The Seahawks are 0-4-1 on the road vs the NFC. In the past they’ve been veritable road warriors during the Russell Wilson era.
Not in 2016.
A physical running game and a stingy defense travels well. The Seahawks, this year, are like a lot of other teams. They’re relying on their passing game. On the road in a tough, noisy environment — it doesn’t take much to knock a passing game out of sync. Then you’re chasing the game. Then you’re at a disadvantage.
There’s a reason why in the five road games vs NFC opponents, Seattle is averaging 8.5 points a game. That includes the Earl Thomas pick-six vs New Orleans and the two-point safety in Tampa Bay.
Getting back to the brand of football that travels well and served this team until the back end of 2015 could be a focus in the off-season. That means getting a tone-setter at running back and finding a way to replenish the defense.
Here’s a scenario that will divide opinion. And let me stress — this is a talking point. I’m not arguing the Seahawks should, will or could do this. I’m trying to take our minds off the Green Bay meltdown.
In Todd McShay’s first 2017 mock draft today he had Leonard Fournette going #7 overall to Carolina. Fournette is exactly the type of running back you need to set the tone on the road. A 6-1, 235lbs monster. He seeks contact, runs over defenders, pounds it up the gut and is still capable of hitting a home run.
Even though McShay has him falling to #7, he still had this to say:
“Fournette hasn’t budged from the No. 1 spot in my prospect rankings all season. He is a rare talent for the position, the best college running back I’ve evaluated since Adrian Peterson in 2007.”
Fournette and Myles Garrett will be competing to be #1 on most draft boards. The Seahawks reportedly ranked Todd Gurley as the best player in the 2015 draft. Fournette is better and isn’t recovering from a torn ACL.
It is going to be impossible to find another Marshawn Lynch. Fournette is a very different body type to Lynch, but in terms of attitude and physical presence he might be as close as you’ll ever come.
McShay has the Jets picking at #6. They might be open to trading with a NFC team. New York has had a miserable season and they’re in need of a major rebuild. They need young talent to replace the ageing core they have (Brandon Marshall, Ryan Fitzpatrick, Darrelle Revis etc).
In 2011 the Atlanta Falcons moved from #26 overall to #6, making a deal with another AFC team, Cleveland, looking to acquire multiple picks during a rebuild. They moved up to get Julio Jones.
The trade cost Atlanta the #26 overall pick, their second round pick (#59) and their fourth round pick (#124). The Falcons also traded their 2012 first round pick and another fourth rounder.
The Seahawks would need to give up something similar to move up for Fournette using McShay’s mock as an example. Could they justify such a move?
Seattle’s roster is pretty much set. It’s arguably the most talented roster in the NFL. What it’s lacking is a consistency. It’s missing elements that were vital to the core philosophy of the team in 2013 and 2014 (physical running game).
Sacrificing two first round picks for one player is always a risk. That said, it’s not like the Seahawks have had a great deal of success picking early over the years:
2011 — James Carpenter, John Moffitt
2012 — Bruce Irvin, Bobby Wagner
2013 — Percy Harvin (trade), Christine Michael
2014 — Paul Richardson, Justin Britt
2015 — Jimmy Graham (trade), Frank Clark
2016 — Germain Ifedi, Jarran Reed
By trading for Fournette you might be missing out on another quality player like Wagner. You also might only be giving up the chance to select three players similar to James Carpenter, Christine Michael and Paul Richardson.
The Seahawks are expected to receive a third round compensatory pick again this year. That would limit the 2017 damage to the teams draft stock. They don’t own a fourth rounder (traded to New England for Quinton Jefferson a year ago) but from next year teams are allowed to deal compensatory picks for the first time. So while they would be surrendering a first, second and compensatory third rounder in 2017 — they would still pick twice in the first two days of the draft.
Such a deal would make it difficult to address both the key defensive need and add further competition to the O-line. It would likely be dependant on a free agent splash for an interior defensive lineman. As discussed yesterday — there could be some options. The Seahawks will have around $38-40m to spend with the cap potentially increasing to as much as $170m overall.
Kawann Short, Calais Campbell and Dontari Poe stand out as possible free agents. Carolina and Arizona both have significant cap room to retain Short and Campbell but Kansas City, at the moment, are scheduled to be just $4m in the black for 2017. With a big contract extension for Eric Berry expected to be their priority — there’s a strong possibility Poe hits the open market.
There will likely be alternative options too.
Campbell might be more likely to be available if the Cardinals decide to get younger and reshape their roster after a down year. They do also have to pay Chandler Jones.
In terms of offensive tackles, they might be able to target someone like USC’s Chad Wheeler at the back of day two or during day three.
The plan would be to acquire a veteran interior defensive lineman in free agency, trade up Fournette and still come away with an O-liner you can work with (Wheeler?) and potentially leave yourself with the draft capital to target someone like Shalom Luani.
It’s fanciful. It’s unrealistic. It’s crazy, zany and unlikely. It probably won’t happen. Just like the trades for Jimmy Graham and Percy Harvin…
This would be an extremely aggressive off-season for the Seahawks — but they are right in the middle of a Championship window. Isn’t this the time to be aggressive?
Some will love this idea. Others would prefer the Seahawks keep their picks and maybe target other running backs to address this need. Maybe a D’Onta Foreman or a Samaje Perine for example.
That’s a very sound, logical stance to take. But Fournette has the potential to be special. He can be that generational, unique talent. Adrian Peterson, Marshawn Lynch. Fournette is made from the same material.
Looking at McShay’s mock
If you have an ESPN Insider account you can see it in full here. I’m going to post my own mock below and then compare it to McShay’s to see which players are available to the Seahawks that weren’t in mine.
Rob’s mock…
1. Browns — Myles Garrett (EDGE, Texas A&M)
2. 49ers — Mitch Trubisky (QB, North Carolina)
3. Jaguars — Leonard Fournette (RB, LSU)
4. Bears — Jonathan Allen (DE, Alabama)
5. Jets — Jabrill Peppers (S, Michigan)
6. Titans (via Rams) — Reuben Foster (LB, Alabama)
7. Panthers — Jamal Adams (S, LSU)
8. Saints — Tim Williams (EDGE, Alabama)
9. Browns (via Eagles) — Dalvin Cook (RB, Florida State)
10. Chargers — Malik Hooker (S, Ohio State)
11. Cardinals — Marlon Humphrey (CB, Alabama)
12. Bengals — Takkarist McKinley (EDGE, UCLA)
13. Colts — Garett Bolles (T, Utah)
14. Bills — O.J. Howard (TE, Alabama)
15. Titans — Sidney Jones (CB, Washington)
16. Ravens — Demarcus Walker (DE, Florida State)
17. Eagles (via Vikings) — John Ross (WR, Washington)
18. Packers — Quincy Wilson (CB, Florida)
19. Washington — Zach Cunningham (LB, Vanderbilt)
20. Dolphins — Jalen Tabor (CB, Florida)
21. Texans — Justin Evans (S, Texas A&M)
22. Buccaneers — Adoree’ Jackson (CB, USC)
23. Broncos — Malik McDowell (DE, Michigan State)
24. Falcons — Budda Baker (S, Washington)
25. Steelers — Deshaun Watson (QB, Clemson)
26. Seahawks — ????
Players available to Seattle in McShay’s mock that weren’t in mine
Mitch Trubisky (QB, North Carolina)
Malik Hooker (S, Ohio State)
Garett Bolles (T, Utah)
Sidney Jones (CB, Washington)
Demarcus Walker (DE, Florida State)
Zach Cunningham (LB, Vanderbilt)
Justin Evans (S, Texas A&M)
Adoree’ Jackson (CB, USC)
Budda Baker (S, Washington)
Deshaun Watson (QB, Clemson)
Players available in both mocks
Obi Melifonwu (S, Connecticut)
Tre’Davious White (CB, LSU)
Deshone Kizer (QB, Notre Dame)
Christian McCaffrey (RB, Stanford)
Solomon Thomas (DE, Stanford)
Derrick Nnadi (DT, Florida State)
Jake Butt (TE, Michigan)
Cam Sutton (CB, Tennessee)
Marcus Maye (S, Florida)
Dorian Johnson (G, Pittsburgh)
Alex Anzalone (LB, Florida)
Evan Engram (TE, Ole Miss)
Dan Feeney (G, Indiana)
Ryan Anderson (LB, Alabama)
Lowell Lotulelei (DT, Utah)
Bucky Hodges (TE, Virginia Tech)
Chris Wormley (DT, Michigan)
Samaje Perine (RB, Oklahoma)
Dawuane Smoot (EDGE, Illinois)
Elijah Qualls (DT, Washington)
Josey Jewell (LB, Iowa)
Dalvin Tomlinson (DT, Alabama)
Haason Reddick (LB, Temple)
Obviously the name that stands out is Garett Bolles. McShay doesn’t include him in the first round, possibly because he hasn’t declared yet. If he turns pro he should find a home in the top-20.
Demarcus Walker is another player available in McShay’s mock. His versatility, size, repertoire, technique and production would be very intriguing. He is listed at 280lbs so could play inside/out. That might be a little generous.
The likes of Derrick Nnadi are there, plus big names and likely top-25 picks Zach Cunningham, Sidney Jones, Justin Evans and Adoree’ Jackson.
So if the Seahawks don’t pull off any bold trades — these two mocks show there will be plenty of options for Seattle. The question is — is now the time to make a splash? Is this team at a point where a bold move can be justified?
McShay’s pick for Seattle is Notre Dame left tackle Mike McGlinchey:
McGlinchey has held firm that he’s likely to return to school, but for now he’s eligible. While he’d benefit from one more year of physical development and technique work, an OT-needy team such as the Seahawks would give McGlinchey a long look because of his length and upside if he decided to leave early.
It’ll be interesting to see if Deshone Kizer’s decision to turn pro influences McGlinchey to make a similar decision.
I’m going on record saying I would be fine with giving up all the draft picks for Fournette.
I would love us to get fournette. If not him than Joe Mixon, but in all honesty we could have fournette, bisnowaty, shalom luani, a veteran DT in free agency. Our needs aren’t too glaring, we really just need ifedi to groom into a right tackle and add a guard. I wouldn’t be surprised to see our line as Fant, Odiahmbo, Britt, Glowinsky, Ifedi. I think Glowinsky looked more natural at RG. Picking late in the first round when there’s probably only 15 people worth a round grade can be redundant
I think Fournette will be great, but I think that package of picks that Rob described is too much. I would prefer that we pass on that deal.
A bit unrelated: how is Ifedi playing so far? I saw this preview of an article on ESPN (Insider only, so I can’t read it) calling Ifedi one of the worst OLs in the league: “Pro Football Focus grades Germain Ifedi and George Fant among the NFL’s worst offensive linemen this year. That’s a big reason the Seahawks have one of the league’s least productive draft classes.” Do people agree? I don’t have a well-founded opinion, but I was surprised to hear such a terrible review of Ifedi’s play. Agree/disagree? Are we still excited about his potential?
He’s a good run blocker. Like his awareness too. However, he’s a bit robotic and stiff in pass protection.
Having said that, are we gonna write him off after playing 8 or 9 games? Give rookies time. And its burst that. He’s a rookie blocking in a very nuanced scheme and protecting one of if not the most difficult QB to protect for in the league.
Ifedi will be fine. He has more positive traits than negative.
*just
Gotcha. What about Jaran Reed? How would you (or anybody else) assess his performance so far?
He was playing lights out earlier this year. Then he had that injury and I wonder if he still isn’t 100% or if it derailed development.
Again, like Ifedi you see the flashes and splashy plays. For both of them, and like most rookies, its gonna be about consistently doing that. Game in and game out.
Both picks weren’t sexy. They wanted to get back to being the bully, these are the types of guys they’ll add.
I think both players are coming along fairly well as rookies. Both have a lot of upside, but are raw in certain areas. Ifedi never had to play with his hand in the dirt, and Reed wasn’t asked to pass rush. Reed’s snap count has been down the last few games and that has been kinda frustrating. Not sure what that’s about because, IMO, when he’s on the field, I see more positive play than not in the run game, and I see flash as a rusher.
I personally think Ifedi should be moved to Tackle to take advantage of his incredible arm length and athleticism. He and Fant would be the most athletic OT combo in the league. Give them a full year of development under Cable and they could end up being bookends in a year or two.
If we can get Bolles then great plug him in at RT but I think he will be long gone by the end of Rd #1 and I don’t see another tackle in this draft capable of starting.
Draft a guy like Dorian Johnson, Morton or Bistonaway Rd #3 and let them compete for the LG spot. I think Glowinski should be moved back to RG.
The development of Ifedi and Fant is obviously the key to this offensive unit taking the next step in 2017.
Keep Glowinski at LG between Fant and Britt. They are developing good chemistry together.
I agree that it’s too much capital but when if all we end up giving up is a: Christine michael, Paul Richardson, James carpenter, jordan hill type player for a tone setting back. How many more pieces do we need for our team? In the short term. Eventually, cliff avril and Bennett are going to age and replacing them will be a pain but if we can hedge by getting Campbell at DT, get a solid guard, and draft a game changing back we can hoist the Lombardi
Did Arizona really just cut WR Michael Floyd?
What’s the over/under on how long before GM Steve Keim (one of the best) cuts ties with HC Bruce Arian’s?
Yeah, they cut him for his DUI he got yesterday or the day before.
This is all good. All the 3 other teams in our division are a disaster right now, let’s keep it that way. One of the biggest reasons for the Patriots long success is the dysfunction of the other 3 teams in there division.
Agreed on the AFC East helping the Pats out over the years.
That sounds like serious alcohol problems to me – quite possibly an alcoholic. Wouldn’t be the first, or the last. Might go some way to explaining his struggles this year.
Ian Rapport said the decision to cut Floyd was “unanimous” in the Cardinal organization. That really speaks to his untapped potential and the behind the scenes dealings they’ve had with him.
He was arrested late Sunday night / early Monday morning. I have no idea of the flight time back from Miami, but essentially he was already getting hammered on the plane, or de-planed and drove straight to a bar or friends house and got hammered. Such stupidity.
I hope he’s getting help if he’s got a problem.
They were saying it was a couple hours after landing back in Phoenix
FLoyd always seems to hurt us when they play.
There’s probably more going on than the DUI.
He’s had an off year, low yardage/catches and a number of drops. I read that he had a DUI while at Notre Dame also. Probably a combination of poor performance and doing something boneheaded.
Great post. So many thoughts are reading & re-reading posts this week:
-Hawks have definitely verged on completely abandoning their philosophy/style of a stifling defence and a capable, power run game balanced with play action & sprinkled with big plays. The GB game was the culmination and hopefully the last straw.
-As much as it pains me to invest where we have already have great potential, Fournette would re-establish the ability to grind it out, impose our will & win TOP…the best defence is a keeping theirs off the field.
-Whilst still good, this D is not there this year. This is mainly due to injuries and personnel turnover which underlines the incredible knife edge between ok & great as well as the continuity required to play at a high level week in and out.
-The D has NEVER had a great insider rusher or pocket collapser in the Carroll era (Tez & Randell would be nice) but I think one can be found in the later rounds or in FA without giving up the farm; one who could make an impact on a rotational basis. We’ve done this before and can do it again. Getting another rotational NT to replace TMcD might be just as important. Needless to say there isn’t a high round, sure thing one in the draft this year.
-The OL is growing. Even in the GB game the interior OL was moving the LOS. But with so many new/moving parts it feels just like the defence – no continuity. And it’s exacerbated by the fact that the D can’t shut down teams as before. I believe the OL will continue to grow, and given more time & experience that it will be very productive. Clearly upgrading at OT or G could help and again IF Ifedi can play outside a starting G can easily be had in a later round.
cont…
-Its too bad it is not a reverse draft where you pick R7 1st. Having to take Fournette before seeing who is there at your later, original pick borders on irony. IF Bowles in R1, Nnadi in R2, Reddick in R3 and a decent back like Coleman in R4 were hypothetically available Id say pass on Fournette. But that’s not how things play out.
-I do like the Fournette based on the risk of multiple picks working out. However on the flip side, it feels it betrays the philosophy & prowess of JSPS in that they had taken player choosing & development to an art form. The ’10-’12 drafts were epic in terms of mining talent.
-Still many of those great players came in the later rounds, so in essence it may not be betraying but actually doubling down on their belief in developing mid- to late round talent.
I’m interested to see if they go away from SPARQ like they seemed to last year.
Their drafts may become more about thresholds.
“…it betrays the philosophy & prowess of JSPS in that they had taken player choosing & development to an art form. The ’10-’12 drafts were epic in terms of mining talent.”
Good point Uk. But I’d counter that the best coaches and GMs adapt to their current situation. As a brief side note, I read Mike Freeman’s column today about just that – how Steve Fisher was still living in the 1990’s in terms of his coaching style, and how a coach like BB chums around with the likes of Nick Saban and Urban Meyer to stay at the forefront of coaching/motivational techniques
Back to the point about adapting to the current situation – in those early drafts of the JSPC era, SEA had to replenish talent all across the roster, and they did it by mining talent throughout the Draft, as well as adding key contributors through trade and FA. The result of that amazing job was they turned around the franchise in relatively short order – going from 5-11 under Ruskell/Mora in 2009 to 11-5 in 2012. And they haven’t looked back yet, despite some temporary low points here and there.
But it’s a different situation that confronts JSPC now. The roster is loaded with talent. As Rob stated, it’s one of the most talented rosters in the League. What’s missing are a couple of key contributors at key positions that would allow them to reassert their core identity – smash mouth ground ‘n pound offense and suffocating run defense with relentless pass rush and physical DBs.
The most obvious need is RB. Lynch was able to carry the entire offense on his legs. And even if he wasn’t carrying it on any given Sunday, the threat of him being able to do that forced opponents to adapt their game plan to account for that possibility. If SEA added another RB who could do the same thing – either carry the O, or at least present the threat of being able to do that! And while there are some intriguing RB prospects in this draft that wouldn’t cost the farm (I’m bullish on Perine, for example), there’s only one Leonard Fournette. If SEA truly rated Gurley the best prospect in 2015, and Fournette is unquestionably a superior prospect (without any significant injuries to boot), how high must they rate him?
Imagine, if you would, a backfield with Fournette at the head, Rawls in relief, and Prosise as an offensive RB/WR weapon.
I’m not saying they should sell the farm to get Fournette. I’m simply saying I can see the logic behind such a move if they were pull the trigger.
Really good point about their changing state /philosophy. I’d be on board with Fournette too simply because he’d be a difference maker in a spot far easier to fill than 3T or OT
Ronnie Stanley wrote an article about what a solid professional McGlinchey would make fwiw.
I don’t see why he’d return to break in a new QB.
He won’t. He’d be an idiot to return
Restructure, more guarantee for Bennett/Chancelor (don’t extend)
Trade 2 1st for LF.
Trade JG for late 1st-mid 2nd Packers/Falcons/Dolphins
Add CC or KS
Add MB as a more all around TE and will be cheaper than JG
Don’t resign SH. Put the 3million somewhere else
2nd DE
3rd OL
3rd S
Go back to being the bully.
Wilson
Fournette/Reece (Rawls)
Baldwin/Lockett/Bennett (Kearse)
Fant/Obi/Britt/Glow/Ifedi
Bennett/Avril/Campbell/Reed (Clark)
Wright/Wagner/Morgan
Sherman/Shead/Thomas/Chancelor (Lane)
Trading Jimmy Graham would be madness. He’s had a great year and his blocking has been a consistent positive.
I don’t disagree about his blocking, I have been quite impressed this year. Had a pancake at the goaline 2 weeks ago. More of my issue is use I guess. It would be great if he gets used more in the RZ. Run the ball with playaction to TL or JG is how the offense will run the best, just utilize him.
He has been targeted the most in the RZ this year at 16 attempts. Kearse is the second at 12 (with a goose egg to show for it, and that is the real travesty here)
Jimmy Graham has actually been a bright spot on the offense. He has been doing the dirty work effectively and can deliver explosive plays up the middle of the field…… so long story short, I AGREE WITH ROB.
Whoah.
I don’t think 2x 1st is going to get it done for Fournette
Trading Graham is insanity.
Carolina doesn’t let Short go. Not with their cap space.
Let KH go?? No thanks. Kicking is too important. Who would you replace him with? A rookie? Blair Walsh?? Yikes.
*SH* not KH.
It’s not like he is Tucker. Missed 3 fg and 4 xpts. 3 million is a lot.
How many are due to a bad snap or poor blocking up front?
He’s one of the most accurate kickers of all time.
Bailey, Tucker, Hauschka, Gostkowski.
Why trade the farm for one difference maker and then create an immediate hole by trading away a difference maker you already have?
Ole Miss EDGE Marquis Haynes returning to school.
Just curious at his weight, when he does come out what do you see his primary position in the NFL?
SAM that can rush the passer.
Might be better for him to come back, try and 10 lbs or so w/o losing any of his athleticism or explosion.
To get fournette would be very nice. But I believe it won’t happen. What are your thougths on the following approach of the draft:
1. trade down for late 3
2. DT
2. LB/OL
3. LB/OL
3. RB
3. S
4. CB
In my opinion the O will be fine with some experience for the very young OL and with sticking to the run. I belief that with 10 or so rookies on O we should draft D heavilyy next year (because where are young “stars” on that D? Clark, and thats it!).
This is how I would play it, maybe RB in 2nd LB in 3rd, if one of the big guns fall that far
I don’t like the idea of trading down. Why not pick the best player available? They need a few quality picks, not a bunch more players who don’t make the team. A first round DT, OT or Running back should be able to make an immediate contribution. And they still have a second round and two third round picks to fill out the roster.
Go quality – not quantity.
PS, thanks for all the distraction articles this week. For awhile, forgot Hawks just got thumped by GB. This place is the best
Rob love the idea if we can get Calais Campbell in free agency.
One of the things about getting Fournette is he would improve our defence as well as we could go back to being a run based offense and keep the TOP in our favour. Our defense has played way too many snaps this year and it shows.
It would also really help Russ who almost seems to have happy feet this year from getting hit so much.
If they can address the interior pass rush via free agency then count me in. If not then I think a 3rd round back like Perrine to go with Rawls and Prosise makes more sense.
It’s a cool scenario, just not one I can get on board with. The Hawks have two very talented running backs who can’t stay healthy. Adding another mid-round RB makes the most sense to compete with Rawls & Prosise, and potentially replace their production when one inevitably gets injured. Having 3 reliable RB’s would allow the Hawks to manage their reps as well, to preserve the health of the trio.
Resource allocation is so important to build a balanced roster in the NFL. RB is a secondary need for the Hawks, not a primary one. Investing the necessary resources to acquire Fournette would mean areas of much higher need are not addressed adequately.
The Hawks desperately need improved play at 3 offensive line positions next year. We’ll live or die by Ifedi’s development, but upgraded tackle play is crucial. We need investments in early round rookies or quality veteran free agents to compete with Fant & Odhiambo.
Interior pass rush is also a much greater need than RB, and I’ve been calling for that since I first started reading the blog last year. Seeing Chris Jones dominate for KC since he entered their lineup, while Ifedi has struggled, has been tough to swallow. I would love for rounds 1 & 2 to go OL/DT like last year, but choose an NFL-ready starting OL and an athletic interior pass rusher instead of what they did last year.
It’s a lot to ask for, but I look forward to watching some tape and seeing the test results for the top guys at those positions.
Who do u advocate to draft for interior pass rush?
I don’t go in depth watching tape until the off-season, so I can’t say definitively now. Last year I was banging the table for Chris Jones in Round 1, and since he became a regular rotation player in the middle of the season, only Aaron Donald has more QB pressures than Jones.
Easier said than done IMO
???
I think outside of Nnadi, Wormley could be a player, Brantley, obviously Walker. Jaleel Johnson is a very interesting player, IMO.
Agree about the RBs. It’s not that they don’t have talent at the position with Rawls and Prosise. As we know they’re missing some physicality there. A thumper. Rawls runs angry and doesn’t shy away from contact, but he’s more slasher.
PC references what his ideal back is this year on the radio and it just so happens that the RB class for 2017 might be the most talented in terms of big backs. Coincidence? I think not.
I think one of Foreman or Perine will last into the third round. So I don’t see it as a first round need.
Another hypothetical to throw out there. What if we can’t reach a deal with Bennett this off season? Given his age can’t see JS giving him top of market $ which is what he clearly wants. The surest path to failure in the NFL is giving big deals to players 30 +. This could get ugly quick if that is the case.
If that happens and the Jets call offering Richardson for Bennett straight up do you make the deal?
Bennett is clearly the better player it is not close. On the other hand we have edge rushers and Richardson would provide the interior pass rush we desperately need. He is also younger.
I will be clear I hope Bennett retires a Hawk but it would be an interesting scenario.
this is even less likely – if the Jets are dumping Richardson, it would be for draft picks to replenish the roster with cheap young talent. We would also have to sign him to a monster contract or he would be a UFA the next off-season, like Bennett. I wouldn’t even do it in a hypothetical sense.
Interesting hypothetical.
No way I trade MikeB for SR straight up. No way.
For SR and their 1st… I’m interested. For SR + 2nd +3rd or 4th… I’m interested.
Basically there would have to be picks involved for me to be interested.
I know Pete is a players guy and is attached to players, and MB is 1 heckuva player. But there is something to be said for selling high.
I would. I don’t think the Jets would. I think some folks are way optimistic on Bennett’s future. I’m not.
It’s hard because Bennett chose security over market on his last contract and while he did get paid, he left a lot on the table financially. He and his agent drastically underestimated the future market. That contract window was going to be his biggest bite at the apple. Now, there really isn’t a way the Hawks can pay him crazy free agent Olivier Vernon type money. There’s just no way. So again he’ll be forced to choose security or market in the next couple years leading up to his next window, which will be clearly diminished in the Seahawks valuations, as you pointed out Trevor.
This article is about dreaming, so why not?
Who would you prefer to sell the house for: Donald vs Fournette?
Donald
As in Aaron Donald? Easy choice – Donald, no question about it. He may be the most impactful non-QB in the entire league. He’s also as untouchable as it gets, and would require a historic package that would make the Herschel Walker acquisition cost look cheap.
I’d be all for it, though I’m not sure he would fall to #7. Running back is devalued though, how much exactly has Gurly helped the Rams? AP is amazing, but how well have Vikes done with him? Ezekiel is damn good too, but a lot of credit goes to that o-line and Dak. For many teams, Fournette probably isn’t worth it. For Seattle he would be.
Perhaps the question should be… how much exactly have the Rams helped Gurley?
I don’t know. 3.3 ypc is really really bad for a player like him, but then so is their entire offense. Our offensive line isn’t much better than theirs, but we are better everywhere else.
With the Rams in chaos and a new regime coming in, I wonder if we could get Gurley? Probably wouldn’t trade to us though, and I’d rather have Fournette. If Gurley was the top of Seattle’s draft, how can Fournette not be this year? I really think trading up for him is a possibility, if Seattle can find a way. Thinking about it more, with a deep draft at RB, quite a few teams might be just content to wait till the next round, precipitating in Fournette falling. If he does, I think we have to snatch him up.
It’s the home run play that Gurley was making last year that he isn’t this year. In 6 of his 13 games last year he averaged 3.75 ypc or less. In the other games he was breaking off runs of 40-50 yards on a weekly basis. His season long run last year was 71 yards. This year? 24 yards.
Gurley has elite strength, speed, and explosion. But I don’t hear anybody talking about his elite vision, lateral agility, or patience. All the things that made Marshawn so great. It takes more than just being a stellar athlete to be a great RB, just ask CMike. Maybe Gurley gets there with experience and more help on the offense.
I saw some footage on ESPN where they broke down several of his runs, when they slow it down it clearly shows him taking the wrong running lane, and going straight into a defender.
Personally I don’t think the question is if he’ll fall to 7. The issue in my mind is, there will be a bidding war if he does fall that far. And if that’s the case the Hawks are best advised not to go coo-coo bananas with their offer.
I’ve always thought I’d support trading up for Fournette but not a franchise-crippling cost.
Tough decision, to use multiple top picks for OL or use multiple top picks for one top RB Fournette? Ideally, if the OL is talented enough they can make any RB look good. On the other hand, even the best RB will fail if he doesn’t have holes to run through.
What about:
Throw Bennett into the trade instead of paying him, you don’t have to give up as many picks, go hard at Kawahn Short. You D line hasn’t been weakened and you’re probably paying the same as you would have with Bennett.
I think Seahawks will only pay for a proven NFL running back so I don’t think there is any chance of them trading up to get Fournette.
Seahawks used Lynch in a very specific way against defenses. To punish / hurt the defenses secondary. No DB wanted to tackle Lynch or get stuck on the bottom of a pile with over 1000 lbs of LBs and O-lineman on top. Remember those pedestrian receivers Seattle had? Well they look alot better against DBs playing with twisted ankles and bruised thighs.
I think Rawls is able to play a similar role for Seattle. Seattle may look around for another UFA that can also fill that role in case Rawls cannot stay healthy. Keep the picks and continue to build depth on defense. It wont be long (3-4 yrs) before they start losing their speed.
I’d love nothing more than to see a splash FA signing on a big name veteran DT, and a splash trade up in the draft to snag Fournette. By far in a way, that would be ideal. I don’t know if they reward Bennett and Chancellor, and have the extra $ to acquire Poe or Short, etc., and this to me, feels like a draft where they want maybe more picks. Outside of OT, RB, DL, they may not be satisfied with what they have at WR behind Baldwin and Lockett, they might want one of these many good looking DBs, they might want to add a LB. That said, what them make some splashes we don’t see coming. It could be that kinda year as well.
I think they’ll have enough $ to extend or re-do Bennett, Kam, Britt, some more, and add a pretty splashy FA. Or add a couple mid-tier FAs instead of 1 big one.
Yeah splash would be fun, but I could see a couple mid level players as being fairly likely. I vote splash and would love to see Poe or Short on this defense.
Either one would be incredibly exciting. I like the possibility of Calais Campbell.
Absolutely
Currently, the Browns have 2 top 10 picks and the Titans have 2 of the Top 15.
(Projections / examples)
If I were the Browns, I would take RB Fournette in the 1 hole and take WR Ross in the 10 hole.
If I were the Titans, I would take DE Garrett or Allen and then take RB Cook in the 15 hole.
So, the point of this exercise is to show that it would be damn near impossible for Seattle to trade anything to either of these teams to get a shot at Fournette. It just is not realistic. Also, both the Titans and Browns already have plenty of picks in the upcoming draft(s), so they need to add blue chip prospects, not trade down in the draft each and every year. You have to admit, both GMs totally killed it in 2016, getting plenty for sexy picks for their teams heading into the 2017 draft.
Tennessee is gonna be good for a long time if they nail this draft.
WR, CB, S, and a pass rusher are the big needs I see for them.
Murray and Henry is one of the best, if not the best, 1-2 punch at RB in the league. Murray looks like the favorite for Comeback player of the year.
Speaking of Murray, I see a lot of similarities between him and BYU’s Jamaal Williams.
They will get either Garrett or Allen in the #2 spot… so one problem solved.
I don;t think you can count on Murray more than 1 more year and Cook would fit them really well. They are mimicking the Seahawks ~2011… punishing brand of rushing offense and mobile QB. I’m not terribly sold on Henry, so adding 1 more RB would not be out of the question…. early would be unlikely, but Cook is pretty damn good.
How will the Titans get the #2 draft pick? It’s going to be Cleveland and San Fransisco? Am I lost in the dark somewhere?
Oh nevermind Charlie I was going off what Vol said, Oopsy.
They won’t get the #2 pick.
Yeah I know Vol my response was to your response of Charlie. I didn’t realise he had written a new statement before you. That’s why I was, what the?
I’d have to say Jimmy Graham is the front runner for Comeback player of the year
Agree about Cleveland 1st, but they drafted a lot of WR last year. If you go LF first, then go DL or CB, their D is horrible.
I would be so excited if they somehow draft Fournette, he is the ideal Running Back for this offense. I can see Schneider and Carroll wanting him badly!
So if we have enough cap room to get an impactfull DT in free agency and I’m thinking Breno as well for a veteran presence on the Offensive line. That would leave alot of options for us come draft time. Probably at least two first’s, a second, and third rounder between 2017 and 2018 could indeed land us Leonard “The Leopard” I like that nick name!
Draft day x-mas can’t come soon enough for all of us. The possibilities are enthralling! Cheers for yet another great article to read Robbie! I’m completely addicted to this site, I need help!
Go Hawks
No way I’d ever trade up in a deal that costly for a running back. Just don’t see the positional value.
To ‘win forever’, and not becoming a Green Bay type team….This team needs quality youthful talent all around the roster at DL, Secondary, LB…not to mention needs in OL… that will help both in the short term as one window is open, and in the medium term as another core opens a new championship window after this current group ages out of their primes- and that’s happening a lot sooner than many here seem to think, IMHO..the core players on this team have played a lot of football and while many will play for several more years, there are less prime years ahead than behind for all of them but Russ..
I want PC/JS to have as many arrows in their quiver as possible to find those guys who can contribute now and later.
Agreed, but at the same time those quivers hit late in the draft, not so much early. So if you could land a generational type and still find the gems in the 3rd-6th, wouldn’t that be ideal?
I don’t think there’s any rhyme or reason to them hitting on late and “missing” on early picks. I think it’s just worked out that way. Partly because they’ve traded early picks twice. I wouldn’t operate on the assumption that they’ll not find good players in the later first round going forward just because they tended not to in 4 (? Not looking it up) drafts so far that they’ve tried. I don’t think there’s something systemic there.
Running back is a vital position for this team as outlined in the piece. Seattle doesn’t do what it did without Lynch. And their offense without Lynch, this year, has been wildly reliant on the QB and hasn’t had a consistent run game.
Positional value and the concept of it frustrates me. Players and schemes are so different. A great RB might not be vital to New England. In Seattle it is vital.
aye, but they found a very good one as an UDFA. And earlier, traded for another that was struggling elsewhere and became great here, for a mere pittance.
Positional value is also about availability. They’re around, and shouldn’t be paid a premium price for if it can be at all avoided. So far, that’s been avoided to great success.
Sure — but it’s a bit like saying the Pats found Tom Brady in round six and Russell Wilson was a third rounder. Should teams not draft a QB early? What about the fact Sherman is a 5th rounder?
Plus let’s not forget Lynch was a top-15 pick. Buffalo’s stupidity doesn’t diminish the fact he was drafted early in R1.
I’m not talking about QBs having a low positional value and being fungible assets, though. I’m talking about RBs specifically.
Lynch was acquired by this very FO for a 3rd rounder. That’s far more relevant than whatever the Bills valued him at. Demarco Murray was acquired by Titans for a 4th rounder.
The notion that RBs are a bit of a fungible asset in the NFL has been around since Parcells and Joe Morris, if not earlier.
The top 10 rushers in the NFL right now, 2 of them are first rounders. And I’d argue neither one was worth it. Go through the top 20 and you see 2 more- Gurley and Ingram. The replacement value of a RB is just not warranted for that kind of a trade up.
At any rate Seahawks already have a fine young player in Rawls, and they got him for zero draft capital. Why should they trade a bunch of picks to get another young player at the same position- who was proven even less in the NFL than Rawls?
This team has plenty of other immediate needs, and also a real need to start building for the next core guys- because this team is getting older in some key positions.
I think a trade up like this for a RB would be a big mistake.
It’s one thing to say ‘we can wait until a later round’
It’s another to insinuate there is no reason to draft one early.
If you can get a great player early you don’t double think it.
There’s nothing wrong with a first round RB.
Of the top 5 QB’s in the league only 2 were first round picks.
Middling QB’s are taken in the first every year and the league is littered with them. Hard to justify taking a QB in round 1…..
well, by yardage, of the top 20 rushers, only 4 are first round picks. Of the top 20 passers, it’s the precise inverse, only 4 are not.
Going back for 15 years of league history, it’s pretty much the same story. That’s because franchises have come to the same general conclusion- RBs are more fungible assets than other positions.
And don’t get it twisted, btw. I’m not saying there’s something WRONG with 1st round RBs. I’m saying historically, they’re not much better- if at all- than a slew of others taken in the mid rounds, or even later. Hence the replacement value.
And in this specific scenario we’re talking about trading UP, for what would be 2 first rounders, 2 second rounders, and two 4ths (or something close). That’s just not smart.
Especially when you already have- at worst- a very good but injury prone RB. And I think that’s the worst case with Rawls.
“Going back for 15 years of league history, it’s pretty much the same story. That’s because franchises have come to the same general conclusion- RBs are more fungible assets than other positions.”
And how much of this is down to the NFL developing into a pass-friendly league? Where a RB is merely a role player than a focal point?
In Seattle, they became great with the opposite approach on offense.
And that’s a fair stance to take on the trade up — but I never understand people’s want to diminish the position. If Lynch was in this draft class and you had a chance to get a 21-year-old version of him for two first rounders, of course you’d do it. And you would’ve had to when he turned pro. If you believe, and I do, that Fournette will have a great impact in the league — I don’t see the need to be scared off simply by the position.
i disagree; rb is dependent on the OL, no other positions is as dependent. we need to get a better ol before even thinking about investing that much capital at RB
Feel free to disagree but no one unit is responsible for the production of a running back.
For example, Arizona’s O-line is banged up, injured and crappy. David Johnson having a record breaking season.
I say we stand pat with the picks or we trade back a little. Target good values in FA at RT/DE if a opportunity arises most RT in FA are coming off injury. As for DE Charles Johnson from Carolina is on the market at age 30 he is bit old but he is good for 7-8 sacks a year.
1. Trade back into mid 2ND RD acquire a mid third and select a DT at around pick 50.
2. With the other 2ND RD select a TE maybe engram or the HB/TE from Miami.
3. With the mid Third from the trade find a SS to replace Mccray since he will be UFA, and Kam tends to only play about 12 games a year now.
4. With the late 3RD target a swing tackle.
5. Irvin Comp pick we could go 5th CB SAM/WILL Edge or WR
One interesting trade option is LB Mychal Kendricks I would be interested to see what he could do if he was moved outside to WILL LB 4.46 forty I bet he could stay in on nickel and pass rush a little as well. His contract isn’t to bad seeing the cap is going to be 170mil has like 3 years 22 mil left on it with very little dead money on the last year.
Give me Colorado S Tedric Thompson. IMO he’s the most underrated safety in this class.
Love this kid.
I agree thompson is good if maye from Florida drop to 3 I like him as well. I like sterns as day 3 as but curious of 40 time.
I still really like Udub EDGE Joe Mathis. Terrific defender. Hardly any weaknesses in his game.
Great football IQ, outstanding technique, can string moves together, range, can set the edge or step inside, aggressive, physical, passionate demeanor. Can drop in coverage too.
Burst off the ball is explosive.
He’s an early 2nd round type of talent for me that should be there at the end of the 3rd or 4th.
The fact he has limited tape and missed 6 games will give teams hesitation to pull the trigger on him. But, with PC having such a good relationship with Udub HC Chris Petersen, I expect him to be a VMAC visitor and someone Seattle could target.
One of the more ‘Seahawky’ prospects I’ve studied.
Hey 12 you have any wide outs you like in the late 3 Rd or 4th LSU guys interest me as value picks due to horrible quarterback play. Also know anything on bug Howard from NC .
Totally depends on what you want in a WR
Guys that could potentially go in that range that I personally like;
Jehu Chesson
James Washington
Cooper Kupp
Guys a little later that could rise with great combines
Michael Rector
Thomas Sperbeck
Fred Ross
Travin Dural
Bug Howard isn’t bad. More of a late day 3-UDFA guy for me.
OK St’s James Washington
Clemson’s Artavis Scott
Cal’s Chris Hansen
Florida St’s Travis Rudolph
‘Bama’s Ardarius Stewart
NC’s Ryan Switzer (said he wants to play for Seattle)
These next 3 are more UDFA types or late day 3 guys IMO
Keep an eye on Marshall’s Michael Clark- 6’6, 212 lbs. This was his 1st year playing football in 5 years since HS. Former Ball player.
Old Dominion’s Zach Pascal. Incredible, versatile athlete.
Arkansas Drew Morgan. Gritty, tough, team leader/captain. Plays with a chip on his shoulder. He’s a gamer man.
W. Kentucky’s Taywan Taylor. Great route runner, even better athleticism.
But, I don’t think WR is a huge need. They’ve been able to find contributors later in the draft and in UDFA.
McEvoy and Lawler could be 2 guys that’ll contribute next year anyways.
Hey Vol did you ever check out Jalen Robinette WR of Navy?
He reminds me of Allen Robinson. Great rac, long strider
Air Force?
I haven’t checked him out. Heard things about him.
I agree Vol I an not sure why Thompson does not get more attention in scouting circles. Seems very underrated to me.
He can take bad angles and needs to locate the ball better.
But, third kid is everywhere on the field and does everything.
7 INTs, 19 PBU, 58 tackles. Wow!
Super twitchy athlete. Not sure what his actual stock is.
I don’t trust any projections anymore
I’d be more open to giving up a couple of first round picks and a few lower ones to move up and draft Fournette IF we were more confident in our OL’s abilities. We’re banking so much on our young players on the OL reaching their potential and not getting seriously injured that if any of the projected OL starters fail and we end up with a similar incompetent line like we’ve had the last couple of seasons, I’m not sure we’d get the bang from Fournette that we’d want. If we do pull the trigger on such a deal, I’d be pretty happy (a dominant running game is very reassuring to me when I’m watching the Hawks play!) but also crossing my fingers and really nervous about the OL’s health & performance.
Would love LF, but the trade won’t happen. If Bolles is gone and only Trib goes early for QB, who will be calling to trade to back of the 1st for:
Watson
Kizer
Kaaya
Browns/Bears need QB in the worst way and Cardinals/Chargers need QB in the near future.
Depending on the Hawks getting on track and running the table and hoping Detroit stumbles once, I could easily see the Dallas then losing at home in the playoffs and home field back to Seattle.
Good point Ed on teams wanting a QB at the end of round 1 instead of the begging. Iery well thought out since guys like Watson and company are starting to be seen as borderline. Just like last year when we got a third for trading with Denver to move down a few spots so they could draft Lynch. That is quite a possibility again now that you brought that up.
Go Hawks
Nobody will be calling for Kaaya, IMO, and probably not Watson. Think Kizer would be the hot name there. Lots of teams should be interested in an extra year to develop him.
I wouldn’t count out the Titans to make a move and draft someone late in the 1st round.. on top of their 2 picks they already have. If they could pull off 3 blue chip rookies, they could set themselves up for a magical run for the next few years.
*very* not lery
I got a good laugh at this video of Glowinski
https://t.co/QcuoBWsHBA
That’s was really funny. In a very sad sort of way…
This is painful but pretty funny
Pass on Fournette and the deal. Not worth it. Don’t believe he’s a generational talent, doesn’t have great vision, not shifty enough w/o a head of steam. Think he’s not even best RB in draft.
I’ve long advocated the best DL we can get, but something Tony Softli said has me re-evaluating. Where are the turnovers? In McShay’s mock, not sure I don’t go for a guy like Adoree Jackson. Not polished CB, but another great returner in the mix and might be quick enough to be a ballhawk in the secondary. Shead’s been steady, Lane up and down, but both seem like big play preventers rather than guys who attack the ball. I want Marcus Peters, not just a steady eddie.
“I want Marcus Peters not just steady Eddy” I agree, another top 15 NFL corner makes this defense top notch again, add in Calais Campbell and that’s a scary group
Saying you ‘want Marcus Peters not just steady Eddy’ is like saying, “I want Aaron Rodgers not steady Eddy”. You can’t just name one of the best, if not the best currently, player at his position and say that’s what you want.
It’s not literal? It’s saying what we have is a steady eddy, we could get a better player?Idk why you have a problem with that? Obviously we’re not gonna go get Marcus Peters. Seriously, in a post about selling the house you’re telling me to be more realistic? What the hell is that?
Like an upgrade over Shead isn’t possible in THIS draft??
When I hear ‘generational talent’ I think of guys like LT, Deion Sanders, Bo Jackson, Randy Moss… Not sure Fournette will be anything close to that. Of course, I thought people were completely overrating Gurley a couple of years ago, so what do I know.
I’m all for trading up, but only if it’s for someone you think can be a day one starter at OT or as a 3 down DL.
Fournette doesn’t have to be any of those guys. Is Julio Jones? Was the Julio trade a bad deal for Atlanta? Nope.
“Doesn’t have great vision, not shifty enough w/o a head of steam. Think he’s not even best RB in draft.”
Are you sure you’re watching the same player?
I have a hypothetical situation that I would like to see the reactions to. What if Fournette were to suffer something similar to Myles Jack and fall in the draft for a medical reason? Would you risk selecting Fournette even if he may not play for long?
Oh god, who has looked at the color rush jerseys? I’m not sure what to think about them.
I bought one the weekend they came out….. they are TIGHT (using 90s lingo)
Yeah, I just bought a Salute to Service jersey. I hope the Color Rush jerseys grow on me.
Dick’s had a variety of sizes…… only Teams Shop has them as well, but all are pricey.
We have Rawls and Prosise I don’t think we need to sell the farm to get a running back prospect who may or may not be any better than those 2. When a team has a franchise qb like Russell Wilson they shouldn’t need a running back to carry an offense.
Rawls and Prosise haven’t been able to stay healthy. Outside of that stretch of games in the second half of last year Wilson has looked quite mediocre the past 2 seasons. Relying on him to carry the offense and put up points every week is not a smart recipe at this point. And it’s not about carrying an offense, it’s about balance. Out of the 8 teams that are leading their divisions right now I would say only the Lions have a worse RB situation than us as of today. Brady, Ryan, Roethlisberger… even the established, pro-bowl QB’s are made better by a solid running game, not just rookies like Dak Prescott.
We need another RB next year. Where we find/draft him is the only question.
I think there is a 99.9 % chance they draft a RB this year.
He didn’t say not to draft a running back. The question is why sell the farm to get up into the top 5-10 for a running back. There are numerous running backs in this draft who may be the next big thing. Christian McCaffrey is both a running and receiving threat. I think he will have a better career then Fournette. Perine and Foreman also fill the big back role and will get picked in the 2-3 round and possibly fall to 4th. Any one of those three would add a lot to the Seahawks offense.
Just my 2¢ but I think McCaffrey will be a gadget player in the pros. I don’t see the stature or strength to be a bona fide RB in the NFL.
Why take McCaffrey early when you can get the exact same player 2 rounds later who is more built for the NFL in Tennessee RB Alvin Kamara?
Kamara is shorter AND lighter than McCaffrey, with more injuries on less touches.. How does than make him better built for NFL??
6′ 205-210#.
Plenty of backs came into the league at that size and made it.
He’s shorter but not lighter. Outweighs him by 15 lbs.
I’m sorry but I think he’s a better NFL back than McCaffrey. McCaffrey seems pretty redundant with Prosise already on the roster.
This injury thing with RBs is getting out of control.
Jamaal Williams is intriguing. Less of a power back than Perine but still uses his size very well. Like his elusiveness in space and intangibles. Does more with less often.
Would love to add Jamaal to the Hawks.
Easy solutions
1. Offense needs to pick up first downs and make longer drives, and not settle for FGs in the RZ. They’re killing the defense with all these 3 and outs, and last week the interceptions. What happened last week?
-Bevel decided to give up on the run, and throw it over and over again. Even though the run game was working, and Russ was playing like shit.
-Russ needs to get back to what used to be the hallmark of his game, the preparation. He shouldn’t be missing the passes he’s missing, consistently missing, they’re easy passes. He’s making unnecessary risky throws that don’t pay off, and it doesn’t look like he has his head in the game. Preparation, then separation. He looks unprepared.
I saw this coming in the offseason. He’s not the underdog this year, he’s a big shot now. He’s not making the same kind of headlines he used to, the new RW headlines are the opposite of the old. And he visits the childrens hospital by himself now.
-I don’t see the same edge this year. No more underdogs with chips on their shoulder. Russell is a factor in this. He needs to step up and lead.
Since we are going to the Unicorn Rodeo and multiple 1st round picks are getting tossed around the blog-0-sphere I’ll throw this out there in a maximum effort to win Super Bowl LII.
Estimated 2017 Cap is our best case of scenario of $42M.
Move #1, Get Calais Campbell. ($9-10M/yr)
Move #2, Trade our ***2018*** 1st round pick to Cleveland for LT Joe Thomas. ($10M/yr)
After those 2 moves we still have roughly $22M to take care of all other needs which should be enough. We also retain all of our 2017 draft picks. After watching john_s’s video of Glowinski a few posts above I will suggest trading back from the 1st round as prudent and then selecting Pitt OG Dorian Johnson to team with Thomas on the left side of the line. At least that way Russ can count on only one half of the line collapsing as the ball is snapped. At least until JT goes out with turf toe in week 2 of the season…
There seems to be some interesting second tier DTs that could hit the market this year, as well.
Bennie Logan is 26, has 18 tackles 3 sacks, 6 QB hits, 2 forced fumbles.
Jonathan Hankins is 24, 38 tackles, 3 sacks, 9 QB hits, 1 forced fumble.
Sylvester Williams is 28, 25 tackles, 1 sack, 5 QB hits.
Nick Fairly is 28, 36 tackles, 6 sacks, and a whopping 17 QB hits.
Stacy McGee is 26, 17 tackles, 3 sacks, 3 QB hits, 2 forced fumbles.
Chris Baker is 29, 36 tackles, 4 sacks, 10 QB hits, 2 forced fumbles.
If Seattle doesn’t make a huge splash signing of a DT, maybe they make a medium splash and still get a pretty good player. Personally, I’ve always liked Bennie Logan, think he’s a good fit for a 4-3, and with Fletcher Cox on a big time deal, if I am looking at this right, the Eagles are kind of pushed against the cap in 2017.
Damn, Nick Fairly would be nice…
Seems like every year there is one superstar at each position who makes a bundle, and the rest at that position have to settle for a contract in the 6-8 million/year range. Given the size of that group, there should be a few players who don’t get the big bucks and would be willing to go to Seahawks.
Fairly has the big name and some big performances, he will probably get big pay. Baker must be desperate to get out of Washington – he would be a nice target.
I can see the logic behind this perspective. Signing a “2nd” tier DT at a lower cost enables SEA to make other acquisitions.
Would you rather have Calais Campbell at $10M/year or one of Logan/Baker AND John Simon for the same amount?
I would rather have Calais Campell and I’m biased because I’ve seen him play quite a bit against us and I know what he brings. What makes him all the more compelling to me is that as a 3-4 DE coming to a 4-3 he allows Seattle to be highly versatile. When we had Red Bryant at 5 tech that run defense was staunch. That was our bread and butter at first. With Campbell, Reed & Rubin together either Campbell or Reed can play 5-tech against the run if need be and Campbell can move inside or stay inside for passing downs. Even when he doesn’t get penetration, at 6’8″ he is an obstacle. The guy is a disruptor and is a unique talent.
Another name I would add to that list of 2nd tier DL is Baltimore’s Brandon Williams. Not a pass rusher but a big, run stuffing NT who could help take the Mebane role of shade NT or 1-tech.
Another Raven, RT Ricky Wagner might be of interest as well considering that Baltimore will not have a lot of cap space going into 2017.
Give me Campbell for the DL and Wagner at RT and I will be a happy camper.
I think if it were me, I would look at the younger players going for their second contracts. I’d love Campbell, but at 30, how much longer would he go? Two more years, maybe three? Conversely, if you make a big splash on Short, or Poe you probably got that player for the next fours years or more. Of course, those are the players because of their age and dominance, are probably going to go top dollar, likely to a team that has the cap room to over spend. That’s why I think it will be a long sho, but I’d love to see Seattle land one of those two. Alternatively, I’d totally take Bennie Logan and John Simon on this defense.
You guys are trippin’
Hankins is the best of that group for sure.
Not sure which would be the best fit, that’s another story
Hankins would be interesting. I remember him being discussed here his draft year as a potential 1st round pick who fell due to something. Also he’s 24.
Hankins is a great player but more of a run stuffer.
Campbell won’t get $10 mil. $3-$4 mil.
I would consider Campbell at $3-4M a great bargain. Whatever he does get I hope it’s with the Seahawks. He’s 30 making $9.5M this season so his negotiating position isn’t outstanding. Would not expect a raise. Does he want a great shot at a ring? Come aboard!
If Seattle can get Campbell for that price range, they should do it.
I’ve seen a bit a chatter about drafting OL early, how about a guy like Mason Cole, C, Michigan. He originally was a LT (2 years), but made the switch to center this year. He is playing under a coach who values quality OL play and has adequate size. He can pass block and run block good to great as well.
Another guy that might have some interest from Seattle later in the draft, Riley Sorenson, C, Washington State. Overcame adversity and has nice overall size. I’m not sure he could play guard in the NFL, but he could be a very capable back-up center.
I’m in no way trying to run Britt out of town. I think he has been very good at center this year. Probably the biggest surprise story out of the 02016 Seahawks season… his emergence. I’m just concerned the team does not have the right depth at center. Hunt flat out is too small to play in the NFL.
My big concern with Cole is what is he at the next level?
He’s not an LT, doesn’t have the drive for guard and we don’t need a center
Hunt is the perfect backup center. Smart, great technician and easy on the salary cap.
An ideal backup should be able to fill in at any spot, or at least at the center/guard spots. I thought Hunt was okay in his one start, others weren’t as impressed. So I don’t know – I guess Seahawks will use him for three years and see where his development is at?
Sowell can play all 5 spots according to Cable
That would be an intriguing scenario having Fournette in the backfield with Rawls & CJ, but highly unlikely. They would need to throw in Rawls or CJ, in addition to high draft picks to pull something like that off.
I do like the thought of moving up to acquire talent, but not quite so high. I still see Cunningham as an ideal fit for their need at LB, Will or Sam. He could even handle Mic if need be in a pinch. The fact that McShay has him available at their pick, which I’m increasingly seeing as a possibility, I couldn’t miss on that opportunity. He’s a realistic must get as their 1st pick.
Nnadi would be the target in their next selection. Again, moving up as they did last year to acquire Reed. But, he may just be there for their 2nd pick. Either way he too is a must get.
Trading up to obtain these two players would be more rewarding than selling the farm and missing out on these two. Defense does win championships. The addition of these players will help bring back that championship caliber defense, along with help at DB(Raul Douglas).
If we keep our 1st rounder depending on whom is available my 5 favorite options currently are
1) Bolles (OT) Still think OL and tackle is our biggest need and he is the only player in the draft whom could start day #1 at RT IMO.
2)Tack Mckinley – I suspect after the combine he will be a top 15 pick but he has off the charts athletic potential as an edge rusher and would be a steal.
3) Demarcus Walker – Been discussed on here and I love his game. Great leader, can rush the passer from both inside and outside. He would be a great addition to our DL and an eventual replacement for MB
4)Adoree Jackson – Simply the most dynamic athlete in the draft. I think with our DB coaching staff he could become a star and will have an immediate impact on special teams.
5) Corey Davis – I have followed this WR from Western Michigan for several years and I absolutely love his game. He the complete package with great size and hands, good not great speed and and awesome route runner. He has incredible work ethic and character. I don’t think WR is our biggest need but by drafting Davis to replace Kearse at WR3 you would have a recieving core of Baldwin, Locket, Graham and Davis which I truly believe would be the best in the NFL.
Any of these guys would be a great pick in Rd #1 IMO. At least one of these guys should be available at the end of Rd #1 which makes a trade up for Fournette a more difficult to rationalize.
Like many on the Blog I really like Walker, but I wonder if he’s too small for what SEA really need. They already have 2 excellent inside/out rushers in Bennett and Clark. What they really need is an inside rusher with the bulk to stop the run and stand up to double teams.
Rob. You don’t mention Thomas Rawls in your scenario. Fournette looks awesome and you wouldn’t spend that kind of draft expense and only give them 12-15 carries a game. Prosise’s abilities as a runner and receiver leave Rawls as the odd man out. What type of trade value do you place on Rawls?
Rawls costs a mere $615k next year. Why trade him? He’d be an excellent back up to Fournette, and one of the better (best?) 2nd RBs in the League.
I’m not Rob, but I think the whole point would be to use the committee approach in order to keep all three of them healthier.
I love Rawls and CJ, but we have already seen this season that putting the full load on either of them will likely mean they miss time each season. Having a third back not only keeps them fresh within each game to wear down defenses, but also would hopefully allow them to stay healthy and effective throughout an entire NFL season and playoff run.
It’s simply what we need if we want to be a ground and pound offense. We were just spoiled before because we were able to do it with one very, very special RB.
If they sell the draft to get Fournette to be part of a RBBC I’d be seriously pissed.
If they get a 3rd back using, say a third round pick to join a RBBC I’d be seriously happy.
Would you be pissed if a combo of Fournette and Rawls gave Seattle the #1 rushing attack in the league again instead of the #19 rushing attack?
No, I wouldn’t be, AT ALL…but that isn’t a guarantee. Above you asked if we would sell the farm for lynch. Most would, knowing what he turned out to be. We don’t know with Fournette. Is he Lynch-level? We don’t know. But we know that Lynch is HOF material.
I think everyone agrees that Fournette can be great. Maybe even the best back of all time.
But that’s the question. How much is that “maybe” worth? To you, it’s worth it. I get that, I understand your position of the desire to add one more weapon to this team that could put the whole offense into another realm. And if they traded for him in such a manner, we would all root for him to attain what you believe he will attain whether we wanted the trade or not.
For me, as a fan, I’ve felt burned by previous trades. THe vikings were once my favorite team, H Walker was on the same level of notoriety as Fournette, and the trade really, honestly, destroyed the vikings for years. It was like a college football death penalty. Does that mean Fournette would follow the same path? Of course not. The chance is there, he’d be going to a perfect situation for him in seattle. And I don’t think it would be RBBC. They do a trade like that, they would centerpiece him (I was just responding to the idea that he be brought into an RBBC).
I would suspect that younger football fans would be more open to the trade than older fans. Older fans, I suspect, remember the pain of dashed hopes.
One thing that I differ with your analysis, as much as I respect you, is that I don’t think seattle’s roster is near to complete. To me, it looks like an aging bunch that is close to a falloff. I think an influx is needed of new talent to push the starting unit on defense (especially). If you showed me a crystal ball where Fournette put HOF numbers in 10 years, I’d be all for selling the draft. But that’s the risk to me that’s just not worth taking.
This draft class looks deeper and better at DL, RB and secondary than OL and WR.
I would target DT at the draft and look for a bully RT at FA.
A RT costs a few millions less than an equal level DT. That money can go to keep SH/Shead/willson.or a mid level FA.
Initially, I have been thinking very much the same thing, and they may do that, but looking at what might be hitting the market, it looks like there could be a lot more quality DL than OL. The way Pete seems to prefer veteran players at that specific position, I’m actually starting to think they might go the veteran route again. They did draft Reed high though, so there is that possibility. Either way, they’ll probably be in the market.
Given that this season or big OL free agent signing was Webb I have very little confidence in this strategy.
FA is like the Draft – you can’t get what isn’t available.
I watched some of the Pittsburgh Panther vs. UNC tape, and I was impressed with their DL, especially DE Ejuan Price and DL Soto Shakir. Looking forward to their testing numbers.
How about the Seahawks do the Sweezy experiment at a higher level. Pick defensive line #1 and #2, then turn one of them into a tackle? That shouldn’t be any worse then sticking Fant in there as LT. And we all know that Cable works miracles 🙂
Looking at the needs of our NFC West foes, and I think we’ll see a few blue chip defensive players next season enter the fray. The 49ers have to take either Allen or Garrett right? Allen would be a bit redundant with Buckner/Armstead but he would also be a big upgrade over either, as those two just seem like average players to me.
The Cardinals might be in shooting range of Rueben Foster. He would be a huge get for them. It would fill their biggest need and probably be BPA at the same time. Fortunately for us I think they will be entering rebuild mode as soon as next season. Thank god they drafted Nkemdiche over Chris Jones, could you imagine Chris, Chandler, Golden, and Foster on their front 7? That would be nasty.
The Rams are screwed without their picks this draft. They need help everywhere. It’s almost extension time for Donald and Ogletree, and those two will break the bank. Robert Quinn’s health is a big question mark going forward.
Rob, I wanted to thank you again for all you do for us… (eg, get our mind off of the GB debacle).
Because of the snow (and ill equipped NW drivers) it took me 4 hours to get home last night. Traffic was so bad that after crossing the river I stopped in downtown Portland, got something to eat, whipped out my mobile device and read your article and comments from my fellow Hawk fans.
Hope everyone has a safe day & enjoy the game.
Rob, thanks so much for the write-up. What game was it again we were trying to forget about…?
I’m sold on Fournette’s physical profile (size, speed, physical run style), but what do you see on the mental side of the game? Will he be able to thrive in a ZB scheme? Has he run in that at all before?
I ask this because to even consider (including in a wild dream scenario) giving up that kind of draft capital–which, by the way, I have no doubt Pete and John would make it happen if they are really sold on this guy–we would have to be sure we are getting a complete player. And not only that, but that he would really be that much more valuable than what we could find later on.
I don’t doubt he is a special back, but is he that much more to us than the next-best guy, in our specific system? Speaking from experience, we took the prime athletic specimen in Cmike, but he just didn’t have the vision (even after he seemed to get his work ethic together). Whereas a guy off the “scrap heap” of the NFL, UDFA Rawls may be a notch below on the athletic profile, but has the elite vision to thrive in our system, and the results show this.
I remember Schneider saying in an interview after last year’s draft that they took Alex Collins for the “elite vision”. Are you absolutely sure you see this in Fournette? Thanks.
Seattle seems to like RBs from LSU and why wouldn’t they?
Every back that comes outta that school run with so much anger, violence, physicality, and toughness.
The 2-3 years after the Julio Jones trade, the Falcons cratered. Most of their issues were due to lack of depth; having many injuries and no depth to replace. You cannot call the Julio Jones trade a success if they haven’t even made the playoffs most years he is there.
Seattle won in 2013-14 because they had cheap players outplaying their contracts (guys like Wagner, Sherman, Wilson). We need more of them and the only way we can get there is by drafting more players and increasing our chances of hitting on players. Who do you think on our current roster is outplaying their contract? Probably Lockett. You can make a case for Britt, Shead or Willson but not by much.
Currently, I also do not believe that Seattle has one of the best rosters in the NFL. Those days are gone. Our roster is top heavy with few stars and a few replacement level players. If the current rooks develop, they may be one of the best again. But, selling the bank for LB will make it even more top heavy.
In conclusion, I think any blockbuster trade like above will be devastating to this team and will take at least a couple of years to recover from.
I wholeheartedly agree.
totally agree with this take.
Of course you can call the Julio Jones trade a success. They didn’t crater because they didn’t have the #22 overall pick in the 2012 draft (used by Cleveland to get Brandon Weeden). Are you seriously suggesting that?
We all know why the Falcons became bad. Mike Smith created an environment of phoney toughness, they had zero resilience. As soon as Mike Smith departed they’ve been respectable again (especially this year).
Jones meanwhile is arguably the most dominant receiver in the league.
Let’s not twist the facts.
And I find it hard to see how a roster as loaded as Seattle’s will be ‘devastated’ because of one big trade.
well, they gave up more than the 22 pick, though. They gave up the 4 other picks as well.
That’s a shot at 4 additional players under cost control, in total. That impacts depth. From a team building perspective…When was the last time the best WR in the league won a ring? Or the best RB? And how about the best defense?
Rob,
I really like Malik Hooker. If he is there like in Mcshays draft does he goes to Seattle? This would seem to dependent on Earl hanging it up as has been discussed. However can he, Earl and Kam coexist with either him or Kam moving to deathbacker? He is the most “Earl-ish” safety to come along in a while in my eyes.
I really like him and agree with you on his style of play. I just think it’s a luxury if Earl returns as we expect.
Pass rush and creating a consistent running game has to be the key.
If he is a reasonable facsimile of ET, you draft him. That type of range is truly unique. Imagine 2 S with extreme speed and the third with great size….. it would really help with match-ups with the pass happy teams, imo.
I’m with Rob on the focus on the pass rush, at least. That’s an immediate concern now, and it will magnify as Bennett and Avril age. I think this community is very unwarrantedly optimistic on the age curve for those two.
I think the LOB is more of a two years away concern, but pass rush is pretty much right now.
Give me Udub’s Joe Mathis at SA in the mid rounds. He’s flat-out a next level EDGE rusher.
This guy is incredible. His tape against Oregon & Stanford is some of the best I’ve seen from any pass rusher this year.
Dominant defender.
*SAM
He’s going pro for his wife and kid. Calls his son his best friend.
Highly recruited something we know PC seems to like. Was a 4 star. ‘Bama, USC, UCLA, Texas A&M all wanted him. Former Bball player.
Seems like he was a troubled young guy that hung out with the wrong crowd, but has really matured and come into his own.
I will miss him vs Bama
He’s incredible. A 2nd round talent for me. But, I think teams will knock him for being a ‘1 year wonder,’ *cough* Bruce Irvin *cough* and not having enough tape.
Mathis IMO is an ideal SAM/LEO. Really fluid and solid in coverage.
Another mid round OLB I like is TCU’s Josh Carraway. Athletic, fluid, natural in coverage, great bend, runs the arc well, plays like he weighs 20 lbs more or so.
Caraway’s always been an interesting player to me.
Oh I know he has for ya. I remember you bringing him up way earlier this year and me and you having discussions on him before.
Yup. Honestly, don’t know why he doesn’t get more love. Everywhere I look, he projects 3rd or 4th rounder. When I’ve watched watched him, all I’ve ever seen is an athletic rusher.
I’d be down for that. The Husky defense has been missing him big time, IMO.
The Patriots claimed Floyd.
Oof
They are feeling desperate all of a sudden. They know they do not have the team to win a SB .. due to injuries and trades. Pulling a string to see what happens I guess….. another win at any costs types of move.
Georgia RBs Nick Chubb & Sony Michel returning to school.
Smart and the best move for Chubb. Prove that your not who you were this year and try and get back the explosiveness, burst you had before.
I tip my hat to him for that.
Let’s hope PC and JS can pull some magic. We have needs at DL, OL, and LEO. I hope we grab an interior rusher in FA and then grab either Cunningham or Bolles in the first. I pray one of them falls to us. If not I wouldn’t mind trading back and acquiring a 5th to focus on RB.
You guys like the Color Rush jerseys?
I’m probably in the minority, but I think they’re dope!
Dude. They are intense. Honestly, that’s what I think of them. Wow.
Love them, as cool and caffeinated as Mountain Dew
Rob how does Josey Jewell finish the year with 114 tackles and not even make 1st 2nd or 3rd team All American list? Not to mention he was a Butkus award finalist. Iowa plays in the big 10 and I think you could make the argument that Big 10 football was second to the SEC this year as the best football conference. So its not like they could say his level of competition is preventing him from that All American list. Now, Iowa didnt play a very hard strength of schedule but like I said it is Big 10 football.
Frank Clarks future is as bright as the sun man. Lol
Jeremy Lane missed tackle counter: 1
I count 2
Why was marsh called for a penalty
The rams offense is playing way better then the hawks offense. This is sad
Nfl officials are probably the worst out of any league
Different throw than last week
And another challenge on spot of the ball
I was waiting on the Law and Order music to start again
Yeah really surprised Pete threw another red flag on the third one. He got a bit greedy and now we’re out of an obvious challenge going forward. Oh shucks
Go Hawks
Oh well
Is that what that music is? Where’s Alice in Chains and Soundgarden this game is in Seattle, and they give us law and order? Yay!
Go Hawks
Finally a passing touchdown!
That’s the play I was talking about with Reece!! Should’ve been an easy TD
OMG just turned on the tv in time to see first touchdown. The team looks like a bunch of green elves. How can anyone say smash mouth or bullies with this bunch?
Here comes Russel Claus right down c-link lane!
They look like teletubbies.
Two sacks already tonight. Where was this type of production in previous games?
The coaches definitely told the d line not to time the snap cause they were scared of Aaron Rodgers getting a free shot to the end zone. That killed them. Guys weren’t even in their stance cause Rodgers hard counted up to 4 times on a single snap. We played scared.
This offensive line is as bad as it’s ever been. At this point there should be improvement right? There isn’t.
Ifedi’s worst game yet. It’s too early to use the B word but he’s been almost as big a liability as Fant, Webb, Gilliam and Sowell… Jesus our OLine sucks this year lol. If it wasn’t so painful to watch it’d be comical
Glowinski’s worst too.
Agreed, everyone here wants defense with the high picks. I want offense.
Nah, he gives up some splash plays to elite DTs like Donald, but he’s at least been mediocre overall. The 5 I mentioned above have been among the worst O-linemen in the league this season
The OT is blocking the wrong guy… several times. Leading to Ifedi having to choose to block the 2 that were free coming at him in the A and B gaps
The tackles suck too. That may excuse Ifedi on the play(s) you mentioned, but he’s getting consistently dominated
Was that Sarah Palin I saw in the stands or am I seeing things?
Yup
Awesome
I hate seeing leg injuries
It looks like an ankle or a lower leg injury. Hopefully nothing too serious
Carroll with another call out on the game plan
Two rushes, a Wilson scramble, and another three rushes to start the second half. Digging it.
Chancellor is down
And he is back after one play
Graham’s a monster. I really have no idea why anyone would want to trade him.
Man our o line has really been disappointing. I want to stay optimistic but it is kinda hard. I wish we could’ve seen more from ifedi this year but hopefully maybe a change to RT maybe if we draft a LG Or RG will help out.
Run the f***ing ball from the 1 yard line.
Good grief. I thought we learned our lesson on that.
Run the damn ball.
Baldwin absolutely clowned that dude.
Why is Gilliam back in at RT?
I thought that was Odhiambo? Whoever it was looked damn good on that Lockett TD
If he was, it was because Sowell got beat or blocked the wrong guy more than a few times
One more example why the officials are the worst in sports. They couldn’t be inconsistent if they tried
Holy shit Bennett’s getting hot
That was a strange series. The fake punt was fun but then they essentially gave up on the next series…
Nice business day by our Hawks
Off to bed. I agree with Sherman, this mid-week, 1:30am GMT kickoff is ridiculous
That’s a good win against a team that always plays us tough. Tough to complain about another NFCW title!
I no longer want us to draft a TE. Willson is just fine for us, as his rapport with Wilson continues he’s just getting better and better. Tonight we used him a lot out wide and bringing him in as an extra blocker out of that formation. With Graham as the in-Line TE now that his run blocking is actually really good I love that set
OMG!
That fake punt shouldn’t be that funny, because he got hurt, but god damn does Ryan run like a 5.5 40 yard dash?
One of the funniest plays this year.
Who fumbles the ball upwards, untouched?
What a character.
Poetic justice, running a fake punt on the RAMS with a ST coach acting as the acting HC.
More like payback. The Rams have had their share of fake punt plays against the Seahawks. I consider it an homage to Jeff Fisher.