I’m going to post this mock in list form, then offer explanations for each pick below.
First round
#1 Jacksonville — Trevor Lawrence (QB, Clemson)
#2 New York Jets — Zach Wilson (QB, BYU)
#3 Miami (v/HOU) — Penei Sewell (T, Oregon)
#4 Atlanta — Justin Fields (QB, Ohio State)
#5 Cincinnati — Ja’Marr Chase (WR, LSU)
#6 Philadelphia — DeVonta Smith (WR, Alabama)
#7 Detroit — Micah Parsons (LB, Penn State)
#8 Carolina — Kyle Pitts (TE, Florida)
#9 Denver — Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah (LB, Notre Dame)
#10 Dallas — Dayo Odeyingbo (DE, Vanderbilt)
#11 New York Giants — Rondale Moore (WR, Purdue)
#12 San Francisco — Shaun Wade (CB, Ohio State)
#13 LA Chargers — Walker Little (T, Stanford)
#14 Minnesota — Daviyon Nixon (DT, Iowa)
#15 New England — Trey Lance (QB, North Dakota State)
#16 Arizona — Wyatt Davis (G, Ohio State)
#17 Las Vegas — Patrick Jones (DE, Pittsburgh)
#18 Miami — Najee Harris (RB, Alabama)
#19 Washington — Rasheed Walker (T, Penn State)
#20 Chicago — Patrick Surtain II (CB, Alabama)
#21 Jacksonville (v/LAR) — Jaylen Waddle (WR, Alabama)
#22 Indianapolis — Alex Leatherwood (T, Alabama)
#23 Cleveland — Kwity Paye (DE, Michigan)
#24 Tennessee — Caleb Farley (CB, Virginia Tech)
#25 Tampa Bay — Gregory Rousseau (DE, Miami)
#26 Baltimore — Josh Myers (C, Ohio State)
#27 New York Jets (v/SEA) — Azeez Ojulari (DE, Georgia)
#28 Pittsburgh — Davis Mills (QB, Stanford)
#29 New Orleans — Baron Browning (LB, Ohio State)
#30 Buffalo — Travis Etienne (RB, Clemson)
#31 Green Bay — Jaycee Horn (CB, South Carolina)
#32 Kansas City — Ronnie Perkins (DE, Oklahoma)
Second round
#33 New York Jets — Pat Freiermuth (TE, Penn State)
#34 Jacksonville — Christian Darrisaw (T, Virginia Tech)
#35 Cincinnati — Rashawn Slater (G, Northwestern)
#36 Atlanta — Carlos Basham (DE, Wake Forest)
#37 Miami (v/HOU) — Zaven Collins (LB, Tulsa)
#38 Carolina — Elijah Molden (CB, Washington)
#39 Philadelphia — Dylan Moses (LB, Alabama)
#40 LA Chargers — Aaron Banks (G, Notre Dame)
#41 New York Giants — Ambry Thomas (CB, Michigan)
#42 Detroit — Amon-Ra St. Brown (WR, USC)
#43 San Francisco — Haskell Garrett (DT, Ohio State)
#44 Denver — Talanoa Hufanga (S, USC)
#45 Dallas — Andre Cisco (S, Syracuse)
#46 New England — Chris Olave (WR, Ohio State)
#47 Jacksonville (v/MIN) — Alim McNeill (DT, NC State)
#48 Las Vegas — Jaylen Twyman (DT, Pittsburgh)
#49 Chicago — Mac Jones (QB, Alabama)
#50 Baltimore — Tylan Wallace (WR, Oklahoma State)
#51 Washington — Jevon Holland (S, Oregon)
#52 Arizona — Jaelen Phillips (DE, Miami)
#53 Tampa Bay — Jay Tufele (DT, USC)
#54 Miami — Rashod Bateman (WR, Minnesota)
#55 Indianapolis — Kellen Mond (QB, Texas A&M)
#56 Cleveland — Paris Ford (S, Pittsburgh)
#57 LA Rams — Joseph Ossai (LB, Texas)
#58 Tennessee — Tutu Atwell (WR, Louisville)
#59 Seattle — Javonte Williams (RB, North Carolina)
#60 Pittsburgh — Tyson Campbell (CB, Georgia)
#61 Buffalo — Jalen Mayfield (T, Michigan)
#62 New Orleans — Nick Bolton (LB, Missouri)
#63 Green Bay — Terrace Marshall Jr (WR, LSU)
#64 Kansas City — Creed Humphrey (C, Oklahoma)
Each pick explained
#1 Jacksonville — Trevor Lawrence (QB, Clemson)
They could turn in the card now. It’s a 100% shoe-in that the Jaguars will take Trevor Lawrence. He’ll be the highest rated #1 pick since Andrew Luck.
#2 New York Jets — Zach Wilson (QB, BYU)
The Jets might trade out of this pick and get a haul in return. However, Zach Wilson is special and warrants serious consideration here.
#3 Miami (v/HOU) — Penei Sewell (T, Oregon)
It will be very tempting to take a receiver here but Penei Sewell is basically this years Chase Young, only on the other side of the line.
#4 Atlanta — Justin Fields (QB, Ohio State)
The Falcons are interviewing a lot of young and creative offensive coordinators, hinting that they’re thinking about a life beyond Matt Ryan. Could Ryan end up in San Francisco?
#5 Cincinnati — Ja’Marr Chase (WR, LSU)
Joe Burrow’s favourite target at LSU. Reuniting the pair in Cincy = immediate chemistry. Ran a 4.09 short shuttle at SPARQ and jumped a 36 inch vertical.
#6 Philadelphia — DeVonta Smith (WR, Alabama)
The Eagles need more weapons and Smith was the deserved Heisman winner this year. He is unstoppable on slants, has the speed to get downfield and as a bonus — he loves to block. Ran a 4.13 short shuttle at SPARQ.
#7 Detroit — Micah Parsons (LB, Penn State)
The Lions perhaps have other needs but Parsons is an incredible talent, the type that can define a defense for a decade.
#8 Carolina — Kyle Pitts (TE, Florida)
They might trade up for a quarterback. If not, Pitts showed in 2020 that he’s an incredible mismatch target.
#9 Denver — Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah (LB, Notre Dame)
They are another team who could trade up for a QB. Owusu-Koramoah is fast, explosive and a playmaker.
#10 Dallas — Dayo Odeyingbo (DE, Vanderbilt)
He’s 6-6, 276lbs, plays with his hair on fire and terrorises offensive linemen as a superb inside/out rusher.
#11 New York Giants — Rondale Moore (WR, Purdue)
Moore is explosive and fast and you can build a passing game around him. Ran a 4.33 forty, a 4.01 short shuttle and jumped a 43 inch vertical at SPARQ.
#12 San Francisco — Shaun Wade (CB, Ohio State)
Highly athletic with great cover skills and agility. As a worst case scenario, he’s an elite slot corner.
#13 LA Chargers — Walker Little (T, Stanford)
Perfectly sized, great agility and a very capable left tackle prospect who will go earlier than people think. Had the best SPARQ score among O-liners in 2017 (107.25).
#14 Minnesota — Daviyon Nixon (DT, Iowa)
A TFL machine in 2020, Nixon creates havoc from the interior and has the size to play every down and distance.
#15 New England — Trey Lance (QB, North Dakota State)
Lance had a terrific 2019 season but only played once in 2020, putting on a middling performance. Someone will take a chance on him though.
#16 Arizona — Wyatt Davis (G, Ohio State)
Incredibly gifted interior lineman with a top pedigree. He dominated Clemson alongside Josh Myers.
#17 Las Vegas — Patrick Jones (DE, Pittsburgh)
Dynamic edge rusher with superb quickness and leadership skills. Mayock and Gruden should love him.
#18 Miami — Najee Harris (RB, Alabama)
Gliding and cultured runner who somehow combines power and finesse. Very talented and productive. Ran a 4.16 short shuttle at SPARQ.
#19 Washington — Rasheed Walker (T, Penn State)
WFT have an elite D-line but now it’s time to start building up their O-line. Walker has shown well for Penn State.
#20 Chicago — Patrick Surtain II (CB, Alabama)
He’s had a few lapses in 2020 but the talent and size will intrigue many teams. Only ran a 4.57 at SPARQ, though.
#21 Jacksonville (v/LAR) — Jaylen Waddle (WR, Alabama)
He’s recovering from an injury but there’s no doubting the speed or the talent.
#22 Indianapolis — Alex Leatherwood (T, Alabama)
BAMF in the Duane Brown mould. Tough, physical and what he lacks in elite athletic traits he makes up for with badassery.
#23 Cleveland — Kwity Paye (DE, Michigan)
Highly athletic pass rusher who if he tests well, could go much earlier than this. Looks quick and explosive on tape.
#24 Tennessee — Caleb Farley (CB, Virginia Tech)
Farley is talented but lacks consistency. He could go early because the league is desperate for cornerbacks.
#25 Tampa Bay — Gregory Rousseau (DE, Miami)
Very raw prospect. He has the size and length but he might need time to reach his potential. Not playing in 2020 might not have been the best choice.
#26 Baltimore — Josh Myers (C, Ohio State)
Incredibly consistent, tough and very athletic center with a long career ahead of him. He ran a 4.49 short shuttle at 310lbs.
#27 New York Jets (v/SEA) — Azeez Ojulari (DE, Georgia)
Finished his college career with a bang against Cincinnati. Needs to be more consistent but he can get after the QB as a pure EDGE. Jumped a 40 inch vertical at SPARQ.
#28 Pittsburgh — Davis Mills (QB, Stanford)
If you want to monitor a potential big riser at quarterback — remember the name Davis Mills. NFL teams are going to love his skill set.
#29 New Orleans — Baron Browning (LB, Ohio State)
Wow-athlete at linebacker with tremendous character and intensity. Ran a 4.18 short shuttle at SPARQ and jumped a 37 inch vertical.
#30 Buffalo — Travis Etienne (RB, Clemson)
I think he had a ‘meh’ 2020 season. Testing will be key. Jumped a 37 inch vertical at SPARQ and ran a 4.43.
#31 Green Bay — Jaycee Horn (CB, South Carolina)
He looks like a Greek God of a cornerback. Incredibly put together. Did very well against Auburn’s Seth Williams.
#32 Kansas City — Ronnie Perkins (DE, Oklahoma)
Mean, nasty, violent and quick edge rusher who is only scratching the surface of his potential.
#33 New York Jets — Pat Freiermuth (TE, Penn State)
It’s not overstating to say that at times he looks like Gronk.
#34 Jacksonville — Christian Darrisaw (T, Virginia Tech)
Rising offensive tackle prospect. The Jags should make a point of protecting Trevor Lawrence well.
#35 Cincinnati — Rashawn Slater (G, Northwestern)
Overrated as a tackle but could easily slip inside and be a terrific player.
#36 Atlanta — Carlos Basham (DE, Wake Forest)
Also a little bit overrated based on tape but reportedly is going to be a top performer at the combine.
#37 Miami (v/HOU) — Zaven Collins (LB, Tulsa)
I want to put him earlier but it was hard to find a fit. He looks great on tape but his SPARQ testing was poor.
#38 Carolina — Elijah Molden (CB, Washington)
Outstanding player who will only last this long based on his size and straight-line speed. Ran a 3.93 short shuttle at SPARQ and jumped a 37 inch vertical.
#39 Philadelphia — Dylan Moses (LB, Alabama)
He simply hasn’t stood out as much since the knee injury a year ago.
#40 LA Chargers — Aaron Banks (G, Notre Dame)
An absolute monster at left guard. Big, physical and ploughs people at the LOS.
#41 New York Giants — Ambry Thomas (CB, Michigan)
Very competitive corner who loves to mix it and has shown impressive ball skills. Ran a sensational 3.90 short shuttle at SPARQ, adding a 4.43 forty and a 36 inch vertical.
#42 Detroit — Amon-Ra St. Brown (WR, USC)
He has natural skills to get open and can do a bit of everything. His forty time will define how high he goes. Must improve on a 4.67 at SPARQ.
#43 San Francisco — Haskell Garrett (DT, Ohio State)
Outstanding defensive tackle prospect who was shot in the face a few weeks ago but returned to finish the season. Unreal combo of strength & agility. Ran a 4.41 short shuttle at SPARQ.
#44 Denver — Talanoa Hufanga (S, USC)
A hard-hitting, intelligent safety who reads/reacts better than most entering the league. Ran a 4.24 short shuttle at SPARQ.
#45 Dallas — Andre Cisco (S, Syracuse)
A dynamic athlete and playmaker who has a shot to be really good at the next level. Ran a 4.27 short shuttle at SPARQ, adding a 36 inch vertical.
#46 New England — Chris Olave (WR, Ohio State)
Reliable and naturally gifted but might not test well enough to go any earlier than this.
#47 Jacksonville (v/MIN) — Alim McNeill (DT, NC State)
Massive, highly athletic prospect who will shock people at the combine when he runs and does the agility testing. Ran a 4.27 short shuttle (!!!) at SPARQ.
#48 Las Vegas — Jaylen Twyman (DT, Pittsburgh)
Pass-rushing three-technique who lacks size but knows how to create opportunities from the interior.
#49 Chicago — Mac Jones (QB, Alabama)
Someone is going to take a chance on him. He benefited a lot playing on a talented Alabama team but he’s also performed well.
#50 Baltimore — Tylan Wallace (WR, Oklahoma State)
I’m not sure he’ll run quicker than the 4.5’s but some teams won’t mind and will really like him.
#51 Washington — Jevon Holland (S, Oregon)
Holland could go a lot earlier than this if he tests well at the combine.
#52 Arizona — Jaelen Phillips (DE, Miami)
Former golden 5-star recruit who left UCLA after suffering concussions. He flashed in 2020 with the Hurricances.
#53 Tamoa Bay — Jay Tufele (DT, USC)
Big, physical interior presence who shows enough quickness to offer some pass-rushing help. Ran a 5.04 forty at SPARQ.
#54 Miami — Rashod Bateman (WR, Minnesota)
Looked like a star in 2019 but struggled to make an impact in his games this season.
#55 Indianapolis — Kellen Mond (QB, Texas A&M)
He was a lot more consistent in 2020. He might end up being another Dak Prescott who turns it on at the next level.
#56 Cleveland — Paris Ford (S, Pittsburgh)
Playmaker. Physical. Stands out. Again, testing will determine if he goes earlier.
#57 LA Rams — Joseph Ossai (LB, Texas)
Rushed the edge a lot but might be better suited as a full-time linebacker. Does have some talent to get after the QB, though.
#58 Tennessee — Tutu Atwell (WR, Louisville)
Smaller receiver with electric skills. Can be used in many different ways. Will need to run well at his size.
#59 Seattle — Javonte Williams (RB, North Carolina)
Tough, physical back who creates yards after contact. If he’s explosive at the combine, he’ll be on their radar.
#60 Pittsburgh — Tyson Campbell (CB, Georgia)
Tall (6-3) and ran well at SPARQ (4.47) but he gives up too many easy receptions and his short shuttle (4.51) is concerning.
#61 Buffalo — Jalen Mayfield (T, Michigan)
I’m not convinced he’ll shine at the combine but if he does — get ready because he’ll see a big jump.
#62 New Orleans — Nick Bolton (LB, Missouri)
He’s a thumping, talented linebacker. Yet his stock might be limited to this range due to testing. He only ran a 4.80 at SPARQ and jumped a 32 inch vertical.
#63 Green Bay — Terrace Marshall Jr (WR, LSU)
Very dependable and shone in a bad LSU offense this season. Will go much earlier with a good combine but only ran a 4.53 at SPARQ.
#64 Kansas City — Creed Humphrey (C, Oklahoma)
Extremely competent center with enough talent to go higher than I have him listed.
Other players considered
Obinna Eze (T, Memphis)
Landon Dickerson (C, Alabama)
Brevin Jordan (TE, Miami)
Monty Rice (LB, Georgia)
Tommy Togiai (DT, Ohio State)
Javian Hawkins (RB, Louisville)
Trey Smith (G, Tennessee)
Kyle Trask (QB, Florida)
Nico Collins (WR, Michigan)
Jackson Carman (T, Clemson)
Christian Barmore (DT, Alabama)
Milton Williams (DE/DT, LA Tech)
Kenny Yeboah (TE, Ole Miss)
Seth Williams (WR, Auburn)
Jayson Oweh (DE, Penn State)
Trey Sermon (RB, Ohio State)
Trevon Moerihg (S, TCU)
Further thoughts on the Seahawks pick
There’s a chance Seattle will need to add a running back at some stage this off-season with both Chris Carson and Carlos Hyde out of contract.
Javonte Williams fits their preferred size profile at 5-10 and 220lbs. He’s a tough, physical runner who drives through contact and finishes runs. Pete Carroll loves runners like this and I suspect he will be a big fan of Williams’ tape.
If he tests well in the vertical and broad jumps, rest assured he will be on their radar.
Williams set a school record with 22 total touchdowns this season despite operating in a time-share with Michael Carter. He finished the season with 1140 rushing yards at 7.3 YPC and added 305 receiving yards.
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Great call on Williams. From what I’ve seen, Jevonte Williams screams Seahawk back. Let Carson go. Fill the spot with a younger back to go along with, and eventually replace, Penny.
I think they should try and keep Carson, just at the right price.
But that would likely mean a short-term deal. I think with the way the Seahawks play, they should always be looking for potential feature backs available on cheap contracts via the draft.
I love me some Williams. One thig to remember is that free agency is before the draft. If we let Carson walk it isnt guaranteed that Williams would be available to us at 59. I think if they do resign Carson and draft Williams that would mean the end of the road for Penny after next year. The pick for sure would make sense.
Me too. They have not drafted a really good back since Carson and need a good pick this year. Also agree with Rob that they should keep Carson at the right price. I am picturing something like the free agency of KJ where the market is not quite as impressive as the player wanted and then signs for a little more than the average player at that position. $6-8 Million/yr for four years? Maybe an incentive laden contract with yards and games involved. How about a big bonus for yards after contact?
Rob – how many of these guys do you think have 1st round talent? In other words, how many guys in the first tier of players before you get to a drop-off?
Obviously there’s a lot we don’t know yet (e.g., Combine test results), so really I’m asking as a preliminary assessment.
I’d rather answer that after the combine this year.
Just from looking at his list and reading the comments he posted for each prospect, the demarcation is around #18
Seems like it is around there nearly every year. Might make an interesting deep dive to look back the last few years and see. I think it is at least two different concepts. First, and what we are talking about here, is who is worth drafting in the first round based on info before the draft. Second is in retrospect who developed first round value later. Kam, Bobbie, Russ, Richard etc.
Great content Rob. I will say Hawks goes with Jake Ferguson (TE, Wisconsin). Why because he is TE we need 6th on the roaster 🙂 or LB 🙂 on lighter note.
We really missed Taylor in last draft, i understand it has to do with Penny;s investment. I hope we get best available player irrespective to position.
Cha, you gettin’ this…? 😲😉
Fantastic news!
I’ll have to work to keep my expectations in check.
It’s like the first day of training camp when a rookie blows by a veteran in practice and all of the sudden he’s anointed a superstar. Whoa boy.
My hunch is that he won’t play even if they last to the SB. But getting him into practise now will stop everyone writing him off as a bust throughout the off-season. Instead there will be some optimism that he’ll be available for next year.
That shouldn’t be underrated really.
On the other hand…somebody on the radio yesterday was styling Taylor as “our first round draft pick in 2021!”
Yack.
I hope someone replied…
‘So who’s our second and third round pick in 2020?’
I’ll believe it when I see it. But the fact that he is practicing is encouraging. I was beginning to think he was like Manti Te’o’s girlfriend , not sure if he truly existed.
Nice Elmer!
So I asked Joel Corry just to confirm, Taylor would NOT be an unrestricted free agent until 2024. If he does play his 5th year he would be an RFA not a UFA which would be good news for us.
Let’s get him on the field before we start worrying about year five…
Rob – Have you had a chance to look at the other North Carolina RB, Michael Carter? Definitely not a Hawks guy (he’s roughly the same dimensions as Austin Ekeler), but he looks nice to me. Productive as a rusher and receiver, strings moves together really well, and might have the best pass pro technique of any RB in the last few classes. Seems like the kind of player who’ll be a value in the middle rounds. Will be interested to hear your thoughts. Cheers
Not fully — mainly because size-wise he doesn’t fit what they’ve gone for. I will probably look closer down the line.
Great mock draft Rob. Each player selected seems to fit the need on each team. This stuff is really impressive. Only thing that’s a shame is that I learned Jordan Davis from Georgia has opted to return for his senior season.
I hadn’t seen that. Thanks for the heads-up.
I will adjust the mock.
No problem. It was a huge surprise imo.
Thursday Wild Card Press Conf w PC
[corbin] Griffin hamstring same as before? “Not related. Just a little tight just wanted to give him the day.”
[bob Condotta] Taylor in practice? “Today anxious to see film, best day for him. Flashed quickness. No question he belongs with the guys.”
[bob] Taylor play this year? “Yes that is possible”
[john boyle] RW throwing touchdowns? “Scored more teams than any team in history. Good accomplishment. 40 TDs amazing to me, such a good number. Lost a little bit, we’ve been a little bit quiet end of year. I understand scrutiny of that. OL together only 6th or 7th time together, done a lot of damage with it. Brian wonderful job. Two 1,000 yard receivers. Amazing. Happy where we are.”
[matt calkins] RW more managing game? “Always want more. No question. Played some games way we wanted to play them. Not just stress the field in throwing game. Protect FB and control the rhythm of game. Want explosive plays to get back but don’t want to force them. Make sure execute well.”
[Jackie] Similarities Wolford? “Took off an ran a couple times, different for them, couple plays in offense where he ran with FB. Just an opening to see how they think. Preparing for both QBs. Aware he’s run FB a bit, may see more of it.”
[Curtis crab] Jarran Reed week? “Practiced today, did fine. Managed him, ready to go.”
[Curtis] Alex Boone? “Stature of guy who’s played before. True experience, background with Mike (solari). Smart player, alert, gives you confidence. Really good addition, ready to go if needed.”
[art] Events in DC Yesterday effect concentration? “Horrible day. Awful. Tried not distracted by aware of it.”
[Michael shawn] Old media presentation in the past? “Listening to questions, multi layered Q’s, be a good listener, never responding to what you read, hear. Better to not come out firing. Respecting people on other side, they have a job to do. Thoughtful responses, not blowing people off. Careful about being loose and having fun, I’ve been guilty of. Most important respecting somebody else’s job, like it or not.”
[ms] pass on to players? “I think so, I hope so. Guys pretty darn good. Can’t tell you I handled Marshawn well.”
[brady] Move at LB helped KJ how? “Expand expectations for spot. All elements he brings. Early in career he asked to play inside. But guy 6-4 with length seems so natural. Utilizes his awareness too. So bright. Comes out of nowhere on hits in passing game. Fantastic season.”
[brady] Decade w Bobby, last guys left? “Fortunate to have them. Best thing quick to understand where they come from, willing to share with guys and teach them. Fantastic leaders. Hits, plays, study, prepare, take care of yourself off field. Can’t get two better guys than that.”
[tim] Griffin play Saturday? “Yes”
[tim] Wagner had to do different this year? “I don’t think it’s been different. Scheme adapt suits him well. Really in command of it. He hasn’t had to change much. Plays his game. More consistent each year with calls and fits.”
[maz veda] Balance in explosive plays? “Double digits in a game pretty good marker. Hard to get there. Russell highly explosive player in career. But can’t force it. Gotta use opps they give you. Don’t’ have to throw over their head to make big plays. Pass plays 16 yards or more, significantly impacts chance of scoring. 12 yard run. A lot of people have gone by.”
[omar] Ken Norton evolved, helped 2nd half turnaround? “No doubt he’s grown. Exp of going to Oakland and coming back, good for him. Change and see new things. Great connection w players. Really communicates well. Motivates well. Symbol of it all, bedcause who he is and carries himself. Scheme wise revisit things we’ve done in past. Motivation to dig back in and take a chance. Not an innovation just recapturing things. Once we got going, we’ve nailed it, big factor.
[Gregg] How much learned communicating by Zoom? “Still meet Monday on Zoom. Not Zoom rest of week. Something about format allowed us in depth communication not have thought would exist. Relationship with players almost through intimacy of 1on1. Players respond more comfortable in this situations. Allowed us a different depth of communication. Always use it to an extent.”
[Gregg] Talk to NFL to make this permanent? “No, I don’t care what the other guys do. I think we will when we can though.”
[bob Condotta] Luke Willson role? “Instrumental part of spirit of club. Wanted to get him close and have impact. Unusually gifted spirited soul. Generate our own energy and juice, really miss Luke. Want him as close to action as possible.”
[joe fann] Any team reached out to you about handling COVID secret sauce? “I have not had guys reach out. [cha ed-3 more minutes on COVID protocol]”
[brady] Players more comfortable in Zoom, personal or meetings? “Developmental part of off season, exercises, guys open up heart. That’s why it was good. Something to sitting on your own couch, get comfortable and open up and be uninhibited.”
Great to have a ‘how good has Bobby Wagner been?’ question again. Been at least three weeks, was getting worried they’d forgotten he was on the team.
So basically we are bringing him in as a sideline cheerleader for the playoffs…? 🤔
That’s about what I got out of it, yes.
Quick, disinfect the pom-pom’s.
I expect that Parkinson will be sharing Pom Poms with him. Good to disinfect them, especially in a pandemic.
I read it that he’s a team chemistry guy – and maybe in a weird year like this (w no fans as Carroll said) – it’s not the worst thing in the world. If there is one thing PC is good at – it’s building up that Protect the Team, all-in-it-together mentality.
You think PC/JS ever chat it over w guys like Russell and Bobby about this kind of move?
Errr… really?
Sherman, Earl, numerous articles including the infamous ‘titanic’ nickname, holdouts, the complete meltdown response to losing the SB, Percy punching a team mate right before the SB, half the team accusing them of ‘trying to get RW the MVP’.
Carroll has created a strong culture but his record on protecting the team and ‘in it together’ is a serious mixed bag.
I do think that. Think it’s a strength. Surprised you would blame Carroll for the LOB stuff, and certainly for the Harvin and Earl bit – given how they cratered after they left the Hawks, seemed like more of the blame would go to those individuals, than the coach.
I guess I lump it in the same pot as what you’ve described as culture.
Well if you’re saying he’s good at building ‘protect the team’ and ‘in it together’… in fighting, holding out and missing games, mouthing off on the sidelines, talking to the media anonymously and slagging everyone off, the meltdown after the SB loss when everyone seemed to have an agenda.
Who’s protecting the team here? Who was in it together after that SB?
It just seems to me like people assume ‘protect the team’ is a success because PC talks about it so much. The reality is it’s a massive mixed bag over the last 10 years.
Pretty surprised this is an argument. No coach in the history of the league has a spot perfect record when it comes to hold-outs and/or malcontents – and that SB loss was a particularly brutal one – and yet the Hawks managed to make the playoffs the year after and most years after that.
Carroll has to have some attributes behind his success at the college and pro levels – I think building strong locker chemistry is right up there among them.
I said it was a mixed bag. A response telling me ‘no coach has a spotless record’ isn’t a counter.
The point is there have been some incredibly high profile and destructive issues over the last 10 years. And it was perfectly fair to point those out when a discussion about Carroll’s brilliance at ‘protecting the team’ comes up.
In reality, no —- Carroll has not done a great job instilling that over the years. As I said, it has been a mixed bag.
He’s had a lot of successes in Seattle obviously, I happen to think your point is an assumption a lot of people make simply because he lists it as rule one. But there are many major examples where the opposite of protecting the team has occurred in a highly destructive manner.
I don’t really know why you’re surprised that it has been pointed out.
Seems to be a difference in who we think team players are. Earl, Percy, Sherm were not the best team players in my opinion. Earl tell Dallas to come get him, Sherm talking about stale meetings tho he was transformed into the elite corner (“that’s what happens why you try the best”) not the best team, the best corner who’s better at life than people. I LOVE Earl and Sherm as players, two of my favorite Hawks in last 15 years, but team guys they were not. Add Bennet in there as well and those guys make a bad example to your point. Bobby even told Earl to keep his name out his mouth for talking shit in interview.
Also, interesting to hear PC decide to 180 and acknowledge this as legitimate now about the offensive impotence instead of laughing it off and mocking the question:
Well “in the face of overwhelming evidence………”
Not sure that they will go with a running back with their first pick. They will likely pick one up at some point though as it’s their normal way of operating.
Even before your article on Russell Wilson trade options, I was kind of thinking that the ‘hawks might, finally, draft a QB this year. If Mac Jones or Kyle Trask are available then I think they might pull the trigger. Jones is the more solid & reliable performer I think, but Trask has the higher ceiling. In the imaginary game in my head, the TV announcer calling “Trask to Metcalf..again!” has a nice ring to it! 😉
Thanks Rob. Love your mocks and analysis – best content anywhere! I mentioned Rondale Moore yesterday and you must really think he is an impact player to have him go as high as you did? You had L Dickerson going to the Hawks in a previous mock – the more I read about him the more I want that guy on the Hawks but you had him falling out of round two this time is that because of the severity of his injury? looks like we might need a DT out of this draft – who do you feel is a possible Seahawk in our draft range that could be impactful. Could one of the Ohio State Dt’s make it to the Seahawks? Thanks again Rob – great read!
Yep, it’s the injury for Dickerson.
One of the two Ohio State guys could be there. Both really good.
Thanks for the kind words.
Javonte is a stud. I think Seattle would love him. I believe he was also a very highly recruited guy, which seems to be a thing with this team as well.
He has that explosive contact power like Carson. I wouldn’t be shocked if he was RB1, even over Najee on Seattle’s board – assuming his testing lands in the right area.
He wasn’t that highly recruited. Only a three-star, the only record of any offers came from UNC which is his local school. Wasn’t among ESPN’s top-300 recruits. Was ranked as the #53 running back in 2018.
My bad – thought I had read/watched that he was a pretty highly coveted guy. Looks like you are absolutely right – who the he am I getting him mixed up with, lol.
I still stand by my other comments – that dude is explosive on contact.
One of the worst things about the Adams trade, to my mind, is the lack of Seahawks draft capital Rob now has to talk about!
Really loved the format of this mock, Rob. I don’t remember you going in depth on every player like that.
The players when they see #58 on the practice field today:
https://i.giphy.com/media/2uIfniYlTKcRzH5MB7/giphy.webp
🙂
Jets could trade back to #4 with ATL, get a draft pick and still grab Wilson… better use of pick and get some draft value…. get their 2nd and a future 1st round pick….. via swap… not bads
You could go QB with #4 pick, #34 AND #35 pick could go DL and WR/RB/TE for more offensive weapons.
Why would Atlanta trade up two spots to get the same guy they got at #4?
I’m pretty sure Wilson goes #2 no matter who picks in that spot.
Rob,
1) What is the chance that D Watson moves off the Texans to another team in 2021 or 2022?
2) Should/Would Seattle consider making a RW for Watson swap?
1.) 0% unless Watson is prepared to go on strike and force a trade.
2.) It will never happen.
Still will be interesting to see how upset he really is though…
This is the start of a possible divorce, for sure.
But unless he demands a trade, the Texans simply won’t budge.
You mean the owner who duane brown and others called out years ago about his opinions on kneeling and other things. The one who most of there black stars have had issues with demanding trades and such. Color me shocked. #Freewatson #exceptniners
I believe, though I’m not sure, that the racist owner you’re referring to was Bob McNair who passed away. His wife is the defacto owner though I believe his son Cal is the one involved with the team more closely.
Great call on Chase going to the Bengals. He and Tee Higgins would give Burrow a great 1-2 receiving punch. That pretty much forces them to go OL in R2, which is fine. Get your QB and then give him weapons and protect him. Then draft defense in ’22 and see if you can make a run.
Could also see the Bengals spending some free agent money on the OL — was surprising to see them spend a year ago. Presumably they will do so again.
Yes. They definitely need to improve the OL at any cost. If they did that and went D with their 2nd round pick… they’d still have early picks in the 3rd and/or 4th to get a quality young OL.
They have draft capital and salary cap space.
The HC seems solid and they have a potential superstar QB…. so things are pointed way up for the franchise, which has been the dregs of the NFL for perhaps 20 years.
Get offensive play makers this draft (they can grow with Burrow), then go get some FA defensive players to help improve the team immediately. Then flip flop in 2022, bring in a few key pieces to fill out offensive holes (OL, TE) and load up the defense with young hungry play making players (S, LB and DL).
You can’t wait another full year to get OL help for a franchise QB coming off a serious injury. They do need a playmaker at #5 to pair with Tee Higgins unless Penei Sewell falls to them. Then that pick becomes a no-brainer and they can get Higgins a partner in crime early in the 2nd round.
Is Burrow expected to be recovered and ready to go by 2021 training camp? (If there is a 2021 training camp).
Seems a decent overview.
https://www.espn.com/blog/cincinnati-bengals/post/_/id/32845/recovery-of-bengals-joe-burrow-what-to-expect-how-it-compares-to-others
Helps if I actually include the link!
If I were the Seahawks GM, it’s possible I would go RB in the 2nd round like this (or DT).
I would franchise Chris Carson with the guarantee he won’t receive the tag in ’22. I think he’s worth that for 1-year. I do not feel an injury prone player is worthy of a long-term deal.
However, since we know Carson won’t play in 16 games and Penny isn’t exactly an iron horse, having that R2 pick would ensure that Carson wouldn’t get overworked when he’s healthy (Penny would still get his touches) and that there would be a talented RB to pair with Penny when Carson is out for his usual month. We’ve seen how much the Seahawks need a running game to be effective and with Carson/Penny set for free agency after next season, at least there would be a cost effective RB waiting to take over as the lead back.
Hey Rob, just looking at your draft, you have Miami taking 2 tackles and a RB (Najee Harris) in the first 2 rounds (plus a LB). We had a brief (very brief) discussion about Tua and I said don’t give up on Tua just yet since he is just a rookie followed by you saying he is what he is.
What is your ultimate take on Tua as a long term answer for Miami? I think Miami is in a good spot right now and they need to let Tua continue to grow a bit more before moving on.
I thought he was limited last year. Still feel that way now. I can’t see him ever elevating Miami to a contender.
Sorry if I missed a post earlier Rob but Ferguson isn’t an option this year:
https://badgerswire.usatoday.com/2021/01/02/wisconsin-badgers-football-jake-ferguson-decision/
In all the discussions regarding drafting a RB, strategies for retaining Carson, what value Penny puts on the table, I see no mention of Collins.
I felt that he blossomed a bit in his post-Hawk days, and in limited touches he looked ‘a bit of alright’ last week. Assuming the price was at least somewhat advantageous, can people see actually retaining him?
Thanks for the heads up
You didn’t slot him this go, but Landman is returning to CU next year. Probably a good decision given the Achilles injury. Give himself a chance to build his stock back up.
Thanks for the heads up
Rob , whats your take on Trey Smith G Tennessee?
Do you see the Seahawks drafting him? does he even last to R2?
R2 is Hawks’ sweet spot for taking another S or LB.
I think he’s overrated.
I just hope Hawks go BPA. Dont over think it. Just find a badass and draft them. OL, RB, CB, DL, TE, whatever. Maybe LB is the only one id be less thrilled about. But what are the chances of that happening again?!
Re: Alex Leatherwood – “… what he lacks in elite athletic traits he makes up for with badassery.”
That is the kind of writing and analysis I come here for! Great read, Rob – this stuff is invaluable to me. I rarely have time to watch the college games any longer, but I know I can get good info all year at SDB.
Thanks Robert 👍🏻
I particularly liked that one as well.
What is your rationale for listing DaVonte Smith as the #2 receiver taken? Don’t know enough about Ja’marr Chase to agree or disagree, but am really impressed by Smith’s play. He looks so fluid and fast.
If I remember right, Chase had Smith’s season in ‘19 and was consider the top WR prospect before he opted out. He’s also a much bigger target and plenty fast and agile. Plus as Rob mentioned the connection with Burrow.
Chances are Smith goes to Jets, if they decide to keep Darnold. But if both players are available, I’d also favor Chase for the connection to Burrow.
Unrelated, I can imagine New England trading up for a quarterback.
Well the Patriots won’t be trading up to #2 or #3. Look who own the picks.
If Jets don’t take a QB they don’t have to pick as high as that.
Sure. But there’s no way the Jets are trading down with the division rival Patriots so they can take a quarterback.
Of course, but if Jets pick say Smith at 2, a better QB becomes available lower, so they’d have to go up somewhere within the first 10 positions. I’m also speculating that Miami doesn’t pick a QB again and that New England does not solve their QB problem in free agency or via trade.
The Jets almost certainly won’t pick DeVonta Smith at #2. I love Smith but that’s incredibly unlikely.
A quarterback will be drafted second overall. It’s just a question of who makes the pick — the Jets, or someone else.
Chase dominated CFB last season
Chase heavily QB assisted? I like him but I love Smith. Smith more impressive to me. Mac Jones is no Burrow.
I think recency bias is playing a part here.
Chase was an absolute freak last year.
You can’t tee us up like that Sean…
Well it obviously means he is fit, he was limited before the injury.
They’ve been playing that card all week, just like the Bills have with Diggs.
Diggs will play, Goff will not. It’s gonna be Wolford for my (imaginary) money.
Goff may not play but there are videos of him throwing in practice. Funny enough in one of the videos he’s was throwing significantly more accurate than Wolford.
I only saw one quick video posted on Twitter, but in it he was just lobbing the passes. I would be surprised if he were able to put enough mustard an any throws by tomorrow. Of course, I have no clue really, so we’ll see.
Ok, so it’s by his agent, but still a good story:
That was a fun read, thanks for sharing
Really interesting jersey sale graphic. Tua even hit #1 at one point in the season. Curious how week-to-week play can actually determine what jersey people buy.
https://twitter.com/michaelrubin/status/1347567842812702723
Wonder if Russ is going to be upset if the defense remains the talk of the media. (surely he knows, “Peteball” or not, he’s got to step up his game in the playoffs if he wants any kind of attention.)
Garafolo segment on GMFB: https://twitter.com/gmfb/status/1347544838443589632
I can’t read the whole article, but it looks like his new agent is trying to start re-building his image and get him another chance. Will be interesting to see if anyone bites next season:
https://www.espn.com/nfl/insider/story/_/id/30607468/the-rise-fall-earl-thomas-hall-fame-career-interrupted
He is amazing talent, shame he is not on a team. But I’m happy teams is recognizing as person comes first and then talent
Bobby Wagner named First Team All Pro. The lone Seahawk
https://twitter.com/AdamSchefter/status/1347596216419422208
In case it wasn’t obvious already, bobby is a first ballot hofer no debate.
Also dickson should have made first or second team all pro IMO. Maybe I’m biased, but he’s been the best punter in the league. Higher yards per punt and more punts pinned inside 20 than the first team guy.
I don’t know who Jake Bailey is but Dickson was screwed
Yep, Dickson was screwed over
Second team nods for DK and Adams too, nice to see, well earnt by both.
These AP awards are silly. Cole beasley 2nd team???? Bobby didnt deserve 1st team in my opinion. Dickson and myers not even getting a 2nd team?
Someone explain to me beasley. 82/931/4. 20th in wr yards. Is this the bills are amazing, everyone gets awards! Absolute joke.
All-pro has always been an overrated load of old bollocks.
Gotta get at least one white “over achieving” possession WR on the team Tony.
Belichek didnt perform his quota this yr.
Not even a bears fan but ig Arob just doesn’t exist.
I think there’s a decent chance we go after a CB this year. Trill Williams from Syracuse might be a candidate. Looks to have the length the Hawks like.
On the radar for mid-rounder IMO. Farley looks like a perfect Hawk CB, but will be long gone 🙁
Zach Wilson is not special and really doesn’t merit 1st round consideration. I don’t know what you see, but he has been above very good against mediocre competition. Against the best team they played against Coastal Carolina he had a 68.1 QBR and looked overwhelmed. If they Jets were to take him over Sewell who is heads and shoulders the best player in the draft it will show why they are perennial losers.
I was going to say above average but he was very good against the likes of Troy, Texas State, and the like. They should dominate those teams as nearly every position player on their roster was better than the other teams.
Wrong
LOL, that was a definitive answer why a good but not great QB should be taken #2 and over the best all around player in the draft, much less the 2nd, 3rd and 4th best QB in this draft. My best comp for him is Kyle Allen a solid but nothing more than a back up QB. At least it sounds like he has lost the entitlement tag that hung over him his first few years.
Zach Wilson had a tremendous season. He has extreme talent. The comp to Kyle Allen is ridiculous to be fair.
He improved over 2019 where he faced much better competition. 40 QBR vs Utah, 77 QBR vs TN, 74.5 vs USC, 63.8 vs UW. He ws bad vs Toledo and Idaho State. UW’s and USC had very good D’s, I would say Utah D was the best of the bunch though. I think the Allen comp is pretty fair when you judge them vs the competition they played and the #’s they put up.
He was not ‘bad’ in those games.
The Allen comp is ridiculous. Sorry but it is.
Rob; I agree RB-Williams is a high probability. Any thoughts on any of these guys I have my eye on?
OT-Brady Christenson, BYU, 6-6/300, the highest graded OT w/95.5-PFF score as a “mid-round” pick? He might need a little more sand in his pants, but that’s a really high PFF score. Developmental OT?
OG-Ben Cleveland, Georgia, 6-6/335, Has size & per some is the strongest OG in the draft, especially adept at run blocking and improving as a pass protector? A potential mid-round Seahawks pick?
CB-Keith Taylor, Washington, 6-3/196 as a later round developmental pick? Potential Safety convert?
DE/EDGE: Rashad Weaver, Pittsburg, 6-5/270 as a potential Rd-2 pick? He has some pretty nice stats.
WR: Sage Surratt, Wake Forest, 6-3/215, as a potential mid-roundish pick? Contested catch, YAC guy,
with decent 2019 stats & opted out this year.
DT: (1-tech/3-tech): Alim McNeill, N. Carolina State, 6-2, 315. A potential Rd-2 alternative, if he’s available when the Seahawks pick. May not have desired length, but still a good disruptive DT with some + upside, but I’m really very undecided about him at this time, have you studied him much?
—-Thanks in advance for any specific input, the post season & draft season will soon be upon us.—-
I’ve watched Brady Christenson and can’t say I was blown away. Didn’t see anything that special as an initial impression. Rashad Weaver — I just see some limitations. Not sure he has the quickness to win consistently off the edge. I’ve written a lot about Alim McNeill — check the archives for more there.
With Penny downgraded to questionable, the Seahawks have elevated Alex Collins to the main roster.
https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2021/01/08/seahawks-elevate-alex-collins-from-practice-squad/
Do you think there is any chance the Seahawks don’t keep Carson?
Would hate to see that.
I do like the idea of adding some early competition at RB though regardless. Seems as though the DE/DTs might be picked through by the time we select.
There’s a chance. But I don’t think they can go into the draft ‘needing’ to take a RB at all costs, which will be the situation if they lose Carson. This is a team that has proven it requires talent at RB and a stable of backs.
So I think retaining Carson at the right price is likely and then adding a draft pick too for cheap, longer term talent/depth is also possible.
Rob, of these OL, which ones look like potential targets for the Seahawks OL profile, your pre-combine take?
https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/prospect-rankings/offensive-linemen/offensive-linemen
Rob this is incredible that you put this together for us! The research and thought and time involved has to be significant, so no matter if our opinions differ at times, want to say thank you! This is awesome to read thru.