft Blog EVEN more!

        Im hoping you wont be a stranger here in the the future. Welcome!

  25. Nick

    Great article, Rob.

    Why do you think Buddha is an option for us in the first round? I would love that to be the case, but his sub-31 inch arms don’t indicate that he fits their mold…at all.

    In many ways though (as you highlighted yesterday), I can almost see their infatuation with Obi as a giant smokescreen. Maybe they love Buddha and hope he’s there at 26. Maybe that’s why they didn’t go to UW pro day (they already have insider knowledge on the guy most likely).

    All of this is complete speculation, but I’d love to hear your thoughts on that. To me, Buddha is the best “football player” perhaps in this entire draft—only other player I can think of is Jarrad Davis. Having either of them suit up with our boys would be a sight to behold.

    • Nick

      I should say the smokescreen could also apply to wanting Justin Evans. He could be available if we traded back to early 2nd Round.

      • Coleslaw

        Add Adoree Jackson

    • Rob Staton

      I’m loathe to rule out Budda for Seattle purely due to his grit and attitude. I don’t think he’ll be there at #26 to be honest.

      • Nick

        Totally fair. He’s such a stud.

        • Shadow

          Baker’s body may not be Seattle’s ideal, but his mindset just screams, “SEAHAWKS!” Interesting choice if he’s still on the board at #26….

          • Nick

            Agreed. Honestly, I’d want Baker, but Obi would not be bad at all.

      • AlaskaHawk

        I think he will fall to the third due to size, but that is purely speculation. I do like his tackling abilities and speed.

        • Rob Staton

          He might fall to round two (early R2) but he won’t drop to the third. He’s too good.

    • McGruff

      The arm limit does not apply comprehensively to safeties. Earls arms are sub 32 for example.

      • Nick

        Good point. But they’d presumably put him in slot situations? So wouldn’t they want bigger arms there?

  26. Sea Mode

    Rob, what else do you have Cleveland sending to Ten for the #5 pick?

    • Rob Staton

      #33

      In this class, it’s essentially two firsts. #12 and #33.

  27. Matt

    Really great work Rob. You continue to impress with both the volume and quality.

    That being said, I still find myself struggling to get on board with Obi at #26. You are most certainly correct that his potential is incredible. My problem is that he just really continues to underwhelm every time I watch him. For every great play there are several head scratchers whether it’s poor angles, tackling, etc.

    What I will acknowledge (as previously mentioned) is incredible potential. And at #26, you are certainly correct that you are either getting an accomplished player with an average athletic profile or someone who didn’t necessarily perform, but possesses an amazing athletic profile.

    For me, I think I’d go with TJ Watt at 26 and look to trade up for an athletic specimen in R2. I think we have way too many misses over the last few years, and I’m very confident that Watt will be a good contributor at the very least. The caveat is that I don’t suggest Watt out of fear, but rather with the idea that the Seahawks FO cannot afford to keep whiffing in R1. And while I love Obi’s potential, I do really fear that he may just not have any football instincts. And this is a skill set that you really cannot teach.

    Keep up the great work and sorry to keep being contrarian. Hopefully you know this is coming from a reasoned place, not just emotional. Thanks Rob!

    • Matt

      *I awkwardly worded the 3rd paragraph. “I don’t suggest Watt out of fear, but really the combination of confidence that he will be a good player + the fact that the Seahawks FO has whiffed too much in recent drafts. I don’t want the FO to operate on a don’t lose basis, but I do think they need to be smarter about their approach. They remind me a lot of Billy Beane with their marriage to their philosophy that has backfired quite a bit in recent drafts.”

  28. sdcoug

    Random thought of the day:

    Revis at ~$7M to play CB2 alongside Sherman? Earl over the top to help erase any deficiency. Allows any rookie cb we draft time to a acclimate and hedges the chance of missing a specific draft target. Eliminates a “must have” in the draft as JS/PC are prone to do with FA signings. Doesn’t keep us from drafting a King or Obi for depth if one is our target. If Revis is near-done, or if rook CB is ready, we move on after the season.

    Yea or Nah? Go…

    • BobbyK

      I read somewhere that some team could offer Revis the minimum and if he wanted to play that the Jets would be on the hook for almost everything up to $6 million. So, and I could be wrong, but some team could sign him to a 1-year $8 million contract, yet only have to pay him $2 million? Doesn’t seem like it could be right. Or is it? Bueller? Bueller?

      • cha

        It’s the other way around. With offset language, Revis gets what he gets from his new team, and then the Jets cover the balance up to $6m. So if the Hawks signed him for $8m for one year, the Hawks would pay $8m and the Jets pay nothing. If the Hawks sign him for say $4m, the Hawks pay the $4m and the Jets have to cough up $2m to reach the $6m.

        • D-OZ

          You are not serious???????????????

          • cha

            I am. Revis can do nothing and collect $6m next year from the Jets.

    • BobbyK

      Can we imagine Sherman and Revis on the same team? Or us being the team (not the Saints) that acquired Malcolm Butler? Cringe.

      • D-OZ

        :>

  29. BobbyK

    Sherman, Lane, Elliott, Thorpe… They like Elliott. I actually thought Ty Smith was decent two years ago and then the UFA (Elliott) beat him out for a job in camp last year. Smith had been a fifth rounder the year before. Counting Elliott out is a mistake (he replaced Shead in the playoffs). They just gave Thorpe a nice contract for being a good/great gunner on ST and CB depth. With that contract, I don’t see him getting cut. The $4 million to Lane is guaranteed. I’ve been thinking they take 2 CBs potentially early, but I’m starting to second guess it a little. Maybe they won’t. Make no mistake, they will take one in the first two rounds though (unless one is a S like Obi who will contribute).

    If they are high on Obi and Watt (assuming King is gone), I’d be perfectly fine trading back with the hopes of using that ammo to move back for one and up for the other. Having Obi and Watt would really give this team 11 quality starters on the field at one time and you’re only as strong as your weakest link. Guys like Marsh, Morgan, and/or Lane aren’t exactly the strongest links in the world.

    One thought on Lane, if they draft Obi… what are the chances they play him outside and have Obi play CB in the nickel? This assumes they don’t try Obi on the outside or he doesn’t pan out there they way they hope. That’s just a scenario I was wondering.

    • All I see is 12s

      Thanks for mentioning that. I keep hearing that Thorpe would start for shed. But in the playoff game it was Elliott that replaced Shead. I think Thorpe did briefly replace lane in the slot though.

      • BobbyK

        People keep talking about needing a year in the system to be a great CB in Seattle’s system (Sherm was great as a rookie but he’s not exactly your average player) and now Elliott has that year of grooming under his belt. We shall see.

        Another weird idea I had was drafting Sidney Jones in the second and trading a three for Byron Maxwell if they have the cap space. They get a great starting CB for ’16 and a cheap stud for three years after that. Doubtful – but fun to think of scenarios.

      • Volume12

        He did start for Shead against TB.

        • All I see is 12s

          That’s a great point. I was just saying I thought it was curious that Thorpe is the anointed leader for that spot when I remember Elliott getting to play there first in the playoffs.it was more or less garbage time though.

    • D-OZ

      Obi can play anywhere….

      • BobbyK

        We need an offensive tackle. Bad.

  30. RWIII

    Great stuff Rob. It’s appreciated

  31. KD

    This might seem like a very trivial thing, and we won’t know until draft day, but it will be very curious to see if Pete Carroll tweets out draft clues like he has done in the past. It might be a fun distraction during draft day, but it intrigues me because if he does that, then he and JS are almost 100% certain that their guy will be available which could lead to some serious last minute guesses.

  32. DC

    With the DT market seemingly cold, any chance we could snag Johnathan Hankins on a bargain 1 yr deal for $5M-ish. After he wins a Super Bowl with Seattle he can hit the 2018 FA market and cash in. Rotate Hankins, Reed & Rubin in the middle & I don’t see anyone running for jack squat against us.

    • Greg Haugsven

      I’d rather have Odrick. Seems like you could get a little more pass rush

    • Rob Staton

      Hankins is apparently asking for $10m. His market has been ice-cold.

    • C-Dog

      I would say, based on the way they appear to be looking at a lot of big bodied DTs in this draft, they probably won’t be spending anything significant on a FA run stuffer, that they are looking to fill that cheaply.

  33. Peanut

    Remember when we talked about Obi being a 3rd round guy? good times.

  34. Kyle

    Umm apparently the hawks are open to trading Sherman this year?!!!

    • Greg Haugsven

      Reported by who?

    • vrtkolman

      If the offer is right (a high first round pick), you have to consider it.

    • Matt

      Not popular, but I’m 100% on board with dealing him for the right price. This team needs a shakeup. Too many members, including Sherman put themselves above the team. You don’t see this in NE. Can’t be afraid to move on.

      • vrtkolman

        I agree with you. Trade him before he falls off (not saying he will this year, but he will be turning 29 next season). Also, we have a competitive advantage at developing cornerbacks. I can’t recall one corner we had in our system that wasn’t good for at least a little bit of time. Simon was the worst of the bunch, and he was great for half a season. I would be confident in Pete coaching up some new guys.

      • Joshua Smith

        Sherman is nowhere near as bad as Michael Eye-Gouger Bennett. He has got to be one of the most unlikeable guys in the NFL. He has always said dumb stuff, but his true colors have really shown recently with the press conference blow up and everything.

        • Joshua Smith

          That being said, Sherman is more valuable than a single first round pick. I hate his antics, especially when he goes after Bevell’s 100% reasonable play calling, but a 28 year old top 3 CB who never comes off the field or misses a game is worth at least two firsts and a third. Take away the third for him being an idiot, fine, but he’s still worth at least two firsts.

        • Del tre

          I would trade Bennett for a first if it gave us a chance to secure Kevin King and TJ Watt. If we draftes Witherspoon in the second we’d have security in the secondary when Sherman isn’t performing well anymore

          • Hughz

            Bennett is a stud. No way we get rid of him. Sherman on the other hand I could see trading if we could get a 1st rounder and that isn’t likely going to happen.

      • BobbyK

        I can see it happening because of a specific Sherman interview late in the season. He said something like, Carroll always calls a team meeting mid or late in the year and always essentially says the same thing to the team. Translation was that doesn’t mean anything to Sherman anymore and he’s above a rah-rah meeting. That’s where I first thought I could see them potentially dealing him. Then again, they have shown they will put up with a lot (Lynch, Marshawn) if a player is important enough. And Sherman is extremely important on the field. No doubt.

        • C-Dog

          Yeah, the open slight on Carroll was pretty unsettling, IMO, especially coming from a player as calculated as Sherman. This trade speculation doesn’t surprise me at all.

    • D-OZ

      I don’t doubt it, not one bit. It’s prime time. I would do it…

    • Aaron

      Personally, I don’t take too much credence from what Michael Lombardi says. Seems like he dabbles too much in hot takes and clickbait stories. If Sherm was on the Pats then I’d say this is par for the course. This sounds like the same type of deal that Kam was in at this point last year. Kam was coming off a below average season, the negative effects of the holdout still lingered, and trade rumors began to swirl. Sherm had a slightly below average season, public dust ups with coaches and news reporters, and now trade rumors. If they decide to send a message by trading him then so be it. I see zero logic in trading away a core player while he’s still in his prime, albeit late prime, and still in their SB window with this core.

      • Hawk Eye

        a few things don’t make sense about the rumor
        #1. He says the Seahawks have a salary cap mess? How? Has he compared it to other teams? Who do the Hawks need to cut to pay whom?
        #2. Trade Sherm when you do not even have a #2 Cb at the moment? Hardly helps them win.
        #3. How does this help them win in 2017?

        the rumor does not fit with how JS and PC have operated, and I doubt NO has cap space to fit Sherm in. They can get Butler in with a contract that has a low first year cap hit, and pay down the road.

        • C-Dog

          2 and 3 are pretty strong points as to why this sort of trade won’t happen. I would never say never, but for a trade like this to happen, Seattle would have to acquire a pretty special player in return what would help the team overcome the loss of Sherman, and probably some high value picks.

          Another question to ask is, in a draft that is this ridiculously deep at cornerback, why would you trade for an expensive 28 year old Richard Sherman?

          That’s kind of why I don’t see this happening.

          • Greg Haugsven

            If we were a not so good team I would say OK but we are trying to win a super bowl. If we deal Sherman that would significantly reduce our chances. We have no depth and a trade would even make it worse. Yeah you can get some great a great player but he wouldn’t be at Shermans level for 2-3 years

  35. Greg Haugsven

    Eddie Lacy weight clause update. He will get tested 7 times and can make $55k each time he makes weight

    • Greg Haugsven

      255 lbs in May, 250 in June, 245 September-January

      • CharlieTheUnicorn

        He was pushing 265 (or more) 2 years ago, but still carried the freight for the Packers. He is never going to be a small man…. I like that JS/PC are reasonable in trying to keep him in the low 240s.

  36. Rob Staton

    Spent the last hour looking at Watt and Bowser’s physical profiles, comparing them to some other players already in the league. Unreal info. Piece on it tomorrow or over the weekend.

    • BobbyK

      Awesome. Love Watt (and King/Obi). 🙂

      • BobbyK

        I think Watt is a safer pick than even Thomas, who may go #2 overall.

    • Austin Hall

      I’ve been hoping for Watt to be the pick most recently. The pass rush potential matched with the athletic profile and when we also assume that he is going to have a JJ Watt type of dedication to his craft. He’ll fit right in with the Seahawks core player’s. Pass rushers are always drafted at a premium and with the type of history PC has developing DB’s, I would bet they draft a guy like Watt over the other potential guy’s available at 26. Also, with the Clay Matthews comparison, we know Pete loves Clay Matthews.

    • peter

      Let’s shoot for tomorrow for that piece!

  37. Mike

    Last three years of drafts (top 3 rounds)..

    Ifedi, Reed, Prosise, Vannett
    (Graham), Clark, Lockette
    Richardson, Britt

    Is the “formula” working??

    If I were to hand out a grade..I would say B-/C+

  38. Hawks22Fun

    Supposedly the Seahawks are ‘open’ to trading Richard Sherman.

    Can we get a 1 for him?

    • Hawks22Fun

      Rob, I know it is Crazy, but with such a deep DB class and Sherm being a blow up on the sidelines this last year…

      Maybe he ‘needs’ to go??

      R1 Kevin King, Trade Sherm for R1 Obi…

      Take another CB like Witherspoon in R2-3…Set, and young…Cheap!

      Spend that money on O line!

    • Rawls1234

      I would package Sherman and a 1st for Terron Armstead and a 2nd.

    • Mike

      Heck ya..send Sherman out of here

    • D-OZ

      Of course we can. And then some……..

      • Braden

        We could do that. It just doesn’t make much sense to as a team who has a legitimate shot at winning a Super Bowl you don’t trade arguably the best corner in the league for a rookie. While king could be very good he won’t get to Sherman’s level over night. In my opinion this would reduce our chances of winning a Super Bowl by quite a bit. Imagine Tom Brady with Gronk, Edelman, and cooks against Jeremy lane and 2 rookie corners. Wouldn’t end very pretty.

    • CharlieTheUnicorn

      The speculation involves New Orleans and the #11 pick. It would be the #11 pick and another pick, prob in 2018….. essentially, I think fans of NO are pissed they might break the bank for Malcom Butler and give him a similar to Sherman sized deal + trade away the lower 1st round pick to NE (+ some)..

      • Ed

        So Sherman to NO for #11 and a 2018 2nd rounder.

        #11 Reddick
        #26 Obi

        That would be a WOW draft. Then get CB in the 2nd and 3rd. I would almost think about trading next years 1st as well if King was still around and go:

        Reddick/Obi/King with first 3 picks. What shot of youth and talent right there

        • peter

          Doubtful anything like this happens….but….if they were to get 11 then it would have to be for Bolles. LOVE, Reddick, but Seattle truly needs a tackle.

  39. C-Dog

    The Seahawks are bringing DT Ricky Jean Francois for a visit. He was a good player for Washington the last couple years.

    Also bringing in LB Arthur Brown.

    • nichansen01

      DT Ricky Jean-Francois to me on the #Seahawks: “It would be great to get a chance to get out of a 3-4 and play in a 4-3, because I would get to use more of my skill-set and not be limited. In the 3-4, I feel like you can only do so much; but in a 4-3, I feel like you can get uphill more and disrupt the back field.” -Josina Anderson

      We could sign him for 2-3M per year. I would really like this signing. Speculation is he was released from redskins for publicly criticizing the FO’s free agency decisions, primarily the decisions to release wideouts Garcon, Jackson and defensive end Chris Baker.

      • C-Dog

        They looked at him a couple years ago. There could be a lot of mutual interest there.

        • nichansen01

          I think this MIGHT our FA D-Line vet.

          Then I think seattle will add another late round DT and maybe a few UDFAs.

          • C-Dog

            Yeah, maybe. I think what it’s probably showing is that after Joeckel and Lacy, they are now looking at second wave defensive players to consider before the draft. We might see more of these guys being brought in now.

  40. nichansen01

    I’d trade Sherman and a third for a first and a good player.

    • nichansen01

      I know he is a valuable leader, but replacing a guy like Sherman with King, you get a guy who truly will represent the team well at all times, and offer an upgrade in terms of athleticism and speed. King can be every bit the corner Sherman was.

      • Hawk Eye

        maybe, some day, and maybe not, more likely, probably not. Will he be a multiple time All Pro?
        Sherm is as good as Sherm right now

        the grass is not always greener……

        • peter

          I don’t now New England’s done pretty well cutting and trading players at just the right time instead of scrambling to find their replacement after they no longer cut it.

  41. Cysco

    Enough with the trading Sherman talk. They’re not trading him. It was a silly speculation. The team is not actively shopping him.

    • Braden

      Agreed not quite sure why anyone would want to trade a top 3 corner depending on the day. Our secondary would have some massive problems.

      • Old but Slow

        True. And I would add Bennett to that thinking. He is a difference maker.

    • dingbatman

      +1

    • Ed

      I would be open to anything for anyone. Like most things in life, money can make just about anything happen. In the NFL, that is draft picks. If Cleveland offered 1 and 12 for Sherman, you would be dumb to pass that up. So, while I wouldn’t be seeking to trade Sherman per say, I would always take a phone call to see what is being offered.

      • Braden

        To a certain degree yes anyone is available. With 1 and 12 you could add Garrett plus another top prospect. But we have to be realistic about what we could get for him. We would never get a top 5 pick for a 28 year old sherm let alone the 1st and 12th pick. A team that is gonna trade for him would be a team that’s a piece or two away from being a contender so essentially we would get weaker while giving someone else a boost the only way you trade him while being a team in super bowl contention is if it’s a clear upgrade to your roster and honestly there aren’t many realistic trades that would make that happen.

        • peter

          I think both points are valid. That there is almost always a line you would be willing to trade for and conversely any trade involving Sherman would seem to be some teams high 2nd and say a 4th. Or a first but you give them back a third this year and a 2nd next.

          Worth it? Doubtful. Possible? Sure

      • Ground_Hawk

        Sending Sherman to Cleveland would be a strong statement from the front office IMO. If Sherman was to be traded, I think that it would be to a team like the LA Chargers. At the least, the Chargers would give Seattle pick 10 and 38, or some player and draft-pick combination, for Sherman. Joey Bosa and pick 38, for Sherman! There would have to be some way to inject immediate talent somewhere back into the defense, because with the significant loss of talent from Sherman in the secondary, there will be a clear weakness in Seattle’s backfield. I don’t have much interest in the idea of trading Sherman, he is too important to the defense.

  42. Braden

    Agreed not quite sure why people want to trade our best players. While Pete Carroll is a great coach he isn’t at belichick’s level where he can just plug players in and scheme around weaknesses. Carroll needs these players to make his defense work. we saw what happened to our defense when earl got hurt and while he is more important then sherm it’s pretty close.

    • Misfit74

      You could say that (arguably) the top corner in the game is *kind of important *.

      Apparently Lombardi needed a meritless headline.

  43. Pran

    Luke joeckel vs dan Poe at 8m… Poe would have been a difference maker.

    • nichansen01

      Agreed…

    • Ed

      Agree to a point. Poe would be at best a rotational piece for 30 snaps a game. Joeckel at best will be an every down upgrade on the offensive line for 60 snaps a game. Yes, Hawks need an inside push, but if Joeckel can help opening holes for Lacy and providing time for Wilson, would help a lot more.

    • Michael

      That Falcons D could be a force this year.

    • Ishmael

      Or his back would have blown out again and you’re left paying 8 mil for a giant potato

      • Misfit74

        +1 “giant potato”

  44. nichansen01

    Quick mock:

    26: R1P26
    S OBI MELIFONWU
    CONNECTICUT
    58: R2P26
    CB CORDREA TANKERSLEY
    CLEMSON
    90: R3P26
    EDGE VINCE BIEGEL
    WISCONSIN
    102: R3P38
    DL DALVIN TOMLINSON
    ALABAMA
    106: R3P42
    G ISAAC ASIATA
    UTAH
    210: R6P26
    LB JORDAN EVANS
    OKLAHOMA
    226: R7P8
    S SHALOM LUANI
    WASHINGTON STATE

    Obi in the first just as I have been advocating.
    Lucky to get Evans and Luani in the 6th and 7th. Tomlinson would be really good value late third. Tankersley seems like a pretty solid consolation prize to King if he’s there, really good value late second.
    Evans and Biegel bring much needed competition to the linebacker core.
    Ricky Jean Francois (who I hope we sign) and Tomlinson could come in as really really good depth to Rubin and Reed. Francois-Tomlinson-Reed-Rubin-Jeffreson very solid interior rotation.
    Really like Isaac Asiata late third. Really passionate player, would be a really cool seahawk.

    • Ed

      Looks good to me. I would maybe think about a TE or WR in the 3rd. Graham/Kearse/Richardson could all be gone next year and who knows if Lockett will be as explosive.

  45. Michael

    Ideal:

    1. King/Melifonwu
    2. Watt
    3. Asiata
    3. Biegel
    3. Chesson

  46. hb

    With all the talk of TEF for o lineman and how athletes play defense, it feels like the skilled positions are different. In skill positions there are athletes both ways. A recent trend has been te’s converted to OL (Gilliam, Fant). Late rounds or most likely udfa there will be some picked up. Any 6′ 3 to 6′ 7 tight ends who weigh 275+ and have the frame to bulk up? I’m not the best at finding but someone like dissly on UW. Not as good as figuring out the 1st round but seems like a good pool of targets for late round or udfa.

  47. Coleslaw

    Maybe they wanna move Sherman because they know they won’t be able to sign him when he’s a FA so instead of getting a 3rd round comp pick they can get an early first and second or players. This would be the year to need corners, too maybe they’re comfortable with a lot of these guys as players and would work around the scheme a little for the abundance of Picks to boost up the rest of the roster. Remember when we had the deepest roster in football, we won the SB. This would be a smart move IMO IF they dont plan on resigning him.

    R.1 Pick 12. John Ross
    R.1 Pick 26. Kevin King
    R2 Pick 33. TJ Watt
    R2 Pick 58. Akhello Witherspoon
    R3. Pick 90. Josh Jones
    R3 Pick 102. Isaac Asiata
    R3 Pick 106. Sidney Jones
    R6. Shalom Luani
    R7. Zane Gonzalez kicker
    Basically you’re trading Sherman for John Ross and TJ Watt, added to your already stacked draft that we’ve been toying with I think id do it. All for one more of Sherman? That’s a Belicheck move

    • RWIII

      Coleslaw. Why would Cleveland trade a 1st and 2nd round pick for a 29 year cornerback. Especially when they are trying to build a long-term Franchise?

  48. Sea Mode

    Alabama LB Reuben Foster has scheduled a pre-draft visit with the Saints. (Herbie Teope)

    • Misfit74

      Perfect fit. But does he last until Saints’ pick? I’ve also seen Reddick mocked to them…. 🙁

  49. Sea Mode

    @MikeGarafolo

    FSU RB Dalvin Cook is in Philly for a pre-draft visit with the Eagles, source says. Possible addition after WR upgrades in free agency.

    7:27 PM – 16 Mar 2017

    Would make sense. I also think Kamara to the Packers would make a lot of sense too.

    • Misfit74

      Brian Westbrook 2.0

  50. Peanut

    According to Rapoport, Oakland is considering to bring a retired veteran running back, and it’s Lynch. Would have to trade with Seattle.

    • Cysco

      I’d actually like to see that. Wonder if we could get a 4th back?

  51. Scouse Nathan

    Long time reader, rarely post a comment, there seem to be quite a few Nathan’s so called myself ‘Scouse Nathan’ haha! Just wanted to thank you for this awesome blog Rob and for all the work you put in! Developed a great community here!

    I like to see we’ve had Luani in for a visit to the VMAC, was wondering if anyone has an idea on how much VMAC visits are an indicator of which players we end up actually drafting?

    • Rob Staton

      It’s a very strong indicator Nathan — lots of the VMAC visitors have landed in Seattle. Or the players they work out during pro-days.

      Thanks for reading too and the kind words!

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