Author: Rob Staton (Page 210 of 424)

With Kris Richard likely out, the Seahawks are expected to turn to Ken Norton Jr as defensive coordinator, sources say. All indications are he’ll be back in Seattle, where he was the team’s LB coach from 2010-14. 🤜🏾🤜🏾🤜🏾🤜🏾🤜🏾

— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) January 15, 2018

Mike Garafolo also reports Norton Jr has an out in his recently signed contract with the 49ers to move to Seattle. The report is backed up by Alex Rozier who claims it’s a three-year contract.

The length of the deal suggests Pete Carroll isn’t thinking of quitting any time soon.

It became apparent Seattle was moving on from Kris Richard when they tried to lure Gus Bradley from the Chargers. Did they expect to land Bradley? Have they been seeking an alternative since?

Expect to see a lot of statistics highlighting how bad Norton Jr’s Oakland defense was. Some key points need to be highlighted here:

— Jack Del Rio pretty much ran Oakland’s defense. Pete Carroll might do the same in Seattle and he’s going to be better at it.

— Oakland had Khalil Mack but they didn’t have Bobby Wagner and Earl Thomas.

— Norton Jr is a great motivator and commanded great respect from Seattle’s alpha dog defense before he left for Oakland.

Bucky Brooks made this observation on the hire:

If this is true, it's all about Pete Carroll wanting a joystick as a DC. There's no way metric or film study that suggests Norton is a better game planner or play-caller than Richard.. This is about the HC wanting someone who won't challenge his ideas or suggestions https://t.co/3NuBRYmE8S

— Bucky Brooks (@BuckyBrooks) January 15, 2018

I’m not sure it’s quite as negative as this. Brooks implies Carroll wants a yes man. That’s one way of looking at it. The Brian Schottenheimer hire also plays to this dynamic. Rex Ryan highlighted Schottenheimer’s loyalty to the Head Coach during an interview on Brock and Salk this morning. Ryan told this story during the piece:

“One day, we were playing the Detroit Lions and I told these guys, ‘Look, we are going to run the ball 40 times tomorrow,’ because I thought in my heart that was the best way to beat them. We’re just going to pound them. So, sure enough, we’re doing it, they got (Ndamukong) Suh, they got all these other guys, and we’re running the ball. Well, all of the sudden, they’re putting eight, nine guys down there and we can’t run it. Yet, Brian is so loyal to the head coach, that by God, we’re getting beat 20 to nothing and we keep running it. I finally went over and said, ‘Guys,’ I’m looking at Schotty, I said, ‘Schotty, we’re down 20,’ and he said, ‘Yeah but Rex, we’ve got to get those 40 carries.’ I go alright, forget it. I call the offense over and Brian said, ‘I think we can throw it on them,’ and I said, ‘Well, you guys want to win the game, I know I told you we were going to run it 40 times. Would you rather win the game or run it 40 times?’ I said alright, let’s just light them up. And that’s exactly what Brian did, he flipped the switch, we went no-huddle, ended up forcing overtime and winning.”

That’s pretty striking evidence that Schottenheimer will do pretty much whatever Carroll asks.

However, I’m not ready to assume Carroll is an overlord demanding everyone ‘respect his authoritah’. It could be that he wants to be more hands on. It’s possible he simply believes his message has been lost over the last two or three years — or that he’s relinquished too much control.

He wants to run the ball as a point of emphasis, so he appears set to name an offensive coordinator committed to doing so. He possibly wants more control of the defense. In the past maybe it was Bradley, Richard or Dan Quinn leading the way on game day, with Carroll acting as the motivational source? Perhaps the roles are flipping, with Carroll now in charge and Norton Jr doing what he does best?

One other thing to consider:

When Norton was fired in Oakland, some of the players seemed to suggest he was never given much control, was a scapegoat https://t.co/DJRQFDNlyN

— HawksChronicle (@HawksChronicle) January 15, 2018

The two coordinator hires are not flashy. They aren’t new or bold or different. The Seahawks haven’t gone after big names to do things differently. This really is Pete Carroll going back to his roots. This is an attempt to play the way he wants to. We’ll see if Norton Jr and Schottenheimer help make that happen.

Meanwhile…

One more assistant coach about to return to Seattle: Mike Solari will once again be the team’s OL coach, replacing Tom Cable, source says. Solari is the latest Ben McAdoo NYG assistant to find work elsewhere.

— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) January 15, 2018

Here’s your Tom Cable replacement. Solari was Seattle’s O-line coach between 2008-09, spent four years as San Francisco’s O-line coach between 2010-14 and most recently spent two years coaching the Giants’ O-line.

In 2009 I wrote a piece for Bleacher Report looking at Solari’s version of the zone blocking scheme. Here are some notes:

Offensive line coach Mike Solari has predominantly favoured a slightly different variation. It could be described as a “power ZBS” in that the guards are usually bigger and do most of the heavy work load.

Unlike Knapp’s ZBS, they are the primary movers with the center more likely to progress to the second level and attack linebackers due to directional drive blocking.

The advantage of Solari’s system is that if a defense goes run blitz, the linebackers can be driven out of the play creating huge gaps.

It’s possible the Seahawks could combine the two. Looking at the current roster, the potential is certainly there to be flexible.

Guards Mike Wahle and Rob Sims are athletic enough to fill Knapp’s ZBS. Wahle in particular has good technique and should be able to execute well as a starting left guard. Neither are the big power types that would usually be used in Solari’s scheme.

Mansfield Wrotto, however, stands at 320lbs—the perfect kind of weight to fit the power ZBS. He’s also a good athlete, so he could excel in this system. The downside is he’s still a little raw even approaching his third year in the league. The mental side of the Solari version is less demanding which could help Wrotto get on the field.

The center position is a point of contention. Chris Spencer has the freaky athleticism and solid strength which would make a good fit at guard in either system. His issue has always been execution and technique, which would be a problem at center in either scenario.

Recently drafted Max Unger is a little more predictable. He is an obvious guard in Knapp’s ZBS background and a center in Solari’s. I have to believe the Seahawks won’t be willing to flex between the two at center, but they may have to in certain circumstances.

Expect the power ZBS in 2017.

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Seahawks now expected to hire former Colts' QB coach Brian Schottenheimer as their offensive coordinator, per league source.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) January 13, 2018

After this tweet from Adam Schefter, Ian Rapoport added that Pete Carroll had called Schottenheimer to offer him the job. The Seahawks have selected their replacement for Darrell Bevell.

The initial reaction from a lot of fans isn’t positive. It feels a little bit like 2018’s version of Darrell Bevell. A coach who is available and seemingly not that in-demand. In 2011 the Seahawks were linked to Josh McDaniels before going with Bevell. This has a similar feel.

His track record is mixed. The Rams offense ranked 21st, 22nd and 25th in DVOA during his tenure in St. Louis. When he was with the Jets they ranked between 12th and 22nd. On the other hand, the quarterbacks he had to work with were essentially Chad Pennington, Mark Sanchez and whoever was the backup to an injured Sam Bradford.

Schottenheimer has never had an opportunity to work with a player like Russell Wilson before. It’s often said players make coaches. This is his opportunity to prove the numbers above are a product of mediocre tools not a suspect workman.

There are some positives to mention. In 2009 the Jets had the top ranked running attack in the NFL (albeit paired with the 31st passing offense). Seattle’s big priority is to get the running game fixed. At the very least, he’s had some success in that department.

Schottenheimer is also fresh off a stint working with Jacoby Brissett in Indianapolis. Considering they traded for him as the season was about to begin, a 3,098 yard effort with 13 touchdowns and seven picks was respectable. It was a bad year for the Colts but nobody was pointing the finger at Brissett.

You can’t blame fans for feeling a little bit underwhelmed though. When Bevell and Cable were fired we talked about a desire to see one coach brought in to control the whole offense (no more passing/running coordinators), being afforded an opportunity to hire his own staff and have a major say in how they were going to attack opponents.

Schottenheimer might be provided that opportunity. However, this feels like a further reminder that this is very much the Pete Carroll show.

His offense.

His identity.

His way of doing things.

They haven’t gone out and landed a big name, an ex-Head Coach or a young stud potentially to groom as the heir apparent. Someone who might need convincing to take the job with the promise of newfound power or control.

It seems like they’ve gone and got someone who will likely facilitate Carroll’s wishes and desires for his offense. Run the ball, old school style. If it works, great. But it has to work now.

They’ve tried for two years to get back to what they want to be. John Schneider explicitly stated their desire to become the ‘bully’ again before the 2016 season. Pete Carroll talked about getting the running game going again a year ago. Neither happened.

They have to be open to scheme tweaks, personnel changes and doing things differently. That has to include considering a switch in the way the O-line operates and how they try to run the football.

There is some encouraging news on this — Schottenheimer isn’t another west coast coach. In fact in the past his system has been accused of being overly complex. So it could indicate a change in tact.

While this job will be highly attractive because it’s an opportunity to work with an extremely talented quarterback — there’s also a lot of pressure. The Seahawks can ill-afford another calamitous season of offense were they spend 16 weeks scratching around trying to be something they aren’t anymore.

The inspiring appointments don’t always work out. Philadelphia Eagles fans were probably stoked when the innovative Chip Kelly was appointed as Head Coach. The much less hyped Doug Pederson is the one that has guided them to the #1 seed in the NFC.

People will undoubtedly give Schottenheimer a chance. There’s no other choice. But with the Rams and 49ers fielding increasingly potent offenses, the Seahawks need a counter punch. Especially if the defense is going to be in transition.

Schottenheimer faces a big task to make that happen.

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A quick heads up — I’m scheduled to appear on KJR with Softy at 5pm to talk about the Seahawks playing in London this year. Tune in if you get a chance.

How do the changes impact the draft?

Seattle will have a new offensive coordinator and a new offensive line coach.

Will Pete Carroll retain the existing identity with some minor tweaks and a new voice giving out the instructions? Or is he willing to cede some control to get a big name coordinator?

For example, if the Seahawks appoint Eagles quarterback coach John DeFilippo, we could see similar concepts and therefore personnel. If they go out and land Todd Haley, the changes could be more significant.

We know fixing the running game is a priority. We also know the Seahawks have drafted a ‘type’ of running back in recent years.

Could that change depending on the coordinator?

For example, with Haley would they try to recreate Pittsburgh’s offense utilising a patient runner similar to Le’Veon Bell? If so, Kerryon Johnson could be the target.

Previously I’d thought Oregon’s Royce Freeman would be a bad fit in Seattle but a nice option for other teams. Are the Seahawks a more likely destination if they adjust their blocking scheme?

After all, while Freeman isn’t the most physical runner, he’s a good athlete. Here’s how he performed at the 2013 Nike SPARQ combine:

Height: 6-0
Weight: 227lbs
Forty: 4.58
Short Shuttle: 4.07
Powerball: 39
Vertical: 33.6
SPARQ: 121.17

Will a new offensive line coach or offensive coordinator demand even more focus on the O-line, to finally get sorted up front? And will the #18 pick provide an opportunity to do that?

Of course, it’ll still be John Schneider and Pete Carroll having the final say on personnel. It’ll be interesting to see who they bring in, however, and whether that does tweak some of the decisions they might make in the draft.

Damien Harris doesn’t declare

It’s a blow because he fit Seattle’s running style nicely. He was also a terrific pass blocker and played with a real tenacity. A complete running back.

There are still a lot of good options in the draft, however.

USC’s Ronald Jones II might come into even more focus. He’s lighter than Seattle has drafted for the positions (6-0, 200lbs) but as we highlighted recently, he’s so similar to Jamaal Charles. Putting Chris Carson and Jones II together could be a great combo. They could also add a free agent into the mix.

Kerryon Johnson, Sony Michel, Nick Chubb and Royce Freeman could all make sense too if the Seahawks move back from #18 into the early second round.

Da’Ron Payne impressive vs Georgia

I watched the National Championship again in particular to focus on Alabama’s Payne. He had a terrific performance and was arguably ‘Bama’s best defender.

Considered by many to be the best run stuffer eligible for the draft (he has now declared he’ll be turning pro), you saw plenty of snaps where Payne absorbed double teams and controlled the LOS. A lot of Nick Chubb’s rough night was down to Payne dominating the interior.

He also flashed an assortment of pass rush moves and some surprising quickness I hadn’t noticed before. He showed a good get-off on several snaps to break into the backfield and impact the quarterback, there was evidence of a swim move, evidence of a pull-push to get off a block. On one burst into the backfield he forced a bad throw leading to a tipped pass and an interception. He had a great bull rush, driving a blocker deep into the backfield before disengaging to bring the running back down at the LOS.

Look at the quickness here at 6-2 and 308lbs. The Georgia center has no chance to get across and make this block:

da'ron payne in the backfield almost immediately pic.twitter.com/EdaoFh0hED

— Ty Wurth (@WurthDraft) January 9, 2018

Here he is handling the run inside:

Da'Ron Payne is an anchor, solidifying himself as a first round selection. pic.twitter.com/dTbwryl5nA

— Cagen Cantrell (@CeeingTheDraft) January 9, 2018

He’s also not a bad target in the red zone:

Da’Ron Payne has declared for the NFL draft!

Thank you for everything you have done at Alabama and I wish nothing but the best for you #RollTide pic.twitter.com/2IDG1PCKRK

— Alabama DieHards (@AlabamaDieHards) January 10, 2018

This was a first round performance from Payne. And if it’s true the Clemson trio of Clelin Ferrell, Christian Wilkins and Austin Bryant are considering returning — Payne will likely be one of the benefactors.

I was also invited to do a quick podcast appearance with Field Gulls today on the London game:

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A quick heads up — tonight I’ve been invited onto the Hawk Blogger podcast. Hope you’re able to join us from approximately 7pm.

National Championship reaction

After giving it the big billing that there were several interesting prospects to watch, Georgia vs Alabama didn’t exactly go according to plan.

The Bulldogs abandoned the run and started the game throwing eight consecutive times, relying on their true Freshman quarterback to attack ‘Bama. After half-time they tried to drain clock — which, given it’s predictability, proved to be challenging against the best front seven in college.

Alabama launched their second half comeback thanks to a Freshman quarterback and several other inexperienced players.

Nick Chubb and Damien Harris had minimal impact in the game, Lorenzo Carter disappeared after half time and Javon Wims caught one pass for 16 yards.

This wasn’t supposed to happen.

We said yesterday that this could be a game for Sony Michel rather than Chubb. Running against Alabama is tough, especially when your quarterback is a Freshman. ‘Bama sold out to stop Chubb and they did. He managed just 25 yards on 18 miserable carries.

It’d be harsh to overreact to this one game but it’s worth noting this is the second time it’s happened. Chubb toiled against Auburn too facing a stout front seven. Unlike Michel, he wasn’t able to create yardage.

His stock will be determined at the combine, not here. If he goes to Indianapolis and matches his incredible Nike SPARQ workout from 2013 he’ll rise up boards quickly (especially if the medical checks are fine on his knee). This was a performance, however, that has you thinking more second round than first.

Michel was dynamic and really needed to see more of the ball. His 14 carries produced 98 yards including an incredible tightrope run down the right sideline. Somehow Michel dodged three Alabama defenders to get free, leading to a 26-yard gain. It was one of the few memorable offensive plays in the first half:

What a beautiful run by Sony Michel as he hit that sideline. #CFPNationalChampionship #GoDawgs #RollTide pic.twitter.com/ruk3Vd75Kl

— Trey Wallace (@TreyW_Radio) January 9, 2018

There have been reports that some scouts rank Michel ahead of Chubb. I can see why. He’s 5-10 and 220lbs. He might be seen as predominantly a pass-catching speed back but he has the size and build of a more orthodox runner. At the moment he’s not the type you slam it up the middle with and try and grind out wins. But he can be used in virtually any play call.

As we saw against Alabama — on a night where rushing yards were hard to find for both teams, Michel was still able to create. Where would Georgia’s running game have been without this type of option? Teams will value that. And while he’s not Alvin Kamara — he’ll provide that same balance to a running attack.

Michel was helped by the brilliant blocking of Isaiah Wynn. I said it yesterday — despite all of the talent at Georgia, he’s probably my favourite prospect. He’s just so consistent. He did a good job in protection and used subtle technique and control to open up several running lanes. Look at this run for Michel (Wynn is #77):

give me one sony michel please pic.twitter.com/7XlhqdF6RJ

— Ty Wurth (@WurthDraft) January 9, 2018

Want more evidence of his ability to set, control the defender and finish? You’ve got to love the end of this play:

#UGA LT Isaiah Wynn is underrated. Played very well lastnight vs. Alabama. He's going to be a long-term starter as an interior OL. pic.twitter.com/CRTOnOIgYn

— J.R. (@JReidDraftScout) January 9, 2018

This isn’t the best clip but this run from Michel was directly through a hole created by Wynn at left tackle:

Isaiah Wynn with a ride out opens up this hole for Sony Michel. He does the rest with his speed and burst. pic.twitter.com/jD7jlset0V

— Cagen Cantrell (@CeeingTheDraft) January 9, 2018

It’s a good draft for interior offensive linemen and Wynn will be one of the best available. If he even lasts until the second round it’ll be a bargain. The team that gets him will be very satisfied. He could sneak into round one depending on how he tests.

The standout defensive player for Georgia was clearly Roquan Smith. He might be a little undersized but he flies around the field. His best play was arguably this:

Roquan Smith made a lot of money in January. He proved hes a read & react MLB w/ sideline-to-sideline speed. He shut down RBs catching swings out the backfield when in man coverage. Sure tackler and has that 'Alpha' mentality teams look for. See -> React -> Hit #NFLDraft #GoDawgs pic.twitter.com/rtK8jMpElA

— Tom Like (@TomLikeNFL) January 9, 2018

Look how he diagnoses quickly what is happening here, avoids the receiver sent in to rub and then hammers Bo Scarborough. This is just brilliant. It was on third down too — Alabama punted after that play.

Damien Harris (who we’ll come onto next) is one of the best pass-protecting running backs you’ll see in college. He blocks like his life depends on it. Here’s what Roquan Smith did to Harris (#34) in the second half:

Damien Harris attempts to chip at RoQuan Smith, but it's ineffective. Smith is just too strong and quick. Another elite play made by the future Top 10 draft pick. pic.twitter.com/A4rZig0Zwn

— Cagen Cantrell (@CeeingTheDraft) January 9, 2018

Smith won’t fit every scheme because of his size but it’s hard to imagine he won’t go in the top-20.

For Alabama, Harris was again severely underutilized. He had minimal success with his early carries and then took a backseat. Just as they did against Auburn, it felt like Alabama tried too hard to make Jalen Hurts the focal point as a runner. Harris finished the game with only six carries — and he’s far too good to only have six carries in the biggest game of the season. It was a huge waste.

Harris has the athleticism, all-round ability and character to go in round one. He didn’t finish the season strongly, however, and you wonder if that will leave a lasting impression. He’d be a bargain pick in round two. It’s unclear whether he’ll decide to turn pro — there’s been a question mark there for the last few weeks.

Big Da’Ron Payne had a good performance on defense. His stock is open for debate. He’s the best run stuffer eligible for the draft but we’ve seen those types last into rounds 2-3 before (see: Jarran Reed). He only had one TFL this season and one sack. He had two really good games in the playoffs though and flashed some athleticism at 6-2 and 308lbs. Look at his quickness here (#94):

da'ron payne in the backfield almost immediately pic.twitter.com/EdaoFh0hED

— Ty Wurth (@WurthDraft) January 9, 2018

The combine will be interesting for Payne to see if he performs better than expected. There’s no doubting his ability to handle double-teams and defend the run:

Da'Ron Payne is an anchor, solidifying himself as a first round selection. pic.twitter.com/dTbwryl5nA

— Cagen Cantrell (@CeeingTheDraft) January 9, 2018

Anthony Averett also impressed despite being far from 100%. He’ll make a really good slot corner at the next level — he’s tenacious, strong and covers a lot of ground quickly.

If you’re hoping the Seahawks can trade down and get a really good running back with their first pick, this game probably helps. It’s possible Harris, Chubb and Michel will all be viewed as second round types. Ronald Jones II, for me, is dynamic enough to warrant serious first round talk — but he was given a second round grade by the draft committee.

Assuming the Seahawks are able to move down, they might be able to do so comfortably and still get one of the best runners. A lot of RB’s are likely to go in the second round though. They won’t be able to wait too long to get a guy they like.

Some quick thoughts on free agency

It’s a bit early to talk about free agency but then this tweet emerged…

Marquise Lee in a Seahawks UNI next year super underrated talent!

— A. Seferian-Jenkins (@Aesj88) January 7, 2018

It’s unclear why Seferian-Jenkins tweeted this. Lee’s Jaguars are still in the playoffs. Both players will eventually be free agents.

Stuff like this is one of the reasons why social media can be a pain in the backside sometimes. For all we know this is part of a joke between the players, or something similar. Instead we’re all second guessing what it means. Will both players land in Seattle? Nothing about this tweet will determine that.

The Seahawks are also unable to contact either player or their agents until the legal tampering period right before free agency. At the very least they’d have to wait for the combine when the other kind of mini-tampering occurs.

So no, there’s not much to say about this tweet and how it pertains to Seattle’s free agency plans.

However — it would make some sense.

The Seahawks are currently tight against the cap and will need to re-sign or replace several players during the off-season. If they don’t keep Sheldon Richardson, Paul Richardson and Jimmy Graham, realistically they might have around $10-15m in free cap room to spend. That accounts for cuts (Jeremy Lane, Michael Bennett) a couple of retirements (Kam Chancellor, Cliff Avril) and some choice moves elsewhere.

A year ago the Seahawks tried to use the market to their advantage by bringing in players on cheap one-year ‘prove-it’ deals. That plan worked for them in the past with Bennett and Avril and there was some method in trying again with Luke Joeckel, Eddie Lacy and Bradley McDougald.

Sadly, on this occasion McDougald was the only one to shine.

They don’t have the mega money to go on a free agency splurge. They might have enough to sign one highly rated player. Some have suggested Carolina guard Andrew Norwell. Yet if they spend all their available cap room on one player, how do they fill out the roster?

It’s not ideal but this is another reason why they need to get a bit younger and cheaper — to provide the kind of flexibility they had in 2011 when they went after Sidney Rice, Zach Miller and Robert Gallery to compliment the talent they’d drafted.

Can Austin Seferian-Jenkins replace Jimmy Graham’s red zone production at a smaller cost?

Will Marqise Lee provide a cheaper alternative to Paul Richardson? Or is he a little more physical and rounded?

Are both players in the range of free agency where they’d consider a short term contract?

A year ago Terrelle Pryor and Alshon Jeffery had to sign one-year prove it deals. This year the receiver market is by far the strongest position group. There’ll be a lot of competition for money. Some good players might be forced to think short term.

Both Seferian-Jenkins and Lee carry a lot of upside.

One other quick thought on free agency — will the Seahawks try to mimic the Saints?

New Orleans’ running game was the envy of the league in 2018. The veteran north-south runner Mark Ingram and the perfect compliment Alvin Kamara.

Can Seattle find a similar duo?

One option could be to test the water with San Francisco’s Carlos Hyde. See if he can be your answer to Ingram. They could then draft Ronald Jones II or Sony Michel to be their Kamara. It’s an option.

They do have Chris Carson too. It might be better to be overstocked than understocked given the issues they’ve had at running back. Plus Carson is on a cheap seventh-round rookie contract for the next three years. Having ‘too much’ talent at RB wouldn’t be a negative thing.

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This is the ultimate ‘draft game’ for Seahawks fans. Two SEC teams loaded with talent at positional needs for Seattle.

A lot of the more intriguing names are on Georgia’s roster.

Lorenzo Carter is an extremely interesting option for Seattle. He’s about 6-5 and 240lbs and ideally suited to play LEO/SAM like Bruce Irvin. The Notre Dame-Georgia game was a great insight into his potential.

At the 2013 Nike SPARQ Combine, Carter had the following workout:

Height: 6-5
Weight: 234lbs
Forty: 4.63
Short shuttle: 4.32
Powerball: 41.5
Vertical: 40 inches
SPARQ: 129.75

That was the second best SPARQ score among front seven defenders and even topped Solomon Thomas (121.77).

It’s a different workout to Irvin. He’s not as quick — Bruce ran a 4.50 forty at his combine despite carrying an extra 11lbs. He also had a 4.03 short shuttle. Carter isn’t anywhere near as quick or agile as that. He is, however, potentially more explosive. If he repeats his 40-inch vertical that would considerably top Irvin’s 33.5-inch attempt.

His vertical won’t be a surprise to anyone who watched the Rose Bowl:

And the celebration began with this blocked field goal by Lorenzo Carter. #GoDawgs pic.twitter.com/pE6EX3JQ8b

— Chuck Kittrell (@ChuckKittrell) January 3, 2018

There’s a reason Irvin was the #15 overall pick. His incredible production at West Virginia matched with his unique physicality and speed warranted a high selection. Carter won’t go as early. While Irvin was getting double digit sacks at WVU, Carter had just 7.5 TFL’s in 2017. However, he has a physical profile that could interest Seattle. He’s a first or second round possibility.

Running backs Nick Chubb and Sony Michel had a field day against Oklahoma’s typical Big-12 defense. Both players were bottled up in a big loss on the road to Auburn during the regular season. This is a big test to see if they can deliver against the toughest front seven in college football.

Chubb has the potential to go in round one depending on medical checks at the combine. He was one of the most explosive players to ever test at the SPARQ combines:

Height: 5-11
Weight: 217lbs
Forty: 4.47
Short shuttle: 4.12
Powerball: 43
Vertical: 41 inches
SPARQ: 143.91

If he matches that in Indianapolis in March, he has every chance to not just be a first round pick but also crack the top-20.

He compares favourably to Jonathan Stewart. Chubb is around 5-11, 228lbs. Stewart at his combine was 5-11 and 235lbs. He ran a 4.48, managed a 36.5 inch vertical, a 10-8 broad and a 4.53 short shuttle. Chubb is capable of topping some of these numbers.

Stewart was the #13 pick in 2008. This is why it’s entirely possible Chubb cracks the top-20.

We know what he is — a physical north-south runner capable of getting the tough yards. If he finds a crease he can accelerate and break off big gains. He goes from 0-60 quickly for his size. His footwork can be choppy when he has to stop-start but he’s also capable of sticking his foot in the ground and making a decisive cut.

It’ll be a huge statement if he can make big gains against this loaded Alabama defense. Space will be at a premium. It’ll be an opportunity to show he can create when the odds are stacked against him.

You can imagine the Seahawks showing interest in a back with Chubb’s explosive quality and running style. The combine will determine whether he’s a late first or second round pick or a much earlier selection.

Michel is a better pass catching, multi-dimensional back but it’s worth noting he’s also around 220lbs so he can run up the middle too. We’ll see how Georgia mix him in with Chubb. This might be a game for Michel. Chubb is going to see a lot of extra bodies at the LOS (Georgia’s quarterback is a true freshman). Getting the ball to Michel in space is key. He’s also a potential second round pick.

Possibly my favourite prospect on the Georgia team is left tackle Isaiah Wynn. You won’t see a more in-control blocker, whether it’s playing the pass or run. He is a fantastic offensive lineman. Get excited about this guy.

He just does everything to a high standard. His kick-step is fluid and he sets easily. He never overextends and delivers a timely punch with accurate hand-use to stymie edge rushers. In the running game he perfectly engages contact then turns opponents to open lanes. He’s adept at pulling to the outside and he progresses nicely to the second level to lock onto linebackers. There are examples where he drives defensive linemen 5-6 yards beyond the LOS (check out his Missouri tape for examples of this).

Wynn is 6-2 and 300lbs so his future is likely at guard. We know the Seahawks like versatile O-liners and appreciate tackle experience. Wynn, to me, has an opportunity to be one of the most consistent and useful players from this draft class. He isn’t Quenton Nelson overwhelming people with power and size. He doesn’t play with Garett Bolles’ nasty edge. He is, however, extremely difficult to get the better of. This will be a great test against Alabama’s front seven. He has every opportunity to go in the first round and if he’s available in the second — you run to the podium. No question. As a left guard option to compliment and finalise Seattle’s O-line, Wynn would be a terrific pickup. They’d have to be creative to make it happen with only the #18 pick in the first three rounds. Wherever Wynn ends up, he’s going to make that team very, very happy.

Roquan Smith is also an exciting talent. He’s smaller than ideal (around 6-1 and 225) but plays with such quickness, physicality and delivers a hammer blow when he locks on to the ball carrier. He delivered two stunning hits in the Rose Bowl denying a touchdown on one play and a key first down on the other.

His best fit is likely at the MIKE or WILL at the next level. Seattle has Bobby Wagner and K.J. Wright, so Smith is an unlikely first round target. At the moment a lot of people believe Smith goes in the top-20. That’s highly possible and I’ve mocked that myself. However, consider this. His size will rule him out of some schemes and Jarrad Davis lasted to pick #21 a year ago. For me, Davis was a better player and a greater athlete too. Smith can go earlier — but it’s possible he’ll be seen as more of a mid or late first type.

Receiver Javon Wims is another Georgia talent to focus on. He became the teams go-to receiver during the season, saving his only college production for his Senior year. He’s 6-4 and 215lbs and could provide the kind of dynamic big outside target the Seahawks have lacked over the years.

The back-shoulder fade has been his best friend but he’s also developed into a key red-zone threat and he does well high-pointing the football. He sometimes produces a nice check down option settling over the middle and he can separate on the shorter routes. He’s at his best, however, working the red line to make big plays.

It’s difficult to project what his stock could be. He’s a one-year wonder and it’s unclear what his physical profile is. Hopefully he gets a combine invite. A safe projection is middle rounds at this stage.

Alabama is equally rich in talent but it’s hard to see how they fit in Seattle. Minkah Fitzpatrick is a bit overrated. You’ll see him touted as a top-10 pick in a lot of mock drafts. His value is probably in the 10-20 range. Ha-Ha Clinton-Dix lasted until pick #21. Earl Thomas lasted to pick #14. Keanu Neal was the #17 pick. All three, in my opinion, are better than Fitzpatrick.

He’s not an outstanding athlete. He also worked out at the 2013 Nike SPARQ combine. Here’s how he performed:

Height: 6-0
Weight: 183lbs
Forty: 4.67
Short shuttle: 4.05
Powerball: 34
Vertical: 37 inches
SPARQ: 106.26

The forty time stands out. That’s slower than Lorenzo Carter despite a 51lbs weight difference. There’s nothing wrong with his vertical or short shuttle. He hasn’t got an amazing physical profile though — he’ll want to do better at the combine.

Fitzpatrick plays in a lot of different positions. His coverage in the short game (red zone) is impressive but he’s not a cornerback at the next level and he’s not a tone-setting big tackler either. It’s hard to think he’ll end up on Seattle’s radar.

His safety partner Ronnie Harrison is quite different. He is a big hitter — just ask Kerryon Johnson. Harrison absolutely hammered Johnson in the Iron Bowl, eventually forcing him out of the game. He clearly wasn’t 100% in the SEC Championship as a consequence. Without that hit — this game could easily be Alabama vs Auburn.

Harrison is the type of player you can imagine contributing to a defense consistently. He won’t be the big star. On a team with a good front seven and some coverage talent, he’d be a nice compliment. His stock is possibly late first or second round.

Another player that is talented and will go early is linebacker Rashaan Evans. He is fantastic to watch — a relentless, physical defender who makes every hit count. He doesn’t just bring down the quarterback or running back — he brings the pain. Working out what is his best position will be the tough part.

For Alabama he moves round, sometimes playing inside or working the edge. He’ll blitz and rush the passer. At 6-2 and 232lbs his future at the next level might be WILL or MIKE. He doesn’t really have the length to be a LEO. The combine will be important to determine how early he goes. First round is a distinct possibility. He has good character too. Ultimately though he looks like the type of player you admire throughout the process but doesn’t land in Seattle. He screams AFC North, probably Baltimore.

Like Georgia, there are two high profile running backs to monitor. One is the most underrated player eligible for 2018. One is the most overrated.

Bo Scarborough has not lived up to the hype. There was hope he would be the next Derrick Henry. It hasn’t materialised. At his very best (see: 2016 playoffs) he is a scary opponent. He took over the game against Washington a year ago with his incredible combination of size and speed. Yet this year he failed to take the next step. He’s a tease. You want to believe he has the make-up of a big-time talent. Yet whether he’s banged up, injured, playing within himself or just a nice big target to hammer in the running game — Scarborough hasn’t delivered at Alabama. At the moment, it feels like he’ll last into day three.

Damien Harris, however, is a completely different story. Possibly the most complete runner not named Saquon Barkley, Harris has the ideal combination of grit, physicality, speed, explosion, willingness to pass block like his life depends on it, size and character.

His YPC for Alabama absolutely demolishes any former backs from the school including Mark Ingram, Trent Richardson, T.J. Yeldon, Derrick Henry and Kenyan Drake. He’s also not been worked into the ground like some of those runners. Alabama has tried desperately to feature their sophomore quarterback and use a committee at running back. Harris will be fresh for the NFL.

Harris’ SPARQ workout isn’t as good as Chubb’s but it’s not a million miles off:

Height: 5-10
Weight: 210lbs
40-yard: 4.48
Short shuttle: 4.00
Vertical: 38 inches
SPARQ: 126.93

I think he’s worth a first round pick. If you get him in the early second it’s an absolute steal. It’s worth noting however that there’s some feeling he might return to Alabama. Winning a National Championship might influence his decision, especially if he has a big game. If they don’t win, or if Harris is motivated by a possible Heisman campaign in 2018, he might stay in school.

Receiver Calvin Ridley isn’t big (6-1, 190lbs) and he isn’t an athletic freak. He’s Mr.Consistent. He’s being graded as a top-15 pick by some, I think his stock is more modest. In a class without a lot of star quality at receiver he could go earlier than he otherwise would. The Seahawks are unlikely to draft Ridley, it’s safe to assume. His interviews are a bit weird sometimes.

Da’Ron Payne is arguably 2018’s best eligible run stuffer. He is what he is though. He had just one TFL in 2017. Compare that to Tim Settle’s 12.5 TFL’s. His stock is likely in the second or third round range seeing as he’ll mostly be viewed as an early down defender and not a pass rusher.

Cornerback Anthony Averett is a talented coverage defender. He’s likely to be somewhat limited. He hurt himself getting off the bus before the Clemson game. No joke, he tripped on a curb. He played against the Tigers but wasn’t 100%.

There’s every chance this game will contain at least one future Seahawk, if not multiple. One of the running backs, Isaiah Wynn and Lorenzo Carter would certainly cure a lot of ills in Seattle.

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