Author: Rob Staton (Page 253 of 424)

Omar Kelly hinted on Twitter yesterday that the Seahawks are interested in Rishard Matthews. A former seventh round pick from the 2012 draft, Matthews has had a fairly unremarkable career. Kelly suggests he could warrant as much as $5m a year on the open market.

It’d be a curious move, especially if Jermaine Kearse moves on for a similar amount. There’s a pretty clear reason why they might be interested though…

1 reason why the Hawks may be interested in Rishard Matthews: pic.twitter.com/scNKs3ugmx

— Dave Softy Mahler (@Softykjr) March 4, 2016

Not convinced by PFF’s grading system? Football Outsiders ranked Matthews as the 17th most effective receiver in the NFL in 2015. Kearse came in at #19. Doug Baldwin was #2, Tyler Lockett #15.

The Seahawks don’t throw as often as other teams. It’s not unrealistic to think they’d prefer efficient receivers over players that produced in pass-happy offenses.

If they’re determined to replace Kearse with a similar receiver, this could be one to monitor.

Or maybe interest would be indicative that the Seahawks are struggling to keep their own free agents?

If Irvin, Lane, Okung, Kearse and Sweezy all get overpaid (at least beyond a comfortable amount for Seattle) — there’s not much they can do. Every player has a price. The Seahawks have signed their core players to extensions long before they get anywhere near free agency. This current group, as good as they might be, were allowed to run their contracts down.

If the only pair they retain are Brandon Mebane and Ahtyba Rubin (and even they might move on) — they’ll have some money to spend (approximately $18m has been estimated). In the middle of a Championship window there’s little point holding onto it.

Matthews would take some pressure off the passing game with Jimmy Graham injured, Kearse departing and Paul Richardson having a suspect injury record. They might also have enough free money to bolster the offensive and defensive lines.

That’s assuming they lose virtually all of their valuable free agents.

That still seems unlikely. They might be willing to overpay for one of their own. Jeremy Lane’s talent, ability to start at outside corner or the slot and familiarity with Seattle’s technique could make him a priority.

Adding to this thought, the Seahawks chose not to tender two players today:

Jessie Williams, Marcus Burley not tendered yet by #Seahawks. Thanks Tom. https://t.co/TrEACtUBwX

— Stephen Cohen (@scohenPI) March 5, 2016

A.J. Francis, Cooper Helfet, Eric Pinkins, Mo Seisay, DeShawn Shead and Steven Terrell all received tenders. There’s no news yet on why Burley was excluded.

Seattle PI’s Stephen Cohen made a good point suggesting it could be a sign they’re confident in keeping Lane. Burley is purely a slot corner and Lane has played well moving inside.

It’s virtually pointless not tendering Burley if you’re the Seahawks. As an exclusive rights free agent the contract is not guaranteed and there’s no signing bonus. They could cut Burley at any point and it wouldn’t cost them a dime.

Even if they’ve chosen to move on without Burley — there’s little point not having the right to retain him.

If they’re going to keep Lane, how much will it cost? And how much will be left to spend?

Free agency is rarely dull with the Seahawks. Here’s the record:

2010 — Met with Brandon Marshall amid interest over a trade with Denver that never materialised, they also traded for Chris Clemons

2011 — Signed three big-names in Sidney Rice, Zach Miller and Robert Gallery while adding Tarvaris Jackson as the starting quarterback

2012 — Added Matt Flynn and Jason Jones, re-signed Marshawn Lynch and Red Bryant

2013 — Traded for Percy Harvin, signed Michael Bennett and Cliff Avril

2014 — Flirted with Jared Allen and Henry Melton but signed neither

2015 — Traded for Jimmy Graham

The Seahawks were tight against the cap in 2014 and probably would’ve signed Allen but for that fact.

If they find themselves with cash to spend next week — they’ll use it. That probably doesn’t mean a big splash on a top-tier free agent but they could be active in the second wave.

Matthews could be one of many targets if their own free agents move on en masse.

Todd McShay’s mock draft

McShay had the Seahawks taking Andrew Billings in his last projection. This time he goes with Robert Nkemdiche (DT, Ole Miss):

“The Seahawks have shown a willingness to take a chance on risk/reward prospects in the past, and Nkemdiche, who comes with plenty of off-field baggage, certainly fits that bill. Even though his tape is inconsistent, he has top-10 talent, and his combine workout confirmed his rare athletic ability. According to ESPN Stats & Information data, Nkemdiche is just the fifth defensive lineman since 2006 to weigh in at 290-plus pounds, run a sub-5.00 40-yard dash and jump at least 35 inches in the vertical.”

This has become a popular pick within the national media — based on the perception that the Seahawks are willing to take a chance on character flags.

How accurate is that perception?

There’s no doubt they’ve rolled the dice a few times — but they were all calculated gambles:

— Seattle drafted Bruce Irvin with the #15 pick despite perceived character issues. Pete Carroll recruited Irvin from the JUCO ranks and had significant information on him going into the draft.

— The Seahawks traded 1st and 3rd round picks to Minnesota for ‘problem child’ Percy Harvin. Again, Carroll had recruited Harvin during his USC days. Darrell Bevell also coached him during his spell as the Vikings offensive coordinator. It was a risk making the deal — but Seattle clearly had enough background on Harvin to feel good about taking the chance.

— Seattle drafted Frank Clark with a late second round pick in 2015. It became a national talking point due to Clark’s dismissal from Michigan after being arrested for domestic violence. Carroll and John Schneider went to great lengths to explain their decision and the study they’d made into the case. Whether you agree with the decision or not — they didn’t walk into that pick with any kind of ignorance.

Harvin flamed out — but Irvin hasn’t had any issues during his pro career and at the combine Carroll praised Clark as “a great kid in the program”.

Aside from the trio above, the Seahawks have taken very few character risks with their picks in the first three rounds:

2010 — Russell Okung, Earl Thomas, Golden Tate
2011 — James Carpenter, John Moffitt
2012 — Bruce Irvin, Bobby Wagner, Russell Wilson
2013 — Christine Michael, Jordan Hill
2014 — Paul Richardson, Justin Britt
2015 — Jimmy Graham, Frank Clark, Tyler Lockett

Of the 15 above there are more players with celebrated high character or zero flags than there are risks.

Nkemdiche’s issues are well publicised. Draft Insider Tony Pauline had this to say in a recent podcast:

“Lot of off the field issues that could really push him out of the first round. You look at him physically and you see a guy that should really be a top-15 pick… The fall out of the window is just the tip of the iceberg from what I’m hearing. There are some significant off the field issues and maybe they’ll make their way to the press but it’s definitely going to hurt his draft stock.”

This doesn’t feel like a calculated gamble — it’s a pure risk move. Unlike Clark there doesn’t appear to be one significant incident to research. It’s an entire character profile. If Nkemdiche’s bizarre press conference at the combine was an indicator — it’s hard to imagine he impressed Seattle’s top brass if they met.

I understand why many people want to pair the Seahawks with Nkemdiche. From the outside it would be easy to assume they’re a team intent on taking major risks. The reality is a little bit different and it’d probably be a shock if they drafted Nkemdiche at #26 with the stakes so high.

In round two you maybe start to consider the upside. The thing is, 32 other teams will be having the exact same thought.

The following players were available in McShay’s mock that were off the board in our projection yesterday:

Paxton Lynch (QB, Memphis)
Jason Spriggs (T, Indiana)
Reggie Ragland (LB, Alabama)
Corey Coleman (WR, Baylor)
Derrick Henry (RB, Alabama)
Andrew Billings (DT, Baylor)
Keanu Neal (S, Florida)

Daniel Jeremiah’s latest mock draft

Just like Jeremiah’s previous mock, the Seahawks take Alabama defensive tackle A’Shawn Robinson:

“Robinson is one the top interior defenders in the draft and he would fit perfectly in Seattle.”

You could easily be forgiven for wondering what all the hype is about with Robinson. He had marginal production in college (3.5 sacks in 2015, 2.5 of which came in one game). Too often he was content to be blocked and hold position. He doesn’t get into the backfield and create splash plays.

The general feeling was Robinson is a unique athlete and his best football is still to come. He certainly carries 307lbs very well — there’s very little bad weight on his 6-3-and-a-half frame and he has 34.5 inch arms.

At the combine however he had a pretty average performance — comparable to guys like Ricky-Jean Francois rather than Marcell Dareus. He ran a 5.20 in the forty (1.79 split), managed only 26 inches in the vertical and an average 8-10 broad jump. Alabama team mate D.J. Pettway had a better three-cone. Jihad Ward’s three cone smashed Robinson’s (7.38 vs 7.80).

Compare that performance to Dareus’ in 2011. He was heavier (319lbs) and ran a 4.93 with a 1.68 split. His broad, vertical and three-cone were similar — but it’s that initial quickness at 319lbs that separates the pair.

Robinson might be little more than a disciplined run-stopper who is tough to move off the spot. And that’s fine — but it’s not often a player with this skill-set and athletic profile is taken early. The Seahawks have looked for freakish traits in round one. Robinson falls short in that sense.

The following players were available in Jeremiah’s mock that were off the board in our projection yesterday:

Jason Spriggs (T, Indiana)
Derrick Henry (RB, Alabama)
Andrew Billings (DT, Baylor)
Keanu Neal (S, Florida)

Germain Ifedi’s athleticism

In our mock draft yesterday I paired the Seahawks with Ifedi at #26. Jeremiah has him going to Carolina at #30 — McShay doesn’t include him in the first round.

Jeremiah talked more about Ifedi here.

“I think he can play tackle. I know that there’s some debate, some belief that he can kick inside and be better at guard. But guys to me he is what you want your tackle to look like. He can bend. To me the awareness is an issue and that’s something he’s going to have to learn and develop but man all of the tools are there for him to maybe even jump up — maybe sneak into the bottom of the first round. He’s right on that edge.”

Charles Davis followed up by mentioning Duane Brown. Jeremiah agreed with the comparison and suggested he’d be a “solid starting right tackle right away”.

Funnily enough Brown was the #26 pick in 2008. He’s a different body type to Ifedi (at the combine he was 6-4, 315lbs and ran quicker but wasn’t as explosive in the vertical jump). Brown also had 33 inch arms not 36 inches. He still had a very good career in Houston as a late first round tackle pick.

If you’re wondering about Ifedi’s athletic upside (and there’s no reason to after a 32.5 inch vertical at 324lbs) — here he is in the mirror drill at the combine going up against future #1 overall pick Laremy Tunsil:

The athletic potential of Germain Ifedi, combined with the size and length he possesses, makes him a very intriguing option for the Seahawks at #26.

The Mock Draftable database says his best comparison physically is Kelechi Osemele — a player that probably costs you $10m APY on the open market.

It’ll be no reach if they do select him in round one. For more on Ifedi, check out this review I put together back in December.

This mock draft is a reaction to the combine and what I think will happen. All of my previous mocks represented a take on certain players (thus, Ronnie Stanley & Vernon Hargreaves falling). This is an attempt to guess how it might play out, regardless of my own views on a particular individual.

Round 1

#1 Tennessee — Laremy Tunsil (T, Ole Miss)
With Joey Bosa’s so-so combine, Tunsil is the big favourite to go #1 overall to bookend Taylor Lewan.

#2 Cleveland — Carson Wentz (QB, North Dakota State)
The NFL seems to be in love with Wentz. And while I still think there’s a chance Paxton Lynch ends up in Cleveland — there’s no reason to fight Wentz’s momentum.

#3 San Diego — Jaylen Ramsey (CB, Florida State)
He had a very good combine and with a combination of athleticism, technique and length — he’ll go in the top five.

#4 Dallas — Jared Goff (QB, California)
The Cowboys have to consider developing someone behind the perennially injured Tony Romo. Goff is perhaps best suited to Jason Garrett’s offense.

#5 Jacksonville — Myles Jack (LB, UCLA)
A rare athlete for the position, Jacksonville takes the best player available on defense.

#6 Baltimore — Joey Bosa (DE, Ohio State)
Bosa’s combine indicates he wins with agility rather than speed. He’d be a good fit working in Baltimore’s tough defense.

#7 San Francisco — Paxton Lynch (QB, Memphis)
The Niners might prefer to go in a different direction but Lynch is big, athletic and mobile.

#8 Miami — Ronnie Stanley (T, Notre Dame)
I’m not a big fan of Stanley but the Dolphins need a good pass-blocking left tackle.

#9 Tampa Bay — Vernon Hargreaves (CB, Florida)
He lacks length and explosive athleticism but admittedly he put on a technical clinic during drills.

#10 New York Giants — Darron Lee (LB, Ohio State)
What a performance at the combine — confirming he’s a legit top-15 talent. Lee is going to be great.

#11 Chicago — DeForest Buckner (DE, Oregon)
Buckner is an ideal fit to play DE in Vic Fangio’s scheme. This would be a good fit for the Bears.

#12 New Orleans — Sheldon Rankins (DT, Louisville)
Rankins played DE and DT at Louisville and could move around in New Orleans’ 3-4 scheme.

#13 Philadelphia — Jack Conklin (T, Michigan State)
He’s more athletic than anyone thought and could be a guard in 2016 before switching to right tackle when Lane Johnson replaces Jason Peters.

#14 Oakland — Ezekiel Elliott (RB, Ohio State)
It’s not a huge need but Elliott is a top player in this draft class.

#15 Los Angeles — Laquon Treadwell (WR, Ole Miss)
He’s not a burner but Treadwell looked so fluid during drills. A natural talent who will be a good possession receiver.

#16 Detroit — Jason Spriggs (T, Indiana)
Detroit fills arguably their biggest need with the athletic Spriggs.

#17 Atlanta — Leonard Floyd (LB, Georgia)
Floyd had a terrific combine. Dan Quinn adds another explosive athlete to his defense — his version of Bruce Irvin (who they’re unlikely to afford).

#18 Indianapolis — Taylor Decker (T, Ohio State)
Decker lost ground to Conklin and Spriggs at the combine but should still secure a place in the top-20.

#19 Buffalo — A’Shawn Robinson (DT, Alabama)
Not quite the performance we expected at the combine but Robinson is a 32-year-old grown man who is actually 20.

#20 New York Jets — Noah Spence (DE, Eastern Kentucky)
Whatever the reason for an average combine — Spence didn’t flash quick-twitch brilliance and will probably not go in the top-10.

#21 Washington — Reggie Ragland (LB, Alabama)
Scot McCloughan wants to be physical running the ball and stop the run on defense. Enter Reggie Ragland as a tone-setter on defense.

#22 Houston — Corey Coleman (WR, Baylor)
An explosive athlete who can compliment DeAndre Hopkins and whoever they bring in at quarterback.

#23 Minnesota — Derrick Henry (RB, Alabama)
How about a one-two punch with Adrian Peterson and Henry? Let’s not forget Peterson turns 31 this month.

#24 Cincinatti — Andrew Billings (DT, Baylor)
The Bengals fit Billings next to Geno Atkins — the perfect compliment.

#25 Pittsburgh — Keanu Neal (S, Florida)
What a player. A born leader who hits like a sledgehammer. He’d look really good in the AFC North. One of the best players in the draft.

#26 Seattle — Germain Ifedi (T, Texas A&M)
The Seahawks have to find an answer if Russell Okung moves on. They love length (36 inch arms), size (320lbs) and athleticism (top vertical jump among OL’s).

#27 Green Bay — Jarran Reed (DT, Alabama)
Physical, competitive run-defender. Green Bay needs more toughness and grit on defense.

#28 Kansas City — Eli Apple (CB, Ohio State)
A really good player and if he lasts into this range — he’ll be another cornerback steal for the Chiefs.

#29 Arizona — Kamalei Correa (LB, Boise State)
He had a very good combine and will interest the 3-4 teams as an OLB.

#30 Carolina — Emmanuel Ogbah (DE, Oklahoma State)
There are question marks about his effort but Ogbah ran an elite 1.5 split and has incredible length (35.5 inch arms) and production (13 sacks in 2015)

#31 Denver — Shon Coleman (T, Auburn)
Terrific, underrated player. The Broncos drafted 25-year-old rookie Sly Williams so won’t be put off Coleman’s age (24).

Round 2

#32 Cleveland — Shaq Lawson (DE, Clemson)
He can play DE or OLB for Cleveland in the 3-4.

#33 Tennessee — William Jackson (CB, Houston)
He had a fantastic combine and is knocking on the door for round one.

#34 Dallas — Mackensive Alexander (CB, Clemson)
The self-proclaimed best corner in the draft might have to wait a little while.

#35 San Diego — Ryan Kelly (C, Alabama)
He separated from the rest of the center’s with an excellent combine.

#36 Baltimore — Darian Thompson (S, Boise State)
Not a great combine but he was reportedly suffering with illness.

#37 San Francisco — Will Fuller (WR, Notre Dame)
We know how much Chip Kelly loves speed on offense.

#38 Miami — Kevin Dodd (DE, Clemson)
The Dolphins add another pass-rusher to their stable.

#39 Jacksonville — Charles Tapper (DE, Oklahoma)
One of the stars of the combine, boosting his stock by a full round.

#40 New York Giants — Vernon Butler (DT, Louisiana Tech)
A decent combine but others were better so he could last into round two.

#41 Chicago — Le’Raven Clark (T, Texas A&M)
Incredible upside gets him into the top-50.

#42 Tampa Bay — Kenny Clark (DT, UCLA)
He looked excellent during the combine drills. He’s a pure one-technique.

#43 Los Angeles — Robert Nkemdiche (DE, Ole Miss)
Jeff Fisher isn’t afraid of character issues. They also love to collect explosive D-liners.

#44 Oakland — Vonn Bell (S, Ohio State)
The Raiders need to add a safety and Bell is the best available.

#45 Los Angeles — Connor Cook (QB, Michigan State)
Cook is a quirky character but he can game-manage this roster effectively.

#46 Detroit — Michael Thomas (WR, Ohio State)
With Calvin Johnson set to retire — they’ll need a big target.

#47 New Orleans — Nick Martin (C, Notre Dame)
A terrific, solid top-50 player. He can play guard or center.

#48 Indianapolis — Jonathan Bullard (DE, Florida)
He had an impressive combine but this feels like his range. He’s best at DE in the 3-4.

#49 Buffalo — Kyler Fackrell (LB, Utah State)
An underrated pass-rusher and effective blitzer.

#50 Atlanta — Sterling Shepard (WR, Oklahoma)
Shepard put on a show at the combine to suggest he’s the next Tyler Lockett.

#51 New York Jets — Cody Whitehair (T, Kansas State)
He’ll kick inside to guard or center — two need positions for the Jets.

#52 Houston — Christian Hackenburg (QB, Penn State)
Is it too obvious? Hackenburg has the tools — he just isn’t accurate.

#53 Washington — Christian Westerman (G, Arizona State)
Athletic lineman. The type McGloughan will love. He can play center or guard.

#54 Minnesota — Joshua Garnett (G, Stanford)
Improving the O-line is a big need for the Vikings.

#55 Cincinnati — Josh Doctson (WR, TCU)
They might lose Marvin Jones and Doctson is an ideal replacement.

#56 Seattle — Travis Feeney (LB, Washington)
Pete Carroll wants to find a player to impact turnovers. Feeney is explosive, rangy and makes plays. He’d replace Bruce Irvin.

#57 Green Bay — Braxton Miller (WR, Ohio State)
The Packers like to draft and develop second round receivers.

#58 Pittsburgh — Chris Jones (DT, Mississippi State)
Adding another D-liner to their rotation up front makes sense.

#59 Kansas City — Austin Johnson (DT, Penn State)
Constantly active, intense defensive lineman with a non-stop motor.

#60 New England — Joshua Perry (LB, Ohio State)
I get the sense Bill Belichick will love Perry’s intensity and leadership.

#61 Arizona — Miles Killebrew (S, Southern Utah)
A player with major upside. They can develop him to to start at safety.

#62 Denver — Tyler Boyd (WR, Pittsburgh)
Terrific football player and a Mr. Reliable for whoever starts at quarterback.

63 Carolina — Charone Peake (WR, Clemson)
The Panthers can’t put enough talented receivers in front of Cam Newton.

Further thoughts on the Seahawks

The Ifedi pick is relatively straight forward. The Seahawks will need an answer at tackle if they lose Russell Okung (which seems increasingly likely). Garry Gilliam appears destined to switch to left tackle. Ifedi would play right tackle.

He fits their profile perfectly for the position — 6-6, 324lbs, 36 inch arms, a good 1.78 split and the best vertical jump (32.5 inches) in this years O-line class.

Physically he compares favourably to Greg Robinson, the #2 overall pick in 2014. Ifedi would give the Seahawks a tackle with an incredibly high ceiling at an affordable cost for the next four years.

Pete Carroll told Pat Kirwan at the combine that the Seahawks are looking to find players that can force turnovers on defense. We also know they like explosive athleticism and playmakers. Travis Feeney fits the bill perfectly.

At 6-4 and 230lbs he ran a 4.50 with an elite 1.59 split. He added a 40 inch vertical and a 10-10 in the broad jump. Feeney had eight sacks in 2015 and has the kind of character and personality the Seahawks like. He’s a competitor who impacts games.

The Seahawks will likely need to replace Bruce Irvin and while Feeney is lighter — they have started Malcolm Smith (6-0, 225lbs) and Mike Morgan (6-3, 235lbs) in that position.

After his combine display on Sunday, Feeney is unlikely to last until the late third round. If they want him they might have to take him at #56. He screams ‘Seahawks’.

These two picks also address the two biggest needs — O-line and pass rusher/defensive playmaker.

With two picks in round three they could target an interior offensive lineman (Connor McGovern? Joe Dahl? Graham Glasgow?) and take the best remaining defensive tackle. Willie Henry might still be on the board. I don’t think Javon Hargrave will be drafted until rounds 3-4. There’s a chance Sheldon Day, Ronald Blair III and Darius Latham could be available.

I also intend to look closer at Matt Judon from Grand Valley State. He’s 6-3 and 275lbs with 34 inch arms. He posted a 4.73 (1.66 split) and a 35 inch vertical. Penn State’s Anthony Vettel also tested well. The beauty of this defensive tackle class is there will be options in the late third and even the fourth round.

The depth at DT could also provide excellent value in free agency. If teams are looking at the draft to add a defensive tackle — it could open up the possibility of Seattle adding a couple of cheap veterans.

They could also consider adding a running back in round three. Notre Dame’s C.J. Prosise looks like the best fit at 6-0, 220lbs with 4.48 speed and a 35.5 inch vertical. He also has a lot of experience catching the ball out of the backfield.

Today the defensive backs workout. I will update this post with the forty times and a few notes so keep checking back. Here’s the list of DB’s with +32 inch arms (Seattle’s length ideal):

(updated to include official 40 times — unofficial indicated with a ‘u’)

James Bradberry — 6-0, 211lbs, 33 inch arms — 4.50, 36 inch vertical
Artie Burns — 6-0, 193lbs, 33 inch arms — 4.46, 31.5 inch vertical
Jeremy Cash — 6-0, 212lbs, 32.5 inch arms — DNP
Deandre Elliott — 6-0, 188lbs, 32 inch arms — 4.55, 41 inch vertical
T.J. Green — 6-2, 209lbs, 32 inch arms — 4.34, 35.5 inch vertical
Deiondre Hall — 6-1, 199lbs, 34.5 inch arms — 4.68, 37 inch vertical
William Jackson — 6-0, 189lbs, 32 inch arms — 4.37
Karl Joseph — 5-10, 205lbs, 32 inch arms — DNP
Jayron Kearse — 6-4, 216lbs, 34 inch arms — 4.64 u, 31.5 inch vertical
Miles Killebrew — 6-2, 217lbs, 32 inch arms — 4.67 u, 38 inch vertical
Jordan Lomax — 5-10, 202lbs, 32 inch arms — 4.77 u, 36 inch vertical
Eric Murray — 5-10, 199lbs, 32 inch arms — 4.50 u, 39.5 inch vertical
Keanu Neal — 6-0, 211lbs, 33 inch arms – 4.64 u, 38 inch vertical
Jaylen Ramsey — 6-1, 209lbs, 33.5 inch arms — 4.42 u, 41.5 inch vertical
Rashard Robinson — 6-1, 171lbs, 32 inch arms — 4.50 u, 35.5 inch vertical
Keivarae Russell — 6-0, 192lbs, 32 inch arms — DNP
Justin Simmons — 6-2, 203lbs, 32.5 inch arms — 4.62 u, 40 inch vertical
Brandon Williams — 5-11, 197lbs, 32.5 inch arms — 4.38 u, 30.5 inch vertical
Daryl Worley — 6-0, 204lbs, 33.5 inch arms — 4.66 u, 35.5 inch vertical

As you can see, there’s some nice speed, explosion and length above. Eric Murray, James Bradberry, T.J. Green, Deiondre Hall, Justin Simmons and Daryl Worley could be nice options later in the draft.

Vernon Hargreaves only ran a 4.50 at 5-10 and 204lbs with 30.5 inch arms. He’s not a great speed guy to go with limited size. He looked very natural in the drills. He did have a 10-10 broad jump.

Eli Apple ran a 4.40. For me he’s a superior talent to Hargreaves.

41.5 inch vertical and an 11-3 broad for Jaylen Ramsey. There you go.

Keanu Neal had a 38 inch vertical and an 11-0 in the broad. That is special too. He’s a first round lock.

Seahawks interested in Germain Ifedi at #26?
Tony Pauline says the Seahawks and Broncos are targeting the Texas A&M tackle in round one. This shouldn’t be a big surprise to anyone. Ifedi is basically the prototype offensive lineman for Seattle.

He’s nearly 6-6, 324lbs and has 36 inch arms. They love size and length. Russell Okung has 36 inch arms, James Carpenter was 325lbs, so was Justin Britt. Three players drafted by the Seahawks in the first two rounds. This is their profile for an offensive lineman taken early.

Here’s what I wrote about Ifedi when he chose to declare:

He’s an enormous 6-5 and 320lbs yet moves superbly. His footwork is quite brilliant for a man his size — his kick slide is good, he moves freely to the second level. In the two games I watched he didn’t get beat once off the edge by a speed rush.

There’s very little ‘bad weight’ to his frame — he’s an enormous tackle and most of it is muscle. When a D-end tries to hand fight he usually absorbs the defender and it’s over. Technically he had some nice blocks — turning his man to open up a crease and moving people off the LOS to create a running lane. He has the athleticism to adjust on the move and if he ever moved to guard he’d have no trouble pulling or kicking out to the next level.

He kind of looks like a more athletic James Carpenter who’s in better shape. I like his chances of playing tackle in the NFL because of the athletic upside. He moves a lot better than Carpenter (who in fairness was more of a run blocker — and did it very well at Alabama).

I’ve seen quite a few complaints about his power in the run game but these issues didn’t show up in the two contests here. I thought he actually showed good leverage and punch to drive a couple of defenders off the line. Perhaps it’s more of a technique issue? Certainly to look at Ifedi you wouldn’t assume any lack of power.

There’s a lot of negativity about Ifedi in the media but he carries a ton of upside and can play right tackle or left guard for the Seahawks. It won’t be a pick that’ll get many people excited — but it makes a ton of sense.

At the combine he had a 32.5 inch vertical — second best among offensive linemen.

If they’re unable to re-sign Russell Okung they’ll need to do something at tackle. Free agency could be expensive. The D-line class is deep enough in this draft to find an option in rounds 2-3 (more on that in a bit). You might not be able to find an offensive tackle you like after round one.

Tunsil, Stanley, Conklin, Spriggs and Decker are all likely to be off the board at #26. If you don’t take Ifedi or Shon Coleman or Le’Raven Clark — you run the risk of missing out. It’s probably not what Seahawks fans want to hear — but that might have to be the direction they go in round one.

Charles Tapper wins the day
He had some nice college tape at Oklahoma — but nobody expected this performance. Tapper is 6-3, 271lbs and has 34.5 inch arms. He’s big and long. Today he ran the quickest time in the D-line class with an official 4.59 and a 10-yard split of 1.59.

Anything in the 1.5’s is elite — and Tapper backed it up with a 34 inch vertical and a 9-9 in the broad jump. In the drills he looked great working in space — and took part in the linebacker exercises. He had quick feet and changed direction easily. He excelled in the mobility drills going around and over the bags. He could’ve used a bit more knee bend in the punch drill but he showed great force and balance.

He had seven sacks in 2015 — all in the last six games. He can play inside or out and was moved all across the defensive front by Oklahoma. If the Seahawks want to add an impact pass rusher — Tapper could be a great option.

Emmanuel Ogbah also looked better than expected
On tape Ogbah slouches around and plays with inconsistent effort. Even with a 13-sack season he looked like a mid-rounder. After this performance — teams are going to be doing a ton of work on his motor and passion for the game.

He had a 35.5 inch vertical, a 10-1 broad jump and a 4.62 forty with a 1.59 split. Again — anything in the 1.5’s is elite. It’s what the Seahawks have gone for in an edge rusher (Avril 1.50, Irvin 1.55, Clark 1.59).

Ogbah revealed he met with the Seahawks in Indianapolis and it’s perhaps no surprise. He has the physical skills — but does he have the heart and the grit? His tape leaves a lot of questions in that regard.

He was silky smooth in the drills, moving very easily and looking fantastic at 6-4, 273lbs and with 35.5 inch arms. Physically he’s an absolute stud. The size, length and athleticism is worthy of a top-10 grade. Can he convince teams he wants to be great?

D-line class a bit overhyped?
There’s some nice depth in the class and you’ll be able to find impact players well into rounds three and four. That said, all we’ve heard about is the brilliance of the D-liners. There simply aren’t many special players in the group.

Joey Bosa is only a 4.86 runner with a 1.69 split and a 32 inch vertical (although he performed well in the agility tests, highlighted by a 6.89 three-cone). Noah Spence — a one-dimensional speed rusher — ran a surprising 4.80 with a 1.62. They could be top-15 picks but are well off some of the more athletic D-liners to enter the league in recent memory.

The vertical jump tests lower body explosion. Take a look at what the big names in this class offered:

Chris Jones — 24.5 inches
Jihad Ward – 25 inches
A’Shawn Robinson – 26 inches
Austin Johnson – 26 inches
Adolphus Washington – 27 inches
Andrew Billings – 27.5 inches
Kenny Clark 28.5 inches

That’s really underwhelming.

Tapper and Ogbah were the only two defensive linemen to record a split in the 1.5’s. If you’re looking for a really athletic, explosive edge rusher — good luck. It’s not a class rich in quick-twitch pass-rushers.

Carl Nassib — one of the better runners at 4.84 and a 1.62 split at 277lbs — had only a 28.5 inch vertical.

Florida’s Jonathan Bullard was probably the most impressive interior D-lineman — and yet you can make a very clear case to ask if he’s that much better in round 1-2 compared to a Willie Henry in round 2-3?

Robert Nkemdiche had a nice, athletic workout as expected — but can you trust him as an early pick? Shaq Lawson tested well for his size.

Here’s how I’d describe this class. It’s abnormally deep with around 27 players you wouldn’t mind drafting in the first two days. Yet there’s a dearth of unique speed and athleticism (the thing the Seahawks love) and the difference between the top-10 and the rest is minimal.

I’ve seen it suggested that the Seahawks would be making a mistake not to tap into this class at #26. That, to me, is buying into the hype. Seattle can find better value in rounds two or three on the D-line unless the likes of Sheldon Rankins or Emmanuel Ogbah drop (which seems unlikely after today). Who do you have to have at #26? Who can’t you live without from this D-line class? Seriously?

Travis Feeney makes his case
The medical checks will be critical for Feeney — but he had a tremendous workout. At nearly 6-4 and 230lbs he ran a 4.50 with a 1.59 split. He also had a 10-10 in the broad jump and a 40-inch vertical. That’s Seahawky.

Rand Getlin also reported he was suffering with a hernia — making his performance all the more impressive.

He’s a legit candidate to come in and replace Bruce Irvin if he can prove his health. He’d be a great fit in Seattle and would offer some nice special teams value too. He could be worth a fourth round pick.

Other linebackers stand out
Leonard Floyd ran a 4.60 with a 1.60 split and jumped 39.5 inches in the vertical. That should be enough to get someones attention in round one. Kyler Fackrell didn’t quite crack the 1.5’s in his split (1.62) and ran a 4.72. That’s still good enough for someone to take a chance on him working the edge. He had a 34.5 inch vertical.

We’ve had Darron Lee marked as a top-12 pick for some time and he ran a 4.47 with an elite 1.55 split. He makes a huge amount of sense for the Giants at #10 and maybe even the 49ers at #7.

If you want a sleeper pick to dig into — check out East Carolina’s Montese Overton. He ran a 4.61 with an elite 1.59 split. He could also be a hybrid edge-rusher/linebacker. He jumped 34 inches in the vertical which is good but not great at 6-2 and 223lbs.

LSU’s Deion Jones didn’t get into Lee range and that likely ends any first round talk. His best time was a 4.59 with a 1.60 split. He only had a 33 inch vertical.

Su’a Cravens chose not to run a forty yard dash and only jumped 27 inches in the vertical. Not good.

Today the defensive lineman and linebackers work out. I will update this post with the forty times and a few notes so keep checking back. Here are things to look out for:

— Which DE’s run a 1.5 10-yard split? That’s the elite bracket. Cliff Avril (1.50), Bruce Irvin (1.55) and Frank Clark (1.59) all ran in the 1.5’s.

— Which defensive tackles have the athleticism to work the pass rush at the next level? It’s a deep class for DT’s — but not necessarily for pass rushers. Can anyone separate with an athletic workout and a fast split?

— Are there any second or third tier linebackers with extreme speed? The Seahawks have looked for speed in the front seven and their last linebacker pick — Kevin Pierre-Louis — had a fantastic workout.

Players to monitor:

Shilique Calhoun
He’s 6-4, 251lbs and has 34 inch arms. At the 2008 combine, Cliff Avril measured at 6-3, 253lbs. Both players had underwhelming college careers in the Big-10. Avril was the #92 overall pick and the Seahawks own the #90 pick this year. Can Calhoun run a 4.51 like Avril with a split in the 1.5’s? If so, he could be on Seattle’s radar in rounds 2-3.

Austin Johnson
Incredible effort and mobility for his size. Johnson weighed in at 314lbs which is a bit lighter than the Senior Bowl. Underrated pass rush ability. Could easily work into the late first with a great workout here. Has the attitude Seattle loves.

Adolphus Washington
Arguably the best interior pass rusher among the DT’s, Washington had an inconsistent career at Ohio State. He has the length (34.5 inch arms) and similar physique and style to Malik Jackson. Can he put on a show today?

Vernon Butler
At 6-4, 323lbs and with 35 inch arms — he compares physically to Muhammad Wilkerson. On tape he’s a far weaker pass rusher. Wilkerson ran an impressive 4.96 with a 1.73 split at 315lbs. If Butler gets into that range teams will take notice.

Kevin Dodd
A one-year wonder at Clemson, Dodd has terrific size (6-5, 277lbs) and length (34 inch arms). On tape he doesn’t appear to have an explosive get-off so can he explode with a great split time and put in an athletic performance?

Emmanuel Ogbah
Like Dodd, Ogbah has ideal size and length (6-4, 273lbs, 35.5 inch arms) but his effort in college was below average. He blew hot and cold a lot and teams will need reassuring he can be an explosive edge rusher.

A’Shawn Robinson
He’s a bad dude — he looks about 33 years old already (he’s only 20). Robinson is built uniquely with minimal bad weight on a 6-4, 307lbs frame with 34.5 inch arms. He’s a Greek God. He’s passive on tape and needs to play with greater aggression at the next level.

Travis Feeney
Tall and productive in 2015, Feeney’s shoulder injuries could stall his pro-career before it even begins. If teams are comfortable with the medical checks he has a shot to make it in the NFL. He’s good on special teams and could contribute at linebacker in a rotation role initially. A good workout helps him.

Kyler Fackrell
He plays with his hair on fire and impacts games. He’ll get into the backfield and make life uncomfortable for a QB. He’s a bit of a tweener in terms of size. He’ll need to run a 1.5 split to get into contention.

Jordan Jenkins
He’s 6-3, 249lbs and has +34 inch arms. He didn’t look like a special athlete on tape but he’s a high character, high intensity edge rusher. Like Fackrell he needs to target the 1.5 split range.

Deion Jones
Lighter linebacker who moves well and plays the run. Had five sacks and a pick six in 2015, plus 99 tackles. Needs an explosive workout given his size.

Other names to keep an eye on: Jonathan Bullard (DT), Javon Hargrave (DT), Willie Henry (DT), Darius Latham (DT), Chris Jones (DT), Shaq Lawson (DE), Sheldon Rankins (DT), Jihad Ward (DE), Leonard Floyd (LB).

DL forty times & 10-yard splits (group 1)
Official times

Mehdi Abdesmad — 5.10 – 1.74
Sterling Bailey — 5.23 – 1.82
Jimmy Bean — DNP
Andrew Billings — 5.05 – 1.77
Ronald Blair — 5.15 – 1.75
Joey Bosa — 4.86 – 1.69
DeForest Buckner — 5.05 – 1.77
Jonathan Bullard — 4.93 – 1.66
Vernon Butler — 5.33 – 1.83
Shilique Calhoun — 4.82 – 1.69
Kenny Clark — 5.06 – 1.72
Maliek Collins — 5.03 – 1.77
Kamalei Correa — 4.69 – 1.63
James Cowser — 4.82 – 1.69
Sheldon Day — 5.07 – 1.69
Kevin Dodd — 4.86 – 1.70
Jason Fanaika — 4.92 – 1.68
Adam Gotsis — DNP
Javon Hargrave — 4.93 – 1.70
Joel Heath — 5.02 – 1.77
Willie Henry — 5.00 – 1.75
Matthew Ioannidis — 5.03 – 1.76
Branden Jackson — 5.06 – 1.75
Quinton Jefferson — 4.95 – 1.70
Austin Johnson — 5.32 – 1.86
Chris Jones — 5.03 – 1.70
Matt Judon — 4.73 – 1.66
Ufomba Kamalu — 5.01 – 1.74
Bronson Kaufusi — 4.87 – 1.70
Darius Latham — 5.32 – 1.90

Fletcher Cox in 2012 ran a 4.77 with a 1.65 split at 6-4, 297lbs. Seattle probably passed on him due to a 26 inch vertical. None of the big guys at 300lbs ran as well as this in group one.

Frank Clark, who they did draft, ran a 4.64 with a 1.59 split at 6-2 and 271lbs. Michael Bennett ran a 1.62 split as his pro day.

The first group confirmed what we really knew about the class. It’s deep — but mostly filled with big guys and not quick-twitch pass rushers.

Jonathan Bullard’s 1.66 split is the highlight of the first group — but he is lighter at 6-3, 285lbs.

The Seahawks drafted Jordan Hill in round three with a 1.75 split.

Bullard and Vernon Butler looked really quick in the bag drills. Great footwork, light on their feet.

Willie Henry, DeForest Buckner and Chris Jones looked nice and quick on the speed-to-power drills, striking the bags and rounding the edge. On the punch and shuffle, emphasising pad level and mobility, Andrew Billings looked terrific. Bullard received warm praise from the coaches for his effort but he looked a little tight in the hips. Kenny Clark and Willie Henry were naturally good in this drill. Chris Jones was quick but struggled to bend his knees and punch.

In the lateral agility test, Kamalei Correa looked really good — as did Willie Henry. Overall I think Henry is doing a great job. Vernon Butler moves very well for his size.

From group one, Henry, Jones, Correa, Bullard, Day and Clark probably did the most to help their stock.

DL forty times & 10-yard splits (group 2)
All prospects run twice, I included the best time below

Niles Lawrence-Stample — DNP
Shaq Lawson — 4.70 – 1.64
Dean Lowry — 4.88 – 1.70
Luther Maddy — DNP
Chris Mayes — 5.22 – 1.74
Alex McCalister — 4.80 – 1.68
Carl Nassib — 4.84 – 1.62
Giorgio Newberry — 4.94 – 1.74
Yannick Ngakoue — 4.75 – 1.65
Dadi Nicolas — 4.74 – 1.70
Robert Nkemdiche — 4.87 – 1.68
Shawn Oakman — 4.96 – 1.74
Victor Ochi — 4.85 – 1.60
Emmanuel Ogbah — 4.62 – 1.59
Romeo Okwara — 4.90 – 1.74
Drew Ott — DNP
D.J. Pettway — 4.99 – 1.69
Sheldon Rankins — 5.03 – 1.74
D.J. Reader — 5.33 – 1.84
Jarrad Reed — 5.21 – 1.80
Hassan Ridgeway — 5.02 – 1.72
A’Shawn Robinson — 5.19 – 1.79
DeVaunte Sigler — 5.15 – 1.83
Noah Spence — 4.80 – 1.62
Charles Tapper — 4.59 – 1.59
Lawrence Thomas — 4.98 – 1.73
Ron Thompson — 4.92 – 1.70
Vincent Valentine — 5.19 – 1.78
Jihad Ward — 5.11 – 1.77
Adolphus Washington — 5.17 – 1.80
Connor Wujciak — 4.91 – 1.70
Anthony Zettel — 4.81 – 1.66

Now we’re talking. Emmanuel Ogbah, who met with the Seahawks in Indianapolis, ran a 1.5 split at 273lbs. Carl Nassib had a 1.62 at 277lbs. That’s more like it.

Charles Tapper a 1.59 with a 4.59? At 271lbs, 6-3 and 34.5 inch arms. Fantastic. I’m buying whatever he’s selling.

"If he doesn't go in the first 20 picks I'll be stunned." Mayock on Sheldon Rankins. You're on notice, Saints.

— Dan Kadar (@MockingTheDraft) February 28, 2016

This was a good second group. Ogbah had 13 sacks in 2015, Nassib 15.5 and Tapper seven. Production + athleticism + grit usually works for Seattle. All three ran well with the necessary 10-yard split to be interesting.

Ogbah’s effort on tape is inconsistent. He had a 10-1 broad and a 35.5 inch vertical.

It was a disappointing performance by Noah Spence — a 4.80 and only a 1.62 split. It’s decent but not great for a guy his size. Spence is a one-dimensional guy — he has to win with speed. He didn’t light it up here.

Adolphus Washington had a poor run. Sheldon Rankins’ was decent but not great.

Shaq Lawson can be pretty satisfied with his run considering he’s not a speed guy (4.70, 1.64 split).

Ogbah and Rankins looked very smooth in the agility drills. Spence shone here with a great back pedal. Tapper is wowing everyone here. Another terrific drill — quick feet, changes direction nicely. Intense. Nassib doesn’t move as well in space with change of direction. More of a straight-line guy.

Ogbah is in fantastic shape. Nice, long frame. Moved around the bags well enough. Sheldon Rankins showed good balance and movement. A’shawn Robinson stumbled over the bags. Spence looked good — while Tapper again looked tremendous. Big movements, shifting around the bags.

Tony Pauline has just posted a piece suggesting the Seahawks are targeting Germain Ifedi in the late first round. He fits their size ideal at right tackle or left guard.

Power-to-speed drills — Ogbah looking real fluid again. Great workout. Smacked the bags and gets round the edge with burst. I didn’t expect to be this impressed with Ogbah.

Hassan Ridgeway was good in the punch drills. Nice bend and arm extension. Power. What a surprise — Tapper looked great again. Perhaps could’ve used a little more knee bend (a coach highlighted it) but he had great power and balance. He just looks great.

Tapper even looked good running linebacker drills in space.

Some of the D-line vertical jumps were awful today to go with some mediocre times. We’ll get into this in the review piece later.

LB forty times & 10-yard splits
All prospects run twice, I included the best time below

Dominique Alexander — DNP
Devante Bond — 4.70 – 1.64
Kentrell Brothers — 4.89 – 1.73
Beniquez Brown — 4.76 – 1,72
De’Vondre Campbell — 4.58 – 1.65
Su’a Cravens — DNP
Steven Daniels — 4.86 – 1.68
Kyler Fackrell — 4.72 – 1.63
Travis Feeney — 4.50 – 1.59
Leonard Floyd — 4.60 – 1.60
Josh Forrest — 4.91 – 1.72
Kris Frost — 4.97 – 1.74
B.J. Goodson — 4.69 – 1.61
Myles Jack — DNP
Jordan Jenkins — 4.80 – 1.64
C.J. Johnson — 4.81 – 1.71
Deion Jones — 4.59 – 1.60
Raphael Kirby — 4.73 – 1.64
Nick Kwiatkoski — DNP
Darron Lee — 4.47 – 1.55
Cory Littleton — 4.73 – 1.66
Steve Longa — 4.78 – 1.68
Curt Maggitt — DNP
Blake Martinez — 4.71 – 1.61
Tyler Matakevich — 4.81 – 1.66
Cassanova McKinzy — DNP
Jared Norris — 4.80 – 1.65
Montese Overton — 4.61 – 1.59
Gionni Paul — 5.05 – 1.74
Joshua Perry — 4.68 – 1.65
Reggie Ragland — 4.72 – 1.66
Joe Schobert — 4.76 – 1.63
Jaylon Smith — DNP
Terrance Smith — 4.76 – 1.66
Eric Striker — 4.80 – 1.69
Nick Vigil — 4.71 – 1.62
Stephen Weatherly — 4.60 – 1.59
Scooby Wright III — 4.90 – 1.67

Decent time for Kyler Fackrell who ran a 1.63 split. Great time for Travis Feeney too with a 1.59 and 4.50. He also had a 10-10 in the broad jump and a 40-inch vertical. That’s Seahawky. Leonard Floyd had a nice 1.60.