— So far the Seahawks haven’t made any significant moves to improve their running game. The first two rounds of the draft are loaded with talent at guard and running back. All signs point to the Seahawks focusing first and foremost on those two areas.
— I still think the names to keep an eye on are Isaiah Wynn (G, Georgia), Will Hernandez (G, UTEP), Austin Corbett (G, Nevada), Ronald Jones II (RB, USC), Nick Chubb (RB, Georgia) and Kerryon Johnson (RB, Auburn). Getting two of this group of six would be a huge win.
— Why those three running backs in particular? Details here.
— They also need to pad out their defensive line. There will be options from the middle rounds onwards. NC State held its pro-day today and they have four beasts entering the draft this year. Bradley Chubb will go in the top-six. B.J. Hill, Justin Jones and Kentavius Street are also worth monitoring. All three have +33 inch arms (Seattle has never drafted a D-liner with sub-33 inch arms) and just look built for the pro’s. Of the three, Hill could be the earliest to go. He’s highly athletic for his 311lbs frame (4.99 forty, 4.53 short shuttle) and plays with great intensity. You could imagine him rotating with Jarran Reed and Naz Jones and plays with the kind of attitude they’ll be looking for. Both Hill and Jones stood out at the Senior Bowl. Street is a three technique with explosive power and quickness. He ran a 1.67 10-yard split at 280lbs — a good time for his size.
— Ohio State also has three appealing options. Sam Hubbard might go too early but he proved to be a lot more athletic than expected at the combine. His 6.84 short shuttle was the fastest among defensive linemen and is the sixth fastest in the last 10 years. He was also an explosive tester (estimated TEF score of 3.26) and has great size (6-5, 270lbs). Hubbard will likely go in round two at the latest. Jalyn Holmes is another name to keep an eye on. He’s 6-5 and 283lbs with long arms (34 inches). Like Kentavius Street he also ran a 1.67 10-yard split and could be a useful inside/out type rusher. Tyquan Lewis was ill at the combine but did the vertical (35.5 inches) and broad (10-2). He also has long arms (34 inches) and good size (6-3, 270lbs).
— Keep an eye on Virginia’s Andrew Brown. Very few players can match him for aggression and intensity. He’s a former five-star recruit and had a terrific Senior Bowl. He has everything you want physically — size (6-3, 296lbs), long arms (34.5 inches), speed (5.03 forty) and great agility (4.48 short shuttle). It won’t be a surprise at all if he sneaks into round two. If the Seahawks manage to acquire multiple day two picks, Brown could be a target. Along with the guys from NC State and Ohio State, there are clearly options here to create a solid D-line rotation.
— The EDGE options are limited and it’s even worse at the SAM/LEO. It’s not a surprise at all that Seattle prioritised signing Barkevious Mingo in free agency. There are only three logical LEO types — Harold Landry, Lorenzo Carter and Kemoko Turay. Landry and Carter both ran 1.5 10-yard splits but might go a bit too early for Seattle’s taste. Turay ran a 1.62 split but could be an option in the middle rounds. He has a lot of potential as a speed rusher off the edge.
— The other name to keep an eye on is Josh Sweat. He’s more of a pure EDGE than a SAM/LEO but there aren’t many human beings with his combination of size, length and incredible athleticism. He had injury issues at Florida State but he’s a good character with great potential. He’s nearly 6-5 and 251lbs with 34.5 inch arms. He still managed to run a 4.53 with a 1.55 10-yard split and his explosive and agility testing was also excellent. He’ll go in round two at the absolute latest.
— For anyone thinking Seattle should prioritise D-line early because of the loss of Sheldon Richardson, Michael Bennett and potentially Cliff Avril — it’s not an unfair position to take. But please look at the options available. The likes of Vita Vea will be long gone by #18. Marcus Davenport will not last to #18. It is possible to address the running game early and still get some very intriguing defensive prospects later on. That is how this draft is set up. It’ll be much harder to go defense early and then fill your offensive holes. Much, much harder.
— For more on the defensive line class read our positional review from the combine.
— Will the Seahawks sign Ndamukong Suh? It looks highly unlikely. After some early excitement about the possibility, it’s becoming increasingly clear what Seattle’s plan is. Young, hungry, poor, competitive. It’d be a curious move to cut back as much as they have and then suddenly spend big money on Suh. Plus, as we’ve noted above, there are some good D-line options available in the middle or later rounds this year.
— It’ll be a good year to add some depth at linebacker. The Seahawks need some speed on defense. Wisconsin’s Leon Jacobs ran a 4.48 at 6-1 and 246lbs. He plays with his hair on fire. It’ll be a surprise if he’s not on Seattle’s radar along with Wisconsin team mates Natrell Jameson and Nick Nelson. The Badgers are a production line for defensive talent at the moment.
— We discussed the Earl Thomas situation (or stalemate) yesterday. You have to wonder if the Seahawks will eventually lower their demands and be willing to take a lesser pick, such as a second rounder. They’ve been checking out the safety class (Justin Reid, Natrell Jamerson, Jessie Bates III) and need picks in the valuable round 2-3 range.
— Why will teams trade up to #18? I don’t think it’ll be for a quarterback. The ‘big four’ are increasingly likely to go in the top-10. Lamar Jackson could move up as a consequence and possibly go in the top-15. It will mean other players drop. With limited offensive tackle options, someone might be willing to move up and take UCLA’s Kolton Miller. Roquan Smith probably isn’t going to go as early as many expect and could be a target for the Dallas Cowboys. If Calvin Ridley remains on the board, he too could be a target for Dallas at #19. Teams might be willing to move up quite aggressively to take possibly the only receiver that’ll go in round one.
— Tony Pauline says Temple receiver Keith Kirkwood will visit with the Seahawks. At his pro-day today he ran in the 4.4’s at 6-3 and 221lbs. The Seahawks have regularly targeted receivers running in the 4.4 range. He also jumped a 35 inch vertical and a 10-5 broad.
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Rob, great overview. I agree with the players you highlighted for RB and OL in rounds 1 and 2. Seems increasingly likely they are going that way.
One thing I’d like to point out tho—Sony Michel is also well and truly within their wheelhouse. He didn’t hit their numbers because he didn’t do the broad or the vertical jump, but his 40 time, weight, height, and bench reps show he could very well be in Seattle’s go zone. He plays hard. He has one of the best jukes of this class, and he’s a tougher runner than he gets credit for. Plus, Schottenheimer coached him in the past.
When the Georgia pro day occurs, I’ll be watching closely to see if Michel does those events. He’s a really high upside runner, who has the potential to play three downs in the NFL. His value could fit nicely with Seattle in the early part of Round 2.
Michel might be an option but when he tested at the SPARQ combine he wasn’t a particularly explosive tester. Not doing those drills at the combine was a bit of a red flag IMO. Why didn’t he do the jumps?
We know the Seahawks value explosive athleticism in a running back. So if he isn’t particularly explosive, it raises a question as to whether he really is in their wheelhouse.
It was also quite telling that Chubb ran a faster forty despite weighing 13lbs more.
I like Michel but for me he is what he is. A nice compliment. And I think the Seahawks need a feature.
Well said. He also had one of the worst fumble rates in college from the numbers that I’ve read. I think if you’re going to take a guy like that, he needs to tick all of the other boxes.
Absolutely true. He’s listed in the “red flag” category. https://www.upi.com/2018-NFL-Draft-Fumble-rates-for-all-running-back-prospects/7311518380025/
If we’re using fumble rates as a tool to measure draft potential however, then Chubb would drop, because he is listed as “below average”. According to the link you shared, Kerryon Johnson and RoJo2 would be better fits; both are rated as “elite” in regards to their fumble rates.
Chubb also scored a 98.6 and a score of 99 would’ve put him in the ‘average’ category so not going to panic too much on that one.
FWIW, “The average fumble rate for the top 10 rushers in the NFL last season was one for every 124.5 offensive touches.” If we put Chubb’s 98.6 into in-game perspective, and if we can call the average amount of an average RB’s touches per/game at 25, then we are talking about a fumble, or a possible TO, occurring ever 4 games, as opposed to every 5 games that occurs on average. It may not be a deal breaker, but it is something that scouts will investigate.
https://www.upi.com/2018-NFL-Draft-Fumble-rates-for-all-running-back-prospects/7311518380025/
There is also precedence for teams looking past fumble rates: Leonard Fournette scored an 82.1, and we all witnessed his impact at the next level. https://cowboyszone.com/threads/fumble-rates-for-the-2017-rb-class.371995/ & https://scout.com/nfl/vikings/Board/102855/Contents/RB-prospects-fumble-rate-72282797
Agreed — it’s a good point on the fumble rate.
Agree to disagree. I think he absolutely can be a three-down back in the league, but I agree that Chubb is the better runner.
If I may, too, I’d press you on the red flag—1) we don’t know why he didn’t jump and 2) It’s only a concern if he doesn’t do the jumps at his pro day. I agree if he goes thru the entire draft process without doing so, that’s a big red flag.
It’s not so much that he can’t be a three-down back. I just think his best role will be as the lightning to a thunder. There will be occasional games where he could carry the load. Is he ever going to be ‘the guy’ in a running game though? Not for me — and he never was at Georgia either, even when they had injuries.
To me not jumping was a flag. He did everything else. I think he knows he’s not as explosive as the others and he knows how important that is. So better to leave a mystery than to confirm what we kind of already know. There are other issues with Michel like his fumble rate that are also concerning. I think he’s a solid round two pick. Just not a solid R2 for this team.
These are fair points. Thanks for the discussion.
Any time 🙂
That’s why this is such a great blog.
Rob, Brock & Salk were speculating today that maybe, JUST maybe, Seattle’s perceived lack of interest in re-signing Sheldon Richardson could mean that they are counting on getting Malik McDowell back? Obviously that is pure speculation at this point, but an interesting thought. They did not seem to put much effort into trying to retain Richardson, with their offer reportedly $6.5mil APY. Just curious if you have any thoughts on this. I think at this point everyone is just assuming MM will never play, but there are just so many unknowns. You have to wonder if the team still has him in their future plans. They really have been incredibly hush hush on the matter.
I wouldn’t hold your breath.
As hopeful and optimistic as I usually am, SEA will go forward assuming McDowell will never play a down. If he is able to come back, that’s a bonus. Like you said, there are too many unknowns and going about it any other way would be irresponsible on their part.
Part of the reason they have been so quiet is likely due to healthcare privacy laws in the US and also the fact that they may wind up in arbitration some day to recoup money if McDowell never plays in the NFL.
Do the Seahawks have an insurance policy on players?
I just don’t know if he has the maturity to not be a big mistake. Besides injury his character is a liability. His draft descriptions were ‘Lazy’ but if you add belligerent behavior and serious injury, you have a huge liability. He has measurables but I think it’s funny that Gilbert of Fieldgulls states that we shouldn’t of grabbed ASJ because he’s an addict and they usually relapse but we should hold hope for a DE/DT that hasn’t shown anything but immaturity.
I want Malik to do well but the outlook is not looking great.
Frank Clark made a lot of mistakes! If I were a GM, I would want to see him stay away from controversy through December.
At one point, character has to matter.
My position on McDowell is I’ll believe it when I see it. When he’s out on the practise field running around in pads I’ll believe he’s ready to play again. In all honesty, I wouldn’t be surprised if the Seahawks have virtually written off his chances of playing again and if he can, it’ll be seen as a bonus.
I think the decision not to sign Richardson is more a review of the aim this off-season — to become younger, hungrier, poorer, cheaper and more competitive. Signing Richardson would’ve filled a hole but wouldn’t necessarily have been best for the culture they’re now trying to create. And I think that’s the key. Culture. Being ‘all-in’ again. Young, hungry guys pissed off to be great.
The lack of interest in re-signing Sheldon could just as easily, or even more likely signal that they are anticipating that Naz Jones will take a big leap forward in his play in 2018
I think it’s pretty clear that this is a culture thing. Creating a competitive environment. I don’t think Sheldon not re-signing had anything to do with Naz, Jarran Reed or anything else. It was all about passing on paying for a middle class and creating a roster full of people fighting and scrapping for spots.
Yeah, that’s spot on. I guess the point I was trying to make and probably failed to is that it feels unlikely they are going to rely on McDowell. If he does come back and salvage a football career, it’s a bonus.
Rob, or anyone else; how much of M. McDowell’s contact is guaranteed? I’m not expecting him back. I am hoping for other players like Naz to take a big leap.
As for all the minor moves on defense, I definitely see competition being recreated. Could it be that many of the players that chose to depart were part of the group that believed Petes’ message was becoming stale? Regardless, I’m looking for a new group to come in, with emotion, speed and desire.
I think that there’s some speculation out there that the team can recoup a fair about of $ back after arbitration if it comes to it, since the injury was non football related, but I think that would be another year or so away from now.
It’s literally a situation that is anyone’s guess. The team has to stay silent, and the McDowell side is not going to offer anything. OTAs in another month will say a lot.
And it could mean they didn’t wanna pay him that much money. And it could mean there were other red flags that have not been disclosed yet that made him not the right fit for the team any longer. And it could mean McDowell has been healthy for a long time and just hiding it. I love pure speculation.
No way the team would be banking on an unproven rookie who has yet to play a single down in the NFL. What if he’s healthy enough to play, but not even good enough to make the team? That is a possibility. Like others have said, I think it signals more about Richardson and direction the team wants to go, than anything about McDowell. I cross my fingers that McDowell turns into something positive for the Hawks, but I’m not banking on it. It would just be a nice bonus.
I’d say the chance of an Earl Thomas trade sits at 29 percent…
Ayyy LAMO!!!
My money-ball guy says about 75% likely.
Sharpen you pencil, it’s at 29.16%, but there’s only a 5% chance of that.
Great article Rob. I appreciate you listing (again) the defensive line names to look at. I’m planning to watch those players this week. A couple of thoughts:
For me, John Kelly is firmly in that list of RB targets. I think they will love his explosiveness, great feet, and toughness. You can probably get him later than Jones and Chubb if they go draft a guard first.
Regarding Suh, I agree that they are going young, hungry, and competitive (seems obvious at this point). But I think if there is any position that they will bring in a high paid study, it would be DL. Even if you pay Suh big bucks and want to give him a bunch of snaps, you can still move him around and rotate your various players with different DL configurations. Not sure they will be willing to pay Suh, but it would make more sense at that posiiton, than say OL, CB, Mike, Will, etc, where only one guy plays in a given spot.
Kelly certainly fits and along with Bo Scarborough was one of the other two names we listed that ‘fit’ their apparent prototype. I could see them double dipping at RB and taking Kelly. But the guy they take first will need to be reliable and consistently productive. Capable of being a feature back I think. Kelly hasn’t show he can do that. He’s more of a compliment I think, or third down back. Would be great to land him on day three but I think they’ll take a different runner first.
On Suh, it just seems like they’ve made a conscious decision this year to go cheap and hungry. To create a highly competitive environment — led by a handful of trusted veterans (Russell, Doug, Bobby, KJ). I’m not Suh fits into that. An expensive, outside FA would massively contradict the situation. I don’t think Suh is coming to Seattle but we’ll see.
Did we decide Guice isn’t explosive enough? Weren’t they bullish on him a few weeks ago?
I wouldn’t be as excited for Guice as I would for RoJo or Chubb, especially early R2. Otherwise, if he lasts into R3 the value starts to make sense.
Guice is not as explosive as they’ve drafted in the past.
I think there are some other lingering concerns about Guice which, surprisingly, the national media haven’t really touched on. Teams have some character concerns there.
I personally think Kelly could be a feature back if need be. But I agree that like most RBs, he would be best as part of a one-two punch. Maybe that is why Chubb would make so much sense, as he so clearly seems to be a prototypical feature back. Kerryon Johnson too, though I’m not quite so high on him as some others.
I also think you are right on Suh. Possible, but unlikely. Someone will offer more than us.
Kerryon and Chubb are beasts.
It’s very hard to project Kelly as a feature NFL back based on his time with Tennessee. Nice prospect, worth a R4-5 pick for me. Could be developed into a very good player. But not someone you bank on bringing in and being ‘the guy’.
I’d go a step further on Suh. I’m not even sure we’re all that interested. Kicking the tires at best I’d say.
+12
I agree that landing Suh looks very unlikely. But, what do you think they’re planning to do with the cap space that they’ve created (looks like $20MM right now, I think) over past couple weeks? I’m hopeful for an Earl extension, a resigning of Maxie, but not sure what else? I liked the Wheaton idea but that looks to have passed. Is Tom Johnson worth getting excited about – I don’t know much about him. I’m okay with no big FA splashes, but I want to be competitive as well.
Extending Clark early could be a good way to start spending that money. Definitely re-sign Maxwell, but I’m pretty sure that was already part of the plan anyway after moving on from Sherman.
Agree on Clark. Get him before he becomes even more expensive. They may look at extending Lockett too.
Good idea in principle but how often do players extend early? Especially on their second contract? Every year our jaw drops at how much guys get in FA. No reason to expect it’s going to go down. Clark can wait it out.
It depends on your agent. Every year you roll the dice. If Clark get hurt this year, then his chances for a huge payday get washed away. Sign now and you may leave a few bucks on the table, but come out ahead if you factor in an injury. A good agent would explain this to him.
Another type of agent might not, and might be willing to bet on his client remaining healthy and having a banner year. Because if that happens, the agent gets more money too.
They have been spending $, even though not big names. Signed OLB, TE, WR, and SS as FAs and resigned MacDougal. That’s probably 10-12 million right there
Of the $20m, about $8m will go to the draft class and IR. I think with the rest they’ll fill out the roster. Byron Maxwell, another receiver, possibly another TE, some DL depth, possibly an O-liner.
I have never seen anybody write that the “Hawks just won’t spend any of their available cap money.”
We’ve held back a few million to carry over in a few years in the past. But yeah, our MO is that we spend the money we have available to spend.
This is a different season though. New plan.
The best thing to do is not get locked into many expensive contracts this year. Next year will be much better for drafting and they can spend the time figuring out who is a player and who is a pretender. The defense will keep rolling because Seahawks have a good eye for talent in the secondary. The offense is a work in progress, though I have high hopes based on the coaching changes = and that doesn’t count against the cap. 🙂
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Cleveland Browns and Seattle Seahawks have agreed to following trade:
Browns receive:
2020 conditional seventh-round pick
Seahawks receive:
DB C.J. Smith
This is the lowest possible compensation package in a trade I’ve ever seen. Why not just send Cleveland some used jockstraps?
Haha. Hey now. JS wants to help his buddy John Dorsey win and those 2020 conditionals are hot commodities.
It’s like an MLB transaction.
Wow! With that compensation package he must be the next Sherm!! Let’s hope its another Browns miscue and CJ turns into a star!!
Looks like a nickel corner and likely a guy to compete on special teams for a roster spot. Solid.
I agree, definitely a slot guy. Smith runs a 4.58 40 at 5’11”, 188 lbs, vertical 39”, broad 10’11”. That’s a slow 40 for a smaller DB, but he may not have trained for it. Most prospects get professional training on how to run the 40. If you look at his vertical and broad jumps, those are fantastic numbers. He’s explosive. Pete can train him up at DBU as Smith has some stuff to work with.
Hey we got a living player for a conditional 2020 7th. That is a win no matter who the player is.
I like the positive outlook. A “downer” could like at it like this franchise doesn’t have a full allotment of draft picks until 2021.
Been rewatching some of the 2012-13-14 memorable Hawks games.
Man, the teams of 2016-17 really miss some of the ‘pissed off for greatness guys’ who lent attitude to the team just as much as talent.
Chris Clemons. Breno. JR Sweezy. Lynch. Browner. Golden Tate.
These guys were a different breed. We need to get that attitude back.
I miss Breno for sure, another is Riccardo Lockkete, both had a way to adjust attitudes
+1 Yeah me too. The right tackle position has been a revolving door, both on the field in terms of how quickly the D is on our QB, and in terms of finding a body who can hold that position down, since he left.
Ha, ha. I’ve been doing the same thing! I like who you named. Those were some nasty, “get out my way or I’ll kick your butt” kind of guys. I hate to say it but I don’t think we will ever see another collection of players like that in my lifetime. (Might be some hope for you youngsters. :-))
That was the realization I came to when we were manhandled by the Panthers in 2015. We just didn’t have the big strong badasses in the trenches anymore. As players have gotten older, they’ve lost a step and their ability to lay devistating hits and force turnovers has waned.
The one reason I would want to bring Suh here, despite all of the good reasons that everyone has illustrated is that he scares me. I mean this in a good way. When he is on the opposite team you are thinking “oh shit”. He’s very close to Aaron Donald for his age. Just a big bully that can dominate and wreck your game plan and plays mean.
Speaking of LB options, SEA have a visit scheduled with this cat Zaire Franklin of SYR. Also, he trained for his pro day at Ford Sports in Bellevue.
4.58s 40yd, 38″ vertical and 30 BP at 6’0″ 239lbs.
http://www.syracuse.com/orangefootball/index.ssf/2018/03/zaire_franklin_linebacker_syracuse_football_pro_day.html
He looks all of the strong, fast and hungry type!!
Visit, attending his pro day or both?
I believe they attended his pro day. No word on a VMAC visit.
I’m really interested to see Tony Pauline’s update on the Tennessee pro day. Would love to hear that the Seahawks are looking hard at John Kelly.
Bears and Texans are digging him.
Chattanooga QB Alejandro ‘Dro’ Bennifield who threw at Tennessee’s pro day said the Seahawks ‘really liked him.’
Hey Rob. Thoughts on Earl plus #18 to Cleveland for #4 and a 3rd/4th/5th? That would put us in a position to either take the best “non-QB” in the draft or trade down for more additional/better picks than we could have gotten for #18.
There is no chance of this trade happening, I’m afraid Chase. For starters the Browns have just traded for Damarious Randall and made it clear they intend to start him at free safety. Secondly, that #4 pick is probably the most valuable commodity in the NFL currently. There’s a very good chance the Browns will get incredible offers from teams like Buffalo to move up and get a quarterback. Plus, as much as I appreciate Earl, it’d be a terrible trade for Cleveland.
The best Seattle can probably hope for is a second rounder plus maybe a fourth. They might have to graft for that deal.
Still hoping for 36/37 and a 3/4 from Indy
I wouldn’t get your hopes up. They drafted Malik Hooker last year in the top-15. And Hooker’s the nearest thing to Earl Thomas to enter the league since 2010.
Well, I figured they have a ton of draft capital and it wouldn’t be a bad thing to have a guy like Earl for the kid to learn how to be a pro from for a few years.
Temple WR Keith Kirkwood visiting the Seahawks.
6’3, 225 lbs.
Seattle is looking into the schools they scouted early and often.
Should find out who they had their eye on Wednesday in regards to USC. Still curious about about Marshall’s pro day.
USC has to be RoJo…right?
Wouldn’t be surprised if it was him, one of their D-lineman (Green & Fatu) or one of their WRs (Burnett & Mitchell).
LG Chris Brown is really good too, but I’m not sure if he declared this year.
Don’t forget about Nwosu. I agree that they could be scouting ahead as well. Guys like Tyler Vaughns look very intriguing.
That team still has so much young talent they could’ve been scouting a year ahead too.
Listening to the radio today, Chuck and Puck were dogging the Hawks hard. Would I have taken ASJ and Richardson at the contracts they signed, maybe, seeing as the numbers weren’t as big as I thought they would be. But I think the Hawks don’t want to do what they did last year, bank on FA to put them over the top. I’m glad they learned their lesson and are being more frugal. You scout and draft well, that’s how you get good. Teams that rely on other teams junk, usually get in trouble.
They seem to have decided not to pay for a middle class. And thus, will create a roster led by a handful of veterans (Wilson, Brown, Baldwin, Bobby, KJ) and everyone else is going to fighting and scrapping for every snap.
Will probably get back to attracting some of the best when it comes to UDFA’s this year too. Some wide open spots.
Definitely. Even if they have 20 picks in the 5th round, agents know the Hawks will cut their draft pick for an UDFA if the UDFA outperforms or outcompetes them in training camp.
A good year for Pete to dust off his recuiting chops and really go at it!
From what I’ve gathered, they are waiting for more Seahawks to be signed by other teams, so they can increase their comp pick haul. Currently they might only get 1 3rd round comp (Graham). If one of two more guys are signed, then they would be eligible for a 4th rounder from the Richardson deal.
Graham is currently only netting us a 4th, sad to say.
https://overthecap.com/compensatory-draft-picks-cancellation-chart/
Most years, getting a FA to sign a deal for 10 mil would get you a 3rd, but this year with all the QB contracts we are at the moment missing out on a third. Sucks, but thats how it is.
And with the pick only being a fourth I kinda doubt they are that worried about the comp pick. At this point they seem to be trying to bring in as many options as possible to fight it out.
http://www.espn.com/blog/green-bay-packers/post/_/id/44095/three-years-30-million-could-turn-into-one-year-13-million-for-jimmy-graham
JG gets $13m his first year. That could net a 3rd. The NFL looks deeper than the apy when rewarding comp picks. Hopeful.
I don’t think that would apply, since comp picks are awarded in February. I’m pretty sure they just prorate the signing bonus, along with the yearly salary.
That sounds like good times. Lots of good back stories and maximum effort. I’m excited.
Other team’s junk? Like Clemons, Avril, Bennett, and Lynch?
Seahawk fans if they ever make an exciting move in FA (admittedly the Mingo and Jaron Brown ones are perfectly fine).
https://mobile.twitter.com/brianthebrain_/status/975047830413955072/video/1
What’s the draft look like for mid to late round run stuffing DTs? We have to be adding at least one this offseason
Also Rob, do you think Royce Freeman is a guy we could target? He’s a little underhyped but was solid in college, had the best 3 cone of the RBs this year and he’s 235. Him and Carson could be a load imo.
He’s a very talented player, but he’s a little soft for a 230 lb back. He’s got good vision, good feet, and he can catch the ball a little bit. Still, he doesn’t run downhill. In some games he seemed to get rocked and then he shrunk down after that. The toughness factor will need to improve. I really like his talent. I want him to run angry.
Not to argue just pointing out, the same thing was said about Chris Carson, maybe we can get him to change his style.
Was it? I didn’t hear that but that’s interesting. I didn’t know anything about Carson before we took him. I’ve just seen a lot of Freeman and I think he’s going to be a good player. That’s the knock on him, though. Last year against Washington, Jojo McIntosh absolutely blasted him on a swing pass and he pretty much disappeared after that. It’s too bad because he’s so talented. He will have a lot of good games in the league. I don’t doubt that at all.
It’s possible based on his physical testing. Wouldn’t rule it out. But thought his running style wasn’t particularly ‘Seahawky’.
Man knowing TB, if Barkley gets to 4, they’re going to try to make a trade with Cleveland. Him, Winston Evans, Brate, Howard, Desean would be an insane offense.
Scuttlebutt…… Suh might be signed by the Rams so they can trade Donald.
That would be crazy. Trade to who? For what? I would try to see what it would cost. It’s not likely, but he’s the best in the game. Even within the division… you have to make a call. I seriously doubt they want to trade him, however. It’s probably a negotiating ploy.
Never happen but I would trade ET for Donald. LOL
Thanks I needed a good laugh
Suh is really good but there’s only one Aaron Donald. Nobody in the NFL right now can compare to his level of game wrecking ability on the d line. He’s one of the best ever at 3 tech.
Is that you, AARON DONALD???!!!’
Maybe I am…and maybe I’m not
Donald also wants to get paid 15-20M per year… and that doesn’t fit into the finances.
The other rumor was he would be franchise tagged for 2 years and he would get around 40M…. then they let him walk.
Suh can be that 1 or 2 year stop gap player…… and cost far less money long term.
And they would be looking for a 1st and possibly a future 1st for him.
Think about the teams that might want his services and have cap space.
I just wanted to remind everyone that you sometimes need to think a bit outside the box.
We have already seen some big time deals this year involving picks and/or players.
Why not complete the FA period with a whopper!
Perhaps they trade Donald later, but no way this year. This is the best roster the Rams will have in the McVay/Phillips era. They are going all in. Suh would come in to line up next to Donald, and then they worry about the cap management later.
Rob, here’s a fun offseason scenario. This is based on the belief that the Seahawks will be able to obtain a first and third round pick in trading Earl Thomas as Jason La Canfora has reported.
Seahawks trade: Earl Thomas + fourth round pick to Tennessee for pick 25 + pick 89 (Round 3) and pick 162 (Round 5).
Seattle would then own picks 18, 25, 89, 141, 146, 156, 162, and 168.
In a trade down scenario from 18 with Minnesota at pick 30 since they want to win now with Cousins at the helm, Seattle picks up picks 30 and 62 in exchange for pick 18.
Seattle would then own picks 25, 30, 62, 89, 141, 146, 156, 162, and 168.
With those picks, Seattle would take:
25- Arden Key DE LSU
30-Isaiah Wynn G/T Georgia
62-Jessie Bates III FS/ Wake Forest
89- Royce Freeman RB/Oregon
141-LB
146-WR
156-CB
162-RB
168-QB
Sign me up!
Not sure Tennessee would be the trade partner, they have good options at safety. Plus after the Malik McDowell drama I can’t see them considering Arden Key. They need to learn from a year ago.
Yep, Kevin Byard their free safety was a pro bowl player and first team all pro this past year
How about this deal? Seahawks trade #18 (900 point value) to Colts for #37 (530) & #49 (410).
These are the two picks that the Colts just got in the deal with NYJ. They would get two picks in the 1st, still have their native 2nd rounder #35, and 2 2nd rounders for next year.
That’s actually not bad. I would wonder if we could throw in something extra to get that native second as well instead of the second one. That would almost assuredly net us a top guard and Nick Chubb.
I guess if we’re going by the board (that I used from PFT) we’d actually have to give up a 5th to get the deal I mentioned. The difference between pick 35 and 37 is 20 points or basically a 6th rounder.
Why would the Colts be better off with #18 vs the two second rounders though? That’s what we need to consider.
My thought/hope would be that Ridley would drop to 18. Dallas is likely looking for a Dez replacement and don’t have much else in the way of WR’s. Could be that McGlinchy is the #1 T still on the board and they want him.
It would have to be a draft day deal as no one knows who will be there at 18, but someone will drop. Ballard would make a big splash with 2 first rounders and 3 picks in the top 37. \
They may still trade down from #6 actually. That deal with the Jets has them loaded.
Could be, but I heard a quick interview of Ballard after the trade and he emphasized quantity. He has it clear that they need multiple players in the top 2 rounds at this point to start building a solid core. In fact, he even said they are more than open to move down again from R1P6 if they get an attractive offer.
Not to say it couldn’t happen, but it seems to me unlikely they would be particularly interested.
Too bad. That’s what WE need to do 🙂
Maybe the rookie GM will get trigger happy on draft day, and want to “win” the draft with two #1 guys at their positions?
I been thinking about trade options for ET and the asking price. a 1st and 3rd is what is being reported for what it would take. Dallas is the most talked about possibility. so I’ll use them in this scenario, Dallas would get ET and send use thier 3rd this year and 1st next year, Dallas probably thinks they will pick later next year and won’t be as high of pick. then seattle can trade down with 18 this year pick up a mid 2nd and 3rd giving them 3 top 100 picks. and of course that would give us 2 1st round picks next year.
Trading down from 18 won’t get us a second, let alone a second and a third.
The only way Seahawks will get a lot of picks for Thomas is if the Seahawks guarantee his salary so the other team is paying nothing. Then you might get a 1st and 3rd and more.
Sorry, I didn’t type that correctly. We won’t get a second and a third. My bad.
This chart is helpful as a reference point. Obviously not set in stone, but a 2nd and 3rd for our 1st is probably a very realistic scenario.
https://www.drafttek.com/NFL-Trade-Value-Chart.asp
Teams don’t usually do that. It’s. It impossible, but the only way to get that is if there’s a bidding war. I don’t know how they generate that type of interest. We re right outside of the realm of players who actually hold first round grades.
It’s not impossible*
Pretty impressive arms race between last season’s NFC contenders. Vikings & Rams have made major moves. The Eagles winning a SB without the starting LT & QB is about as impressive as it gets. I like Wentz. Green Bay will always be lurking with Rodgers. Atlanta, NO still looking solid. Will Dallas sit on their hands while the rest of the conference “goes for it”? C’mon Jerry, step up to the big boy table!
Suh and ET are probably the 2 biggest difference makers available. Who’s gonna pull the trigger?
Agreed on the arms race. Eagles should be crazy good, but hey, we think that of SB winners nearly every year and other teams catch up fast.
Still think Earl to San Diego makes the most sense. They also just added Pouncey. Go all in while you still have Rivers then blow it all up and rebuild around Bosa.
If they don’t want to give 17th + 84th pick, and think that next year they can go to SB with ET and player they choose from 17th pick , then we can make a deal: 48th this year + 1st round next. If they reach at least the conference final then it will be 29th+48th (1060p) and 17th + 84th is 1120p on draft value chart.
I do think at this point JS would probably jump to make that trade, just to make sure to get something of value for Earl while he can. Not sure how long he can hold out for a 2018 R1 pick before teams lose interest/call his bluff and just wait it out.
That said, just as a side note on trade chart value, usually the value of picks from future years is considered one round later than the present year. (of course, this is all just approximate anyway, not exact science).
So the value of what they would be sending us would be 2 R2 picks in your scenario. (which is still pretty good)
Agree about SD. I have thought they made the most sense from day #1 when you consider scheme, personnel, cap space and team situation.
You think Seattle is going to start adding a “No ATV driving during off-season” deal in their contracts?
I always thought most professional contracts had language to that effect. Seems like a no-brained. I wonder if they recouped any of his signing bonus. They’d have every right to.
Baushad Breeland from Washington just had his 4 year contract offer retracted from Carolina after he had a foot injury from an ATV accident
Hey Rob,
Thanks for the continued great reads!
Just wondering if there are any updates you’ve heard on DJ Fluker? What’s your thoughts on adding him?
Cheers
I’m not against adding Fluker because Mike Solari knows him well enough to make a judgement there. That said, I wasn’t a big fan of his at Alabama and the fact he remains unsigned is quite telling.
We may not see them sign any UFA’s until after May12th. A street free agent is a different story.
Rob, been meaning to ask you for a while now if McGinn has published any more insider info (especially surrounding Combine) and if you might do another Hangout discussing some of it.
Yep will incorporate it into the next hang out, possibly today.
Well then I have a couple of questions for you. 😀
1. Who do you prefer, Justin Reid or Jessie Bates, as ET’s successor?
2.Have you ever considered grading the players ? Something like Zerlein on NFL.com or this one https://www.catscratchreader.com/2018/3/14/17118138/2018-nfl-draft-film-room-scouting-report-florida-state-edge-rusher-josh-sweat.
I think Bates III is a more natural FS.
I’m not familiar with the way Zierlein puts together a numerical grade. I could do it but I would need the time to properly sit and watch the majority of the draft class.
Rob,
I am increasingly more convinced that trading down and recouping multiple picks is going to be difficult without some witchcraft. The lower half of round 1 looks to be a buyers market with everybody trying to get in the top 15 for a QB or one of the few true talents available. In much the same way the market for ET is shrinking, what would prevent teams sitting at the top of Rd 2 from sitting tight and letting teams like the Hawks come to them in order to trade down, and lower the price below expectations? JS and PC have shown a knack for finding trades to fall back, but if the whole league knows its coming and that is desire #1, it becomes that much harder to get value. Suppose they trade back and can only gather a 2nd and 4th or something similar. JJ’s draft value chart is only as valuable as the market. Is that more valuable than staying at #18 and grabbing the top guy on their board?
I think it’ll be fine. Teams are always looking to move up and get that coveted player. This year it could be one of the tackles or a front seven defender. Or Calvin Ridley. They’ll be able to move down without too much problem. Might not get the haul everyone wants but it’ll be achievable.
@AdamSchefter
Jaguars are releasing WR Allen Hurns, per source. Strong market expected for him.
Wow, that one caught me a bit off guard. Guess he is injured a lot and leaves no dead money on the cap, so I guess it made sense to them?
Not sure Moncrief and Lee are even close to what they had in Robinson + Hurns.
Rob, how do you rank the second tier of backs?
Guys like Freeman and Penny look like they could start in the league.
If Bo Scarborough gets going he could be all-everything.
Akrum Wadley is nice and I think we met with him
The small backs are kind of disappointing this year.
What about fullbacks Kenny? If we’re going to prioritize running the football, it would be nice to have a capable fullback again. I like Austin Ramesh from Wisconsin, but that’s probably just due to proximity.
Jaylen Samuels all day
The FB that blocked for Penny at SDSU was solid
Samuels would be a great hybrid choice.
SDSU FB Nick Bawden. Bummed he couldn’t work out at the combine. Like his FB/TE versatility.
Samuels is intriguing. A team could get real creative with him.
Chris Warren 3 had a great combine. Was playing some H-back late in the season. Really like his potential there!
Can Samuels block at all? Haven’t seen enough of him to know. Marcel Reece?
I think there’s a top eight:
Saquon
Jones II
Kerryon
Chubb
Guice
Michel
Freeman
Penny
The next tier would be quite small and include Kelly and Bo for me.
I think Pete really wants a huge back like Scarborough. Might be really fun.
How do you like Kalen Ballage as a flier pick?
Problem with Scarborough is he doesn’t play big. Very underwhelming college career.
I think Ballage is a mirage (not an intentional rhyme). All athlete and not enough dog.
Ballage the Mirage is such an happy accident
I will say that when Scarbrough puts the stick on a dude he’s hard to stop. Maybe not a sparky runner, but I’ve seen him lay dudes down and thats invaluable
It happened… unfortunately he saved it for about four college games!
He never really took control of that offense either.
He really seemed to be passed over for younger backs.
We’ve seen Bama backups overperform based on college production, but not with the level of hype and expectation that accompany Bo.
We definitely know Bo.
For me, in rough order, it’s:
Saquon
Jones II
Chubb
Guice
Michel
Kelly
Kerryon
Penny
Bo Scarbough or Coleman (WA) in the late rounds for that second player. Coleman has such little buzz that he may be available UDFA.
Random story I just remembered. I happened to look at the top banner on the front page of the website and saw Brandon Coleman, so I looked up his career stats. Went down the rabbit hole a bit and decided to look up Tre McBride because I remember a lot of people on the blog being fans of his. I noticed his real name is Douglas McBride III. That rang a bell.
The night before the 2015 draft, I posted on Twitter saying that I had nothing personal against Tre McBride, but I hoped SEA wouldn’t draft him because I didn’t see anything special in his game. A Douglas McBride replied to the tweet basically saying “Oh yeah? You’ll see.” I just assumed it was a family member, but it was probably him the whole time searching Twitter to see who was talking about him.
Side note, I was a huge fan of Phillip Dorsett and didn’t think Tyler Lockett was a fit for SEA so what do I know?
Pretty cool article on Justin Watson. A height weight speed WR(6’3″ 215. 4.4 40. 40″ VJ)out of Penn, with great production. Over last 3 seasons averaged 81.3 rec. 1093.3 yards. 10.3 tds. Really like that he volunteered for all 4 special teams units at the Shrine Bowl.
http://www.thedp.com/article/2018/03/penn-football-justin-watson-senior-pro-day-nfl-hopeful-40-yard-dash-speed-draft
“You’re gonna get hit either way, so you might as well be the bada** that catches it.”
Love it.
FBGP’s 2018 Shrine Game Interview: Justin Watson, Penn
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uurnDmNFAws
It’s interesting that they compare him to Jordan Matthews at the end. I would be down for a Jordan Matthews on the cheap. Fresh and less injured Matthews too.
Nice article. He seems very Hawky. Might be nice to get him late on Day 3, or as an UDFA.
@AdamSchefter
In addition to WR Allen Hurns, Jaguars also releasing veteran TE Marcedes Lewis, per @ESPNdirocco.
Maybe they are making a cap space for somebody (ET:D).
In fairness, they would be a good spot for ET. Defensive fit, they’re going for it. Probably in a two year window. Won’t get an ET type talent in the late first.
they are too tight against the cap
only $9 million before the remove Lewis and before they add ASJ, so that number will probably go down. Barely enough for draft picks and IR
AND, they are already $14 mill over for next year
and only $28 mill under for 2020 with only 21 players signed
the purge is a coming after this year
It is — but they are on a mission and can manipulate the cap for 2018. They have a lot of guys on big money next year with zero dead money remaining, they can cut quite easily. They’ve managed their cap very well.
18. LG Isaiah Wynn
29. RB Ronald Jones
Don’t even want to trade down. That would get me out of the FA funk.
That would certainly fix the run game!
Yes, if only we had a pick in the second round!!! What a year to be without.
I think the Saints should bite. Brees isn’t getting any younger, they have a great (fairly young) competitive team….and they beat the Vikings with ET! If you spend $25 million a year on a 39 year old QB, you need to win now!
That would be one scary defense if they added Earl! More likely they are just cutting some unnecessary dead weight from the roster. They signed ASJ so don’t need Lewis, and Moncrief replaces Hurns, so why keep both?
https://twitter.com/apmarklong/status/976144052801409026
Just random twittering, but it might be that Lewis was upset with ASJ making more than him and threatened to hold out of camp.
He’d make a fine addition as a blocker on passing downs if cheap. Plus I still have his jersey, lol.
Probably no, w/ addition of Dickson, though. Need room on roster for the young guys.
Finally got some Ed Dickson contract details.
Year_____Base_____SB Proration_____Roster Bonus_____Cap Hit
2018____$1m_______$866K_____________$0____________$1.86m
2019____$3.3m_____$866k_____________$250k_________$4.416m
2020____$3.3m_____$866k_____________$250k_________$4.416m
The signing bonus is $2.6 million and the first year base is $1 million. $3.6mill guaranteed.
Really is more like a 3 year $10.7 million contract. Maybe $3.4 million in incentives.
any idea what the contract is for Brown?
cannot decide if it is a good deal or not till we see the $$$ and how it affects comp pics, etc
That’s pretty good. If we end up needing to cut him next off season it will only be a $1.3M hit. If we cut him after 2019, just a $866K hit. Not bad.
Yeah, its pretty good. It would actually be $1.73 if we cut him after year 1 (866k + 866K). So I could see at least two years of service as long as he isnt a disaster or gets a major injury. The $1.86 this year is very reasonable.
Yep, my brain failed – $1.73M if they cut him next year. You’d prefer not too, but it’s not too painful if they feel like they need to.
You beat me to it. Thanks for posting this.
Does Chubb seem to hurt his wrist in the video above?
Just more of Bill Belichick’s dark magic. He purposely puts Chubb through a workout that injures him, and then proceeds to use his 1st rounder on him after the fall.
He better injure him again cuz he ain’t gonna fall that far.
If Suh signs with the Rams that defense will be sick. Who do you double team with him and Donald coming up the middle? Peters and Talib could set an INT record with that much constant pressure up the middle.
That would be worst case scenario for the Hawks. Not sure how Rams could pay Suh and Donald but if they do Russ may have to take out a life insurance policy for those two games next year.
I actually don’t think it’s that bad of a scenario if your expectations are rebuilding versus contending. Let the Rams go for broke now and then in two years when they are in their decline, the Seahawks will be on the upswing. 2013 was incredible because of the transition between SF and Seattle, I can’t wait for that to happen again with Seattle and LA.
Cant run on them and cant pass on them. You would have to run alot of zone reads or pitches outside. The TE would have to be a prime target as well.
Seahawks seem like they are third best in the Division now. They will have to fight for that top spot. And that is a good thing.
I don’t really buy the Niners quite yet. We shall see what happens when the film gets poured over in the offseason. They’re ok.
New QB made a world of difference for them last year. Lets see if there is a sophomore slump.
The King is back!
Daniel Bryan has been cleared by WWE to return to the ring!
https://mobile.twitter.com/valleyshook/status/976174299286573057/photo/1
I still want to know if the Daniel Bryan who posts on here is the actual Daniel Bryan
We know he’s a SEA fan and it’s very easy to comment on this site. Let’s just choose to believe…
You watching WM34?
Not sure if I’ll catch it live, but I’ll definitely try to watch it. I was lucky enough to go to WM33 last year since my brother lives in Orlando. Thought I was there to witness Taker’s last match, but it doesn’t seem that way anymore…
I’m actually shocked they cleared Bryan. I just assumed he would have to wait out his contract with WWE and then start working ROH or New Japan after.
I’m shocked too. I don’t trust those companies to keep him safe like WWE. He’ll just work a more submission based offense now and can’t be doing the dives and shoot headbutts which are stupid anyways.
Don’t know if you watched RAW last night, but that Roman/Brock angle was hot 🔥! Dallas was the perfect town to get that over in too. They’ve seen angles like that going back to the ’80s with the Freebirds vs the Von Erichs.
It was definitely a throwback storyline. I think that’ll be a great match.
Bryan is perfectly suited for submission style and he can keep his kicks. I’d like to see him work AJ or like you said below let him have his blow off with the Miz. Both of those guys would keep him safe.
I’ll be watching WM34. Can’t wait for it.
Hopefully the AJ/Nakamura match be as good as their NJPW match.
Brock and Roman is setting up to be a real “slobberknocker” as Good Ol Jr says. It’s not going to be a catch as catch can match.
Undertaker vs Cena, not to excited about it. I think last year with Taker leaving his gear in the ring is the appropriate way to go out. Now if he does come back for this match, i want to see a hologram of Paul Bearer walking him down the aisle with the urn and Taker kneeling to the urn in the middle of the ring. How sweet would that be?
Charlotte vs Asuka I think could steal the show.
Rousey/Kurt vs Trips and Steph – meh
I am thinking that the storyline for Daniel coming back is that there will be a tag match between Shane and Daniel Bryan vs KO and Sami. My guess is that Daniel turns on Shane.
This is like HBK returning in ’02. Changes the landscape.
YES! YES! YES!
That would be amazing wouldn’t it?
Like Logan said. We’ll all choose to believe.
I am legit emotional right now.
Bryan vs Nakamura is the dream match I’ve been waiting for my whole life.
Nakamura is out here tweeting about it too. Need to move The Miz back to SD! so they can blow off that storyline from last year.
Lots of potentially really good matches for him now. Rollins, Styles, Owens, Zayn. Always thought it was a shame he retired before the new crop of talent arrived in the ‘E. Although I don’t see him working the same level and style of matches he did before unless he wants to end up jelly brained.
Checked out some tape of FSU OLB Matthew Thomas was very impressed. He looks and moves like a safety who flashes in coverage and vs the run. A year learning behind KJ Wright and getting stronger Thomas could be a force! He could improve on that 4.58 40 at the combine. Couldn’t find any 2017 tape this is 2016:
Vs. Michigan: https://youtu.be/OKjFxpf9j6U
Vs. Ole Miss: https://youtu.be/E9M6Q2QbfYo
The mid round OLB group is strong with the likes of Darrius Leonard, Matthew Thomas, and Leon Jacobs.
Great read, Richard sherman’s personal account of his release from the Hawks.
https://www.theplayerstribune.com/en-us/articles/richard-sherman-49ers-seahawks-free-agency
I enjoyed that article and think this is what he should have done instead of that other garbage interview.
He is one the great competitors in NFL history and will always be one of my favorite Hawks. I hope he just looks forward and on SF instead of the Hawks going forward.
Agreed! I was surprised to read Seattle made no counter offer.
https://twitter.com/JasonLaCanfora/status/976198110295797762
Looks like we signed Fluker after all. Does this affect our drafting strategy at all Rob?