Bryan Edwards broke receiving records at South Carolina
I wanted to represent a few different things in this projection. Firstly — a determination to address the trenches early and add a receiver (tapping into the strength of the draft). I wanted to move down from #27 and move up from #59. The Seahawks do things differently and I also wanted to show that.
#27 — trade down
I have the Seahawks trading down twice. The first move takes them into the 30’s. The second trade moves them into the early 40’s. They’ve done this a couple of times — in 2014 (moving from #32 to #45) and 2019 (moving from #21 to #47). Tony Pauline told us the Seahawks see little difference in quality between the players in the middle part of round one and the middle part of round three. I think they’ll use #27 to create assets to move around later on and collect a larger number of players in their target area. In this scenario they turn #27 into #43, #70 and #196.
#43 — Robert Hunt (T, Louisiana-Lafayette)
The Seahawks rarely take a player the mainstream media has tipped. They identify ‘their guys’. Hunt ticks a lot of boxes. He’s a dominant run blocker with great size (6-5, 323lbs) and physicality. He’s faced football adversity — playing for a High School team that often played with only 11-13 players and then going to a smaller school and succeeding — helping the Ragin’ Cajuns consistently grade well in run blocking and pass blocking per PFF. He’s capable of playing four positions on the O-line. He’s intelligent, determined and would fit the culture perfectly. Some believe Hunt would’ve worked his way into the first round had he been able to compete at the Senior Bowl. He’s one of the toughest, most physical players in the draft and could immediately compete to start at right tackle.
#59 — trade up
Having traded down from #27 to #43, the Seahawks acquired additional stock to move up in round two. They’ve done this before too — going from #56 to #49 to get Jarran Reed in 2016 and a year ago going from #77 to #64 for D.K. Metcalf. They also traded up in round three for Tyler Lockett in 2015. If an opportunity arises to go and get one of the top receivers or running backs in this draft with a small move up the board — or a pass rusher — it could be considered. In this scenario I have them moving up six spots to #53 — giving up #144 (fourth round comp pick).
#53 — Bryan Edwards (WR, South Carolina)
Edwards is a player we originally highlighted at the turn of the year and although he’s lost momentum due to injury, he’s still immensely talented. He broke records at South Carolina with 234 career receptions, 3045 yards and 22 touchdowns. He showed he can win against elite prospects including C.J. Henderson. He can get downfield but he’s also strong on screens and with YAC. He returned punts. People assume he wouldn’t have tested that well and yet at SPARQ he ran a 4.53, jumped a 38 inch vertical and ran a 4.31 short shuttle. His interviews are also very impressive. He’s mature, determined and he’d fit the culture in Seattle. Edwards would be the ideal compliment to the receivers already on Seattle’s roster. Would they need to move up and get him? Possibly so. It’ll be interesting to see which receivers last into this kind of range. Chase Claypool and K.J. Hamler could also be options — but I think Claypool could easily go to New England or Baltimore in the late first.
#64 — DaVon Hamilton (DT, Ohio State)
Will the Seahawks wait until their third pick to address their biggest need? It’s entirely possible they go after someone like Josh Uche right off the bat to add some pass rush, or select a defensive tackle earlier. However — this is very much an offensive tackle and receiver draft early. Let’s see if the Seahawks sign a veteran pass rusher before Thursday too. Seattle will draft a defensive tackle from this class and I think it’ll be an Al Woods replacement. Someone with size and physicality. Leki Fotu is a clear alternative a bit later on. Hamilton just offers a more complete game. He’s 6-4 and 320lbs with 33 inch arms and he anchors the interior as you’d expect at that size. He also had 10.5 TFL’s in 2019, six sacks and his pass rush win percentage (12.6%) is the same as Ross Blacklock’s at 290lbs and is superior to Jeffery Simmons (11.8%) and Ed Oliver (11.4%) from a year ago. Furthermore, his 73% win percentage in 1v1 drills at the Senior Bowl was second only to Zach Baun (75%). We know the Seahawks pay close to attention to the top performers in Mobile.
#70 — trade down
A third and final trade. Having used pick #144 to go and secure Bryan Edwards, the Seahawks move down seven spots to #77 and gain pick #178. They have a few options in this projection — at running back, pass rush and linebacker. So they feel comfortable moving down a few places.
#77 — Darrell Taylor (DE, Tennessee)
I’m not entirely convinced by Taylor. If you collected his top-10 plays from 2019 and put them together in a highlights video, you’d think he was a top-15 pick. When you actually watch the games in their entirety, he’s much less effective with only the occasional flash. Even so, this isn’t a particularly good ‘edge’ rusher draft. All of the prospects have flaws or question marks. This year you have to identify the proper range to take one. You don’t want to go without — but you also don’t want to jump too early when the options are far superior at other positions. Taylor, if nothing else, gives you some upside and potential to harness. He can be dynamic off the edge with a bend-and-straighten only matched in this class by Josh Uche. Unlike Uche, however, he’s 6-3 and 267lbs and at least stands a chance of being a full time DE or LEO. His injury history is a concern but the Seahawks probably need to take some chances. It paid off with Metcalf and it might pay off here. His pass rush win percentage (18.6%) is in the same range as Yetur Gross-Matos (18.9%) and it’s superior to A.J. Epenesa (17.5%) and K’Lavon Chaisson (13.1%).
#101 — Terrell Burgess (S/CB, Utah)
It’s always worth noting the positions Seattle hasn’t addressed going into a draft. This year that’s defensive tackle, running back and nickel cornerback. They could be prioritised more than we think — or they could have some alternative veteran signings (Isaiah Crowell, for example) lined up if the draft goes a certain way. Trying to identify a nickel for Seattle is tough. This is a position where they’ve often made do, traded for a cheap veteran or plucked players from obscurity. There’s no defined physical profile either. Their best nickel has been Justin Coleman — a 4.53 runner with 31 1/4 inch arms who excelled in the short shuttle (3.98) and three cone (6.66). I’ve picked Burgess here for a number of reasons. Firstly, he’s versatile having switched between cornerback and safety. He’s been hailed for his preparation, he does a good job avoiding blocks on screens and perimeter runs (Seattle really needs to be better here), he’s very willing in run support and his tackling is good. He ran a 4.46 at the combine and he has the quickness to play nickel. He had the #2 coverage grade in the slot in the entire draft class last season per PFF. We know the Seahawks like Utah players and it won’t be a surprise if they add Burgess to the competition.
#133 — Tyler Biadasz (C, Wisconsin)
Tony Pauline recently reported there are injury flags with Biadasz and he could suffer a significant fall into round four as a consequence. The Seahawks have been willing to take a chance on players in that position before (see: Jesse Williams). If they part ways with Justin Britt, which remains unclear, they will need a bit more competition at center. Biadasz is a meat and potatoes center who excelled in the running game and he fit the Wisconsin approach to football perfectly. He’ll have limitations in pass pro against the top athletes but in the right offense he can be effective. According to PFF he has the highest percentage of positively graded blocks in the running game over the past three years.
#178 — Joe Reed (WR, Virginia)
The Seahawks need to come away from this draft with at least one legit kick returner. They might draft a receiver early who can contribute there. If not, they might save a pick later on purely for someone with return qualities. As a senior, Reed was named first-team All-ACC as an all-purpose player and return specialist. He scored twice as a returner in 2019 while averaging 33.2 yards per return — tied for second in the FBS nationally. He’s also adept at covering kicks. The Seahawks could easily target Reed earlier than this, purely with the intention of securing his special teams value.
#196 — Teair Tart (DT, Florida International)
He has great length (34 1/4 inch arms) for his size (6-3, 290lbs) and he’d provide something a bit different to the defensive line rotation. More than 35% of his total tackles went for a loss in the last two seasons. He’s a tough, physical defender who loves to hammer quarterbacks and can anchor and play with power despite being a little lighter. His biggest area for improvement is actually as a pass rusher. He’s never blown off the line despite his frame and he’s tough to move even on double teams.
#214 — Michael Warren II (RB, Cincinnati)
In an ideal world you address running back much earlier. It’s a top-heavy class and if there’s an opportunity to get a Jonathan Taylor, Clyde Edwards-Helaire, J.K. Dobbins or Cam Akers you have to consider it. Whether you agree with it or not doesn’t matter — it’s simply a fact that Seattle places a lot of emphasis on their running game and when it goes away, the offense struggles (as it did towards the end of last season). If they’re unable to add one of the top backs in this draft they will almost certainly add a veteran or two. That could mean Isaiah Crowell (linked at the start of free agency) and/or Marshawn Lynch (who appears prepared and ready to return if needed). Even so, they could do with drafting a younger body. Warren II lacks the upside to be anything more than depth and competition but he’s rugged and physical, well sized and he finishes his runs.
The class in full
R2 — Robert Hunt (T)
R2 — Bryan Edwards (WR)
R2 — DaVon Hamilton (DT)
R3 — Darrell Taylor (EDGE)
R3 — Terrell Burgess (Nickel)
R4 — Tyler Biadasz (C)
R5 — Joe Reed (KR)
R6 — Teair Tart (DT)
R6 — Michael Warren II (RB)
Final thoughts
This is only one projection and certainly not a definitive ‘this is exactly how I see it playing out’. We’ve talked about so many different scenarios, so many different players. I could easily see them going running back much earlier, or taking a pass rusher first, or adding another linebacker at some point. We’ve talked about all of the different possibilities by now, looked at so many scenarios. On Monday I will publish a long read on the different positions, what the Seahawks look for and the players who could be targets at each position.
What I like about this projection is it feels very ‘Seahawks’. Going against the grain, seeking ideals and preferences, looking for grit. As long as they sign at least one top veteran pass rusher, this projection addresses their needs. They must add a kick return specialist, a defensive tackle, a nickel cornerback and a running back. They must focus on toughness and physicality and bolster both lines. They need to draft at least one pass rusher.
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That’s a fun projection. I’d prefer to with DL earlier and wait on WR in a stacked class in an ideal world
This is going to be a fun week Rob. I am sure I am not the only one who has enjoyed your blog more this year than ever before. The interviews were a fantastic addition to your already interesting content and the top-level comments section discussions. Thank you!
Thanks Steve, much appreciated.
Yes, and the narrated video drafts using the PFN simulator were also excellent.
Thanks Brett
Awesome job Rob! Love seeing you’re work towards this time of year. It’s always better than the top notch sites that are out there. Is this a final mock from you, or do you think you might put another one out just before the draft. I love these because it gives me kind of an idea on who to look out for during the draft.
I will definitely do a first round mock for Huddle Report scoring. I may do another Seahawks projection, especially if they sign a pass rusher before Thursday.
Rob, I also think Seattle might go WR in the second round after a modest trade up for “their” guy. Tap into the depth at WR and DT…. seems like a wise thing to do. No reason to force a pick. Then you have your 3 WRs for the next 3-4 years cost controlled, while investing big dollars in other positions.
Side note, I assume you think Claypool is gone by the pick 50/late 2nd round?
Yes I think he might end up in the late first or top-40.
Hunt, Hamilton, Edwards, Biadasz would be really solid picks. Not a lot of risk there. Very seahawky draft for sure. Nice piece. Rob.
I love Edwards and is the WR I want Seattle to pick in a realistic range. Only guy I’d put above him is Raegor but that would be at 27 likely. Hoping Edward’s falls enough for us to target him at 59 or sooner. The guy will be a stud when he gets healthy.
I for surely see that first pick being a guy that hasnt been talked about much. The last one that the media really got right was Ifedi. Cant believe the draft is almost here as it just feels like it takes forever.
My big regret from this projection is the lack of freaky upside. There’s no punt on a Metcalf/Clark type.
Agreed. A very meat-and-potatoes feeling draft.
I do think with our history of drafting upside with the first pick (Irvin, Richardson, McDowell, Penny), we may do something like that here. I have Reagor and Taylor being guys to watch that early – possibly Davis as well.
However, from a straight football standpoint, I love the first three picks you did here. Also like most, except for missing out on Moss, Vaughn or Akers at RB. If Moss got in this somehow it’d be perfect to me.
It is worth noting that here are some of their other first picks:
Russell Okung
James Carpenter
Germain Ifedi
L.J. Collier
So they’ve occasionally gone ‘meat and potatoes’ early.
I’m not crazy about Moss even though I appreciate he could be on their radar. I wish there was a way to do something like this and add one of the top runners. Having two firsts this year instead of last would’ve been… better.
I’ll be the contrarian…
Moss is the guy I fear they’ll take early. I’ve watched a lot of him over the years, and I place him firmly in the JAG category. I see nothing dynamic; explosion, break tackles, miss maker, etc.
There at 133? Fine. But before that, too many holes on this team.
I don’t think you’ve got too much to worry about.
Aside from the injury concerns — while they like physical players… they also typically want special explosive traits at RB. Chris Carson, Marshawn, Christine Michael, Prosise, Rashaad Penny — these are not JAG athletes. Moss is much more of a modest physical talent.
Whew! I was literally puckering up, getting ready for you to slam me me in your (I forget your hometown) not subtle way as to why I was wrong!!!
😂😂😂
Doesn’t seem like there’s a whole lot of those types this year, especially early on.
There are a few though… Taylor, Gay Jr, Claypool…
Yes this is more high floor low ceiling draft. But I like it. And when you start with first pick at 43 its hard to find future all pro. Especially if you play realistic and dont project some big falls as was DK’s.
Taylor certainly has upside. As you mentioned his highlights are impressive, just about tapping into that. But if he hits we have our ideal LEO.
Just saw some clips of the Niners offense.
They better not end up with Jonathan Taylor or Clyde Edwards-Helaire on top of the receiver they’ll inevitably get at #13. That would be… worrying.
Seahawks nightmare scenario is the 49ers, Rams, and Cardinals loading up on offensive running back and wide receivers in the first round. What if the top three running backs went to them? That would be crazy!
I’m already freaking out about having to stop Kyler Murray throwing to Nuke and Larry Fitzgerald. If they add an RB threat to replace David Johnson, I’m done.
Keep them off the field with good defence and RW managing the game.👍🏼
I don’t think we have to worry too much about CEH in San Fran because they place a lot of emphasis on speed at the position.
Taylor, on the other hand, would be absolutely devastating in their offence.
It is crazy thinking the Rams might be the ones that worry us the least. We havent been able to stop them for two plus years.
Niners have two good runners. They don’t need to splurge early. WR, DL, possibly OL. I wouldn’t worry.
I know we’ve got a ways to go, but the way it stands now Seattle will go 0-6 in the division and give up 40 pts/game in those contests.
Seahawks had a FaceTime meeting with James Madison EDGE Ron’Dell Carter
Do I have this right? Anyone I’m leaving out?
Prospects Seattle has met with:
WR Jalen Reagor, TCU
WR Van Jefferson, Florida
OL Robert Hunt, ULL
OL Kevin Dotson, ULL
OL Logan Stenberg, Kentucky
OL Cordel Iwuagwu, TCU
OL Marcus Keyes, OK St.
HB Jonathan Taylor, Wisconsin
HB AJ Dillon, BC
HB Zack Moss, Utah
CB Kristian Fulton, LSU
CB Trevon Diggs, ‘Bama
CB Madre Harper, S. Illinois
CB Bryce Hall, Virginia
CB James Pierre, Florida Atl.
EDGE Zack Baun, Wisconsin
EDGE Terrell Lewis, ‘Bama
DT Raekwon Davis, ‘Bama
DT Leki Fotu, Utah
DT Ross Blacklock, TCU
DE Jonathan Greenard, Florida
DE Utah Gross-muh toast, Penn St.
DE Bradlee Anae, Utah
DE Julian Okwara, ND
DE Ron’Dell Carter, J. Madison
S Brandon Jones, Texas
Oh.
DE Trevis Gipson, Tulane
LB Nate Evans, UCF
DE Alex Highsmith, Charlotte
I know there’s a few more we know of 🤔
Jeremy Chinn
Will add him.
Wasn’t there someone Rob interviewed, besides Davis, who said he met with Seattle?
Damien Lewis, Robert Hunt and Raekwon Davis said they’d met with Seattle.
Price Tega Wanogho and Cesar Ruiz said they’d had no meetings.
Damien Lewis! That’s who it was. Thank you.
Do pre draft meeting make it any more likely a player will be picked, based off past draft picks?
If they were top 30 VMAC visits, yes. Hard to say this year. Really all we have to go off of.
Doesn’t mean it will hapoen again, but last year 6 of their 11 selections were pre draft meetings, including the first 3 overall.
That’s a bit of a red herring though. Because some were VMAC and others (Metcalf) were combine. And when you add the combine meetings to the VMAC meetings and the Senior Bowl meetings and now you’ve got FaceTime meetings (of which there’s no limit to the number of players you can speak to) — it’s going to be very difficult to discern any useful knowledge from who they’ve met with.
Interesting no Uche, maybe they have no interest or he is the one they dont want to tip there hat to?
OK, so 5 of 11 were VMAC visitors. And those all count as pre draft meetings though, no?
I said that. This year would be hard to tell. I guess I shoulda put harder than it normally is.
I think the visits dynamic gets exaggerated a bit (not by you specifically but by everyone) when one specific player gets drafted who they had a well publicised meeting with. That was the case with McDowell. We all knew he’d had the meeting right before the draft. But we don’t tend to linger on the many more players who visit who they don’t draft.
To me it’s an interesting thing to note but ultimately… what are we to read from it? That they don’t much like Cesar Ruiz? Because that’d be a bit weird IMO.
I agree. Still fun though nonetheless.
No. your right, but IIRC they’ve met with every one of their 1st overall selections going back to…P-Rich? I would hope investing that much in someone you’d want to know as much as possible about.
I remember your post from last year when you say they always draft guys when they are attending some game (forgott what game) and to.look at 2 guys from that school. Rondell Carter and I think it was one CB.
Good memory. They hit James Madison twice a couple of summers ago. Someone caught their eye and now we know who.
CB Rashad Robinson
I’ve noticed that when JS attends a game they typically draft a guy from one of the 2 teams. I think him and Pete are very impressionable and big on 1st impressions.
Flip side of that: maybe they only bring in JS to attend a game if the scouts are really sure of a guy.
Congrats on this Rob and for all the content in the past few weeks. I was worried last summer that with the new baby you might have to downgrade the blog but I’m sure I speak for many when I say just the opposite has happened. The interviews and the video mocks have taken it to a new level and I’m very grateful for all the high quality content especially in our current circumstances. You can also see from the interviews that you’ve done a bit of this before! High quality stuff – you put a lot of the network teams in the shade.
On the draft I really hope there’s a way to get Raekwon Davis and Hunt. Isaiah Wilson would be great but it seems like he may be gone even by 27 let alone in a trade down scenario. Hawks desperately needs more talent on both lines. Only 5 days to go now…
Thanks Mark, it means a lot to receive the positive feedback. This is a great community, you’re all very much appreciated.
I’d really like to see them get Raekwon if possible. I just think he gives you a shot to finally nail down that Calais type.
Man, I love the Burgess pick as nickel/safety. Those 3 LB sets last year were necessary based on personnel and scheme, but wanting in passing down situations. Yes, his profile is not as a hard hitter in the middle but he supposed to be a solid tackler. And bringing the man to the ground is a close second to knocking him senseless in the process. Kam he ain’t, but if effective as Coleman was, I’ll take it! Also, I’d love to see a dynamic kick/punt returner on the roster again.
https://youtu.be/HmEur2XIoPQ
https://youtu.be/zPmIE9HGTp4
I appreciate your hard work.. no other Seahawks website compares.
Check out Scottie Phillips RB Ole Miss. He looks fantastic
Thank you 👍🏻
Good eye! Phillips always looked very Seahawky to me.
Would love to see them add Hunt, Edwards, and Hamilton. These picks would definitely help them be more physical on both sides of the ball. I will have to go back and watch Taylor – he is very much under my radar.
Also, for anyone interested, The Seattle Times’ Bob Condotta has written a 4-part series counting down all 44 of the Seahawks draft classes from worst to best and provided a few notes on each. It is a fun trip down memory lane. I can remember spending a lot of Saturdays in front of the TV watching these drafts.
https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/seahawks/ranking-seahawks-draft-classes-1-11-from-low-grades-by-analysts-to-hall-of-fame-careers-on-the-field/.
I like this draft. My concern is most of these prospects have been injured through the pre draft process or have medical concerns due to injury history. Hamilton is the exception (of the top picks).
The hawks seem to have an emphasis recently on drafting guys early with cleanish medicals who were able to participate in the pre draft process. Gotta be available. Metcalf had medical flags but he fell to where he was a great value, and he was available for the pre draft process. Not too worried about Hunt’s injury but wish he could have done through the pre draft process.
Rob, thanks for all the great content! I’ve been lurking for a while without commenting because there are a ton of great contributors already here. However, I have a question (for anyone) about the next draft class. It seems to me that JS always drafts with the qualities of the next year’s class in mind. What are the strengths and weakness of the 2021 class? How might that change how the Hawks might draft this week compared to if they were just looking at this year’s class?
I don’t know about the whole 2021 class yet, but I get the early sense that WR will be loaded again and TE will be good.
I agree with Sea Mode. WR looks very strong. Again. TE class is probably gonna be one of the better ones in a long time. OT is pretty good. And there’s some very intriguing DB’s. That has a chance to end up being the best. Some huge corners in ’21.
Receivers look strong again.
Couple of quality players at CB, LB and tackle.
This is the way to attack the draft. I don’t see any of the edge prospects making much of an impact their rookie year. In three year’s time nobody would regret us having taken Hunt and Edwards early.
Edwards is a guy you can just imagine in a Seahawks uniform while watching him. His quarterback was flat out bad (as I’m sure is the case with a lot of prospects). Matching him up with Russ would be a religious experience. Reed, Lockett, Metcalf and we also traded up for Q Jeff. Edwards fits right into that group and I would be giddy if the Seahawks targeted him.
Thanks for showing us some different outcomes. I wanted to hear your thoughts on guys like Biadasz and Warren. Thanks for making what seems like a 6 month lead up to the draft a little more fun.
Rob
Great mock.
Id like to offer an alternative view
– I have a feeling our Hawks will go contrarian against the strength of the draft.
– I believe they will go ultra heavy on defense
– Hence can’t believe the first two picks will be on the other side of the ball on offense.
– Ideally in my mind they will find a trade partner and go down to pick up extra picks in round 2-3
– This is where the meat of the draft is and where you’ve highlighted the most talent
– Knowing their MO and the fact others will see only ~16 players as R1 they may not get good value
– Hoping one team wishes to trade up for a QB, QT or WR
That is my hope if they can find a couple trade partners
My best attempt with the mock draft simulator. My one trade was with the Lions exchanging first round for 35, 85 and 166. This seemed to be the best fit for a trade partner that would plug the gaps in our our current draft list and get us up to 9 picks total. Of vourse there’s no predicting how a board will fall and having Hunt available was the widest stretch, let’s hope we can make it happen. I’d be very happy with this outcome.
35.-Jaleon Reagor
59.-Raekwon Davis
64.-Bradlee Anae
85.-Willie Gay Jr.
101.-Cam Akers
133.-Robert Hunt
144.-Hunter Bryant
166.-JR Reed
214.-Damien Lewis
I have done that exact one the draft. Problem is Gay and Hunt are going in round 2. I doubt if Lewis is there at 214. It would be fantastic though
I would be super happy if the draft went this way. I like Warren a lot.
Glad this isn’t the real draft. Difference makers, I don’t see any. Another draft where all we could claim is potential depth. And our pass rush isn’t addressed and the can kicked down the road. Hope we do better in the real thing.
What difference makers do you expect to be able to draft?
How do you expect to ‘fix’ the pass rush in this draft?
THIS draft, I don’t….We’re going to likely have a slight upgrade simply by virtue of swapping for slightly better players…Kinda suspect that Clowney has clowned himself, and has realized it, and is hoping he can get SOME kind of leverage after the draft…still ending up with clowney and everson is a possibility….this IS a meat and potatoes draft, so why not stick with our meat and potatoes picks, and do something interesting like trading this year’s first for next year’s first and a third this year?
I don’t see this draft as likely rating more than “satisfying”…but then again, how often, right after the draft, do we know what we’ve actually got?
You know he going to try for trade down for more picks. We will want to get another pick from 64 to 101. Theres just much talent to go by. Then the spot from 101 to 133. This is an area where you can find a slider. Then you have from 144 to 214. I think no matter what the trade JC does he will fill in this section with at least 2.
On the scenario SIM I like trading with Indy for 44, 75,101, 122, 133, 144, 160, 197. Will this trade with Indy no but I believe JC will find a way to exploit the draft to get these picks. I still believe it will be Everson Griffen we sign to take DE spot. I wouldn’t be surprise if Seattle a RB early and another one later. Penny will be on pup list, Will Carson be ready to start. We did bring 2 RB for the playoffs last year, just something to consider.
Found an article on Diamonds in the Rough.
https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/columnist/dan-wolken/2020/04/19/nfl-draft-2020-eleven-players-who-could-be-steals/5161830002/
What are your thoughts on:
Gibson RB Memphis
Proche WR SMU
Garvin DE Miami
It would be nice to hit on some big-impact player late in the draft again. If it’s not these 3 above, who do all of you see as players who could make an impact in rounds 4-7?
Thanks and Go Hawks!
I like Proche a lot. Probably some of the best hands in the class. Just not sure of his speed
👀
Joe Reed was a running back his first couple of years in college before switching to WR. At 6’ 224lbs he fits the mold as a seahawk RB. Do you see him potentially competing for the CJ Procise role of 3rd down back along with special teams?
Not really. Pure special teamer for me.
Great mock, Rob. I’m inclined to think they focus earlrier on finding speed and violence on the D-line. It was the stated priority all off-season and they haven’t addressed it anywhere near sufficiently.
For these reasons, I keep coming back to Uche. I’m just trying to remind myself of not overthinking it. This time of year I get too enamored with certain players and their potential, and then forget about what Seattle has been telling us.
A lot can happen between now and Thursday (as you stated) and they could sign a DE. But if all remains the same, I would be surprised to see them not address DE first. I say this not to dismiss your excellent mock, but to provide a discussion.
This mock is very very Seahawky, which is to say Pete probably would be much happier with this than me. One interesting aspect is you’ve selected a bunch of overagers. I prefer the younger guys, but I could see teams looking for guys that need less development, especially in the early rounds, since there won’t be much of an off-season.
Really enjoyed this mock. Gave me tons to think about.
I still really hope the Hawks find a way to get a Clowney deal done as it opens up so much for them in the draft.
If they can I would love the following scenario on the first 2 days of the draft.
Pick#1 Isiah Wilson
Pick #2 Hamilton or Davis
Pick #3 Chase Claypool
Pick #4 Zuniga or Taylor
You have to think he would want to sign before the draft? Seems like the longer he waits the less he will get. I still wonder what his real numbers are.
Thanks for this Rob. Looking forward to your final mock (Huddle Report). Question: If any of the 4 OT’s you give Rd1 grades to (Thomas, Becton, Wilson or Jackson) fell to the Seahawks at 27, would you or the Seahawks consider forgoing trading down to just take the value at 27? You’ve mentioned how hard it is for the Seahawks to get legitimate round 1 talent at offensive tackle in the draft since they usually pick in the 20’s or later. I guess I’m mostly talking about Jackson or Wilson, since Becton and Thomas shouldn’t make it that far. Thanks again.
Possibly, yes.
BRAVO, that would be just perfect.
Hunt and Hamilton are perfect to help in the trenches and play physical.
Any receiver they pick after a small trade up in the 2nd is the guy I want on the team. I honestly believe that a talented WR3 is the final building block needed to push this offense over the top. A prolific offense able to dictate and impose their will on the first scripted drives puts pressure on opposing offenses and helps the defense a lot. It plays into the hands of bend but not break play because your offense can overcome field position. The defense can allow short play yards as long as they get enough stops.
The rest is delicious gravy and interesting side dishes.
Imagine if they can get Ruiz with the first pick then Hunt and Prince Tega fall to the late 2nd. Shouldn’t have to worry about the OL for a while.
Honestly just want them to pick the BPA.
That would leave us with about 20 OLineman…lol. It will be interesting if they look to take an interior since they have so many. Or will it be a tackle only or a guard/tackle like Hunt.
Yeah just a legit C+LT+RT then get rid of Joey Hunt, Pocic and Britt. They probably would want to keep Ogbuehi for the TE role unless Prince Tega could do it.
I read somewhere – maybe even a comment on this site? – that the Seahawks have 15 OL, which means they don’t have 5 they like. I would be shocked if they added three, but I will not be surprised if they add one or two to the pile and see what shakes out.
For the hell of it, I decided to take a look back at PC/JS’s draft history and see how many players are still in the NFL.
* 2010- 3
* Russell Okung- Carolina Panthers
* Earl Thomas- Baltimore Ravens
* Golden Tate- New York Giants
* 2011- 3
* James Carpenter- Atlanta Falcons
* KJ Wright- Seattle Seahawks
* Richard Sherman- San Francisco 49ers
* 2012- 4
* Bruce Irvin- Seattle Seahawks
* Bobby Wagner- Seattle Seahawks
* Russell Wilson- Seattle Seahawks
* J.R. Sweezy- Arizona Cardinals
* 2013- 1
* Luke Willson- Seattle Seahawks
* 2014- 3
* Justin Britt- Seattle Seahawks
* Cassius Marsh- Jacksonville Jaguars
* Kevin Pierre-Louis- Washington Redskins
* 2015- 3
* Frank Clark- Kansas City Chiefs
* Tyler Lockett- Seattle Seahawks
* Mark Glowinski- Indianapolis Colts
* 2016- 5
* Germain Ifedi- Chicago Bears
* Jarran Reed- Seattle Seahawks
* Nick Vannett- Denver Broncos
* Quinton Jefferson- Buffalo Bills
* Joey Hunt- Seattle Seahaws
* 2017- 7
* Ethan Pocic- Seattle Seahawks
* Shaquill Griffin- Seattle Seahawks
* Lano Hill- Seattle Seahawks
* Amarah Darboah- Pittsburgh Steelers
* Nazair Jones- Seattle Seahawks
* David Moore- Seattle Seahawks
* Chris Carson- Seattle Seahawks
* 2018- 9
* Rashaad Penny- Seattle Seahawks
* Rasheem Green- Seattle Seahawks
* Will Dissly- Seattle Seahawks
* Shaquem Griffin- Seattle Seahawks
* Tre Flowers- Seattle Seahawks
* Michael Dickson- Seattle Seahawks
* Jamarco Jones- Seattle Seahawks
* Jacob Martin- Houston Texans
* Alex McGough- Houston Texans
* 2019- 11
* LJ Collier- Seattle Seahawks
* Marquise Blair- Seattle seahawks
* DK Metcalf- Seattle Seahawks
* Cody Barton- Seattle Seahawks
* Gary Jennings- Miami Dolphins
* Phil Haynes- Seattle Seahawks
* Ugo Amadi- Seattle Seahawks
* Ben Burr Kirven- Seattle Seahawks
* Travis Homer- Seattle Seahawks
* Demarcus Christmas- Seattle Seahawks
* John Ursua- Seattle Seahawks
Thats a lot of good work right there.
Just goes to show how amazing those first schneider/carrol drafts were…(unsurprising, carrol had just come from college, he had recruited many of these guys…)…but yeah, we got pretty spoiled right off the bat 😉
I really hope they don’t trade back twice to draft Hunt in the 2nd round when it’s likely he can be had with at worst the 3rd rounder we acquired from trading down.
I’m getting kind of tired of the Hawks reaching for guys like Britt, Penny and Collier… I’d rather just draft guys in their appropriate spots than miss on players we reach for. Seems to be happening more often of late.
I like Hunt, but likely with our 3rd round comp pick.
How do you know he’d be there in round three?
Why would he be a reach? Because the mainstream media don’t talk about him?
There’s no way he’s there with the third round comp pick.
Ive started to see him a lot in the 40’s. I believe I recently saw a mock with him to Seattle at 64.
The mainstream media also didn’t talk about Britt, Penny or Collier. Lets throw in Michael for that matter (even though he was their first pick late in the 2nd round).
Britt was a massive reach. He had a 4th to 5th round grade and he’s played/had an impact like a 4th to 5th round player. They also didn’t draft him to play center… is an avg center at best and was exposed as a tackle and guard for the most part.
Penny wasn’t a massive reach… but he was considered fringe 2nd/3rd and when you consider the backs taken behind him in the 2nd round… you’re left scratching your head. I still don’t understand the pick… his reluctance to run in the trenches and almost always trying to 1 cut outside the tackles does not fit the typical Hawk mode when it comes to the position.
Collier was expected to go mid to late 2nd round… so far has barely blipped on the radar w. the Hawks. I often wonder about the success rate of guys like this who have such a rough start to their careers… figure it can’t be high and right now it’s looking like another high draft pick missed.
And if the Hawks are assessing Hunt as a potential 2nd round pick, I have my reservations. Their assessment of offensive line talent has left a lot to be desired. My preference would be to go with someone safe for once…
Justin Britt — six year starting career in the NFL, signed a second contract in Seattle, been a mainstay since switching to center. And you’re calling that a massive reach at the very end of round two just because the media said he shouldn’t go that early?
This is exactly the point I’m making. You’re transfixed with what media types say. How do you know loads of other teams didn’t have him in R2/3? Have you spoken to them? Or did you just check ‘the mocks’?
And plenty of people had Rashaad Penny in the top-50, myself included. One team tried to trade for Penny as soon as Seattle picked him. So no, not a massive reach in the actual league, just according to some media.
I had Collier as a late first, early second type. Talked about him a ton. He went that early.
We can talk all night about why Collier didn’t work out as a rookie or why Penny didn’t perhaps have the intended impact. But let’s not make up stuff to fit an argument. And let’s not pretend Seattle’s picks are some kind of outlier here. Look at the players taken around Penny for example. Lot of other players, some big names, who have amounted to nothing. Couple have already been traded.
The one thing I remember about Britt is that they drafted him at the end of the second round because they didnt have a third rounder that year due to the Harvin trade the year before. I also remember John saying they would have selected him in round three if they would have had a third but they didnt think (or want to risk) that he would be there at the end of round four. Personally I think the Britt draft pick has been a success regardless of what round we selected him.
To be fair, Britt was only able to have an impact after after he changed positions twice. They needed are in some ways looking for tackles. Was it good value to take an eventual center in the second? Did they pass up on other good tackles. Kind of an end justifying the means scenarios.
It was reported that Penny would have been taken in the same range by other teams. I think people make too much of Collier. Like Rob said last year, would it make you feel better to have taken DK in the first and Collier in the second? Ended up with the same guys anyways
“To be fair, Britt was only able to have an impact after after he changed positions twice.”
So what?
People need a bloody reality check here. If you get a solid starting center at #64 who played right tackle for you on a Super Bowl run, it’s a good pick at #64.
This is a waste of our time on draft week.
Not wasting anyone’s time. Just saying it still left a need at tackle. Which continued until Ifedi was drafted and Duane was brought in. Had to spend more resources on the issue
Arguing the toss over whether Britt was a success or not because he had to switch positions is a massive waste of time.
Presumably they should’ve just drafted one of those obvious elite tackles that are traditionally hanging around at the end of round two.
I’m pretty sure the analysis here was that there was a huge drop in the quality of OTs after Britt, and yes, whatever he’s his “grade”, he would have been unlikely to be available at the Hawks next pick – and there was simply no other option if they wanted a tackle.
Thank you for your sanity 😉
Justin Britt – Yes. I’m calling him a reach. You can be a 6-year starter in the NFL and not be all that good… it can be argued that the Hawks giving him a second contract was a mistake… and it definitely looked that way given his play on his first contract. Like I said, he’s been average at best in his career at the center position and failed at the others… at that point in the draft I’m looking for a higher impact player… he’s mostly underwhelmed.
To the point you’re making – It appears the media were right, no? He’s performed like a guard prospect you could have had in the 4th or 5th round. Not a tackle prospect you pick in the 2nd. If the Hawks had picked him in the 4th, I’d likely be indifferent about his performance.
Rashaad Penny – Well I definitely did not. I watched a game film on him because I was convinced the Hawks were going to take a running back and I took him completely off my mocks because I didn’t see him as the type of back the Hawks look at. He’s not a chain mover… he’s not somebody who breaks tackles in the trenches… he’s not a control-the-clock back… I will admit, he’s extremely explosive when there’s a big hole or a cut is available… everything else? Yikes. I had the Hawks drafting either Nick Chubb or Derrius Guice. It’s a shame Guice tore his ACL so early, but indications are he’s going to be a good back in this league… and we all know about how good Chubb has been.
You could also argue Collier only went that early because the Hawks drafted him… I’m going to say he would have went somewhere 15-20 picks later and the Hawks reached, you say otherwise… I thought it was pretty telling that the Hawks draft room looked dejected when they took him… you wrote a full post about it.
You’re so way off base on this.
Britt was the #64 in the draft. He’s been a pillar of consistency at center and richly earned his second contract.
No, the media weren’t right. Britt is far better than you are suggesting and that was a successful pick.
The rest is just you asserting your own opinions on players as fact and seemingly trying to project your own view as some sort of league consensus. Stop it, please.
I’m going to disagree on Penny in particular. I think he was discounted by Seahawks fans before the draft because he isn’t the between the tackles grind it out type. That said, he was very much talked about amongst the media along with the top RB group of Chubb, Ronald Jones, Sony Michel and Kerryon Johnson. He was the first to go, but all 5 of those dudes went within 17 picks – so it’s not like they reached.
Scott Mclennan picked Penny as his offensive rookie of the year before the season started and gushed about him. Scott is one of the better amateur evaluators out there.
At this point it looks like Chubb is a better player. Way it goes. You can’t say indications are that Guice is going to be a good back in this league. He’s had 42 carries and hasn’t done anything spectacular. His Y/A over those carries is 5.8. Penny’s Y/A in 2019 was 5.7.
I agree that Britt was a reach – but tackles that year fell off a cliff after him. By almost any metric he’s been a success based on value returned as a late second rounder.
I will say that this is far from my favourite mock draft I’ve seen Rob or others do, but it does feel like a possible Seahawks’ draft. I just hope they go for a bit more upside. This is a team that desperately needs more high end talent – they have a lot of middling bodies already.
Rob, you were all over Zuniga last year and I think you were right. He was slowed a bit by injury but I think he is still a 1st round talent that will go in the 2nd.
Rob, do you feel like Anthony McFarland would be available at #101?
He could be a real weapon if the Hawks decided they wanted to get a RB who can take some of Penny’s reps right away if he needs to be on the PUP for 6 weeks.
I could see them prioritizing DL/OL bullies but also wanting some explosiveness and dynamism and he could bring that if he’s there.
Per Bob McGinn’s sources there are serious maturity question marks with McFarland. His talent is outstanding but based on that info and his size he doesn’t seem like a likely pick.
Oh that’s unfortunate, I hadn’t read that about him.
Doing the simulator I find myself drafting positions in basically the same order based on need and talent shelves. I always trade back with our first round pick to add another top 100 pick then just make the picks. The players listed were all available in the simulator where I picked and they generally always are (not to say they will actually be available there, but this illustrates the quality options in these ranges)
Pick 1 R1/2 Edge/passrush: available players – Uche, Okwara, Lewis, Zuniga, Davidson, Baun, Greenard
Pick 2 R2 Tackle: Prince Tega, Hunt, Peart
Pick 3 R2 Wide receiver: Claypool, Pittman, Edwards, Shenault, Aiyuk
Pick 4 R3 Defensive Tackle: Hamilton, Fotu, Lawrence
Pick 5 R3 running back: Akers, Moss, Dillon, Kelley
Pick 6 R4 Cornerback: Ojmedia, Robinson, Harper
Picks 7/8: shoot for developmental upside regardless of position. I generally go with an athletic DB and interior OL.
The only players that really tempt me to stray from this plan in the first round are Jonathan Taylor, Jalen Reagor and Isaiah Wilson. Occasionally it makes sense to swap the order one place based on available options.
Yeah it is pretty easy to work your way with the simulator. That is why I think the draft Rob put up is probably closer to reality. I am coming to the conclusion that none of my targets are what PC/JS will be aiming at.
Ooooh boy. App St. LB Akeem Davis-Gaither is a good one. One of my favorites in this draft. He is twitched the f**k up.
He had 20 more pounds on him and he’s a borderline 1st. Don’t really worry about him getting off blocks. He works through traffic.
I was watching tape on Robert Hunt versus App St. And #24 kept popping up. A lot.
Yeah, that’s good tape. Couple times you see him literally diagnosiing the play as he reads the QBs eyes. His burst and closing speed is jaw dropping. He makes plays a lot of LBs just can’t. He’s also the best cover LB in this class. IMO.
Bucky Brooks love’s ADG…
LB is a huge need in this draft imo. The D (sans cb) has done zero to improve. Need a fast young LB to inject something to the D. I love KJ, but old slow and expensive is not what we need now.
That is pretty much hoe I do my sim of the day, trade back a couple times (usually GB then NYG) and use the ammo to move up from 59 and maybe abother move up later.
Followed Rob’s lead this time for a 3rd trade back to 42 with JAX (the sim being a bit stiff on this one).
Then a few trade ups to:
42. Chase Claypool
49. Robert Hunt
64. Davon Hamilton
86. Darrell Taylor
108. A.J. Dillon
142. Hunter Bryant
175. Yasir Durant
236. Kelly Bryant
Hunter Bryant at 142 is a bit generous it seems to me. Makes more sense to give up the 175 to at least move up to 120s for H. Bryant. Tried to mostly honor Rob’s horizontal chart and not take e.g. CEH in Rd 3 and similar such stuff. Taking the extra trade all the way back to 42 gives a lot of firepower to position the next 3 picks.
Fell in love with Claypool throwing CBs around on run blocking. Thats some BAMF.
Clyde is a BAMF.
Kevin Faulk also made the Barry Sanders comp I made a couple of months ago. Sounds silly — but it isn’t.
BAMF indeed! I’d give my left but to have CEH fall in our laps
I’d also give this guy’s left butt for that to happen.
Moss round 5 range, might be a Seattle target….. some say he is a baby Lynch.
Now is the time to expect the unexpected, and to hold out hope. This is how I hoped their selections would go:
Trade (1) JAX Ngakoue and 42 for SEA 27 & 59 to fill that “True Leo” position;
Trade (2) DEN 77 & 118 for SEA 64;
Trade (3) SEA 2021 6th Rd pick and 214 for IND 193:
Yannick Ngakoue (DE)
#42 — Isaiah Wilson (RT) I’m still hoping Wilson would last until the 42nd pick. I’m not alone in this.
#77 — Davon Hamilton (DT)
#101 — V. Jefferson (WR)
#118 — Amik Robertson (NB)
#133 — Kevin Dotson (RG)
#144 — A.J. Dillon (RB/FB)
#193 — Tyshun Render (DE)
All these are positions of need that could have an impact on their roster right away.
RE: Isaiah Wilson.
You might not be alone but it aint happening.
There may be a chance if there is a run on WRs, QBs & RBs in Rd 1. He could slide. We’ll see right away if there’s a chance.
Even if there’s a run on those players, you have him lasting 10 (!) picks into round two. That isn’t happening. And there are plenty of teams at the end of round one (such as the Titans) who aren’t going to be drafting a WR, QB or RB. They’re going to be looking for a tackle.
Also, most would not expect them to pick a RT when the just signed a FA for 2 yrs. We know it’s all about competition. That would make the future of the right side very bright, if Wilson and Dotson were on board.
The Titans re-signed a backup right tackle. It’s a honking need for them.
I’m of the opinion that this draft is about 125-135 players deep. With the inevitable trade back, we should have 7 picks on that range. Possibly another trade back to pick up some round 6-7 picks to secure some UDGA guys, that should really position them to get a very good group this year.
Rob, I see that you have a Tanner Muse as a LB. no chance he can stay at strong safety?
To be honest I don’t even think he’s that. Probably a core special teamer.
Seahawks met with Ashtyn Davis at the Combine (Per Peter King 3/30):
lol. That is some of the most Ron Wolf s**t I’ve ever heard. Would turn the tape off after 5 minutes if he knew a guy had it or not.
Their DB coach, Gerald Alexander, was just hired for the same position by the ‘Phins. Makes me think he was teaching those guys NFL vernacular.
Nice. From Trevis Gipson’s profile on Tulsa page:
https://tulsahurricane.com/sports/football/roster/trevis-gipson/8011
Wonder if they will look to go this route at Edge? (Gipson, Taylor, Highsmith, Robinson) or look to go earlier with (Matos, Zuniga, Okwara, Chaisson)? Will be interesting.
I want 3 players out of this draft. Gay, Chinn, and Antonio Gibson. Anything else they do is gravy for me.
Latest interview done. My favourite so far.
Amik Robertson.
And he had a FaceTime meeting with the Seahawks.
You are going to want him in Seattle after listening to this.
Nice! Can’t wait.
Awesome. This has the feel of a draft where a guy like this has a big impact. Love it. Thanks Rob!
My favorite player in this draft. If I could have any one player it would be him to be our slot corner. The dude flat out makes plays.
100% agree. This is the best news I’ve heard all week. Really did not expect the Hawks to be interested due to his size, but man am I glad they are. This guy brings that same BAMF, chip-on-his-shoulder play style that made the LOB one of the all time great defenses. PLEASE, PC and JS, draft this dude!!!
Can’t wait. He’s my main draft crush. He’s undersized and doesn’t have the 32” arms, but his tape is amazing. Really seems like a poor mans Tyrann Matthieu. Great ball skills and seems fearless when going against the run or bigger players.
Really hope we take him in day 3. I think adding him, alone with Dunbar, could make our secondary take a huge step forward. I think a lot depends on how much they like Amadi, but if he’s there in round 4 I hope we don’t pass. I wonder if not performing at the combine will hurt his draft stock.
If you haven’t checked out his tape you’re in for a fun watch.
You’ll like him even more after you hear the interview. Fantastic personality and energy.
Did you ask him about L’Jarius Sneed? That’s who I’ve been looking at.
The 32 inch arm thing doesnt really apply to the slot though so I think his measurements will be fine.
I didn’t — completely forgot. Wish I had though.
https://www.si.com/nfl/saints/editorial-opinion/amik-robertson-nfl-draft-prospect
Looks more nickel corner.
As of now we don’t have late rounds picks but JS will trade back some stage. Rob, what round you think he can go 5 or 6th?
Third.
That’s so awesome, that dude is so fun to watch, seems like he would be a great interview.
I could see the draft shaking out this way, too. So many different scenarios to consider (with EDGE or RB with that first pick as well).
The frustrating part of drafting a RT with their first pick is that it would only serve to maintain what they had last year with Ifedi (not a big improvement for the overall team – just as losing Clowney is so potentially stupid just to maintain a status quo for a bad DL last year). Personally, it’s even more frustrating that Ifedi gets a one year veteran minimum on the open market and yet he started over a guy who many of us thought was better and who got $10 million on the open market. If they do go RT with their first pick – hope it’s a long-term option, unlike Ifedi.
I see so many holes in this roster – I think they need to go BPA (I generally think that, but this year it’s even more important) as often as they can. I don’t think they can properly fix all these holes with one draft either. They had lots of talent after 2012… I don’t see anything close to that OVERALL talent this year, so unless this is a great draft – it does not feel like the end of 2012 for me – but I hope I feel optimistic after the draft this weekend because it’s more fun to feel hopeful than seeing a reality that isn’t any fun to see.
I’m Taking the guy I want in my next mock.
44 Chase Claypool WR
59 Clyde Edwards-Helaire RB
64 Malik Harrison OLB
75 Davon Hamilton DT
101 Kakeem Adeniji OT/G
122 A.J. Dillion RB
133 You pick, I haven’t decided
144 Michael Ojemudia CB
160 Stephen Sullvan TE
214 Bravvion Roy DT
Our goal is to get Physical, Tougher, and of course more Speed.
Claypool is all that. Does it just have to be on the Defense? We talked about a move TE and this guy can feel that spot and do so much more. You have to give this guy to Russel Wilson to mold and make him happy. There is nothing wrong with a deep WR group. In my Scenario Raekwon Davis was gone and he probably is the more conservative pick.
I’ve mocked
Robert Windsor – DT Penn State
and
144. Alton Robinson – DE Syracuse
To Seattle in this range.,… I doubt the CB Hall makes it that far now.
I love Alton Robinson’s fit in Seattle and Windsor really intrigued me. Totally agree with you!
Other late guys I like are Lemical Perine RB and Jonathan Garvin DE.
I see a few people mention you draft the OG Hunt with the lower 3rd round pick…… frankly….. if he is a guy they “must have”, you take him when you can. No reason to miss out on “your” guy trying to get too cute.
Roger: With the 27th pick in the 2020 NFL draft the Seatt…….
wait, we have a trade….
*Clock stops*
We finally get trade details…
: /
Ok, a HUGE thank you to V12 with his list above for motivating me to finally do this again. I had been too lazy due to
my lazinessthe unusual situation of the visits this year, but with his list to get me kick-started, it wasn’t so bad. And I’m definitely glad not to leave a hole in the database for 2020, even if the results will be even more random than usual due to the unlimited virtual meetings allowed.Seahawks visits/meeting/interest Tracker
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1J3d023YdKp9MFv7OQTy0YTssJ65qLd_aB0UJFGVHxPY/edit?usp=sharing
If anyone has any names or sources I am missing, or any corrections, let me know!
In the tabs at the bottom, you can see previous years. I updated 2019 as well with the draft results.
To sort the columns, go to “Data>Filter Views>Create new filter view”. Then click on the arrow in the first row of each column.
You’re a star
Seriously. Thanks for this. Great work man
Look, I love Rob’s work (thanks again, man) but this is a perfect example of how it’s not just Rob who makes this site. Thanks for the hard work!
👏 👏 👏 👏 👏 👏 👏 👏
Interesting., I literally just noticed the QB James Morgan yesterday looking through some notes about players in the draft. There are a lot of things to like about him. He probably goes in the round 5 range….. and he is the only known QB they have talked to during the process.
Awesome stuff Sea Mode!
Quite a few names on here that I haven’t checked out. Appreciate you putting this together and making it available to us.
Love the Darrell Taylor pick. Not as long as Okwara, but sets the edge. 3 down player if healthy. He flashes. Worth the risk.
Intrigued by your draft. Would have bitten the bullet, passed on Hunt for a boom or bust prospect… if one remained. Regardless of position. But that’s just my thoughts.
This draft does help the 2020 Seahawks.
Thank you for all you do.
I have to admit…I would be so downcast if this was our draft. We didn’t address RB or DE properly and we will suffer for consequence.
You can’t make something want to be there if it isn’t there though. I look at the need at DE. There’s probably a diamond in the rough somewhere, but who is it?
It’s not like RB where there are 3 guys who are going to be studs (Taylor, JK, & Clyde). And there’s even more good looking RBs after those Big 3 that have more potential, imo, than most of the DE prospects.
I’d love to draft a Leo with our first or second pick. But who? But if there’s a stud RB sitting there and only major questions with DE – why not go with more of a sure thing.
My Dad used to say, “Take a s*!t in one hand and wish in the other hand. Which hand do you have more in?” I just don’t see a Frank Clark or Danielle Hunter (someone I like in the second/third rounds), but I do see Alvin Kamara, Nick Chubb, Derrick Henry types (good RBs in general). There seems to be more talent at WR and OT, too. This team is flawed to the point where any and all talent is needed everywhere except for QB, MLB, or SS (Mcdougall is a fine starter and Blair is quality depth who will be good at that position as well). While I like our starters at CB and TE and the depth in both areas for 2020 – looking ahead there is reason to worry about both positions. It’s definitely not 2012 where lots of positions were locked in with talent and young guys under team control for a few more years, too.
Just to clarify this is in no way a knock on Rob’s work…
but if the seahawk’s draft actually looked like this I would be flummoxed. I could see something similar happening but… waiting until round six for a running back? Bryan edwards in round two over raekwon david/jabari zuniga/julian okwara/any potential fix for the d- line? Honestly I would puke in my mouth a bit if this was our actual draft.
Agreed. Rob’s work is superior and his prediction in this scenario is solid. We might not like the draft, but it could happen. But I rarely like who the Seahawks pick all the time, too. History has shown that Carroll and Schneider were total studs in 2011, 2012 and even kicked some butt in 2015 draft with Clark and Lockett where they took them. Other times, not so much and a reason this team is void of so much overall talent at this time. The fact they’ve had great drafts gives me some hope (decreasing by the year, unfortunately) they can nail another draft out of the park though.
That being said, in your scenario – I would be perfectly find with Bryan Edwards over Davis, Okwara, or whoever on the DL.
Even though I agree with you that this team has more of a need at DL than WR… I also happen to think Edwards is going to be a better pro than those guys and he doesn’t come with the character concerns over a guy like Davis. If you put the brain of Edwards into the body of Davis – then I’d be all for taking Davis in the first round and not trading down since DT is such a massive hole. Since you can’t do that – I simply want the best football players possible and if that means a guy like Davis over guys who are more questionable at positions more of need – then so be it.
I agree with you though that it sucks to have such a black hole need on the DL though. They used to be so good fixing what they said they were going to fix – and there’s still time based on some unforeseen draft day trade. We’ll see. It will be an exiting time later this week – that’s for sure.
You’re not going to be able to address every need how you want.
Thanks for putting this together Rob. This would certainly be a Seahawk-y type draft. I would be skeptical initially but that’s what makes it a John Schneider draft.
I love this draft.
Depending on how Edwards recovers from his injury, there seems like a lot of guys who can contribute right away, which has been missing in the past. Lately, we’ve had to wait a few years for these guys to even see the field. I dont like Warren, but I guess in the 7th there’s not too many other options.
Edwards screams bust to me, so does Reagor and Aiyuk though. I don’t like this receiver class especially outside the top three guys.
Rob thank you so much for providing a positive outlet (unlike Seahawks Twitter) during this sports void and tragic time. We appreciate you so much and like many others I’m checking the site many times a day for the content and discussions.
I wanted to say I have a hard time getting excited about Edwards at WR. He reminded me of someone while watching tape and I went back to look at the measureables:
Bryan Edwards: 6’2″ 212 – 4.53 40 YD – 38″ vert – 4.31 SS
Kevin Norwood: 6’2″ 212 – 4.48 40 YD – 33″ vert – 4.32 SS
I know that doesn’t make them the same players and Edwards appears to be a better overall route runner BUT with all the trouble these kind of recievers have in PC system (reliable do it all vs. freaky do one thing well), I would stay away and let him succeed elsewhere.
I don’t have even a 10th of your knowledge Rob but IMHO I’d take: Mims, Hamler, Ayuik, Duvernay, Claypool, or even as a very late round sleeper, Freddie Swain.
Thanks again!!
Agree Derek, I would be revulsed if we actually selected Edwards. He screams Norwood/Harper/Darboh/Gary Jennings to me. Bleh bleh bleh.
Hunt would be a cool pick, but waiting until our last pick to get a running back really turns me off from this particular projection. Not saying it’s unrealistic, I would just be sorely disappointed with this haul.
I dont remember the last time I wasnt underwhelmed by a seattle draft immediately.
Actually maybe last year I was pretty stoked about Blair and Metcalf
I usually am underwhelmed immediately after day 2 and pretty thrilled by the end of day three.
Capt.
What WRs do you like in this draft?
Thanks!
Chase Claypool, Lamb, Shenault, Juedy, Ruggs, Justin Jefferson, I think will all be studs
Shenault biggest boom or bust prospect after Tua
Durability is the key with him, will you get 4-5 years out of him if you draft him.
But also what is his role? You can’t manufacture his touches at the next level in the same way that was definitely done for him in school. Does he have the agility to run a full route tree and transcend scheme to be a difference maker for a team like us that aren’t going to feature a WR getting touches the way he’s used to?
He’s going to be stricken off some boards totally because they dont want to invest in a player with holes in his game without translatable skills to compensate in the short term. And with so many options in this class a player that hasnt gotten to show out all year or give testing numbers isnt going to be as palatable a selection in most war rooms
What about Kearse? One of Russ’s favorite targets of his career. Edwards can be that and more. He can be the Keenan Allen, providing consistent routes, sure hands and a physical presence. He can run short, intermediate, over the middle and deep routes. He has some of the best double moves I’ve seen in college in a while. He can be the big clutch catch guy that Kearse was and another (badly needed) red zone weapon. His skillset would be a huge bonus for our offense with Schotty running things.
This dude is going to be a star.
I could be totally wrong..
To your credit, a player I loved coming out of college who was great at double moves and in space:
Allen Robinson:. 6’2″ 220 – 4.60 40 YD – 39″ vert – 4.00 SS (!)
I’d be curious what Edwards looks like on the RW scramble drill.
I really like the Keenan Allen comp, but Robinson is a similar profile. More of a jumper though, and I think Edwards plays faster.
I think Edward’s would do great on the scramble drills. He knows zones, so I’m sure he can get used to finding holes. Hes a big body, and can box people out for those 5-10 yard bullets when Wilson is heading out of bounds. He can bounce off of people and turn those into huge gains. I think he has what it takes to excel there.
Do you see Golden Tate in his game, the breaking tackles, YAC and being a physical WR??
I wouldnt compare it to Tate just because they’re such different sizes. People just kind of bounce off of him, and his legs can churn through a tackle. I think it’s just pure size and power, more than him trying to break tackles. Just has that contact balance like Alvin Kamara. Not on Kamaras level, but theres flashes of it.
Hes just a really physical player, runs really tough with the ball in his hands. Idk who I’d compare that part of his game to. Kamara for now I guess just cause he has the contact balance. When it’s a smaller DB, it’s almost Derrick Henry esque. The difference though is Henry does it to 300 pound DTs lol.
Not sure how much it will translate in the NFL, but college DBs couldnt bring him down hitting him high. He was a man amongst boys with those DBs lol. And if you get his thigh at the wrong time he just knees you in the face like you aren’t there and keeps going like nothing happened lol. Hes a load for DBs.
Hum. He had a knee injury and a foot injury within the last 12 months. Medicals could be an issue on him, since he was maybe a low 1st rounder prior to these issues popping up. This is a bit concerning.
Edwards right?
He’s SCARs record holder for career receptions and yards
Edwards is excellent when the DBs back turns. He knows how to create easy, subtle separation. Consistently boxes out defenders and really knows how to use his hands in contested situations and tight coverage without drawing the flag. That will translate to the NFL and is a big deal. He waits to attack the ball until the last second, so the DB cant make a play on it. Minimal wasted steps on all his routes.
Hes clearly a very smart player. He has the intangibles. He might not blow past people, but hes not slow at all. And he makes up for it by playing bigger than 215.
I’d go as far to say that Edwards is the most polished WR in this class.
Might not have the upside of Raegor, Ruggs, Claypool, but he isnt some bum athlete. Hes an above good, not great athlete with all the other tools to be a longtime NFL receiver.
If we are speaking about character, toughness, IQ, mentality…just read this about Ashtyn Davis
Combine this with Peter Kings report, and for me this sounds like prefect seahawk…
Special person, average footballer. 3rd round grade.
Tape is raw like a butcher’s shop
The question is do we need a safety? If they think Blair isnt a future starter then maybe. If so no need as a we would have Blair and Diggs.
Also true
Hm…i know most wont agree with this (including Rob) but…Diggs has two more years on this contract…for season 2022 he will be 29/30 years old…same age as ET when John and Pete didnt want to pay him…we know what are chances FS starts in his rookie year(ET is one)…so John and Pete have this and next year draft to find successor for Diggs at FS…
And Davis turns 24 before the season starts. So if you draft him to develop at safety, he’ll be 26 before he presumably takes over.
I think he’s a track athlete with high intensity and very dedicated to his craft who will primarily be a ST demon. R3-R4 based on how highly you value that.
If we are speaking exclusively about Davis, yes its true that his age (he will be 24 during season not before) are problem. But this post you quote was about need for FS(I think Delpit is legit target also) not just about Davis.
And last year they spent 1st round pick on 24 year old prospect who was inactive almost all first season. And I doubt they saw him as immediate starter when they took him.(they always slowly give a chance DL rookies).
I’m also in the camp that safety is an underrated need.
Blair sure looks aggressive, aggressively average. And aggressively injury prone.
McDougald is a journeyman stand in. Not a bad player but hardly a good one.
Diggs… how many years more will he play.
So you’ve written off Blair after one season. If Davis doesn’t start in year one (or another rookie) are you writing them off too?
Do we keep spending high picks on the position until a rookie overachieves?
And you’ve also written off McDougald and Diggs 🤦♂️🤦♂️🤦♂️
And you have “only” 45 meeting at Combine and they did meet with him…
That doesn’t matter.
I don’t think its completely irrelevant,but its certainly much much less important than top 30 visit. But I was mentioned this more like we have some justification to speak about him. 🙂
Maybe. But he’s a safety (and not a very good one) and that’s not a position of need right now.
Could also consider him as competition at nickel and as a kick returner which satisfies two needs on the roster in addition to being depth at safety.
Yeah there’s no doubt from a character stand point he’s a stud.
But on tape there’s just nothing to get excited about IMO.
Motorcycles and cliff jumping?
Well at least he doesn’t ride ATVs
Does anyone know…now when Moore and Holister signed their RFA, is their dead money still 0(zero) or its same as cap hit for this year? Other words, can we still cut them and save money or not?
No please no.
That would make zero sense for New York
I really hope that is just a rumor because if you had to deal with both Engram and Kittle in that offense it might be impossible.
This is an entirely possible draft for the Hawks. And I wouldn’t be too happy about it, but that usually happens.
With a loaded draft class I feel Edwards is a reach at mid R2. Injury concerns and athletic ceiling questionmarks. I like him, good WR…but with this loaded class to me he’s a late R3.
I like Hunt…big and physical, and he could go R1 or early R2. My only issue is that this way they don’t really address the outside passrush.
I love Hamilton, favorite DT by far. He’ll be an issue for iOLs years to come. I’m not sure he’ll be available late R2
Rest of the picks are Seahawky picks, but I’m not a fan. I feel like between these bunch only Hamilton and Hunt would have impact year 1. Maybe only Hamilton (as Hunt might need to learn the ropes at the NFL in his first year). Burgess and Reed are OK. I want a Coleman-level nCB and a good returner, Major needs. But not players you get excited for. But as I said, I think this is the closest to what might the Hawks do (disappoint me :D)
I’ll be honest. If they’d pick Edwards and only address RB with the last pick, I’d be massively disappointed. This WR class is what you WANT, but the RB is what you NEED.
OK, I like the Joe Reed pick too. To be honest, I like him more than Edwards. Much cheaper and unique. 6’0″, 224 lbs and 4.47 40 time with A+ return skills? He should have a day 1 impact as a returner while learning the nuances of being a WR and competing for WR3. If he receives the coaching well he can be WR3 in his first year, if not, we still have like 3-4 guys who could compete for WR3 and Reed could still have an impact as a returner
Did my final Mock Draft on PFF.
Draft was done assuming we will sign a legitimate DE.
Clowney or Griffen.
Amik Robertson was not listed so I traded up based on Rob’s updated horizontal board, which listed him round 5.
I think he could go as high as late 3rd; But wanted a draft based on the board.
All picks were made with players PFF left available at my picks.
I don’t think Akers will be available at 99 so you could substitute Moss. The overall I feel could be very possible.
Trade down
Giants took Brown at #4 get 27 Cesar Ruiz or Isaiah Wilson (PFF took Ruiz)
Seattle gets 36, 99, 110
Trade down
Jacksonville gets 36 Trevon Diggs which made sense.
Seattle gets 42, 137, 165
Trade up
Seattle gets 152 Amik Robertson
Carolina gets 165 & 214
R2 Raquan Davis
R2 Robert Hunt
R2 Davon Hamilton
R3 Cam Akers
R3 Van Jefferson
R4 Davion Taylor
R4 Tyler Biadasz
R4 Trevis Gipson
R4 Kevin Dotson
R5 Amik Robertson
I don’t think the Hawks will add 3 OL but I love the draft.
Rob. Jacksonville is looking to move Leonard Fournette. Do you think the Seahawks could acquire Fournette for a 5th round draft pick?
I think it’s a possibility, yes. The Jaguars appear ready to move him at all costs. Might not even cost as much as a fifth. The only question is whether or not they believe Fournette is a culture fit. Is he ready to come in and compete for snaps or will he be entitled when he’s not the lead dog? That’s the question.
That is a huge question but he and Carson would be a sick one two punch. Imagine having to tackle those two as fresh RB for 4 quarters. If you want to be a bully those two at RB would be a great start.
Did the simulator last night. Not sure how realistic it is. My main focus was to see how I could get an even spread around round 2 & 3 as well as offense and defense players..
1. Pick 40: OT Josh Jones
2. Pick 55: DT Raekwon Davis
3. Pick 64: DE Jabari Zuniga
4. Pick 80. WR Bryan Edwards
5. Pick 101. OLB Willie Gay Jr
6. Pick 133. OT Robert Hunt (was somehow still left to be taken at pick 133).
7. Pick 144. RB Antonio Gibson
8. Pick 214. DT Benito Jones.
Trades:
27 to Detroit for 35 & 85
35 to Panthers for 38 & 148
38 to Houston for 40 & 171
59 & 148 to Ravens for Pick 55 (didn´t wanna risk losing out on R.Davis).
85 & 171 to Raiders for Pick 80 (A mistake, however the WRs dropped of the board fast, so to make sure to get Edwards I made this decision)
Total of 5 picks in round 2-3 and an even spread of offense and defense.
The player I think I am most intrigued by heading into this draft for the Hawks is Grant Delpit.
Heading into the season he was thought to be a top 10 pick discussed at the same level or better than Simmons and Odukah. He played the entire year with a high ankle sprain and clearly struggled. In particular his tackling was not good.
When you look at his 2018 tape he is a star and turnover machine that you can move all over the secondary. I know Safety is not an area of need but I think Delpit can play the slot as well.
Think about a secondary with Griffen, Dunbar and Flowers outside at CB. Then Diggs, Blair and Delpit playing Safety and in the Slot. That secondary would be filled with guys who can turn the ball over and if our pass rush does not improve this defense is going to have to turn the ball over a ton to compete.
Rob what are your thoughts on Delpit if the Hawks were to trade back and he is on the board early in the 2nd round?
I really like Delpit but he’s not coming to Seattle. They’ve got too much to do elsewhere. They can’t keep collecting safeties, benching high picks like Blair or trying to force them into roles. They’ve made their bed with Diggs, Blair and McDougald and now they have to focus on other areas of the team. Doesn’t mean they can’t/won’t add a safety later on for competition if they find someone they really like — but not the first pick.
I agree Safety is the postion of least need and they need to address other areas first. But man Delpit would be a nice addition. They need to add some play makers and the secondary is going to need to have a ton of turnovers for this team to compete as it is constructed.
It won’t matter who’s playing DB if they don’t fix the pass rush.
Safety is the only position group on D I could legit see becoming a strength next season. Everything else (except CB) is a liability. I see CB as neutral.
This seems a little farfetched.. Wagner and Wright maybe aren’t what they once were, but Wagner is still an elite player and Wright is still more than capable. Reed and Ford are certainly not liabilities either.
Did a mock again 😀
I concentrated on the trenches and targeted Bryce Hall. He seems like an NFL starter CB which we really need. Griffin and Flowers are not necessarily elite CBs and we still needed an nCB. We got Dunbar, but who knows how he’ll integrate. Flowers should face competition as does Griffin. Dunbar+Griffin+Hall as nCB could be a great trio. Hall also pretty good at blitzing and while the Hawks doesn’t blitz too much they like to blitz their nCB. Targeted Hunt and Hamilton also. Both strong and BAMFy guys (maybe not as true BAMFs, but as Duane Brown…a big, physical leader).
Did a ton of trades which seems unlikely for this new online draft format, but who knows.
Traded #27 for #33 and #107 -> minor trade down to the start of 2nd to pick up a smaller ammo
Traded #33 for #48 and #79 -> trade from start of second to mid second round to pick up an R3
Traded #101 and #144 for #94 -> traded up because wanted an RB and all the guys started to get picked
Traded #107 for #125, #195 and #230 -> Didn’t really had a “want that guy for sure” there, so traded back to get ammo. Pats had ton of late round picks, so seemed reasonable
#48 – Julian Okwara, DE – A solid LEO/DE prospect. To me he might be the best between Zuniga, Uche and him. I doubt we’ll address reasonably the outside rush before or even after the draft (I think we’ll get either Clowney or Griffin, but that’s not a big step), so we really need a potential outside presence
#59 – Robert Hunt, OT/OG – Plenty of reasons. We need young, talented guys, the draft is strong, he’s a good guy, great character, strong, big. Potential for RT and OG too.
#64 – Davon Hamilton, DT – Good against the run while also can shoot gaps. Hopefully command double teams and pairing him with Reed would be a good team. He’ll be a steal at the end of R2. Has a passrusher upside and Clowney/Griffen, Reed, Hamilton, Okwara line doesn’t seem too bad. Has strength, speed, technique…I’d have hope
#79 – Bryce Hall, CB – Checked some videos on him…I like him a lot. Had an online meeting with the Hawks, he can play outside, nCB too. I like him for nCB more. I think he’s a plug’n’play guy. Has minor injury concern, but I think he’ll be fine. Drafting CBs this high might not be the FO’s MO, but I think they like him and probably nCB is a top priority.
#94 – Zach Moss, RB – I think he has boom potential. Not as quick or fast as R1 guys, but much quicker than I thought. He doesn’t need to be RB1. He can be a backup plan for Penny’s situation, and split carries with Carson. If Penny returns he could be a rotational RB in first year and then we’d see if he’s ready for more.
#125 – Kevin Dotson, OG – Big mauler guy, team met with him. Imagine a Brown-Fluker/Iupati/other-Britt/Hunt-Dotson-Hunt line. It’d help both Hunt and Dotson to play with each other on the same line again. Probably a steal here (Lewis was still available here, but I think he’s more of an R3 maybe even R2 guy so didn’t pick him)
#133 – Antonio Gandy-Golden, WR – It hurts to not pick a good WR earlier, but AGG with decent coaching could be a wonderful WR3 with maybe some WR2 potential too. He’s not that polished as some earlier prospects or not have a huge athletic upside, but he’s a decent WR.
Comment: Wanted to double-dip and take Joe Reed for returner upside and crazy speed+physique, but miscalculated and he went around 175 🙁
#195 – Josh Metellus, S – Add depth to our S position and pretty solid ST guy. Floor probably a decent ST addition, but ceiling could be big nickel or fighting for starting spot
#214 – Javelin Guidry, S – Yeah, double-dipping for a position we don’t really need additions, but drafted Guidry for athletic upside and ST value. He’s a track guy. If he has solid eyes and hands he could be groomed to become a returner. If not, he could be an A+ gunner with that 4.29 speed
#230 JaMycal Hasty, RB – Nothing flashy, probably PS or camp body. A smaller back, but has ST background and OK hands. Could fight Homer for 3rd down back spot
I just tried that PFN simulator and it is definitely fun. The best one for sure.
I ran one where the Hawks trade back with the Jets who move up to target a WR after using their first pick on an OT. This would be my dream draft for the Hawks. Don’t think Bryant will be there at the end of Rd#4 though I have to admit.
48. Raekwon Davis
DT Alabama
59. Jabari Zuniga
DE Florida
64. Chase Claypool
WR Notre Dame
68. Willie Gay Jr.
OLB Mississippi State
79. Cam Akers
RB Florida State
120. Hakeem Adeniji
OT Kansas
133. Nick Harris
C Washington
144. Hunter Bryant
TE Washington
One thing that rang loud and clear doing the simulator is that there is a ton of value between picks 40-80 and I would love to see JS accumulate a bunch of picks in that range if possible.
The only way I think they should even consider not trading back is if they take Isiah Wilson at #27 because OT is such a premium postion and I think he is a potential pro bowl level RT in a year or two.
It is easy for me to get lazy on the sim. The unrealistic trade I do is Miami. We give 27 and 59 for 39,56,70,141and 227. The trade 39 to Raiders for their two in the 80s and I think 121 or so. Going by memory but it is close to that. Gives all kinds of picks in the meat of the draft. Ain’t gonna happen though still fun. Especially if you are unrealistic and take Hunt at 133 lol
Here is how silly it can get
56 Clyde Edwards-Helaire
RB LSU
trade icon
SEA 64.
Bradlee Anae
DE Utah
SEA 70.
Jordan Elliott
DT Missouri
trade icon
SEA 80.
Chase Claypool
WR Notre Dame
trade icon
SEA 81.
Robert Hunt
OT Louisiana
trade icon
SEA 101.
Willie Gay Jr.
OLB Mississippi State
SEA 121.
Leki Fotu
DT Utah
trade icon
SEA 133.
Hunter Bryant
TE Washington
SEA 141.
James Morgan
QB FIU
trade icon
SEA 144.
Michael Ojemudia
CB Iowa
SEA 214.
Kevin Dotson
G Louisiana
SEA 227.
Quez Watkins
WR Southern Miss
Thanks Rob.
If the Hawks are looking for a Day 3 (or possibly UDFA) LB…they could do a lot worse than picking Chris Orr (Wisconsin). While Zack Baun gets most of the publicity..I would argue Orr was the more valuable/consistent presence for the Badgers defense this year..
2019 stats: 78 tackles..14 TFL…11.5 QB sacks
Pro Day: 4.65 40yd..6.99 three cone…36.5 vertical..20 bench
Would enjoy this result Rob and also wanted to thank you for all the quality content. I’ve been hoping for Raekwon Davis. I was wondering the other day how he compares to Michael Brockers when he came out of college and read this:
Brockers: 6’5″, 35″ARM LENGTH, 322LBS., Hands 9 1/8.
5.36 SEC 40
26.5 INCH Vert
105.0 INCH Broad
7.46 SEC 3 cone
4.81 SEC 20 yard shuttle
Davis: HEIGHT 6’6″, WEIGHT 311 lbs, ARMS 33 7/8 “HANDS 11”
40 Yard Dash 5.12
Bench 24
Vert 28
Broad 111
3 cone 7.95 (surprised a the difference here)
20 yrd 4.86