I think the Seahawks have had a masterful free agency so far. They’ve done a good job addressing their key needs, setting up the draft so they can target talent rather than fill holes.

Hopefully they can now go bargain hunting and add even more to their defensive front. My preference would be to pull some levers to create cap space, then add some more beef to the D-line rotation. Unfortunately Greg Gaines has opted to reunite with Vita Vea in Tampa Bay and A’Shawn Robinson is visiting the Giants on Monday.

I’d still be very interested in Calais Campbell or bringing back Shelby Harris.

Generally though, things are set up nicely. So what does it mean for the draft?

What will they do with the #5 pick?

There are four good quarterbacks in this draft and a really good edge rusher in Will Anderson. One of this quintet is guaranteed to be available for the Seahawks. I think they will select whoever it is.

I do still think there’s a chance they draft Tyree Wilson depending on how he tests but it warrants repeating — at 6-5 and 271lbs he isn’t an obvious scheme fit. If he’s that much of an athlete, they might adjust their scheme to accommodate him. But he’s not a quick-twitch, dynamic edge rusher. He’s a powerful, long-limbed bulldozer. He isn’t 291lbs like DeForest Buckner or Arik Armstead. He’s a classic 4-3 defensive end who might be able to kick inside for obvious passing downs.

People are suggesting the Seahawks won’t draft a quarterback after signing Drew Lock but I’m not sure why. The whole point has been to set up a ‘redshirt’ year. That means sitting the quarterback, letting them learn and prepare to start in the future. If you make your redshirt quarterback the backup, what happens if Geno Smith gets hurt in week one? You’re suddenly ripping up the entire plan and starting the rookie.

That would be malpractice. You’re either redshirting or you’re not. If Anthony Richardson is the quarterback most likely to be their at #5 — and I believe he is — then you don’t want him anywhere near the field in 2023. That means you need a backup QB. The Seahawks signed a backup, Drew Lock, for one season. The only thing that would’ve changed the situation would’ve been a multi-year deal for Lock.

It’s also a hedge against the draft. If you don’t draft a QB, you’ll need a backup. The Lock signing was both important and necessary.

There remains a lot of hand-wringing about the QB’s, specifically with Richardson and Will Levis. I’ll keep saying it — if you had to make a ‘typical John Schneider quarterback class’ — it would look like this one. Big, strong, prototypical downfield throwers with extreme physical talent. High character. Athletic.

The one player who doesn’t fit that description is still incredibly creative, plays like a point guard, has a natural talent, has big hands for his size and had a decorated college career. Sounds familiar.

I think John Schneider will be completely sold on Stroud, Young and Levis. The only question mark will be Richardson — simply due to his inexperience. However, the physical talent more than makes up for that. Josh Allen had a stunning pro-day performance — the best I’ve ever watched. If Richardson can do something similar on March 30th, I suspect he will join the other three in the mind of Seattle’s GM.

In that scenario — the Seahawks can’t lose. If someone trades into the #3 spot and Will Anderson lasts to five, they’ll be very happy. If Arizona sticks at #3 and it means a quarterback lasts to five, I think the Seahawks will also be very happy.

If the Cardinals pull off a surprise and take Tyree Wilson at #3, I think the Seahawks would select Anderson over Richardson. He’s not a ‘special’ defender in the mould of a Bosa brother or Myles Garrett but his incredible character, production, talent and scheme fit will make for a worthy addition.

This is why you approach free agency the way they have — to cover all bases, all eventualities, to hedge against the board going against you in certain ways. It feels like the Seahawks have executed their plan perfectly so far.

A best guess at the top-15

#1 Carolina (v/CHI) — CJ Stroud (QB, Ohio State)
#2 Houston — Bryce Young (QB, Alabama)
#3 Arizona — Will Anderson (EDGE, Alabama)
#4 Indianapolis — Will Levis (QB, Kentucky)
#5 Seattle — Anthony Richardson (QB, Florida)
#6 Detroit (v/LA) — Tyree Wilson (DE, Texas Tech)
#7 Las Vegas — Peter Skoronski (G, Northwestern)
#8 Atlanta — Christian Gonzalez (CB, Oregon)
#9 Chicago (v/CAR) — Bijan Robinson (RB, Texas)
#10 Philadelphia (v/NO) — Will McDonald (EDGE, Iowa State)
#11 Tennessee — Michael Mayer (TE, Notre Dame)
#12 Houston (v/CLE) — Adetomiwa Adebawore (DE, Northwestern)
#13 NY Jets — Darnell Wright (T, Tennessee)
#14 New England — Zay Flowers (WR, Boston College)
#15 Green Bay — Luke Musgrave (TE, Oregon State)

— I don’t think the Cardinals will trade down. I think it’s a difficult deal to make. If they drop too far they’ll miss out on the better defenders they badly need. Plus, the teams who might trade up to #3 have leveraged themselves sufficiently that they won’t be inclined to give up a haul. There are teams in the teens (Washington, Tampa Bay) who might be inclined to move up but that would be incredibly expensive. I don’t think Arizona will get a good enough offer to drop down that far.

— With the Raiders signing Jimmy Garoppolo, they can let any situation come to them. That could mean moving up if the deal is right. It could mean drafting someone later on — or even kicking the can into 2024. That was a very deliberate, tactical signing. The Cardinals need a desperate team to get a great deal and I don’t see a desperate team in the top-10.

— I think if the Cardinals decide Tyree Wilson is a better scheme fit for them and take him at #3, the Seahawks would take Will Anderson instead of Anthony Richardson at #5. If Wilson tests very well, it’s not implausible. Philly’s edge rushers under Jonathan Gannon were not 253lbs like Anderson. They bulked up Josh Sweat to 265lbs. Brandon Graham is 265lbs. I don’t think Anderson can carry another 12lbs comfortably — he’s better suited in that 245-255lbs range. So the 271lbs Wilson to Arizona shouldn’t be totally ruled out, which would leave Anderson for Seattle.

— If it’s Anthony Richardson at five it’d be an ideal spot for him to spend a year learning and developing. It’d do him the power of good. Richardson is never going to be a Peyton Manning surgeon-style quarterback. Can he be a Josh Allen or Cam Newton? Yes, absolutely.

— I think Chris Ballard will be enamored with Will Levis, as Jason La Canfora reported recently. If anyone trades up to #3 it might be Ballard, to ensure he gets his guy. That way Arizona still gets the top defender on their board. Levis is best equipped to start quickly, which is important for Indy.

— There’s a lot for teams to consider with Jalen Carter. Let’s just say that. I don’t think there’s much chance of him being drafted in the first half of round one.

— Adetomiwa Adebawore at #12? Here are the facts. Nobody had a better Senior Bowl. He is +280lbs and running a 4.49. He ran a freakish 4.26 short shuttle. These aren’t good numbers. These are elite numbers. This is the testing profile of a once-every-decade athlete. Don’t be surprised if someone decides to take a chance on him with a very high pick, believing they can turn these special traits into a special player. He also has A+ character and some of his production issues can be blamed on Northwestern.

What does this mean at #20?

I think a lot of the mocks are inaccurate projecting the likes of Bijan Robinson and Michael Mayer to be available. They’re excellent players, among the best in the draft. If either lasts to #20, they have to be considered. I can’t see it.

In the second half of round one we’ll see a lot of cornerbacks come off the board, such as Joey Porter Jr, Deonte Banks, Devon Witherspoon and D.J. Turner. I wouldn’t expect Seattle to draft a corner early — that isn’t their thing.

This is also a likely range where a run on defensive linemen starts. Jalen Carter might be taken between #17-30 — although I know teams have a lot more to consider than is being reported. Calijah Kancey, Bryan Bresee, Myles Murphy, Lukas Van Ness and Keion White will also likely be taken in the second half of round one or early picks of round two.

It’s also a good range at receiver — Josh Downs, Jaxson Smith-Njigba, Quentin Johnston, Jordan Addison and Jalin Hyatt will likely be targeted by teams.

I think the Seahawks will be really attracted to Downs — a Tyler Lockett clone with exceptional high-pointing skills and character. Keion White has the body for the scheme and the athleticism. You could say he’s less likely to be selected due to the Dre’Mont Jones signing.

This is why Tony Pauline’s report on John Michael Schmitz possibly makes sense. If the Seahawks grade him as highly as Lance Zierlein does (Zierlein has him as the 23rd best player in the class) they can safely drop down to #25 with Jacksonville, guarantee their man ahead of the Giants and Bills (other suggested suitors) and tie-up the position for the future.

Personally I don’t think Schmitz is a first rounder — but the team might.

What about day two?

The Seahawks could still find defensive reinforcements quite easily. It’s a deep ‘edge’ class — so they should be able to find someone they like to add to their rotation if they don’t select Anderson or McDonald in round one.

I like Alabama’s Byron Young as an ideal fit for the defensive rotation up front. He’s adept at reading the offense to control gaps and he’d be an excellent fit in a two-gapping system. He’s also disruptive and powerful and he’s a legit alpha in the Alabama locker room. Mazi Smith is an athletic, powerful nose tackle who could be the heir-apparent to Al Woods.

Zacch Pickens is incredibly underrated. He was superb at the Senior Bowl, he has an outstanding, thick lower base that generates tremendous power but he has the quickness and athleticism to play off that, releasing and exploding into the backfield. I wouldn’t be surprised in the slightest if, in three years time, we’re all wondering why he lasted as long as he did. Given the Seahawks still need more up front — I think he’d be a great option for them.

Keeanu Benton is another player who can play across the interior D-line. Moro Ojomo is flying under the radar but he’s an ideal 3-4 defensive end with tremendous agility. I’m also a big fan of Cameron Young — he could be a fantastic third or fourth round pick with tremendous upside potential.

There will be cornerbacks available right through to day three and the safety class has some interesting options if they want to plan ahead for the future. What range will JL Skinner be available following his pre-combine injury? How early will Sydney Brown go? Ji’Ayir Brown has outstanding character and production. Jammie Robinson is sparky and coming to Seattle for a top-30 visit. There are others to mention too. There are options at safety.

This is also the range where the linebackers might come into play. My sleeper option here is Tulane’s Dorian Williams — a player who plays with speed and violence. I think he’s better than some of the names being linked to Seattle and would provide better value. That said — I still wouldn’t rule out Drew Sanders being a top-40 option. I just wish we had some testing numbers for him.

It’s a thick, deep running back class so there’s no need to panic there. They can get someone and if it’s Bijan Robinson, Jahmyr Gibbs, Zach Charbonnet, Tyjae Spears or Israel Abanikanda with a high-ish pick — so be it. Spears is having an outstanding off-season and oozes talent, quickness and power. Gibbs is just an electric player who can do so much as a runner and receiver. Charbonnet and Abanikanda are also very talented and we all know about Robinson by now.

The receiver I’d put a ring around on day two is Jonathan Mingo — the wildly underrated wide-out from Ole Miss. He is an exceptional talent with soft hands, speed, size and an ability to act as an outside receiver or a big slot. He excelled at the Senior Bowl and just looks the part.

It’s well advertised that it’s a talented tight end class and the Seahawks might plan ahead with Noah Fant and Colby Parkinson both free agents next year. I think it’d have to be a top-talent to make that move early (eg Mayer) but we’ll see. I also think days 2/3 are chock full of interesting interior linemen. Emil Ekiyor Jr, Anthony Bradford, Nick Broeker, Jordan McFadden, Andrew Vorhees — plus even players like T.J. Bass and Tyler Steen — carry some intrigue.

If you missed my interview with Scot McCloughan, check it out here:

If you enjoy the blog and appreciate what we do — why not consider supporting the site via Patreon — (click here)

This week I was able to catch-up with Scot McCloughan, former GM in San Francisco and Washington, former Senior personnel executive in Seattle and one of the best talent evaluators in the business.

Please have a listen — for me it’s a great football education every time I get a chance to speak with Scot.

This is also available via ‘The Rebuild’ podcast.

According to Bob Condotta, the Seahawks have signed linebacker Devin Bush on a one-year contract.

I think it’s a perfectly acceptable signing and the kind that was needed by Seattle.

With the new defensive scheme, they simply aren’t using two linebackers as much as they used to. For example, while Cody Barton played a high number of snaps in the first three games of the season (97% average), between weeks 4-11 he only played 61% of the snaps.

It’s distinctly possible that these numbers would’ve been lower still if Jamal Adams had stayed healthy. Sean Desai liked to use a lot of three safety looks in Chicago and it felt like that influence was coming to Seattle.

So while the ‘LB1’ position remains a key starter for the Seahawks, the ‘LB2’ spot feels far less important — especially if they have three safeties they can utilise properly.

Jordyn Brooks is recovering from a torn ACL and could miss some time but the fact is he remains Seattle’s ‘LB1’. He will return, even if he misses the start of the season (and we don’t have a timeline for recovery yet).

While large sections of the fan base and media petition for Bobby Wagner’s return, he would’ve created a luxury situation that is difficult to justify. Once Brooks returned, one of Wagner or Brooks would likely only be playing, ideally, 50-60% of the snaps.

That’s not really a role you spend a lot of money on. Wagner’s expectation is likely a deal similar to the one he got last year in LA. That wouldn’t be possible for Seattle’s defense. The contract would have to come to the team. They’d need to be able to justify having that linebacker on a cheaper deal.

Wagner might get to a point where he decides he just wants to play in Seattle and will take whatever is being offered. However, the signing of Bush speaks to the reality of the situation.

Now the Seahawks can draft a cheap linebacker. They can let the rookie and Bush compete. If Brooks returns for week one, he starts and the other play replaces Barton. Otherwise, Bush or the rookie fills the ‘LB1’ void until Brooks is ready.

This is a good hedge, therefore, for the draft.

Everything speaks to this being how Seattle is approaching things. A year ago they cut Wagner and didn’t do anything at linebacker. They didn’t draft or sign any serious competition for Brooks and Barton. The two went through the off-season uncontested, with the depth relatively exposed.

We all wondered what was going on — but it spoke to how the Seahawks are adapting their defense.

It’s now been announced that they’ve signed Julian Love to a significant two-year contract worth $12m. He is not some cheap reclamation project. He was ‘the 33rd Team’s’ 28th ranked free agent:

The 2022 season was Julian Love‘s first as a full-time starter. He was voted a defensive captain and thrived in the secondary as a leader and playmaker. Love rarely came off the field, playing 95 percent of the Giants’ defensive snaps. He is a smart, dependable player who is utilized in many roles.

Love can blitz, play as the deep safety and stop the run. He had a knack for making game-changing plays such as his interception in the last 5 minutes vs. the Ravens in Week 6, a timely sack in Week 2 vs. the Carolina Panthers, and he helped clinch a win vs. Jacksonville in Week 7. He should only continue to get better.

He is incredibly well respected by Giants fans and media for his versatile safety role.

They appear to be signing him to cover for the fact Jamal Adams is a big question mark for the start of the season. They might even part ways with Adams as a post-June 1st cut, if he’s not prepared to rework his contract to free up cap space.

Either way — they’ve signed a third safety. They’ve also set up ‘top-30’ visits with safety prospects Jammie Robinson and Jordan Howden.

Do they still need better linebacker depth? Yes. They can’t be in a situation again where someone like Tanner Muse is thrust into battle within weeks of the season starting. They need better depth, even if they are going to go with a three-safety approach a high percentage of the time rather than playing two linebackers.

That’s why the Bush signing makes sense. He’s a former top-10 pick who has had trouble regaining his best form after injury. Yet he has starting experience and a pedigree. The Seahawks are taking a shot-to-nothing to see if he can work out. The worst case scenario is he’s your backup, with Brooks and a rookie leading the depth chart.

It appears his play picked up somewhat in 2022. This article, titled, ‘Steelers Are Finally Getting the Devin Bush They Drafted’ was published last October:

This season, things have changed for Bush, even if it’s not immediately evident in his coverage stats. Bush has been targeted 21 times, allowing 14 completions (67%) for 183 yards and one touchdown.

The opposing passer rating has actually increased, to a career-best 109.8. That’s somewhat alarming, but it also doesn’t tell the whole story. Compared to his rookie year, the average depth of target against Bush has doubled. He defended an average of 3.9 yards from the line of scrimmage in 2019. In 2022, that average is eight yards.

I’m comfortable with this entire situation. I’m not as keen on the nostalgia trip of re-signing Wagner. For all the talk of his continued quality, we’re a week into free agency and the only teams he’s been linked with so far are Dallas (before they quickly re-signing Leighton Vander Esch instead) and Seattle.

There are plenty of contenders out there who need a linebacker — Philly and Buffalo to name two. Yet there’s almost no talk about him.

I would rather the Seahawks pull some levers to create more cap space and keep adding to their defensive line. There are a lot of intriguing players still out there and this is the point where the market comes to the teams.

Stay tuned to Seahawks Draft Blog and my YouTube channel and ‘The Rebuild’ podcast — I’ve got a big interview coming later today with Scot McCloughan.

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The latest free agent moving to Seattle is Detroit offensive lineman Evan Brown. With 24 starts in the last two seasons, he had a not-terrible PFF grade of 64.8 last season. He offers versatility at guard and center and that’s what makes this such an ideal signing.

The Seahawks are now ideally hedged for the draft. Yesterday we noted connections to John Michael Schmitz — possibly in round one. Both Luke Wypler and Schmitz are ideal scheme fits with a physical profile and background perfectly matching what the Seahawks are looking for.

However, Brown’s signing means they don’t need to force anything.

Although he’s bigger than the other centers we’ve been discussing — he ran a superb 4.46 short shuttle at 302lbs at his pro-day. He could potentially drop weight now that he’s moving to Seattle (he’s currently listed at 320lbs). Either way — the Seahawks have a player who can start, ‘do a job’ and avoid any reaching for need in April.

If the center they want is available in the range they’re comfortable with — perfect. They can select them. If not, they’re not going to be caught short desperately looking for an alternative.

Furthermore — if they draft Schmitz or Wypler and they win the starting job, they’ll still benefit from Brown’s ability to provide depth anywhere along the interior.

This has been an impressive start to free agency for Seattle. Already they appear comfortably in position to draft for talent with their high picks. Yes — they still need more on defense. There are no critical gaping holes though that must be addressed at #5 or #20.

Dre’Mont Jones was the talent injection the D-line needed, while Jarran Reed will provide great solidity. Now, they have an experienced lineman who can start at center or guard. This is all after pulling off a great contract with Geno Smith — full of incentive for the player and flexibility for the team.

It’d be nice to see some levers pulled to create more cap space and take advantage of the names still available who look appealing. If it doesn’t happen though, this has already been a far more effective free agency period than we’re used to seeing. They’re addressing their biggest needs, they’re setting up the draft.

This has been a good start to the off-season.

Other notes

— The Seahawks love a reclamation project so it’s interesting to see Devin Bush coming in for a visit. He was once a fantastic draft prospect with major potential. The Steelers traded up to the 10th overall pick in 2019 to get him. However, injury stalled his progress and nobody in Pittsburgh was surprised to see him moving on (the Steelers signed blog favourite Cole Holcomb instead). He’ll be cheap so it’ll be interesting to see if they bring him in for camp.

— The Seahawks are also visiting with cornerback/safety Lonnie Johnson. These are potential reclamation/development projects too. It’s always good to have a few of these up your sleeve.

— The interesting visit is Julian Love. He had a 70.0 PFF grade last season and is well regarded in New York, after a strong season in the Wink Martindale defense. He’s not a reclamation project. He could be a potential starter. If they sign him, what does that mean for Jamal Adams?

— There are three confirmed ‘top-30’ visits for the Seahawks pre-draft — tackle Dawand Jones and safeties Jammie Robinson and Jordan Howden. It certainly feels like they’re preparing for the future at safety. Ryan Neal is a free agent in 2023 while the future of Jamal Adams is a major question mark. Quandre Diggs has an obvious out on his deal next year too. They’d be wise to plan ahead if they can — so don’t be surprised if Julian Love is signed and/or they draft someone in the middle or later rounds with a view to the future.

UPDATE

The Seahawks have also re-signed Drew Lock today on a one-year deal. Another excellent move. They needed a backup quarterback, regardless of their plans for the #5 pick. Lock knows the offense and has more physical talent than most backups.

Again, it doesn’t preclude anything in round one. It’s a one-year contract. Let’s say the Seahawks draft Anthony Richardson. You want to redshirt him, not make him the backup where he’s a hit away from starting.

This is a good move — securing the QB position for 2023 but leaving the options open for the future.

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According to friend of the blog Tony Pauline at Pro Football Network, the Seahawks are very interested in drafting Minnesota center John Michael Schmitz:

The other center-needy team who really likes Schmitz is the Seattle Seahawks. The franchise has been eyeing Schmitz for the longest time and became enamored with him during the Senior Bowl. Would they pull the trigger on Schmitz with the 20th selection, their second pick in the first round? Ideally, they’d want to trade down, but you never can tell with Seattle.

Tony also reports interest from the Giants and Bills in Schmitz — believing there’s a legit chance he could go in the first round.

It’s a sentiment shared by others. Lance Zierlein has him graded as the 23rd best player in the draft. Jim Nagy called him a “two-contract, high-level starter” and one of the surest things in this class.

The Seahawks are going to draft a center. They stayed out of the relatively team-friendly veteran market, which is a big tell. After the combine I predicted they were certain to draft one of Schmitz or Luke Wypler.

Both players are perfect scheme fits. They have ideal size, wrestling backgrounds and they ran good short shuttles (Wypler — 4.53, Schmitz — 4.56).

I think both players are day two picks. The center position typically isn’t one that you see in round one. Neither player is an outstanding tester like Nick Mangold — the 29th pick in 2006 who ran a 4.36 short shuttle at 300lbs. However, Ryan Kelly ran a similar shuttle (4.59) and was the #18 pick — and the Seahawks were believed to be big admirers of Kelly in 2016.

It’s also worth noting that Schmitz and Wypler perfectly fit Seattle’s refocused approach to character. They are exactly the ‘type’ they are looking for.

It’ll be interesting to see how this plays out. Trading down from #20 feels plausible. Yet I fear the Seahawks might fall into the trap John Schneider says he’s keen to avoid. There could be some fantastic value at #20 and unless he agrees with Zierlein that Schmitz is one of the 25 best players in the class, it could end up being a slight reach to fill a need.

One scenario could be to trade down from #20 and trade up from #38 — hitting what might be seen as a sweet spot for value between #25-32. We know the Seahawks were open to trading up in that range last year. Dropping five spots would also keep Seattle ahead of New York and Buffalo — so it might be worth keeping an eye on a deal with Jacksonville who own the #25 pick, with Seattle potentially snagging Schmitz with their second selection.

I’d hope that having two viable centers might give the Seahawks confidence not to force anything. According to Tony’s extremely believable report though, it sounds like Schneider has locked on to his man. The lack of free agent additions at center speak to the distinct possibility Seattle will address the position early in this draft — making sure they land their top target.

If they continue to address the defense in free agency it could also be a sign that offensive picks in round one are very much on the agenda.

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… It’s the sound of a thousand pennies finally dropping.

These are not Ws being posted. The weight is a big concern considering this is the most important job interview of your life. Testing was expected to be a positive and now he's not testing. The slide could be very real for Carter. https://t.co/D88hrzRzNU

— Lance Zierlein (@LanceZierlein) March 15, 2023

Here’s an ESPN report on Jalen Carter’s pro-day performance:

Georgia defensive tackle Jalen Carter was nine pounds heavier than he was at the NFL combine about two weeks ago and couldn’t finish his position drills at Georgia’s pro day on Wednesday.

Carter, who was once considered a potential No. 1 pick in April’s draft, weighed 323 pounds at the pro day. He opted to do only position drills and didn’t participate in other aspects of the workout, including the 40-yard dash, cone drills and other physical tests. Carter didn’t finish the position drills because he was cramping up and breathing heavily.

He is not being drafted with the fifth overall pick.

Can the Seahawks make it 3/3?

After consecutive days of defensive line additions, what will today bring? The Seahawks don’t have much cap space remaining but as we’ve seen over the last couple of days, you can make anything happen really.

Although some of the big names are still out there, we’re getting to the point where players will be coming to terms with their markets. It’s the opportunity, usually, the Seahawks wait for. Can they make further defensive additions now, as the market becomes more team-friendly?

I’d still like to see some more beef added to the D-line and perhaps another outside rusher — although I think everything is gearing towards Bobby Wagner’s inevitable return. I hope the Seahawks wait that one out for as long as possible though — Wagner appears to have a very limited market. There’s no chatter about him and prospective suitors such as Dallas have already moved on. The price has to come to Seattle for me — this can’t be a nostalgia-driven signing.

At the end of the day, you’re looking for someone to hold the fort until Jordyn Brooks is back. I still think a cheap veteran and a draft pick can get the job done. But we’ll see what happens.

What do they do at running back?

A few people are wondering this with Rashaad Penny and Travis Homer departing. It’s worth remembering that this is a loaded running back class.

I’m intrigued to see if the change in blocking scheme could lead to a shift in ‘type’ they are looking for. Ken Walker ran a 4.38 at an ideally sized 211lbs. Yet if they are more inclined to go for quickness these days — the likes of the incredibly dynamic Devon Achane could be on their radar. He’s small and diminutive but he runs like you’re playing NCAA on a PS3. He can cut and change direction with ease without losing any speed. It’s a thing to watch.

He ran a blistering 4.32 and while he won’t push the pile — you can well imagine him excelling in a zone scheme. When gets to the second level, watch out.

Jahmyr Gibbs also ran brilliantly (4.36) and while the thought of another high pick at running back will haunt some Seahawks fans — they’d have the most dynamic running duo in the league.

Zach Charbonnet, Tyjae Spears, Israel Abanikanda and Kenny McIntosh all have the potential to be immediate contributors. Then there’s the likes of Chris Rodriguez, Chase Brown, Tank Bigsby and Zach Evans in the mid-range, with Evan Hull, Roschon Johnson, Eric Gray, Deuce Vaughan, Kendre Miller and Sean Tucker likely to be on the board at the start of day three.

And let’s also not totally rule out Bijan Robinson at #20. It’d be an extreme luxury and I don’t think he’ll last that far. But he’s too good to ignore.

There are so many options — they could even draft two of these guys later on and feel good about their running back group.

Today is the Georgia pro-day

Stand by for hype galore — as everyone waits to see if Jalen Carter works out (and speaks to the media). Nolan Smith will presumably get another week of good press out of this event. Most of the teams (if not all) will be on campus. We’ll also hear loads of chatter about who’s interested in who.

Just give me some short shuttles.

Is that too much to ask?

Pro-day notes

According to Tony Pauline, Bryan Bresee ran an excellent 4.43 short shuttle at 302lbs, plus a three-cone of 7.38. We already know that Moro Ojomo ran a 4.56 short shuttle at his pro-day, with Adetomiwa Adebawore running a 4.26.

Meanwhile, Myles Murphy didn’t do anything at Clemson’s pro-day and has arranged his own pro-day for April 4th as he recovers from an injury.

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Well, we did say it wouldn’t be a Seahawks off-season without some former players returning.

And while the fanbase waits patiently for Bobby Wagner’s inevitable return (I’ve already written my article reacting to that, I’m just waiting to publish it) — it’s actually a more unlikely player who returns first.

Jarran Reed left the Seahawks under a bit of a cloud in 2021. He was only a year removed from signing an extension. They wanted to work on his deal, get something sorted to lower his hit and extend his stay. Reed wasn’t happy and they parted with an air of bitterness lingering. He joined the Chiefs for a year and then spent 2022 in Green Bay.

I like this signing, on a reported two-year deal worth $10m (the reported price, so it’ll inevitably be lower in real money). He’s always been a very solid player. He only turned 30 in December so he’s not old. He had four sacks for the Packers in an active campaign. He hasn’t missed a game since 2019. You can trust him to be stout up front, play the run and deliver some pass rush. He has a warriors mentality.

He’ll be a lot cheaper than some of the alternative defensive linemen available and you know what you’re going to get from him. He’ll do a job.

Reed also plays with an attitude and an intensity which is always good to welcome back into the mix. He’s not a shrinking violet.

I think he’s the kind of piece Seattle needs to go with Dre’Mont Jones as they fix this defensive front. Now they have Reed, Jones and Al Woods as a front three — with the potential to draft someone to add to that. Maybe they’ll also find some money to bring another veteran in?

The only reason I didn’t consider Reed in my free agency piece was because I thought bridges had been burned. Evidently not — and kudos to all for coming together because this is a smart fit for both parties.

Either way — this is the kind of start Seattle needed to free agency. It’s also indicative of a team who I continue to think are likely to do one of two things at #5 — draft Will Anderson or one of the top-four quarterbacks. They’re focusing their intention on big-bodied defenders in free agency, which to me is telling.

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The addition of Dre’Mont Jones was unquestionably a strong start to free agency for the Seahawks. They begin with a bang — addressing a huge need with a talented player at a great age.

Listening to some Broncos fans discuss Jones ahead of free agency, they clearly felt he was an ascending player — a key interior pass rusher capable of providing high-level disruption. They felt like his best football was to come — and now they’re going to watch him walk out the door as things reach a crescendo.

His 6.5 sacks in 2022 came in just 13 games. The Seahawks have needed an 8-10 sack interior rusher for some time and they may have found their man.

Still, there’s no getting away from the fact his run defense isn’t a strong point. You wouldn’t expect it to be — he’s 6-3 and 281lbs. The key for the Seahawks is to blend players with that kind of frame with some big brutes. It’s why in my last mock draft I had Seattle take Keion White at #20 (6-5, 285lbs) and then Mazi Smith at #38 (6-3, 323lbs).

The more they can do on the defensive line in free agency, the more things are free’d up for the draft. I’m not overly concerned about the linebacker position at the moment. I’ve taken a real liking to Tulane’s Dorian Williams and think he could be a hidden gem in this draft class. I also think there will be some options at the start of day three and that a big investment at linebacker isn’t entirely necessary.

So my preference over the coming days (or today, if, you know, they want to keep the celebratory mood going…) is to pad out the defensive front even more.

A’Shawn Robinson is big, solid run blocker. He isn’t going to win many defensive player of the week awards but he could dramatically improve Seattle’s run defense.

All of the Fangio-inspired schemes have trouble against the run. This video does a good job explaining why. You’re going to need some beef up front to properly execute this system.

Greg Gaines would be an ideal alternative but I suppose you could say — why not both? If the 49ers can finagle their cap to add Javon Hargrave, how challenging is it for Seattle to do something for these two?

They did just release Quinton Jefferson to free up cap space.

It’s probably wishful thinking and the draft could provide some options to add another player to pair with Robinson or Gaines.

The other name is all-time blog favourite Calais Campbell. He’s an ageless wonder and while his dominating days are in the past — he still managed 5.5 sacks a year ago and a PFF grade of 77.2.

Unless you’re keeping your linebackers clean, I’m not sure it’s going to really matter who’s playing back there. I would still be very interested in bringing in Cole Holcomb or Drue Tranquill — two players who fit the bill in terms of physical profile and attitude. Lavonte David and Bobby Wagner remain available too. They might take some time to determine their next destination.

I’m intrigued to see if the influence of Brandon Jordan will pay off. There was more than a whisper doing the rounds that he’s so well connected (and respected) in the league that he’ll be a great recruiting tool for the Seahawks. Perhaps that played a part in the Dre’Mont Jones signing? He’s worked with most of the top defenders in the league. Two prominent edge rushers — Leonard Floyd and Samson Ebukam — are former clients. It’s also worth noting that recently, before arriving in Seattle, he’d been training Will McDonald.

It could be the Jones signing is the peak of Seattle’s free agency. It would be energising, however, to think the Seahawks could make further moves and really inject some quality and experience into the unit — completely freeing up the draft for a BPA extravaganza.

That would put the Seahawks in the tier of ‘intriguing 2023 teams with potential to make some noise’. Let’s see what they can get done.

Finally, the center market hasn’t really taken off and Garrett Bradbury, Jake Brendel and Coleman Shelton remain available. A veteran hedge for the draft is needed and the options are very much there for Seattle.

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Sometimes you’ve just got to go out there and get the job done.

The Seahawks have certainly done that here.

The defensive line, such an issue at times in 2022, threatened to undermine the blossoming positivity that emerged during last season. It needed to be addressed.

But how?

The Seahawks are typically not big spenders in free agency but they couldn’t stand around waiting for value to come to them this year. The cheap, $4-5m contracts of previous seasons wouldn’t take this team to where it needed to go. Neither could they rely on rookies to solve the problem — nor should they back themselves into a corner needing to take defensive linemen in the draft to fill a need.

They needed to do something like sign Dre’Mont Jones — one of the big ticket free agents in a thin class of talent.

Now the wind is in their sails. The off-season continues to gather momentum. Seattle’s two big moves so far seem like home-runs:

— Signing Geno Smith to such a team-friendly contract that basically allows the Seahawks to do anything they want at the position for the long-term future, while dangling an enormous financial carrot in front of Smith as an incentive to excel

— Landing a top defensive lineman at a good age (he’s only just turned 26) to address the biggest need on the team

The impact of the signing is huge.

Firstly, getting this done on day one means Seattle can quickly move on to other positions. There’s no waiting around like in the Jadeveon Clowney pursuit, then being left with the remaining free agents. They can be in attack mode now — looking for value where they can, looking for opportunities. There’s far less pressure on the team because the biggest need is ticked off, even if there’s more to be done.

Secondly, it’s an attention grabbing signing. The Seahawks mean business. They’re not sitting around. On the day that Javon Hargrave signed for the 49ers, Seattle didn’t sit on the sidelines. Both teams made good, quality additions. Could the positivity of this signging lead to other players being tempted to jump on board? It can’t do any harm.

Finally, it steers the Seahawks towards the draft. I firmly believe the options at #5 are limited to the four quarterbacks and Will Anderson. I don’t think Jalen Carter (character) and Tyree Wilson (scheme fit) are as likely as large sections of draft media are suggesting.

As we’ve noted a few times, it’s a stretch to think Schneider and Carroll would speak so passionately about the importance of character with the 2022 draft class — and the ‘no compromises’ approach they took — then draft Carter with a top-five pick weeks later. Equally — Jones is 6-3 and 281lbs. Are you really going to draft a 6-5, 271lbs defender in Wilson to play next to him? That would be an open-invitation to run on the Seahawks unless they steer away from the 3-4. It just seems extremely unlikely — and Wilson is an ill-fit as anything other than a power-end in a 4-3.

Putting Anderson on the field with Jones would be exciting. If he’s off the board, putting Jones on the field with Will McDonald or Keion White or Calijah Kancey or Mazi Smith or one of several other defenders will also be a real step in the right direction. They have options. Signings like this create options.

The Seahawks have had some difficult off-seasons in recent years but last year was a success with an A+ draft, getting great value from the Russell Wilson trade and landing a player like Uchenna Nwosu as a free agent. Now, with the Smith deal and the Jones signing, the Seahawks are off to a good start.

It’ll be interesting to see what their next move is. I’d be very interested in an A’Shawn Robinson or Greg Gaines signing, to add some power and run-stuffing force to complement the addition of Jones. Or perhaps old blog favourite, Calais Campbell?

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