Terry Poole (T, San Diego State)
At the combine he looked like an ideal guard or center with his body shape. The Seahawks love tackle converts to move inside. Pure guards in college usually aren’t great athletes. The ones who are (eg Mark Glowinski) get a shot in Seattle. Otherwise they’ll look at the tackles and find a guy who can slot inside.
Poole can probably play at +310lbs comfortably. What always stood out was his body control. He keeps defenders in front and rarely loses position. First and foremost you have to be able to contain and counter. His hand technique is good and won’t need much work — that should mean he’s able to start quickly if required. He’d never make a tackle — his kick slide is almost as funky as Ereck Flowers’ but with none of the effect.
He can get stronger and if there’s one thing likely to hold him back in 2015 it’s that he could probably use a year in a pro-weight program. He’s a JUCO transfer from Monterrey Peninsula College and didn’t start playing football until his junior year at High School. Until that point he focused on basketball — and it was still his priority as a senior. Importantly he’s never suffered any injuries of note and he was a team captain in 2014.
He’s not a great second level blocker and that’s probably why he projects to the left side where Seattle has focused on size and power. They leave the pulling and progression to J.R. Sweezy on the right side. Poole always plays to the whistle and I suspect that’s one of the big plus points for Tom Cable. Not a SPARQ star (ranked as the 42nd most athletic O-lineman in the draft according to Zach Whitman).
The Seahawks do like to focus on size at left guard. He isn’t the longest either — +33 inch arms. It’ll be interesting to see if he can beat out Alvin Bailey to start. At the very least he’ll provide adequate camp competition and push Bailey.
Mark Glowinski (G, West Virginia)
A very different prospect to Terry Poole and immediately dubbed a right guard by Pete Carroll. Glowinski is ultra athletic with a reputation for being a gym rat. He’s another tackle convert (box ticked). It makes you wonder if he’s being groomed to replace 2016 free agent J.R. Sweezy. Carroll’s relentless praise for Sweezy last season hinted at a long term future in Seattle but can they afford to give their right guard big money? He’ll be 27 next year and hitting his prime. It’s hard to argue against trying to keep things cheap at right guard. Glowinski’s round four salary would enable them to do that for three more years if Sweezy departs.
If they weren’t looking for a replacement — why draft him? Especially with the hole at center. Unlike Poole he’s a SPARQ demon (ranked fourth among offensive lineman according to Zach Whitman). On tape he does a really good job at the second level. He’s very productive on screen plays and was asked to do a fair amount of pulling. He flashes tremendous footwork — looks like a tackle in that regard. Articulate and well spoken during interviews, tough as nails on tape. He’s a lot more polished than Sweezy was (obviously, given the defense-to-offense conversion).
If he’s given a year to red shirt he could make an immediate and telling impact in 2016. He’s been compared to Zane Beadles (who was also compared to Jordan Gross) — a former second round pick in 2010 who went on to sign a $30m contract in Jacksonville. Glowinski topped Brandon Scherff for overall athleticism — but Scherff is an absolute monster and a brutish run blocker. Glowinski is no slouch but Scherff will be an immediate impact player for Washington’s run game and a perennial Pro-Bowler.
He played well against Alabama. There are no obvious flaws on tape, just a few technical things that should be easy to fix (stance, winning with leverage). He’s better than a fair few interior linemen who went earlier in this draft class.
Tye Smith (CB, Towson)
He’s 6-0, 195lbs and has 32 inch arms. Seattle isn’t budging from what it looks for in a corner. There are no concessions here. They want a specific minimum length, minimum size. And they want toughness. He ran a 4.51 and a 4.61 at his pro-day. They’ll work with that. They aren’t necessarily looking for 4.3 runners.
As you can imagine it’s hard to judge Smith given he played for Towson and tape is limited online. He did compete against Kevin White and West Virginia and he struggled (no surprise) in a beat-down defeat. He appears to be a rangy press corner (shock horror). I’ve seen an interview with him where he describes his upbringing. His parents had to work late and he had to look after his sisters. The Seahawks look for prospects who’ve had to fight a little, had to do a lot of growing up early. He credits his parents for his work ethic, stating his father gets up for work every morning at 3am. “He’ll text me when he wakes up and I’ll text him back at 6-something and say ‘I’m up!'”
John Schneider said in his post-draft press conference that Smith reminded him of a superstar corner but wouldn’t share a name. In watching the highlight video below the one player I could only imagine is Richard Sherman. He’s not the most physically gifted corner — or the biggest — but in nearly all the plays he gained position, read the quarterback and played the ball. He was jumping routes and making himself the receiver. He also has a little bit of Sherman’s gangly running style. It might be a bit obvious to make that comparison — and he’s certainly not as tall as Sherman. But that’s the only name I could think of.
They were always likely to add another developmental corner in this range and there’s no pressure on Smith to start. The addition of Cary Williams will give him plenty of time to create an impression. ESPN says he could be “one of the bigger steals in this year’s cornerback class.” That’s exciting to consider given Seattle’s track record with defensive backs.
Obum Gwacham (DE, Oregon State)
In reading up on Gwacham two things are clear — he’s a fantastic, explosive athlete and a big-time character guy. What he isn’t is a particularly accomplished football player right now — and that’s why he’s a sixth round pick. In terms of measurables he’s 6-5 with 34.5 inch arms. That’s incredible length.
He did the high jump and triple jump at Oregon State. He only has a year’s experience on defense having previously acted as a receiver/tight end. He’s pretty much the next Jameson Konz project. What is he? Can he make it stick? Can the football qualities develop sufficiently so that he can find a defined role? Can he show enough in camp and pre-season to warrant an early role on special teams?
Like Konz he could be a slow burner — bouncing on and off the roster and spending time on the practise squad. To make the final roster he’s going to have to beat someone out and that won’t be easy. He moved to the United States when he was seven years old from Nigeria. He ran a 4.72 at the combine and managed a 36-inch vertical jump. As we discuss how athletic Gwacham is — remember that Frank Clark ran a 4.64 carrying nearly an extra 30lbs and jumped a 38.5 inch vertical. Doesn’t it just show off how rare Clark is?
On tape there’s very little evidence of hand use or any sense for counter-attacks. He looks like a guy making the switch from offense in his final year. He had four sacks in his first four games in 2014 but failed to register a single sack in the next eight games. He had a sack against Stanford where he just ran round the tackle and worked to the quarterback. It’s that kind of flash of talent that gets you excited about his long term potential. Yet he faces almost a similar learning curve to Kristjan Sokoli with greater competition to make the roster.
It’ll be fun to see how he operates in pre-season. He can also dunk a basketball as you’ll see in the video below. Even more impressive is Ryan Murphy’s effort to follow (Murphy was drafted in the seventh round by the Seahawks).
Kristjan Sokoli (C, Buffalo)
It’s impossible to project how he’ll transition to center and we can only comment on his skills as a defensive player. Buffalo had him play nose tackle — an ill fit at a lean-looking 6-5 and 300lbs. More often than not he just got drilled off the LOS. He had very little stoutness at the point and he struggled against power blocking. It’s not the most encouraging sign for this switch to offense. He’s still going to be lining up in the middle but he’s going to have to learn to hold position and not get shoved around.
In the very limited tape I’ve seen he showed no sign of the athletic freak he truly is. According to Zach Whitman he’s on a different level completely to pretty much every other player currently in the NFL. While he doesn’t have the pass rushing skills to have any shot on defense, they might be able to coach him up to hold position, snap a football and occasionally break to the second level. He ran a 4.84 forty, jumped a 38-inch vert and managed 31 reps on the bench press. He’s not a regular human being.
The greatest pitfall might be the necessity to learn the offense, make vital calls at the line and do all the little jobs a center has to do. It’s hard enough for a college center to make the transition — let alone a defensive player switching sides. Miraculous things have happened during the Pete Carroll era (Mike Williams making a comeback, J.R. Sweezy starting in week one of his rookie season) but Sokoli starting this year seems like a stretch too far. No doubt he’ll give it a go but he’ll need to prove he’s capable of taking the field even as a backup to warrant a roster spot ahead of Patrick Lewis and Lemuel Jeanpierre.
He might be a safe stash on the practise squad for a year if he can’t make what would be an unprecedented transition and Tom Cable’s greatest success story. If it works out at any point over the next few years the Seahawks would have a J.J. Watt-level athlete controlling the likes of Aaron Donald in the NFC West. That’ll help.
He was born in Albania and moved to the United States aged nine. His father applied for political asylum — a three-year process that eventually succeeded. A humble individual and clearly well respected at Buffalo — who also introduced Khalil Mack to the league a year ago. Sokoli says he wants to work on Wall Street when he finishes in the NFL.
Ryan Murphy (S, Oregon State)
He’s 6-1, 214lbs and runs a 4.45. That’s pretty much all you need to know. On tape there were some missed tackles — some sloppy ones too. However after the pick was made there was a lot of talk about how respected he was at Oregon State and he’s considered a heart-and-soul type player.
He was the second best SPARQ safety (in a mediocre class) according to Zach Whitman. They would’ve been looking for options to replace Jeron Johnson. Certainly some of the injuries on the back end exposed a lack of depth at the end of last season. They need guys who can fill in. You’re always going to suffer a major drop off if you try to replace an injured Kam Chancellor — but at least you’re limiting the damage if you’re putting another physical freak on the field.
Huge hitter in the open field. Big enough to play up at the LOS and have an impact. Had a kick return touchdown in 2014 and averaged over five tackles a game. Managed 6.5 TFL’s for the season plus a forced fumble and eight pass break-ups.
Murphy lost his best friend a few years ago and used it as motivation during his college career. He is also Marshawn Lynch’s cousin and stayed in his house as a 16-year-old. He has a decent shot at making the final roster given his added special teams value. He could be a gunner or a returner.
UDFA of note: Austin Hill (WR, Arizona)
It’s not that long ago that we were looking at Hill as a possible first round pick. He was a semi-finalist for the Biletnikoff in 2012 and destined for big things. Then in April 2013 he tore his ACL, missed the year and returned a different player in 2014. He lacked the same level of explosion, he was visibly slower and he faces a battle to deliver on his unquestionable potential.
It’s unclear whether he’ll ever be able to regain his 2012 form but he was an interesting UDFA pickup given some of the other options available. He’s 6-2 and 214lbs and incredibly strong. He plays even bigger than that size. If he can regain another gear and impress in camp he has every chance to be Seattle’s next rookie free agent find. He certainly has the character and attitude to make a good fist of it.
Hill is a nice UDFA pick up. He will likely end up on the practice squad this year, but he has pretty good hands. He’ll probably need time to work on his route running – but he might have a chance next year. I think there is a good chance Kearse walks next year, so there are several of these young guys who have an opportunity to make a difference. Hill and Norwood both are about the same size as Kearse – maybe a little taller, but both are solid catchers.
I actually audibly laughed when you said “pretty good hands”. I think that as of right now, he’s got better hands than Kearse or Baldwin. He high points the ball, he’s great at using his size, and he’s got nice quickness. If he’s recovered, I think he takes Kearse’s spot easily.
Hill and Kasen Williams have similar size, styles and injury histories. I was all for bringing Kasen in for a tryout, but Hill fits the bill. I’m excited to see what he might be able to turn into.
I hope Pete goes into camp saying it’s Norwood vs Hill for a 53 spot, period. I’m not sold on Norwood yet, sure handed, but not enough separation speed, hence why when you compare these two in college, Hill outperforms Kevin’s career in one season. The ACL is definitely going to work against Hill for a 53 spot, because of what happened to PRich, but these two are virtually the same possession reciever and may the best man win.
2015’s Early 53 Man WR Corp.
ADB
Ty Lock
Kearse
Matthews
Lockett
Norwood } PRich PUP, 1/4 Have to go when Paul returns
Douglas McNeil, this guy from just a highlight perspective seems F.U.N
Highlights:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o_Kf66-eYxY&app=desktop
Workout:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TJRpA0AHkF4
Well, I’m not sure what Hill will do in the pros, but Baldwin’s drop rate is really low. He had 3 drops in 98 targets – the same as Wes Welker and Sammie Watkins. Kearse dropped 2 in 70 targets. They are in the top third of WRs last year.
I think Kearse’s drops you referenced are a bit suspect. Does that include the playoffs?
Either way, his drop rate is pretty low compared to the rest of the NFL throughout his short NFL career. He gets too much flak for being what he is, a limited receiver with some big play ability. He has made just about all of the biggest catches in the biggest games in Seahawks history, but everyone wants to cut him for a few bad plays. No blame goes to Russ for making some questionable throws, but Kearse should be cut immediately.
No it doesn’t
The idea of Kearse only being credited with 2 drops is borderline crazy talk. That may be the official number but he had numerous balls that should of been caught and dropped a ton of contested balls too that probably don’t go in the books as drops but really should.
I count a minimum of 5 in the final two playoff games too.
Playoffs are not included
Not a mention of Chancellor’s half brother picked up as SS UDFA?
Loved the Glowinski tape. Either he’s a smart player, or he just intuitively knows where he’s supposed to be and when to peel off onto another block. Quick feet…always seems to be squared up before he engages.
Any thoughts on Rawls (RB)? Liked his running style and think he might have a sneaky chance
I like Rawls, and I think he has a chance to displace Michael and maybe even Turbin as the #2.
Glowinski looks great pulling and out in open space on screens and such. He definitely looks a lot like Sweezy and I fully expect Glow to get the job in 2016.
I loved the Glow pick….
Rawls’ wikipedia page says his nickname is ‘Black Beast’. Sounds like a good fit on that alone.
Let’s call him “Black Beauty” instead. We can retire the term Beast when Lynch rides off into the HoF sunset. 🙂
Nah. It is his nickname. It doesn’t belong to us to take it away.
I would not be surprised seeing Sokoli starting day one as a center or guard. He’s the SPARQ Jesus!! He’s a project, but a project with massive potential and upside.
I see most of these guys making the roster as either starters or backups. Overall I feel this was the best Hawk’s draft since 2012, and if Hill works out…watch out!!
The fact that he’s never played a down as center I think makes it pretty clear that there’s no way he’d be able to beat out Turner of LJP by the season opener. Always a possibility injuries to the others could make him one but someone that raw that’s never played the position getting up to speed not just learning the ZBS and how to run block well, but also calling all the plays on the line, would be a greater challenge than what Sweezy had to endure. And look how terrible Sweezy was his first year.
Yes, I’m no expert in breaking down tape, but Rob’s review seemed less than enthusiastic. I suppose every year most of the guys we pick don’t end up making the team. Rob’s report made it seem like a longshot that he’ll make it to Center. Then again, Pete seemed pretty excited about the guy. Maybe he’ll arrive in three years.
For the record I have no idea how good he is at center — none of us do. But it would be without doubt Tom Cable’s biggest success story to date if he pulls this one off. Center is a lot more complex than right guard because you have to make the line calls.
This is 100% truth. He is a VERY intriguing prospect and makes training camp even more exciting. With all the “bad news” surrounding Clark, stories like Sokoli remind NFL fans why the league is sooooooo great. The incredible stories, behind “the shield”.
Completely agree.
Immediate take from Sokoli’s interview: He’s solid @ 300lbs (no flab on the dude), his legs are TREE TRUNKS and he is a hard-working kid (trying to always prove himself). I agree that he does have an uphill battle to start day 1 @ C, but having Lewis/LJP don’t have me worrying about the 2015 season.
I know there was discussion about Chris Myers and next week will tell (May 12th FA date). If SEA does not sign Myers, my guess is Lewis will be the starter UNLESS Sokoli tears up the competition.
I am rooting for Sokoli, as he appears to embody many admirable personal characteristics as well as having off-the-chart athleticism. But that also highlights my biggest concern with him – for all the talent, by report he was a thoroughly mediocre football player against relatively low-level competition. And, while I keep reading that he was asked to play out of position at nose tackle, to my low-level football mind, the physical demands on a center are closer to nose tackle than just about any other defensive position (perhaps defensive tackle is similar, in different schemes). Based solely on his worrying football failure, discussions of his making the active roster are, to my mind, best-case scenario. Sweezy was a significantly better college football player than Sokoli. Maybe offensive line s so different than playing defense that doesn’t matter how good or bad a player is on defense, but Sokoli’s poor use of his immense tools in college underscore how much of a projection his conversion is.
Well, I also have a fairly limited football mind, but what I can tell you is that Center and Nose Tackle are not the same type of skills completely. I mean, there’s some overlap, but the size alone is a huge difference. Most NTs are WELL over 300lbs (think like Wilfork or Sam Adams) and you don’t often see centers that are 340+ lbs. The job of the NT is to be absolutely huge and take up space and generally require that the offense has to block you with a Center AND a Guard, thereby freeing up someone else to make the play or preventing one or both of those lineman from getting to the 2nd level and blocking the MLB.
The Center is the QB of the OL and not only has to be able to make the line calls/protection reads, but also is usually the smallest of the lineman. They need quick bursts of power off the LOS, but their job is often to quickly block the NT w/ a guard and then disengage to get to the 2nd level to clear a path for a longer run play.
I think most Centers have most in common with a DT, and even that’s more with a 3 tech than a 1 tech or a Nose Tackle in terms of size/speed/power combos. Now, a pass rushing DT is going to be too small to play center (think McDonald or even Bennett at ~275lbs), but you want them to be right around 290lbs-315lbs. So it’s possible for Sokoli to be a great Center but not great at Nose Tackle, and I look forward to seeing if he can make the transition, though I still kind of wish we had just picked up a good Center in the draft to step in on day one. . .
LG is an option as well. He’s the guy that I think they’ll mold to be a “Jack of all trades” linemen so that in two years he could plug in and play any position with a viable amount of skill. At the very least I see him as the uncontested backup for C/LG/RG. Cable did say that he thinks Glowinski and Poole can play anywhere on the line (and that’s why they picked them), so that probably rings true with Sokoli as well.
For him to be the ‘uncontested backup’ would require he beat out Poole or Glowinski who will be battling for that title assuming Bailey secures the LG spot. To be backup center he’d have to beat out LJP assuming Turner wins that spot assuming they don’t bring in anyone else to start at center.
I think it’s far more likely we see him stashed on the practice squad to learn how to play the position and hopefully be a 7th round investment that pays off in future years.
I feel like I should know this but whose turner?
who is turner?
I think arias means Lewis. I agree that Sololi is highly unlikely to play this season. Center is too difficult of a position to make the transition in one offseason. Hopefully we can keep around on the practice squad for a year or 2, and the small investment in him pays off!
Thanks for the correction. Duh. Yeah Patrick Lewis who I always think of as Patrick Turner, except he was a WR washout that’s not in the league anymore.
Sorry, didn’t mean to post that second comment
pretty sure he was one of the tools in ‘Handy Manny’. 🙂
He could be stashed on the practice squad, but that makes it easier for other teams to get him. From the press conference PC/JS were visibly more excited about him than the other picks (him and Gwacham). I think they’ll stash him on the roster as the only third string linemen (worst case)…one thing I don’t see anyone mention is that he played LT in high school (as well as K, P, and TE), so I’m sure he could quickly pickup basic/intermediate o-line skills and compete as a backup. Let me put it this way: From a athletic standpoint, I wouldn’t be surprised if he started (at least in the pre-season) day one as a center or LG. I don’t think he will, but remember, this is the Seahawks we’re talking about.
He’s definitely a pSparq god, of that there can be no question. I just don’t think their depth at center is as poor as it was at guard in 2012 when JR Sweezy ended up starting half that season, because the other option at guard was Paul McQuistan who was pretty lousy.
Sure the practice squad makes it easier for other teams to get him, but why would they sign away a center without a snap of experience? As a longer term project any team that grabs him wouldn’t be able to use him and would have to do all the grooming themselves. Why would they do that when they have their own prospects they drafted because they think they’ll be better?
A third center on the active roster will be tricky with as many injuries they’re already set to have to start the season. With Lane out and designated for their PUP and possibly Earl too, they’d have to have no injuries to other guys in camp that they’d need the extra roster spot to carry until they got healthy with their replacement backups on the roster too. It’s possible though. The backups should be Glow, Poole, Gilliam, and Skol.
He ll be safe on the practice squad in year 1. Any team that would snag him of the practice squad must put him on their 53 man roster. So he is safe, for now.
Lots of talk about Sokoli being a G or C, and maybe he is too tall to be a C, but what about a T?
Player 1
4.72 second 40 yard dash
35.25 inch reach
6′ 6”
303 lbs
28 bench reps
34 vert
7.31 second 3 cone
4.52 short shuttle
10 1/8 hands
Player 2
4.84 second 40 yard dash
34 inch arms
6′ 5”
300 lbs
31 bench reps
38 vert
7.25 3 cone
4.36 short shuttle
10 3/8 hands
Player 3
5.19 second 40 yard dash
33.5 inch arms
6′ 6”
325 lbs
23 bench reps
27.5 vert
8.14 3 cone
4.69 short shuttle
10 1/4 hands
Player 1 taken 3rd overall just a few years ago as a LT. Any reason why Sokoli (player 2) can’t add some bulk to be a RT or LT, seems to have the speed, just needs to put on a bit of bulk. Player 3 is Justin Britt.
He played LT in high school as well. Center would probably take a year or two of development, but T or G could be learned and “mastered” in a shorter amount of time. With the high school experience I wouldn’t be surprised if he becomes a backup T.
Was Sweezy any worse than Britt who had spent his whole life playing tackle? I honestly don’t remember Sweezy being bad and we made it deep in to the playoffs running on people. I see Sokoli as a day one starter. LJP was on the streets last year when the season started and Lewis is a PS guy. Consider me the Sokoli honk of the Blog
Sokoli won’t be anywhere near starting on Day One. I kept waiting to hear that we’d been Sidd Finch’d, that they showed up and he was really 270. Didn’t look good, but he’s got a conversion and a lot of work ahead of him, so that’s to be expected.
Poole also looks bad to me. Then again, I’m not a coach or a scout, so it’s a lot easier to like a guy such as Glowinski who is more polished than a project like Poole. I just feel like I saw way more guys who moved better, showed better balance, had more functional strength, etc.
Yeah I think they really had their heart set on Daryl Williams and would have preferred him to Poole if they could have move up for him. But I wouldn’t say Poole is ‘unpolished’ more than that he lacks the athleticism to be compared to Glow. But I think that’s the reason that makes him more polished because he couldn’t rely on athleticism to get him by, so he had to refine his hand technique. But I do like his ability to leverage his weight instinctually. He should make a solid guard if not great guard in this league. That’s what Carp was, except Carp was a 1st round pick.
Just curious – why is SOKO being viewed as a center despite no experience there as opposed to being a right guard? Is there a chance Glowinski gets snaps at center? I’m interested to see if he competes at that position, as Sweezy has RG locked up for at least one more year. Poole obviously seems like the guy most likely to replace Carp out of these 3 guys.
Murphy seems like he could be one to watch come camp. Any 7th rounder is obviously a long shot to make the 53 man roster, but perhaps he can bring some talent to ST. It will be interesting to see how the backup safety situation plays out.
Think it’s all about frame. SOKO a bit more squat.
intelligence, athleticism, and “want to” do whatever it takes to make the team. His passion for the game is apparent from a few shorts / clips that have surfaced. If you love darkhorse players, to succeed, then root for this guy. I have a funny feeling he will make an impact, early.
Hi Rob,
Since they were drafted, I have watched a bunch of Poole and Glowinski and have come to the conclusion that I think Glowinski looks like the better prospect to start at LG this season if Bailey can’t seize that spot. I know Poole checks more boxes at LG with that size, but to me Glowinski just looks better as a guard and could fill that role at LG in Seattle this upcoming season. Again, I know Poole has the more ideal size, but sometimes better football players come in different shapes and guys without the perfect measurable outperform guys who check all the boxes, if you will. Also, even though Poole was drafted first, it’s not like they took him a couple rounds before Glowinski. It was only a few picks. Just curious as to your thoughts. Thanks.
It comes down to what Seattle wants in a left guard though. Glowinski isn’t a power mauler. They actually want that long, massive, powerful left guard. When they run left quite often it’s a power run. Bailey and Poole are going to compete for that spot. They’ve used Robert Gallery, James Carpenter and Alvin Bailey in that role to date. There’s a trend there. Glowinski is never going to be a power runner so if they want to keep that aspect to their blocking on the left side they have to keep the size. Remember, SEA’s line isn’t a pure ZBS. It carries man/power elements too. Glow is a carbon copy of Sweezy and if they play both players at guard plus a lighter center they aren’t going to have much success up the middle. I suspect we’ll see Glow soon enough though — probably as the cheap starter in 2016.
I too think Glowinski is the RG of ’16 and beyond. However, maybe I’m just seeing or interpreting differently, but I see more power blocking out of Glowinski than what I’m seeing from Poole, even though he is lighter.
Sweezy beefed up to 320 last off season and still retained his nimbleness to pull, get to the 2nd level.
Sweezy will be an interesting watch this year. The reviews from Cable have never matched third party evaluations. Physically he looks the part and he has the nasty attitude, but I’m not sure the Hawks would face much competition to resign him if he had been a free agent this off season. Obviously he’d get a real bump in compensation, but I don’t see him attracting Carpenter level attention. That’s part of the rub with Glow, as Rob highlights. Ironically, Sweezy may have a better chance of coming back on a large contract – if he takes a huge leap forward this year – than he does a modest free agent deal, which would still pay Sweezy $2.5 to $3 million more per year than he earns now.
If Sweezy can’t achieve “Carpenter level attention” he should fire his agent. I think Sweezy is a little overrated but he is worlds better than James Carpenter ever was.
The Jets will offer him at least as much as they gave Carpenter. They are determined to sign the entire Hawks o-line.
They are probably “tampering” with Okung and Sweezy right now.
The Redskins will enter the fray for Sweezy too, with McCloughan at the helm there.
No one ever remembers poor Paul McQuistan…
Gingervitis!
What stood out most in Tye Smith’s youtube video was how well he diagnosed and blew up screens. That is a staple of Sherman/Maxwell/Lane’s game and it looks like Smith won’t miss a beat there.
agree. I know it was a highlight tape, but the dude hits hard and finishes plays.
I noticed that too and for a thin guy he drove through the tackles with force
It’s the first thing I loved about Maxwell. His college tape showed an aggressive, angry tackler. I knew we had something with him well before I knew what we had in Sherman.
Great job on the blog this year Rob. Your analysis was very informative and thoughtful. I enjoyed it a lot and appreciate that you are still writing – I think a lot of us would say “drafts over, I need a break, check back in a few months.”
The visitor numbers are way down post-draft — I think we’re seeing the die-hards sticking with it. I’ve got a 2016 watch list to go tomorrow, we’re doing a podcast on Thursday and then I’m likely to take a break.
hey rob love what you do, just curious since you mentioned numbers what kinda volume this site gets? i would guess in the tens to hundred of thousands per day but it would be cool to hear you speak on that
We had over four million hits in March.
Zounds! Congrats, sir. Impressive accomplishment.
Wow!
Wow…congratulations!!! You are proof that bullshit, click bait headlines are NOT required to be successful online and that quality content will attract a quality community. Well done!
That’s an incredible number but greatly deserved considering the fantastic content. Cheers Rob.
Im not a constant poster, but check you out every day. Excited for the watch list.
seconded
Sounds like two great blogs left! Really appreciate all your work. I remember last year when the Markus golden article was up for like 3 weeks, seemed like forever lol. The amount of material you put out is impressive and appreciated.
When are you going to leave the BBC and take Terry Blounts job? Daily visitor here, infrequent poster.
That’s a good question. I don’t know where they dug that tool up from but he’s been repeating over and over again about how he can’t figure out why Seattle drafted a defensive lineman when it’s not a position of need. Rob really needs to replace that guy.
Ryan Murphy and Tye Smith both look like absolute keepers!!
Exactly my sentiment! Immediate replacements for Jeron Johnson and Jeremy Lane
I’ve just put together the early 2016 watch list (published tomorrow). Top three players on the list are: Harold Brantley (DT, Missouri), Joey Bosa (DE, Ohio State) and Tyler Boyd (WR, Pittsburgh).
Ohio State may end up with 3 or 4 first round picks next year: Miller and possibly Cardale Jones at QB, Bosa at DE, and Elliot at RB. Elliot would be a great replacement for Lynch down the road. Power and speed. Of course that presupposes we don’t trade away our #1 again.
Taylor Decker will be coveted too.
Heck yeah, he’d be a great LT pick for us.
I’ve seen Bosa projected as #1 overall on various sites. Hope he is a lot better than his dad who was a major bust for the Dolphins.
Rob have you watched much tape on Ezikel Elliot? He was incredible last year and I thought he was by far the most dominant player in the Bowl Championship series which is a feat considering 3 of the top 4 picks this year played.
I see everything you want in a running back. Speed, power, elusive and seems to get stronger as the game and season wore on. In the last 5 years he is the player I most want to see as a Seahawk to replace Beast Mode. I think he is much better than Gurley and does not have the injury risk. So he will likely be a top 10 pick so I just don’t know how we could possibly get him.
What are your thoughts on him? Am I too optimistic about his potential?
I saw Elliott’s performances last season and he looked very good. He’s not a generational style talent like Gurley with rare skills or size, but he does everything well and has everything you want to see in a RB to be productive at the next level.
Thanks for the feedback!
What are your thoughts on Gurleys durabilty? He never made it through a college season without injury. Were they fluke injuries and do you think he can make it through a full season in the NFC West. A lot of the twitchy track guys tend to be more injury prone IMO.
If he proves to be durable he is going to be a huge addition for Stl and make them our primary completion in the NFC West IMO. That roster is stacked.
I think his injury this year was a fluke. He had to sit out awhile and got hurt as soon as he came back. I think your ligaments relax sitting out and are more at risk to tear. You see it I. The pros with long holdouts when you can’t practice or take hits.
Gurley’s issue is he’s unnaturally athletic for his size. Unlike Lynch (who hasn’t missed many games) he isn’t compact and tough. Gurley is massive. And those types of player seem to attract injury.
I’m waiting for Leonard Fournette in 2017.
Rob do you take this draft as an indication that a long term extension for Okung is part of the plan? Seems like there is no one currently on the roster who could challenge his spot at LT or be a viable long term starter there if he’s gone.
It’s something I’ve thought about a fair bit. I know Green Bay has a fourth round starting LT. However, that is incredibly rare. Seattle didn’t have a shot to bring in a developmental LT because possible candidates were injury risks (Rob Crisp) and they had to concentrate on more pressing needs. Even if they’d spent a third day pick on a tackle, are they really likely to work out? Without a first rounder they had little shot at drafting a future starting left tackle.
Next year it’s looking like a good class of OT’s. So they could play it by ear. Okung has to stay healthy and play well. I suspect he might test free agency and come back. It’s a hard one to judge. They’ve not invested much on the O-line recently in terms of salary. Is that to make sure they keep the LT? Or is it a wider philosophy?
This year for example they could’ve plumped for Jake Fisher or Donovan Smith at #31 or moved up a few spots. Will that option be there next year? Where are they even going to draft next year? And how much will Okung command on the open market?
And the wildcard is, of course — what goes on with La’el Collins?
The situation is pretty unclear.
Assuming La’el Collins is cleared on any involvement, what a steal he is going to be for whoever gets him. Like having an extra 1st round draft pick, at a much lower cost.
He will be free to bargain, he will be sought after, so I am not so sure that the cost will be lower than if he was a first rounder.
The potential contracts are limited by the CBA just like the draft pick slots. He can’t possibly get more than $100k guaranteed I think it is (which is the entire UDFA bonus pool a team is allotted), and its a three year deal with pretty clear value from what I read.
Like draft picks, there’s not a lot of room to play with. It’s almost like college recruiting. Nothing’s going to happen anyway until he’s got the league convinced he’s not already Aaron Hernandez 2.0.
I left the draft with a few thoughts.
1. Wish we used the Lockett pick at 63 and risked Clark in 3rd or not at all. While he has moments, the film doesn’t seem the risk was worth it
2. Didn’t get a tackle to compete with Okung or move Britt
3. Didn’t get a DT to push the pocket. With the SPARQ of Sokoli, why not keep him at DT?
I hope we resign Irvin. I would rather lose trade Avril and let Irvin play DE.
I think SOKO got drafted because of his potential as an oline convert, they already have an elite sparq guy project on the defense,
“the film doesn’t seem the risk was worth it”
A point on this. The team is arguing there is no ‘risk’. They say they’re satisfied with the work they did and they included him on their draft board. So they don’t consider him a ‘risk’ per se. You might argue was it worth the hassle — but again they think it is. Taking that into account, I’m not sure what people really expect to see from a pass rusher on tape — especially one drafted at the end of round two. We’re talking about a truly incredible athlete and for me the tape is superb. How many 270lbers can do this: http://espn.go.com/video/clip?id=11558388
As for the tackle to compete — at what point do you do that? They wanted a receiver, a pass rusher, a corner and competition for the two gaping holes in the interior. A tackle drafted even at the end of round two considering what was available was not going to legitimately compete with Russell Okung. Not now, not ever.
The DT need was overrated. Jordan Hill and Brandon Mebane pushed the pocket plenty last season and they added Rubin to the mix.
Doesn’t seem to have the qualities that PC/JS always preach about. At least off the field. There is plenty of good tape on other prospects that went later as well (Z. Smith/M. Hardison/D. Hunter/C. Davis/H. Anderson/X. Cooper/M. Bennett)
Maybe not, but may we get lucky. Competition is what we preach and with his contract and injury history, we need a solution maybe next year. I hope Bailey/Gilliam step up when Okung gets hurt.
With Sherman/Simon/Williams/Burley, CB was not as big of a need as DT. You can say Hill and Mebane pushed the pocket, but that was it. And when they both got hurt, look what happened in the SB. We don’t know how healthy Mebane will be anyway. DT was a bigger need by far.
What qualities off the field is that?
And depending on what happens with Okung and what juniors come out, the LT spot could be incredibly deep. Like 2-3 rounds deep.
Team leaders. Guys that fought through adversity and triumphed on and off the field. Good guys driven by being the best
But from the background on Clark that is exactly what he is. He triumphed through major adversity. He spent half his life wandering the streets of LA with his mom. And the background work they did on his character off the field checked out. His coaches and all the interviews they did of everyone that knew him were strongly supportive and in his corner with regards to him being a good kid but for the incident you’re using to color him.
We don’t know the details of Mebanes progress in his recovery, but the FO does and we can infer that it is going well because of the of session moves that were and were not made. Brandon stalemate double teams on base downs allowing our LBs to stay clean and make plays.
“With the SPARQ of Sokoli, why not keep him at DT?” ed
Sokoli showed very little as a DT. He looked like he didn’t really know how to play the game. I could go on about the things he can’t do…but he might be able to play some center. If Cable can work his magic on an incredible athlete with a blank slate, then Cable deserves a big raise. Very interested to see how Sokoli plays out in Seattle.
Same can be said about DT. Center seems harder to me than DT. Especially when he could be the penetrator that breaks plays up (ie Hill when healthy)
I read somewhere that several teams told JS that if he had not taken Clark at #63, they would have taken him with their 3rd rd pick.
I like the fact that Seattle’s first 5 selections are all starters/contributors, and the last 3 selections are projects, guys to bring slowly. Getting 3 starters, 2, backups, a couple projectaps, and the yearly 1-2 UDFAs should be considered a home run draft wise for any team. Seatle knocked it out of the park this year IMO.
Higher on OL Terry Poole than most seem to be. Love this dude’s mindset/agressiveness, and I actually think his athleticism is underrated. The RG spot in today’s NFL is for the superior athletes interior wise, and Poole is a perfect fit for the ‘mauler in the run game’ at LG. If ‘Pig’ Bailey shows up out of shape at TC again, I think Poole will have a leg up competiton wise. Glo and Poole give Seattle some ridiculous versatility and flexibilty now on the O-line
Poole’s SPARQ score is 106 and Carp’s was 108 or 109. Pretty damn good for a 4th rounder that’s just learning the game compared to a 1st round pick from Alabama.
Love Joey Bosa, but I’ll be floored if this dude isn’t a top 10 pick.
Check out Bailey’s Twitter feed. He’s apparently lost 20 pounds and has a picture to prove it. The guy has always been pretty solid whenever he played and I thought he did an admirable job whether he was filling in as the LT or LG. I think he has the intangibles and ability to be a solid starter on the team. The only question is whether he’ll eat himself out of the competition.
Agreed on Joey Bosa. Any level of production this year that is even close to what he put up last year will make him a surefire top-5 pick. He’s already drawing comparisons to J.J. Watt, although I’d be more cautious with my expectations. Still a phenomenal talent though. Next year’s draft seems to be leaner in regards to the WR position but should be stocked with pass rushers and offensive linemen once again.
Shoulda read your comment before I posted mine Johnny…
That’s fantastic to know that Bailey has lost 20 pounds and seems to be focused and not pulling a Bowie x2. I’m thrilled to hear that.
Bosa’s Watt’s manchild brotha from anotha mutha. That dude is a beast. In fact V-12 I think he could be a top 5er if he finishes his college career with a clean record,no injuries, and a good combine… Bosa will go high.
Sokoli looks a lot like both Scott and Gilliam to me. He looks more slender than any of the guards we have drafted/developed. I initially though of him as a developmental LT – like Gilliam.
I was so surprised when PC mentioned center, but perhaps it requires the lowest level of technique in terms of blocking and requires a bit less strength/anchor (because you often have a guard helping if there is a 1T or 2T lining up across – the snap puts you at immediate timing and leverage disadvantage and so teams will often have a guard double a dynamic/powerful interior defender). There are more than a few instances of line calls being made by an experienced guard or the QB, so that is not a high concern for me at the beginning.
Plus, by all accounts, Sokoli is a very smart and hard working player, so I think he could learn line calls fairly easily. One advantage of him learning the center position would be the fact that the physical part of it would be less challenging than playing elsewhere and would allow him to concentrate on/learn every OL’s responsibility. It would be easier to transition from center to guard or tackle from a knowledge standpoint than the other way around. The idea may be to perfect his mental aspects of OL play and then work on technique.
Again, physically, his body looks like a LT to me. He has 33.25″ arms and a 79.5″ wingspan which is high end for a guard/center, but at the lowest end of what you expect from an very good LT – they are certainly not too short though. His quickness is more ideal for an edge blocker taking care of a speed rusher.
Comparing him to all OL at the combine in the last 10 years, his ranks:
His 40 time of 4.84s is tied for 3rd
His vertical of 38″ is 1st
His 3 cone of 7.25s is tied for 4th
His short shuttle of 4.25s is tied for 7th
His broad jump of 9’11” is 1st
Remember, this is all OL combine numbers for a decade, and he is top 5 in 4/5 measures of lower body talent. 31 reps bench press is nothing to shake a stick at either.
Compared to athletic LT prospect Jake Fisher, Sokoli is A) significantly faster in the 10 yard split and 40 yard dash, B) vastly superior in vertical jump, and C) essentially identical in broad jump and quickness measures. Sokoli’s arms are only an half inch shorter than Fisher’s, and he gives up 2.5 inches on wingspan, though wingspan is less important for a tackle than single arm length.
Although he has explosive lower body, I don’t see him having the stoutness required to be the “power run blocking” LG we think the coaching staff might like at LG – he wasn’t able to be an allstar as a DT at Buffalo, so I think it’s unlikely that they view him as a stout run blocker or road grader. He’s probably not far from his ideal weight as an OL under Cable, maybe 310 is where they’d like him to get to. I could see him as an uber-athletic center, pulling/movement guard ala Sweezy, or as a developmental LT. He’ll certainly be exciting to watch over the next two years.
Great write up. Agreed, he will be exciting to watch.
Love Sokoli as well. Had my eye on him since Buffalo’s pro day. To say I’m a huge fan of his would be doing him an injustice.
Him and Lockett are the two that I cheered for when they got picked…I really hope he pans out and doesn’t just become practice fodder.
We’ve seen a lot of great athletes get drafted by Seattle over the years and wash out fairly early. Having the athletic gifts is a nice starting point but instincts and technique are much more important. It’s like trying to convert a Ferrari into a dependable sedan.I understand the reasoning for these selections but guys like Sokoli and Gwacham are massive projects that are longggggggg-shots to make the final roster or have any eventual impact. They’re just lottery tickets.
Our FO invests their lottery tickets on prospects with enormous upside so when one hits, they are great. I like the strategy!
100% agreed. I think with C, you don’t have to be playing every snap of your whole life. He can learn the line calls, he can snap w RW3 10000 in TC, and he can learn the playbook like anyone else. Honestly, not having to unlearn a whole system and only know OUR system could help him expedite the process. I am more excited to see Sokoli develop than any pick of the last 2 drafts. He is such a wild card, but I think we will ALL be surprised come week 1. Sweezy surprised us all the same way
Rob. Take a break and recharge the batteries. Go out to the pitch and watch a game of “football” for the love of the game. This draft looks more like the early Seahawks drafts under PC/JS, than the last two. Exciting times to root for a top team in the NFL.
Cheers
Thanks Charlie. After the podcast tomorrow I will be taking a break.
Anyone have any predictions for the starting O-line next year? For me, I can see the Day 1 unit be:
Okung, Bailey, Jean-Pierre, Sweezy, Britt
Seems like a solid unit to me. The loss of Unger hurts, but I’ve never really seen a significant drop off in production whenever Jean-Pierre fills in. Bailey has also lost more than 20 pounds according to his Twitter timeline; he even has a picture to prove it. If Okung can stay healthy and Bailey can make a jump, I think the O-line will be just fine this year.
Plus, the Hawks can always continue to develop Poole and Glowinski as future Bailey and Sweezy replacements (if PCJS doesn’t want to extend him). Good depth at all the inside positions and LT can be addressed in the 2016 draft depending on how things play out. No pressure for the rookies to make an immediate impact.
Okung-Bailey-Lewis-Sweezy-Britt
I think Poole has a pretty good shot at pushing Bailey for the starting LG position (leaving Bailey to backup LT/LG)
Unger missed so much time last year and Patrick Lewis and Lem Jeanpierre both looked pretty good with the limited reps/time.
I know teams are going to potentially start pushing for La’el Collins. If he is CLEARED of any connection of wrong-doing, I am an advocate for signing him IMMEDIATELY. Thoughts?
I would to, but recent reports seem to have him and his agent favoring teams that have an immediate need for a TACKLE. While I’m sure PCJS will do their due diligence, I think the chances that he signs with us are slim. Our tackle positions are solid with Okung and Brit and I think there’s rumors he could be headed to the Dolphins or the Bills.
Being that UDFAs can only be paid a certain amount of money, it’s all about fit. Again, seeing that our tackle positions are pretty much locked up, I don’t think he’ll choose to sign here.
Yeah, I think if we were trying to recruit him, the pitch would have to be as follows:
-come compete for the LG/RT spots this year (while backing up the frequently-injured Okung at LT), then replace Okung next year
-you’ll get the same (minimum) salary everywhere, but come to Seattle and you’ll get a big playoff share on top of it when we go back to the SB
-we have a history of late-round picks or UDFAs coming in, turning into stars, and making big money both in endorsements and on early contract extensions (Sherman and Wilson are both doing pretty well for guys who made $500k starting out)
-also, you’ll be blocking for one of the highest-paid RBs and one of the highest-paid QBs in the league–I’m sure both will recognize that your cheap deal is allowing them to get paid so well and be “very grateful” (wink)
But I agree that it’s hard to imagine that beats out somewhere he feels he could step in and be a starting LT.
That was my thought. Insurance for Okung would be ideal (injury and impending Free Agency).
I heard this morning the Giants are jumping in the race. That’s BUF, MIA and NYG that have exposed ties. While we would be the winningest option, STARTING would probably be his bet elsewhere to earn a bigger payday faster.
I wish the kid well either way. I hope he had no ties to the situation…
Rob I’m extremely excited about your watch list but like Charlie said above take some rest!
Two things. Does it ever get hard to look at at player like boss and think that Seattle has minimal chance? I just think of later round huts due to them at least getting to the playoffs and two….
My early watch player is one if V12’s..Devontae Booker, RB , Utah….similar size to the type they like, extremely good hands and cuts are incredibly decisive…
Looking forward to the Minicamps coming up and honestly would love to see an Oline of okung/poole/sokoli/sweezy/britt….
Bosa….not boss!
It’s becoming tougher. We’ve gone from discussing top-10/15 guys in the early years and debating from a wide range of prospects. Now a lot of the stand out players are never ever in range.
I actually have a hunch that the top-secret comparison of Tye Smith is actually to…wait for it:
Darrelle Revis.
Look at both their measurables. Similar height and athletic ability. Obviously Smith isn’t nearly as polished, but you can see he has natural ability. Big hitter that tends to be too aggressive sometimes. With a full summer of training with the LOB, I’m sure he will develop into a nice piece for us at the very least.
I think they might have been referring to Joe Haden. I thought for a second “could it be Revis or Champ Bailey”, but I didn’t think the numbers stacked up, especially with the significant disparities in 40 times, as Revis and Champ were both sub 4.4 guys and Revis had a 38″ vert.
Haden was “slowish” at the combine ~4.6s 40 and posted a mid 4.4’s time at his pro day, and he posted times right around 4.0 s in the short shuttle and 7.0s in the 3 cone, just like Tye. I think Haden showed up on Tye Smith’s sparq analysis as a player comp as well.
I agree that he’s closer to Haden than Revis. Revis’s measurables were mind blowing. You can’t really compare their straight line speed, broad jump, or 3 cone times which are the three most important measurables for corners.
As far as “too aggressive”, that was Haden’s rap as well in college. Any ball hawk corner is going to likely have that as an issue.
But his preparation and mind for the game definitely seem to be most like Sherman, so I’d have to agree with Rob that it’s probably Sherm. But it wouldn’t have been fair to him to divulge throw such a comparison down with his soon to be All-World teammate.
My hunch was that it was Deion Sanders. I mean why not say the name? It has to a big one and that’s the biggest CB name of them all…
Turned on NFL am and they had Brady miked up for the SB. I couldn’t stop watching and yet knew it would put me in a bad mood.
Injured (LOB/Avril/Mebane/Hill) and outcoached (no Burley/never adjusted to dink and dunk/bad final call) in that game.
If we were healthy, the outcoached would not have mattered, we were up by 10, game should have been over.
Sorry, I know it’s history.
Next year. Jimmy all day and hope Mebane/Hill and the LOB stay healthy.
Ed, I totally agree that, with a healthy team, we win the Super Bowl going away. Chancellor and Thomas would have blown up Edelman; and Avril would have gotten the 4th qtr sack on Brady where Irvin swung and missed. The last minute injury to Chancellor caused Pete to make the mistake of activating Terrell over Burley. When Lane went down, with Burley not available, Maxwell had to slide to the nickel and Simon was tied in knots by Edelman. Burley could have played the nickel and Maxwell stayed at CB and would have slowed Edelman down enough to win.
Even with all that, the Seahawks managed to position themselves for a win. Belicheck had prepared for the crossing pick pattern on the goal line, and the Patriots executed it to perfection. But even with perfect execution, if the Seahawks had executed the play properly, it would have been a TD. On first glance, the pass appeared to be a foot too high and a foot too wide, allowing for the interception, but a closer view shows that Lockette just did not run the route properly, as Bevell indicated in a weak moment right after the game. Lockette should never have been called on to make that play, or they should have run a low risk play. The Patriots could never have stopped back-to-back read options, but alas….
Guys, this is all true. With the injuries, odds were stacked against the Hawks before the game even started. Then more injuries, mistakes, bad coaching decision, etc. And the Pats, with Revis/Browner, happened to play their best game of the season at every position. Yet still, the Hawks virtually won it.
Unfortunately, even at full strength, the Hawks would still have had their hands full. I don’t think it would have been a blowout. The 2012 game was not easy, either. Belichick and Co. know how to exploit vulnerabilities and mismatches. Not just with schemes within game, but between the rosters. And also between coaching staffs.
I would like to see the Hawks eliminate all of these vulnerabilities. Because sooner or later, they will meet again.
Totally disagree. With a healthy LOB we win that game going away. Kam would have taken away the short middle.
Exactly my thoughts that continuously haunt me.
I started screaming when RW lined up in shotgun….
53?
QB (2) – Wilson, Daniels
RB (4) – Lynch, Michael, Turbin, Coleman/Tukuafu
TE (3) – Graham, Willson, McCoy/Helfet
WR (6) – Baldwin, Kearse, Norwood, Matthews, Lockett, Lockette
OL (9) – Okung, Bailey, Lewis, Sweezy, Britt, Gilliam, Poole, Glowinski, Jean-Pierre
DT (5) – Mebane, McDaniel, Rubin, J Hill, Dobbs/Smith/JWilliams/Staten/Scruggs
DE (5) – Avril, Bennett, Marsh, Clark, Gwacham
LB (6) – Wagner, Wright, Irvin, Pierre-Lewis, Morgan, Farwell/Coyle
CB (5) – Sherman, Williams, Blackmon, Burley, Smith
S (5) – Thomas, Chancellor, Shead, Murphy, Pinkins/Bailey
ST (3) – Hauschka, Ryan, Gresham
IR/PUP – Richardson, Lane, A Hill, Simon
Sq – Sokoli, Slater, Bronson, Rawls/Smith, Allen, Isles, Slater, Nealy, Wade/Reed/Lambert/Martin
QB-2-Wilson, Daniels
RB-3-Lynch, Turbin, Michael
FB-1-Coleman
TE-2-Graham, Willson
WR-7-Baldwin, Lockett, Kearse, Norwood, Hill, Matthews, Richardson (starts on PUP)
OL-10-Lewis, Okung, Bailey, Britt, Sweezy, Glowinski, Poole, Sokoli, Gilliam, Jean-Pierre
DT-5-Mebane, Hill, Rubin, J. Williams, Scruggs
DE-5-Bennett, Avril, Clark, Marsh, Irvin (plays LB as well)
LB-5-Wagner, Wright, KPL, Coyle, Morgan(maybe?)
CB-6-Sherman, Williams, Smith, Simon (starts on PUP), Burley, Lane (starts on PUP)
S-4-Thomas, Chancellor, Murphy, Pinkins
SP-3-Hauschka, Ryan, Gresham
While guys on are on PUP other “ghost roster” players start.
That Frank Clark pick might prove to be very important given that Bennett seems to be making more noise about a trade request.
I am not sure is up with him? he just signs a new deal, they go to back to back Super Bowls and are primed to make another run and he wants to be traded. If it is about money then he should be upset at his agent not the Hawks. If it is more than $ I wonder what is up.
I hope we are not in for another offseason of drama and rumors being leaked. That got very old quick last year.
Second time this rumor has come up, there has to be something to it. I really hope Bennett is here this coming season. The defensive line would take a massive hit if he isn’t there. If they do trade him, it better not be for draft picks. With the team in a super bowl window, they would need a player of comparable talent to replace him (not necessary on the D line, it could be somewhere else on the roster).
6 million dead cap hit if he is traded. Short answer: He isn’t. His only option is to hold out or dog his play. In both cases, it won’t increase his value on the open market.
Tell Bennett that he is playing this season for a trade/new contract. The better he plays, the more likely he gets traded and signs a revised contract with his new team. Get his best season, then take his money off the books, use it for Okung, Sweezy or Irvin. Bennett is not getting any younger, so this could benefit Seattle. Clark and Marsh will be ready to take over. Honestly, the $8/mil/yr he and Avril are earning is about right… very good money for very good play, but neither are truly pro bowl players. I just think Bennett is bent out of shape that other guys, Sherm, ET, are making more coin, that plus he just always seems disgruntled about something.
I disagree with you on Bennett, I think he’s a top D lineman in the entire league. He can play both inside and outside and do it damn well. There would be massive shoes to fill if he wasn’t here next season.
I’m with vrtkolman. To say Bennett is not a “pro bowler” is just not cognizant of the reality that he was second in the league in QB pressures last year next to JJ Watt. He is an absolutely dominant force that wrecks havoc pressuring opposing QBs in the backfield.
I’m bummed that such a key piece of this legendary defense is willing to split over his contract. Unless Clark can replace his production, it won’t be the same.
I’m sorry, try as I might, I just don’t see a lot to love about Poole’s tape, either. He plays to the whistle, most of the time. His feet are decent, though not pro OT decent. But for a big guy he gets stoned by the DL too much, he flails at the second level when he gets there, he doesn’t have even a healthy Carp’s road grader abilities…I just don’t see it.
Glow, on the other hand, seems to have far better tape. I mean, FAR better. Yet they were picked within a few slots of each other in the same round, with Poole going first. Strange days. If Poole works out well, it will just confirm that what I think I know about good OL prospects is a lot more than what I actually know.
I’m hoping for that.
While Glo’s tape is much better, I’d have to disagree on Poole. Just learning how to play the game, underrated athleticism, SPARQ almsot identical to Carp’s He does need to learn how to shuffle/pedal his feet, but that’s coachable. I actually think he’s more versatile than Glo is. And as a former basketball player, he’ll figure out an effective kickslide.
And he will be a mauler in the run game. He says he’s going to hit guys on the ground and finish them off. There’s a reason he went before Glowinski. The LG spot isn’t asked to get the second level as much. Seattle will leave the pulling and trapping to Sweezy and the RG spot.
Poole will have his growing pains, but by the end of the year, this kid will have proved himself to be a great scheme fit for Seattle.
Another one of my personal favorites for the early warch list is GA Tech’s DT Adam Gotsis- 6’5, 290 lbs., great length, fantastic motor, plays with his hair on fire, tons of upside, versatile, interior pass rusher, and also from Australia.
Gotsis, Penn St’s Anthony Zettel, and Oklahoma’s Charles Tapper are the 3 guys I have my eye on for the athletic, interior pass rusher’s. And of course Mizzou’s Harold Brantley as Rob pointed out.
Really like Boise St’s Armond Nance for a mid to late round run stuffer, as well as Arkansas’s DeMarcua Hodge who is a flatout freak! A mixture of Danny Shelton and Red Bryant.
I thought that part of this draft would be to find offensive linemen that could fill in the holes and provide quality backups if starters get injured. I thought we had some versatility in players like Poole and Glow. So I am a little disappointed that each linemen seems destined to play guard or center. Don’t we have anyone that can backup the tackle’s position? Seems a little odd to me.
Who do we have for positions?
Left Tackle Okung, Bailey
LG Bailey, Poole, Glow
Center, Lewis or Jean-Pierre
RG Sweezy, Glow or Poole
RT Britt, Poole
I’m not counting any of these rookies as a center. I think the position is too critical to give to a rookie that hasn’t played center. The timing and difficulty of hiking a ball and blocking are just too complex. One screwup and the entire offense jumps off sides, or the ball is hiked when the QB isn’t looking. No thanks.
Does it seem like there are too many guard types in this draft? Or will the Seahawks pick the best and cut the rest? I haven’t even mentioned the Sokoli project, another guard/center type. What do you think?
Gilliam!
Gilliam and Bailey are our backup tackles.