The Seahawks, like all teams, have preferences and ideals. Over the last 10 years we’ve been able to uncover trends, enabling us to identify potential draft targets.
Here’s a list of names that could be on Seattle’s radar and why…
Tight end
The Seahawks appear to focus on agility testing at the position. They haven’t drafted or signed a tight end who ran slower than a 7.10 three cone. All of their additions also performed well in the short shuttle:
Luke Willson — 4.29 (ss), 7.08 (3c)
Will Dissly — 4.40 (ss), 7.07 (3c)
Nick Vannett — 4.20 (ss), 7.05 (3c)
Anthony McCoy — 4.57 (ss), 6.99 (3c)
Zach Miller — 4.42 (ss), 7.01 (3c)
Jimmy Graham — 4.45 (ss), 6.90 (3c)
Greg Olsen — 4.48 (ss), 7.04 (3c)
There are four players in this draft class who fit the bill. If they draft a tight end — which is less likely following the signing of Greg Olsen and the re-signing of Luke Willson and Jacob Hollister — these are names to keep an eye on:
Adam Trautman — 4.27 (ss), 6.78 (3c)
Charlie Taumoepeau — 4.27 (ss), 7.00 (3c)
Dalton Keene — 4.19 (ss), 7.07 (3c)
Hunter Bryant — 4.46 (ss), 7.08 (3c)
Wide receiver
In a decade under Pete Carroll, the Seahawks have focused on receivers who run a 4.4 or faster:
Paul Richardson — 4.40
Golden Tate — 4.42
Tyler Lockett — 4.40
Kris Durham — 4.46
Kevin Norwood — 4.48
Amara Darboh — 4.45
David Moore — 4.42
D.K. Metcalf — 4.33
They’ve only drafted three receivers who didn’t run a 4.4 forty or faster — Kenny Lawler (4.64), Chris Harper (4.50) and John Ursua (4.56). Lawler and Ursua were seventh round picks. Harper was a fourth rounder.
Therefore it’s unlikely they will spend a high pick on a receiver unless he has run a 4.4 or faster. Clearly they value speed and suddenness.
22 players ran a forty yard dash at 4.50 or faster so there are plenty of options in this deep receiver class. The question will be how early do they want to take one? Can they wait and use the depth to their advantage? Or do they want to take one early to further help Russell Wilson? The signing of Phillip Dorsett at least provides a hedge for the position going into the draft.
Henry Ruggs — 4.21
Quez Watkins — 4.35
Denzel Mims — 4.38
Darnell Mooney — 4.38
Devin Duvernay — 4.39
Antonio Gibson — 4.39
Chase Claypool — 4.42
John Hightower — 4.43
Justin Jefferson — 4.43
Isaiah Coulter — 4.45
Jerry Jeudy — 4.45
Jeff Thomas — 4.45
Tyrie Cleveland — 4.46
Freddie Swain — 4.46
Stephen Guidry — 4.47
Jalen Reagor — 4.47
Joe Reed — 4.47
K.J. Osborn — 4.48
Dezmon Patmon — 4.48
Donovan Peoples-Jones — 4.48
Brandon Aiyuk — 4.50
Trishton Jackson — 4.50
CeeDee Lamb — 4.50
There are also some receivers who didn’t run at the combine but could easily have qualified. K.J. Hamler almost certainly would’ve run a 4.4 or faster. Bryan Edwards ran a 4.53 at SPARQ in High School and would’ve had a good opportunity to test in the 4.4’s. Lynn Bowden and Van Jefferson also didn’t run a forty at the combine.
From this list they probably also need to find a specialist kick returner. As a senior, Virginia’s Joe Reed was named first-team All-ACC as an all-purpose player and return specialist. He scored twice as a returner in 2019 while averaging 33.2 yards per return — tied for second in the FBS nationally. He’s also adept at covering kicks. The Seahawks could save a pick specifically to bring in a return man.
Considering whoever will be drafted will essentially be competing to be WR3 — it’ll be important to contribute in different ways. Being able to operate in the slot and feature on special teams could be important. The quicker, speedier receivers such as Jalen Reagor, Devin Duvernay, K.J. Hamler and Lynn Bowden tick those boxes but so do the bigger targets like Chase Claypool, Bryan Edwards and Brandon Aiyuk.
On-target catch-rate is also important. The Seahawks like efficiency with their pass-catchers:
Justin Jefferson – 96.3%
Brandon Aiyuk – 93.5%
Michael Pittman – 93.4%
Van Jefferson – 91.8%
Bryan Edwards – 90.9%
Tyler Johnson – 89.3%
Laviska Shenault – 88.7%
Tee Higgins – 87.3%
Denzel Mims- 86.8%
Jalen Reagor – 83.3%
KJ Hamler – 80.7%
Pay particular attention to the top-five, all scoring in the 90% range.
Offensive linemen
For the last few years we’ve used a formula called TEF to measure explosive physical traits. It proved to be an accurate way of predicting which offensive linemen the Seahawks might be targeting. For a full breakdown of what the formula is, click here.
Why is measuring explosive traits important? That’s what the league and the Seahawks specifically seem to be looking for. Two years ago, only seven offensive linemen scored an optimal 3.00 or higher in TEF. Of the seven, Quenton Nelson and Kolton Miller were both high first round picks. Braden Smith, Connor Williams and Will Hernandez were second round picks. In 2019, only eight players scored an optimal 3.00 or higher. This included Chris Lindstrom, Garrett Bradbury, Andre Dillard and Kaleb McGary (all drafted in round one). Erik McCoy and Elgton Jenkins were also top-50 picks. It’s not a coincidence that the most explosive offensive linemen are being drafted early.
The Seahawks also place a premium on arm length. You’ve got to be at +33 inches.
The following players tested well in TEF and also have the necessary arm length:
Tristan Wirfs — 3.47
Hakeem Adeniji — 3.27
Cesar Ruiz — 3.25
Austin Jackson — 3.21
John Simpson — 3.20
Ezra Cleveland — 3.16
Matt Peart — 3.08
It’s also important to take weight into consideration when judging a prospect. A player at 350lbs is going to find it harder to excel in the broad and vertical jumps compared to a 300lbs lineman. For that reason, we created a new formula called weighted TEF (click here for a breakdown).
The following players all have +33 inch arms and tested strongly in weighted TEF:
Tristan Wirfs — 111.0
Isaiah Wilson — 103.6
Austin Jackson — 103.4
John Simpson — 102.7
Cesar Ruiz — 99.8
Hakeem Adeniji — 98.8
Ezra Cleveland — 98.3
Matt Peart — 98.0
Damien Lewis — 97.1
Using the two lists and eliminating players such as Tristan Wirfs who won’t be available, the following players could be potential targets for Seattle:
Isaiah Wilson
Austin Jackson
John Simpson
Cesar Ruiz
Hakeem Adeniji
Ezra Cleveland
Matt Peart
Damien Lewis
There were several players who didn’t test or weren’t invited to the combine who could also be on the radar. We know the Seahawks like size, physicality and run blocking on the offensive line. Robert Hunt, who I’ve been mocking to Seattle with their first pick, couldn’t test due to a sports hernia injury but could easily be on their radar — as could his team mate Kevin Dotson who wasn’t invited to Indianapolis. LSU’s Lloyd Cushenberry, Auburn’s Price Tega Wanogho and TCU’s Lucas Niang also didn’t test. Another LSU blocker, Saahdiq Charles, ran an impressive 5.05 forty but didn’t do any other testing.
There are also some really tough, physical guards such as Logan Stenberg or Shane Lemieux — but with so many players added in free agency already, it’s harder to imagine them adding more options into the mix.
One other quick note. They could do with coming out of this draft having added someone who can be developed to play left tackle. That could be an earlier pick — but it’d be an expensive move for a player who might not start for a year or two. It could be a later pick. Either way — playing left tackle is not like the other positions. You have to be a top athlete. Your footwork and quickness has to be spot on. Austin Jackson and Ezra Cleveland are the two obvious early options. Saahdiq Charles, Matt Peart and Alex Taylor are more developmental types.
Running backs
The Seahawks have a type at running back. They’ve consistently drafted players with a similar physical profile. These players are usually about 5-11 in height, around 220lbs in weight and they’re explosive — testing in the +35 inch vertical and +10′ broad range.
It’s made it fairly straight forward to figure out who they might like. Here are the players we identified from the 2016, 2017 and 2018 combines as probable targets:
2016:
C.J. Prosise — 6-0, 220lbs, 35.5 inch vert, 10-1 broad
Kenneth Dixon — 5-10, 215lbs, 37.5 inch vert, 10-8 broad
2017:
Christopher Carson — 6-0, 218lbs, 37 inch vert, 10-10 broad
Brian Hill — 6-0, 219lbs, 34 inch vert, 10-5 broad
Alvin Kamara — 5-10, 214lbs, 39.5 inch vert, 10-11 broad
Joe Williams — 5-11, 210lbs, 35 inch vert, 10-5 broad
2018:
Saquon Barkley — 6-0, 233lbs, 41 inch vert DNP broad
Kerryon Johnson — 511, 213lbs 40 inch vert, 10-6 broad
Bo Scarborough — 6-0, 228lbs, 40 inch vert, 10-9 broad
Nick Chubb — 5-11, 227lbs, 38.5 inch vert, 10-8 broad
John Kelly — 5-10, 216lbs, 35 inch vert, 10-0 broad
Lavon Coleman — 5-10, 223lbs, 33 inch vert, 10-0 broad
Rashaad Penny — 5-11, 220lbs, 32.5 inch vert, 10-0 broad
Royce Freeman — 5-11, 229lbs, 34 inch vert, 9-10 broad
They drafted a player from each of the groups — Prosise, Carson and Penny. They eventually added Bo Scarborough during the 2018 season too and had Lavon Coleman on the practise squad.
Two players in the 2020 draft really stand out as prototypes:
Jonathan Taylor — 5-10, 226lbs, 36 inch vert, 10-3 broad
Cam Akers — 5-10, 217lbs, 35.5 inch vert, 10-2 broad
Taylor in particular could be attractive to the Seahawks. You could say he’s ‘Taylor made’ for Seattle. He’s a power back with ideal size yet is capable of accelerating to the tune of a 4.39 forty yard dash. According to PFF, he had 3921 yards after contact in his Wisconsin career. Last season alone he had 61 explosive runs. He had all this success despite facing stacked boxes nearly every week as teams zoned in on him as Wisconsin’s greatest threat.
His ability to run through contact and be a threat to score every time he has the football is a Pete Carroll dream.
He might not last to #27 and if the Seahawks trade down again there’s very little chance he’ll be waiting for them. If they want him to be Russell Wilson’s explosive partner in crime for the next five years, they’ll need to take him early if he’s available. Don’t be surprised if he goes in the top-25.
Akers could be Plan B. He has all of the physical tools the Seahawks want. He’ll be cheaper — possibly available in the late second or early third round. He could be an option at pick #64.
There were some other players who potentially qualify too:
Deejay Dallas — 5-10, 217lbs, 33.5 inch vert, 9-11 broad
AJ Dillon — 6-0, 247lbs, 41 inch vert, 10-11 broad
Zack Moss — 5-9, 223lbs, 33 inch vert, DNP broad
James Robinson — 5-9, 219lbs, 40 inch vert, 10-5 broad
Patrick Taylor — 6-0, 217lbs, 34 inch vert, 10-3 broad
Michael Warren II — 5-9, 226lbs, DNP vert, DNP broad
The other name to mention is Clyde Edwards-Helaire. He’s too good to ignore. He doesn’t fit their size preference at 5-7 and 207lbs. However, he’s highly explosive (39.5 inch vertical) and simply one of the best players in the entire draft class. I wrote about him in more detail here. He’s the rare type of talent, like Russell Wilson, where you throw out the preferences on size and just accept he’s a quality player.
Defensive tackle
Seattle’s scheme depends upon gap discipline, control and the ability to defend the run. You can’t do that without length and leverage. They haven’t drafted a defensive tackle with sub-33 inch arms before for a reason. That would rule out the likes of Ross Blacklock and Neville Gallimore — two players who are often mocked to Seattle.
There’s another reason why both players are unlikely targets. The short shuttle. The Seahawks seem to place a big emphasis on it for defensive linemen. Blacklock ran a poor 4.67 and Gallimore a 5.01 (!!!).
Rasheem Green, Quinton Jefferson, Jordan Hill, Jaye Howard and Malik McDowell all tested superbly in the short shuttle (4.39, 4.37, 4.51, 4.47 and 4.53 respectively) and had +33 inch arms.
There are not many options in this class unfortunately. Jason Strowbridge ran a very good 4.37 but he only has 32 3/8 inch arms and is more of an inside/out type defender. James Lynch is suited to a similar role and ran a 4.39 shuttle but he only has 31 7/8 inch arms.
Justin Madubuile is an option. He’s an ideal one-gapper with 33.5 inch arms. He plays on the shoulder of the offensive lineman and does a good job defending the run. He ran a 4.83 at the combine and looked terrific. He didn’t run a short shuttle but did manage a 7.37 three cone. His pass rush win percentage of 14.8% is third among defensive tackles in this draft behind only Jordan Elliott and Javon Kinlaw.
There just aren’t many other defensive tackles with that quick-twitch ability and the length Seattle craves.
For that reason, I think they will target a different type of tackle. They haven’t replaced Al Woods who was 6-4 and 330lbs. They could look for someone with anchor ability, power and length to play the one technique — in an attempt to free-up Jarran Reed to try and get back to his 10.5 sack form of 2018.
DaVon Hamilton is 6-4 and 320lbs with 33 inch arms. He’s very underrated and not merely a nose tackle. He shows some quickness to shoot gaps and impact plays in the backfield. He had 10.5 TFL’s in 2019, six sacks and his pass rush win percentage (12.6%) is the same as Ross Blacklock’s at 290lbs and is superior to Jeffery Simmons (11.8%) and Ed Oliver (11.4%) from a year ago. Furthermore, his 73% win percentage in 1v1 drills at the Senior Bowl was second only to Zach Baun (75%). We know the Seahawks pay close to attention to the top performers in Mobile. He could be an option in the late second or third round.
Leki Fotu is 6-4 and 330lbs with 34 1/4 inch arms. He’s also extremely powerful and big. He doesn’t always make the most of his size and power and he needs to be more consistent. He could be a plug-in-and-play tackle next to Reed though — replacing the size and presence lost by Woods. He could be available in the third or fourth round.
Raekwon Davis is 6-6 and 311lbs with 34 inch arms. His testing is similar to Calais Campbell and he also played inside/out at Alabama. He anchors against the run superbly, plays with great leverage despite his height and he’s shown flashes as a pass rusher. He can do more in that regard and there are some maturity question marks. Even so — the Seahawks have been looking for their version of Calais for a long time and Davis could be it.
It seems very likely Seattle will draft a defensive tackle. Madubuike, Hamilton, Fotu and Davis could be on their radar early. Two names to monitor later on are McTelvin Agim and Teair Tart.
Defensive end or EDGE
For LEO’s they’ve sought twitchy athletes with great burst. Bruce Irvin and Cliff Avril ran 1.55 and 1.50 10-yard splits respectively. Anything in the 1.5’s is considered ‘elite’. The splits are also important for inside/out rushers. Malik McDowell ran a 1.69 split at 295lbs. Rasheem Green ran a 1.65 at 275lbs.
Bruce Irvin (4.03) and Frank Clark (4.05) both ran incredible short shuttles. Cassius Marsh’s 4.25 and Obum Gwacham’s 4.28 were also really good.
Again, arm length is important and they’ve consistently sought defensive linemen with +33 inch arms.
The Seahawks went against their established preferences when they selected L.J. Collier in the first round last year. Collier ran a 4.91 forty with a 1.75 10-yard split. He followed it up with a 4.78 short shuttle. His selection was a major outlier and his lack of success as a rookie could impact their decision making this year.
The only issue is — as we noted at the combine — there aren’t many options in this draft.
Jabari Zuniga ran a 1.61 split at 264lbs and then, as explained in this article, he had one of the most impressive explosive testing performances in recent history. He played inside/out at Florida and could be an option. In terms of length, bizarrely his arms measured at 32 7/8 inches at the combine and 33 1/8 inches at the Senior Bowl. If you split the difference, he checks that box.
Many pass rushers didn’t test at the combine which is problematic. However, Carroll has referenced pass rush win percentage and pressure percentage in the past (including after drafting Collier).
These are the only pressure percentage numbers we have:
Josh Uche — 23.3%
Terrell Lewis — 19.8%
Zach Baun — 16.5%
Jabari Zuniga — 15.8%
James Lynch — 15.7%
A.J. Epenesa — 13.4%
Jordan Elliott — 12.7%
Marlon Davidson — 12.2%
Javon Kinlaw — 12.1%
Derrick Brown — 9.8%
We also know Julian Okwara (19.1%) and Curtis Weaver (18.2%) led all draft eligible pass rushers in pressure percentage for 2018 and 2019 combined. Chase Young was third with 17.6%.
Here are the pass rush win percentage numbers:
Chase Young — 27.2%
Josh Uche — 27%
Julian Okwara — 23%
Curtis Weaver — 22.9%
Alex Highsmith — 21.7%
Khalid Kareem — 21.4%
Bradlee Anae — 20.2%
Zach Baun — 20.1%
Jabari Zuniga — 20%
Terrell Lewis — 19.8%
Trevis Gipson — 19.2%
Carter Coughlin — 19%
Yetur Gross-Matos — 18.9%
Darrell Taylor — 18.6%
Jonathan Garvin — 18.5%
A.J. Epenesa — 17.5%
Jon Greenard — 17.2%
Marlon Davidson — 16.2%
Alton Robinson — 15.9%
James Lynch — 15.5%
Trevon Hill — 15.3%
Kenny Willekes — 14.6%
K’Lavon Chaisson — 13.1%
Seattle desperately needs quickness and players who create pressure. The fact that Josh Uche performs so well in both areas, has +33 inch arms and had an exceptional Senior Bowl could put him squarely on Seattle’s radar. He has been compared to Yannick Ngakoue. Julian Okwara also has speed, length and underrated power. He looks like an ideal LEO and he could be an alternative to Uche.
Trevis Gipson is raw and a major development project. He only did the bench press at the combine. He does have 34 inch arms though and his win percentage of 19.2% could make him an intriguing later round option. Darrell Taylor’s injury history will likely have a major impact on his stock but he’s a former five-star recruit with 33 inch arms and a solid 18.6% win percentage. He bends-and-straightens better than anyone other than Josh Uche and with his size (267lbs) is a lot more suited to playing early downs at defensive end.
Please note K’Lavon Chaisson’s 13.1% pass rush win percentage as the lowest in the draft. He also has short arms and an injury history.
Based on the limited testing options, the lack of data and the percentages above, the following players appear to be realistic targets in terms of EDGE rush:
Josh Uche
Julian Okwara
Jabari Zuniga
Darrell Taylor
Trevis Gipson
Failing to retain Jadeveon Clowney could also leave the Seahawks needing a proper five technique (unless they believe L.J. Collier can fill the void). Khalid Kareem would need to add size but his win percentage of 21.4% is impressive. It’s a role that Zuniga or Yetur Gross-Matos could handle. Marlon Davidson has the kind of personality and passion for the game they appreciate — although his win percentage (16.2%) is slightly lower than ideal.
This is a pass rush class filled with question marks. There are too many unknowns, incomplete physical profiles, injury flags or inconsistencies. The Seahawks need some dynamism and raw speed and athleticism working the edge. The key in the draft will be to determine what equates to value? What is the right range to roll the dice at a position of high need? For me that means this — are you prepared to draft Uche or Okwara with potentially your first or second pick? Or are you better off addressing other areas of the team and waiting on the upside of Taylor or Gipson?
They might just pass and focus on Clowney, Everson Griffen and any other available veteran after the draft.
Linebackers
The Seahawks have looked for two types of player at linebacker — freakish athletes and players with great short-area quickness and agility.
Kevin Pierre-Louis, Korey Toomer, Malcolm Smith and Eric Pinkins all ran between a 4.44 and a 4.51 in the forty. Shaquem Griffin ran a 4.38. Pierre-Louis, Smith and Pinkins all jumped +39 inches in the vertical. Bobby Wagner was a 4.4 runner at his pro-day with a 39.5-inch vertical.
They’ve also targeted players who performed especially well in the short shuttle. Here are the top-15 short shuttle times by linebackers since 2010:
Jordan Tripp — 3.96
Nick Bellore — 4.00
Ben Heeney — 4.00
Mike Mohamed — 4.00
Nick Vigil — 4.00
Kevin Pierre-Louis — 4.02
Stephone Anthony — 4.03
Cody Barton — 4.03
Dakota Allen — 4.03
Von Miller — 4.06
Josh Hull — 4.07
Dorian O’Daniel — 4.07
Avery Williamson — 4.07
Shaq Thompson — 4.08
Ben Burr-Kirven — 4.09
The players in bold have either been drafted or signed by the Seahawks during the Pete Carroll era. A third of the players.
Nobody ran a 4.10 or faster at the 2020 combine. Missouri’s Cale Garrett ran the fastest time at 4.13. There are no obvious targets here as a consequence.
However, there are several outstanding athletes who warrant attention.
Willie Gay’s combine performance was eerily similar to Bobby Wagner’s display at his pro-day in 2012. They ran the same 4.46 forty, jumped the same 39.5 inch vertical and the difference in both their three cone and short shuttle times was 0.02 seconds. Physically, they are basically the same.
Kenneth Murray ran a 4.52 and jumped a 38 inch vertical, while Patrick Queen ran a 4.50 and jumped a 35 inch vertical.
Logan Wilson ran a 4.63 forty and a 4.27 short shuttle. He’s a three year captain at Wyoming and flies to the ball, sheds blocks and has a knack for collecting interceptions.
Malik Harrison is more of a north/south defender best suited to playing MLB in a 3-4. However, he ran a 4.66 forty and a 4.33 short shuttle, jumped a 36 inch vertical and had one of the best three cones in recent memory by a linebacker (6.83).
Davion Taylor ran a 4.49 at the combine at 228lbs. He has since run in the late 4.3’s. He also recorded a 4.26 short shuttle, a 6.96 three cone and he jumped a 35 inch vertical. He’s undersized but has excellent speed and explosive traits.
I’m not sure how important this position will be to the Seahawks early in the draft but these players are all good enough athletes to list as potential targets:
Willie Gay
Kenneth Murray
Patrick Queen
Logan Wilson
Malik Harrison
Davion Taylor
Cornerback
By now everyone knows what the Seahawks like in a corner. Every CB drafted in the Pete Carroll era has had 32 inch arms. Those players are generally physical and tall and take pride in defending the run.
The options are paper thin at outside cornerback. Quinton Dunbar could be their one addition this year. There’s just a real dearth of available cornerbacks in this draft who fit Seattle’s requirements.
Michael Ojemudia has the kind of size and length they like if they were to draft someone. Bryce Hall is another option — although his recent ugly leg injury could cause concern and he might face a redshirt season anyway. They could tap into the potential of Madre Harper as a priority free agent.
The more pressing need is nickel cornerback. It’s much harder to pin down what the Seahawks specifically look for here, due to the obscure nature of the additions made over the years. It doesn’t appear the outside cornerback arm length and size parameters matter (Justin Coleman is 5-10 with 31 1/4 inch arms). Quickness and agility, predictably, seems to be important. Coleman tested superbly in the short shuttle (3.98) and three cone (6.61).
Very few of the cornerbacks ran the short shuttle and three cone at this years combine. Penn State’s John Reid ran a 4.49 forty, a 6.95 three cone and a 3.97 short shuttle. He’s 5-10 and 187lbs and in the nickel cornerback range. He’s considered to be highly competitive and physical and could be a target.
L’Jarius Sneed ran a 4.37 and Javelin Guidry a 4.30. Both players have the foot-speed and quickness to cover in the slot. Terrell Burgess’ 4.46 could also put him on the radar. He’s mixed between safety and corner but appears well suited to a nickel role.
Keep an eye on Amik Robertson. He might only be 5-8 but he’s a tone-setter who delivers big hits, he’s a turnover machine and his energy, confidence and determination is infectious. He told us recently he’d had a productive FaceTime meeting with the Seahawks.
Other potential targets include Josiah Scott (ran a 4.42, great production at Michigan State) and Myles Bryant (praised for his character and ability to play bigger than he is).
Tony Pauline also connected the Seahawks to Jaylon Johnson today — a player expected to go in the top-45. He’s a physical corner and for a few years now — from Tony and other sources, the Seahawks have been linked with early round corners. We’ll see if it becomes a reality this year.
Trevon Diggs
Michael Ojemudia
Bryce Hall
Jaylon Johnson
Amik Robertson
John Reid
Terrell Burgess
L’Jarius Sneed
Javelin Guidry
Josiah Scott
Myles Bryant
Madre Harper
Safety
There’s a diverse mix of physical profiles in the players they’ve taken, making safety a difficult position to project. They seem to like an assortment of things — speed, playmaking, hitting and toughness — but there isn’t a specific size/speed/length prototype.
There are players you can imagine them liking. Antoine Winfield Jr is a ball hawk with great speed and he had a superb combine. Jeremy Chinn is a fluid runner with great suddenness and size. Kyle Dugger is an alpha male with physicality and special teams value. At some point in the draft Grant Delpit is going to provide tremendous value. Kenny Robinson has the range, playmaking production and desire to hit that could prove intriguing.
Ashtyn Davis is highly athletic and football smart but his tape was underwhelming. He, along with the big hitting Chris Miller, the alpha Antoine Brooks Jr, the production of K’Von Wallace and the ultra tough J.R. Reed could also be possible targets. Josh Metellus looked better than expected during combine drills too.
Speaking to Utah coach Kyle Whittingham earlier today, I was also struck by how positively he spoke about Julian Blackmon — hailing his attitude and versatility as a safety or corner.
Antoine Winfield Jr
Jeremy Chinn
Grant Delpit
Kyle Dugger
Kennty Robinson
Ashtyn Davis
Chris Miller
Antoine Brooks Jr
K’Von Wallace
J.R. Reed
Josh Metellus
Julian Blackmon
What do the Seahawks need?
I noted this week the need to bolster the trenches and become tougher and more physical. Clearly the defensive line — and in particular the pass rush — is an area that requires major improvement.
Adding another right tackle with imposing traits (Robert Hunt, Isaiah Wilson, Josh Jones) is necessary. They need a big physical defensive tackle (DaVon Hamilton, Leki Fotu, Raekwon Davis). Bigger, tougher, stronger aren’t just buzz words for the Seahawks in this draft.
They need speed off the edge. While the options are limited, can they come out of this draft with a Josh Uche, Julian Okwara, Darrell Taylor, Jabari Zuniga or Trevis Gipson?
It’s a terrific skill position class, ideal to come away with a receiver and running back at some point.
It’s also important for the Seahawks to come out with at least one high upside prospect. It has paid off before with D.K. Metcalf and Frank Clark. Jonathan Taylor, Chase Claypool, Willie Gay Jr, Jabari Zuniga, Darrell Taylor and Jeremy Chinn for example, all have incredible upside.
Pre draft interviews
If you missed any of our lockdown interview series, here are the links to listen to all of the conversations:
Jim Nagy (Senior Bowl Executive Director)
Robert Hunt (G/T, Louisiana-Lafayette)
Damien Lewis (G, LSU)
Cesar Ruiz (C, Michigan)
Lance Zierlein (NFL.com analyst)
Scot McCloughan (former NFL GM)
Michael Lombardi (former NFL GM)
Mike Renner (PFF draft analyst)
Tony Pauline (Draft insider)
Prince Tega Wanogho (T, Auburn)
Raekwon Davis (DT, Alabama)
Amik Robertson (CB, Louisiana Tech)
Kyle Whittingham (Head Coach, Utah)
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Can’t wait to pour a nice evening drink, get comfortable, and consume every word of this. Thanks, Rob!
Thanks man
I will be doing the same!
Yep. Amazing stuff.
Wow!!! Simply masterful. Sometimes I feel like we don’t deserve you. Excellent write up Rob. I’m so ready for it to be Thursday. Looking forward to your final mock again tomorrow. Congratulations on another successful year.
Thanks man
You never fail to amaze me Rob. The amount of work put in this offseason and in general is outstanding. Thank you for all you do, it’s very much appreciated from a fans perspective.
And thank you for reading
Fantastic work Rob. Thanks for all you do!
Cheers!
Wow man. Thank You for all your work. This is a crazy amount of content. This community really spoils us. Can’t wait for a hopefully great draft week.
Thank you!
Outstanding as usual Rob! I’m also looking forward to your final mock draft.
Thank you Von
Superb. Thanks for another season of hard work Rob. The interviews have really taken your content to the next level.
I know that this it isn’t really your style but if you had to choose one player from this class, regardless of position/fit/need etc who would you love us to pick on Thursday?
I wish I could answer but there’s too many to pick one. So many good players.
You’re the best. Thank you.
Thank you
Kudos Rob to a great SDB Season.
Eye popping explosive numbers for AJ Dillon — 6-0, 247lbs, 41 inch vert, 10-11 broad. That’s a pile pushing, defensive punishing battering ram right there. Sign me up late rd 3 into 4. Wear that defense d-o-w-n…
Yeah he’s alright. Lowest forced tackles missed percentage in the class tho. He’s like a big, stiff Thomas Rawls for me and I’d take that in the fourth. He’s got soft hands too.
Rob this is FANTASTIC!
In regards to Yannick Ngakoue. I MIGHT be interested in trading for Ngakoue AFTER the draft. Let me repeat. I MIGHT be interested in trading for Ngakoue AFTER the draft.
NO WAY I am trading for Ngakoue before the draft. If another trades for him. Que Sara Sara! Whatever will be will be.
Rob between Josh Uche, Julian Okwara, Curtis Weaver which player is best against the run.
I will be happy with either Raekwon Davis, Davon Hamilton, or Justin Madubuike.
Uche might be best but you wouldn’t draft any of those three for their quality vs the run.
Agree. You are drafting them for their pass rush. But the deciding factor be might which one is best against the run.
Sooo gronk traded to the Bucs???
Wondering what the SDB community feels about grabbing OJ Howard for one of their 2nd round picks. I’d personally really like the move…young talented dude who has a very high ceiling. With Dissly’s injury history, Olsen being old…could be a really intriguing move.
I wouldn’t give more than a 4th for OJ
Absolutely been a pleasure reading your stuff, Rob. Would love your perspective on something; I’ve been living inside of the PFF mock simulator, and they’re very very high on Jordan Elliott. At 303 and with good metrics in both rush and pass downs, I thought he’d been right in the 59/64 sweet spot, but you don’t have him listed, and I’m curious as to why you don’t feel he’d be a fit, and apologies if I’ve missed a previous explanation. Cheers!
It’s the same reason as Gallimore & Blacklock — I probably should’ve included him there. He has short arms and his short shuttle is poor.
I was also really surprised when watching him on tape. I was bored. I just didn’t see any flash, nothing to get excited about.
I know Gallimore isn’t a fit, but I sure wish he’d tested better. Love the motor.
I was wondering if any of these off season signings are long term deals. Anybody know? Maybe this is a year we are simply seeing who fits in and then next year is our big moves year. Any thoughts?
thank you rob love this place
Thanks for reading mr peapants
Can you say that without giggling…lol
I’ve been wondering how likely it is we draft DE Casey Toohill with an eye of converting him to OLB. He fits all of our athletic thresholds, and plays a similar role at Stanford as KJ played at MSSt, that being DE that drops into coverage on occasion. During his coverage snaps, he was the discipline and flexible hips that we like in our cover LBs.
Any thoughts?
Has the physical profile but the tape was difficult to glean anything from. So he could be a late round development flier.
Trading out of the first round to acquire additional draft capital certainly seems likely.
Out of curiosity, if somebody like Kenneth Murray were to slip to #27, do you consider staying put and taking him? Given the high number of WRs and OL likely to come off the board in R1, Murray being there doesn’t seem completely unrealistic (though not likely).
And while he doesn’t fill an immediate need, he could bring the kind of play making and explosiveness the defense is in sore need of.
I think it’s unlikely he lasts. He’s receiving a lot of buzz. I’m not sure Seattle can justify it having retained KJ.
I know we have the draft contest coming up, but I’d be interested in everyone’s 1 guy that they really want. Could be any early guy, or late. For me:
Antonio Gibson
Anyone else?
Man, I like Gibson a lot too because he is electric and just so versatile – he can play WR, RB return and cover kicks!
I also like Joe Reed WR from Virginia for some of the same reasons – just electric with the ball in his hands!
And I do think a guy like Julian Blackmon is going to be a very good NFL DB.
Those are all mid-late round guys I hope to see drafted by the Hawks, but the one guy I think I like the most is Josh Uche. He has exactly what they need right now, so he’ll contribute as a rookie pass rusher. And in time he may end up being a great LB for them as well.
Can’t wait for the draft and Rob has truly spoiled us with his tremendous work this season!
Not necessarily who i want because we have positions of greater need, but the guy I really like is Antoine Winfield Jr
Based on draft-crush: Devin Duvernay.
But if I wanna fill a need with talent: Bryce Hall or Amik Robertson. (Hall seems more an all-around CB, while Robertson is only slot, but he’s A+ vs the run and good at blitzing)
I’m in desperate need for good corners especially nickel
I have no such player.
I just want a good mix of some skill position additions and dline reinforcements. A OK with waiting a bit to add that one more tackle we seem to be keen on adding.
Seahawks claimed CB Linden Stephens off waivers from Miami. Spent a lot of last season on Seahawks practice squad. Short armed nickel guy. Nice to see them pick up someone who doesn’t play interior OL.
No idea what they do at nickel – but really hope they find a solution there next year and get out of base more.
Per Gil Brandt at the time of pro day
CB Linden Stephens (5-11 7/8, 192) ran 4.44/4.48 40s, had a 34 VJ, 9-10 BJ, 4.34 ss, 7.20 3cn, and 20 bench lifts
Rob you have officially raised the bar this draft season. Top shelf content. Cheers!
Thank you
Really appreciate all your efforts Rob. This is going to be a great guide to use Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Can hardly wait.
Appreciate you saying so
Awesome stuff! Thanks for this Rob.
Thanks 👍🏻
I have been reading this fantastic blog for a couple of years now, and have yet to scribble a post. With the upcoming draft so near, I have to say Thank You Mr. Staton! It has been a consistent pleasure to read your well written, thoughtful articles filled with provoking insights as well as the enthusiastic posts from the other readers. It is a real treat.
Thank you 👍🏻
Don’t ask me why I’m looking at this.. but Gary Jennings stats in college were pretty interesting.
2017- Catches 97 balls but only scores 1 TD.
2018- Only catches 54 balls but scores 13 TD’s.
Sorry guys. Reply fail. Meant to post below.
Thanks for all the hard work Rob! Did you like what you saw from Van Jefferson when you watched him?
Very technically gifted I just worry about his limitations as an athlete seeing as he didn’t test.
WOW!!! That is some exhausting work you did Rob.Your passion for this really shows. Great job. I just watched 5 minutes of CEH On youtube💪💪💪! Maybe what Russell is saying is “give me something I’ve never had here before?!? By the looks of this man ,he doesn’t need blockers he just needs the ball. Speed kills baby. Gimme CEH and Claypool and try to stop this offense…..good luck. They’re gonna have to outscore sf and arizona for starters😬😆😬👍
Thank you
Rob – thanks again so much for everything that you’ve done and are going to do. Thanks for your true journalism, clear thoughts and questions, for your interviews are “top shelf” and insightful. Keep doing well in this arena of extreme competition. You’re a joy to catch up to and listen to. Peace!
Thank you Mike
In the press conference today, Schneider said SEA traded with the Jets up to 11 in the official practice draft. I know that doesn’t mean anything, but might perk the ears of folks who were clamoring to trade up for a stud. I’ll be watching those first 11 picks with a little more interest now
The trades and picks were scripted by the NFL. The Seahawks didn’t have anything to do with it. It was a practice run to get experience and feel for making trades.
Dallas traded up to the #1 pick.
And they selected a running back at #11.
Twitter erupted in mock outrage.
Makes sense for the NFL to script a trade by the Seahawks in R1. It lets them practice for the inevitable trade down that we all know is coming.
Thanks, Rob, for all your hard work this year! I have been a regular since 2008 and this is by far my favorite site to visit. The SDB community has grown and what an amazing group of people we have here. Everyone’s added content and information makes it that much more enjoyable. Thank you all!
Cheers to the 2020 Draft!
Thank you!
Jonathan Taylor now owns a pizza store lol
Thank you Rob, as they say above we as a fan base are lucky to have you. Enjoy the draft bud!
Question on the statement below, do you think Austin Jackson passes the high upside bar?
“It’s also important for the Seahawks to come out with at least one high upside prospect. It has paid off before with D.K. Metcalf and Frank Clark. Jonathan Taylor, Chase Claypool, Willie Gay Jr, Jabari Zuniga, Darrell Taylor and Jeremy Chinn for example, all have incredible upside.”
Could take a bit to take off, but seems like an ideal replacement for Duane down the road. He might not last to our spot, but seems to fit the mold. High end OT prospects usually not there in the late 20’s.
Sure, yes — he could be on that list.
Hey Rob,
Dave Wyman just quoted you.
.
Awesome
Well deserved! And about time.
Thanks Bobby
Does anyone know where I can listen to this?
If you google Bob, Dave and Moore it’ll take you to their previous shows. It was either hour one or hour two — right at the end in the last five mins.
Gronk Smash is back
Rob thanks so much. We really appreciate your hard work.
What did you make of the PCJS press conference and more specifically regarding Clowney and the pass rush?
JS sounded like they have basically moved on (though the “door remains open”).
PC sounded more hopeful (he and some other guys are just biding their time until they can visit teams).
I got a kick of how PC threw it to JS and JS tied to deflect a little by making fun of Joe Fann’s name while he got his thoughts together.
Yeah, JS gave off a vibe of: “seriously? you had to ask about that?”
“Obviously we need to do a better job.”
He mentioned that includes from an acquisition standpoint.
I know I’m reading into it, but if you listen carefully when JS says that, somebody that is dialed and unmuted kind of snorts.
I’ll probably write a piece on it after the draft. I think they’re banking on Clowney returning. They used very calculated language… ‘we’re moving on… but you never know (nudge wink)’. I also thought the stuff about signing O-liners free’d them up to go BPA in the draft. That to me suggested they were welcoming a degree of flexibility, which could mean going Jonathan Taylor, a receiver or a pass rusher with pick #1.
I would love that possibility. I’m on the JT train right now. Just hearing him speak about his desire to play here. I want that sort of a person suiting up in a Seahawks jersey every Sunday.
Taylor anywhere in this draft class would have me so stoked (but first round is best for the 5th year.). My opinion is he is the best draft-possible Seahawks-type back to come along for some time. He has the “it” factor. I don’t think he will have an overly long career– maybe 8 years– but he will be an absolute stud for 5 or 6 of them. Only concern is the fumbles. But that’s a concern with Carson too.
I like other RBs in this class too–Hilaire-Edwards, Akers, Moss, Dillon, and Dobbins, especially, but even later guys like Warren II– and so I won’t be devastated if we don’t land him. But if we do, oh man. Wilson and Taylor? That is a whole pack of Badgers for sure.
Taylor and Clayoool picks confirmed
Hopefully!
Anyone concerned about Taylor’s propensity to fumble & the high flame out rate of highly regarded Wisconsin RBs in the NFL??
#stirringthepot
I’m more concerned about wear & tear from 900 carries in college. RB only have so many hits/carries in them, and I’d be worried he’s already used a good share.
Depending on the health of Carson & Penny, any inbound RB this year will be sharing the load. RBBC can keep the mileage lower for guys like Taylor, Dillon & Moss who are used to carrying entire offenses on their back.
I’m concerned. With both the fumbles and the wear and tear. Just based on those two stats any RB’s ceiling would be mid R2.
I love his enthusiasm about SEA and he’s a great athlete and really good RB. But I don’t really see the huge gap (mid -late R1 vs late R3-mid-late R4) between him and Moss.
On a scale 1-10 JT is a 9,8. CEH is a 9,7. Akers is a 8,8. Moss is an 8.
That’s not a difference that would make me pick a guy 3-4 rounds earlier.
WR class is deep, but I think it has a bigger gap between R1-early R2 and R3-R4.
I think a Claypool/Raegor+Akers/Moss duo would be much impactful than a Gandy-Golden/Higgins+Taylor/CEH.
I won’t be mad if they draft JT early, I like him, but I have concerns
The mileage on Taylor doesn’t concern me as much as the fumbling. The “mileage” thing is more an idea of the past, when running backs were used more and drafted with the expectation of being in one place until they were 30+ years of age.
RBs today are drafted with the intent of them serving out their rookie contract, and that’s about it. Many will serve in a RBBC system. A few will do so well they get big second contracts (Zeke, Gurley, Henry) but the league is starting to see even that is rarely worth the expense.
JT should have 3-4 years in him, for sure. That is all we need if we draft him.
He mentioned it will be more similar to the MLB draft in that regard.
JS said Dunbar can play inside or outside. Maybe that’s part of the plan for the nickel.
Wondered, with a likely scenario of Dunbar beating out Flowers at CB2, if we could see Dunbar slide inside in nickel with Flowers manning the outside on passing downs.
Great content Rob! You out did yourself this season!
Seeing that the Hawks have 18 Offensive linemen under contract, is it possible they will focus on WR, RB and DT and edge first? Then maybe a TE?
Yep — very possible.
And thank you for the kind words.
Good stuff thank you.
Thanks
Danny O’Neil asks a question about draft ‘upsets’ (guys who get taken right before our pick) and JS lets out a huge sigh as he is asking it…
John: “It’s safety to assume that it does happen. Teams move around to different cities in the draft and you never know who they may or Mayock take.”
Danny: “Are you talking about Jonathan Abram?”
John: (Too emphatically) “NO!” *kicks imaginary rock
Rob, you got a shout out on Walter Footballs latest mock. They slotted Uche in the 27 spot, while giving you major props for your work.
Sweet
Speaking of which, I’d love to hear yourself and Walter on one of his podcasts. I like Walter a lot, but he does have a tendency to get emotionally involved with his own picks.
“Rob Staton of SeahawksDraftBlog.com did a great job of breaking down what the Seahawks look for in the draft. The Seahawks tend to select players who thrive at the Senior Bowl. Uche was certainly one of the winners at Mobile, and he compares to Bruce Irvin, whom the Seahawks selected in the first round long ago.” https://walterfootball.com/draft2020_1.php
We’re not the only ones who know how great you are at this, and that you keep outdoing yourself on a daily basis in the articles and the interviews. Also heard twice in the last week on Danny, Dave(Wyman) and Moore’s podcast plus them asking JC on John Clayton’s Cold Hard Facts playing excerpts of Tony Pauline from your interview with him mentioning that some GMs thought that Clowney wouldn’t play hard after getting a big contract. Rob Staton – getting recognition for your analysis and quoting your interviews all over the NFL draft world.
Rob this year is way to good for you. People have noticed your work and efforts. Long due if you ask SDB folks. Some day you will not responds us directly but we will be rooting for you.
Personally I wish the interviews had reached more people. I thought they would.
Its great start, we loved it and soon word will be out. Next year you will see more traction.
It is too bad. Considering teams are hamstrung with interviews to the extent that they are conducting them remotely, it sure seems relevant. Not to mention you managed to landed some great guests.
I think interviews this year are going to play a huge role for determining maturity and commitment, particularly in the absence of testing numbers for so many. As an armchair GM, I found a lot of value in hearing from everyone and have moved guys around a bit, based solely on your interviews.
PC says they are concerned about the challenge of the rookies being able to contribute right away if the off-season abbreviated. So they will look for guys with the mental makeup and background that they can try to predict can handle this process. “The older guys will stay relatively the same, but some of the young guys might not even make the transition and so they may be left out of the competition after a short time.”
Interestingly, JS jumps in on his own initiative and with sternly raised eyebrows and a bit of bite in his tone adds: “And on the flipside, you can have some veterans that… need to get it together too. Cause they feel that they just… have it made… and–you know–they could… we don’t want any complacency, and you’ve seen that with the way Coach Pete and his staff operates.” 🔥 👀
Earlier on he also said there are more tough decisions still to come.
If they want a sure thing with their firstpick, it seems like RB, WR, or OT would be the call. That’s where you can get starter-level quality in the late first round this year. They’ve met with a bunch of DEs that are expected to go that 2, 3, 4 range. Highsmith, Zuniga, Greenard. Maybe that’s where they feel the value is to be had. If Uche falls into the mid-late second round, they could totally use that as an opportunity to move on up from 59.
I’m suspecting they have a first round grade on Jonathan Taylor. And if he is there after a trade back to Green Bay at 30? He would be a starter-level RB in the NFL. Pete and John love centering their entire philosophy around running the ball. Last year they limped out of the playoffs with Travis Homer and a retired Marshawn Lynch. They love competition—and Penny could use some for that RB2 slot. That sort of roster building is what they are all about.
Those two comments were the most interesting to me:
1) Issue of rookies adapting quickly with this type of offseason
2) Free Agency and how it relates to competition – veterans having to man up with so many bodies vying for spots.
As Rob mentioned in a previous comment this gives them the flexibility to add a Jonathan Taylor, but more importantly gives them the flexibility to go for best available (pass rush notwithstanding). The volume of people added to the Oline is not overwhelming on the talent front, but should provide some much needed competition. Add to that the Phil Haynes and the Jordan Simmons of the world (as Pete mentioned) and team is ready to compete to start the best available. Only Russ’s spot should be secure, everything else should go back to the always compete motto.
On the adapting front, some might see Robert Hunt’s age as a drawback but his maturity can be a positive in that regard as per being ready for this pandemic year.
On the receiver front Reagor and Aiyuk seem to be the ones that might be available if we stay at 27. I keep going back to Jefferson. Agree that likelihood of him being there is less than 15%. Still have to consider the possibility. His ceiling might not be that high, but he’s tailor made for this offseason. No one drafts for 1 year, but he’s a plug and play dude. Very polished. Exactly the type of weapon Russ has been asking for, no more counting on very decent but not outstanding receivers such as Turner or the Ricardo Lockette’s of the world. An A+ lineup of 1, 2, and 3 receivers. Adding him will immediately give us one of the top 5 receiving corps. Lockett, DK, Jefferson, Dorsett, Moore and Ursua (one of them possibly being the odd man out).
The value might seem better in trying to target Michael Pittman a bit later. I like him as per for his toughness (blocking), character, and his special teams value, just does not seem to have that speed that they laser in on.
We’ll see how the whole giving Russell weapons part of the season works out. He mentioned it in regards to Clowney if I remember correctly and those types of stars (freaks), not just offensive weapons. Nevertheless, this type of draft is ready made to pounce on some highly skilled playmakers at the RB and WR positions especially early.
JS tried to be guarded, but his only non guarded comment was: it gives us the chance to go for best available. That’s the route to take, almost always and twice on Thursday (and Friday)! Do that PCJS: best available baby!
Get it together: Fluker, Flowers, Collier/Green, Griffin(s)…maybe McDougald.
There are a lot of players who many assume are good, solid starters. And they’re not. They’re not as good as everyone thinks. And that includes Shaquill Griffin.
Agree. IMO, Dunbar, Finney, Diggs, even Warmack were as much depth signings as shots across the bow.
are you saying that you think they dont resign Shaq?
I think they’ll play it by ear.
Trevis Gipson’s favorite team was the Seahawks!
Awesome stuff Rob. This is a must read for any Seahawk fan caring about or watching the draft.
I just bookmarked this page and will probably read it quite a few times. Wish you could narrate it in a podcast so that I could listen while I walk my dogs.
Thanks again for everything. This year was tops in my book, and that’s saying a lot.
Thank you. Can’t tell you how much it means to read comments like this, especially near the end of another long draft season.
FYI — I recorded two podcasts today so they should be out soon.
I’m off to bed now. Final mock draft on Wednesday.
Thumbs way up! ~ Roger Ebert
You know, as bad as we may need him, I’ve kind of moved on from Clowney too. Sometimes something starts getting so stale you just want to throw it out and freshen the air.
This draft is going to be a lot of fun. Part of that is going in with a pocket full of picks. There are so many players that I’d be happy to see us select. It feels like the FO will have to work to F this one up.
Thanks again Rob for another amazing piece of content! Question on your draft board, are the columns ordered left to right terms of your opinion on the Seahawks biggest needs? If not would you consider clarifying In the comments how you’d order them at this juncture or even better producing a revised board that reflects this?
I just did it that way because I googled ‘horizontal board’ and copied the first image layout I saw.
Don’t ask me why I’m looking at this.. but Gary Jennings stats in college were pretty interesting.
2017- Catches 97 balls but only scores 1 TD.
2018- Only catches 54 balls but scores 13 TD’s.
Thanks, Rob!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thank you for reading
Listening to the presser and John said one player wore a suit and tie to the Zoom meeting with them and another was lying in bed watching TV. I don’t know who they were, but my Spidey sense tells me that we won’t be drafting the second one.
Seriously though, it’s basically a job interview with millions of dollars on the line and you take the meeting in bed with the TV on? Terrible.
That was the 1st thing noticed as well. WTF? Why would anyone do that? Kinlaw?
I didn’t see his name on the list of guys we’ve had meetings with, but who knows.
I’d just be guessing. You can look at the ‘known’ list and eliminate a lot of the names as guys who would NOT do that though.
https://seahawksdraftblog.com/an-interview-with-louisiana-techs-amik-robertson#comment-493141
On PFN simulator:
I targeted JT, and Claypool and Hamilton, I missed the other impact edge/DE but took what was available from the list at the point we picked. (Dont think Wilson will last that long, prob not Hunt but took them when they were there.)
36.
Jonathan Taylor
RB Wisconsin
trade
SEA 59.
Isaiah Wilson
OT Georgia
SEA 73.
Davon Hamilton
DT Ohio State
trade icon
SEA 88.
Chase Claypool
WR Notre Dame
trade icon
SEA 99.
Alex Highsmith
DE Charlotte
trade icon
SEA 101.
Jonathan Greenard
OLB Florida
SEA 133.
Robert Hunt
OT Louisiana
SEA 189.
McTelvin Agim
DT Arkansas
trade icon
SEA 191.
Josh Metellus
S Michigan
trade icon
SEA 214.
Damien Lewis
G LSU
I would be super thrilled with that draft, though I don’t think there’s a shot in hell Hunt is available at #133.
Likely none of these players will be available at those ranges.
But an excellent mock if they are
Great stuff Rob! This is pretty much my first year following the draft and it’ll be interesting to see who the Seahawks grab. I noticed that the bench press has been important for defensive backs. I posted this already, but wanted to go deeper. Let’s see the players we’ve drafted and how many reps they got.
CB Thurmond – N/A (I couldn’t find it)
S Chancellor – 22
CB Sherman – 16
S LeGree – 21
CB Maxwell – 24
CB Lane – 12
S Guy – N/A
CB Simon – 9
S Pinkins – 25
CB Smith – 15
S Murphy – 18
CB Griffin – 17
S Hill – 17
S Thompson – 17
CB Tyson – 17
CB Flowers – 18
S Blair – N/A
CB Amadi – 18
Every safety who measured had 17 reps (53%) or more. Every cornerback who measured (other than Lane and Simon) had 15 reps (55%). Only three players on the list (out of 18) didn’t measure, so 13 out of 18 had an above average bench press. It could just be a coincidence, but it seems like they place a fair amount of value in the bench press.
Underrated find. Can you go deeper and see who would fit this new model in the upcoming draft?
Safeties with 17+ reps:
Daniel Thomas
Kam Curl
Rodney Clemons
Tanner Muse
Josh Metellus
Jeremy Chinn
Terrell Burgess
Xavier McKinney
Antoine Brooks Jr.
K’Von Wallace
Kyle Dugger
Alohi Gilman
CB’s with 15+ reps (* for 31″ arms, ** for 32″)
Kindle Vildor**
Reggie Robinson Jr.*
Lavert Hill
Javelin Guidry*
C.J. Henderson*
John Reid
Josiah Scott
Jeff Gladney*
Jaylno Johnson*
Noah Igbinoghene*
A.J. Terrell*
Players who didn’t test: Robertson, Winfield, Keyes, Jones, Cole, Dantzler, Arnette, D. Jackson, Delpit, Pierre, Hawkins, Fuller, Blackmon, Fulton, Ojemudia, Carter, Bryant, Samuels, Thomas-Oliver
I’m blown away by your magnum opus this season. Truly exceptional. I think appreciate it more this year because I feel like a more informed drafnik this year. Odd that in an unprecedented draft season where we saw much less of the prospects than usual I feel like I know this draft class the best. Must be the fantastic lockdown interview series.
Thanks for leading the way to another draft day promised land.
Thanks Eric, I really appreciate you saying that
Here’s a 7-rounder:
2.35 (from DET): EDGE Julian Okwara – Notre Dame
Okwara is a long, fast, bendy, and athletic rusher who is also very raw. His athleticism and length give him the potential to be an every-down starter at LEO if he adds a few pounds, but in his current state, his flaws against the run would limit him to a specialist role – the role Bruce Irvin played as a rookie. While he didn’t test at the Combine, he was once clocked at 21 MPH, which is insane for an edge rusher.
2.59: OT Isaiah Wilson – Georgia
I wasn’t focusing on o-line as a major position of need, but Wilson’s value here was too much to pass up, and he probably isn’t going to last this long in the actual draft. His combination of size, length, and explosiveness make him an intriguing option with sky-high upside. While his technique definitely needs a lot of work, if he gets everything cleaned up, he could use his traits to become one of the best tackles in the league. He would have two years to get ready for the NFL behind Duane Brown and Brandon Shell before getting a chance at a starting role, but I think this is what he needs.
2.64: DT/DE Raekwon Davis – Alabama
Davis has great length
3.85: RB Cam Akers – Florida State
3.101: DT DaVon Hamilton – Ohio State
4.133: C Keith Ismael – San Diego State
5.176: WR John Hightower – Boise State
6.188: CB Madre Harper – Southern Illinois
6.214: DT/DE Rob Windsor – Penn State
UDFA Targets:
S Jordan Fuller
CB Kindle Vildor
CB Javelin Guidry
DT Teair Tart
CB/KR Isaiah Rodgers
QB Tyler Huntley
S Daniel Thomas
CB Keith Washington
OT Brandon Kemp
WR Freddie Swain
RB Tavien Feaster
S Austin Lee
WR Kristian Wilkerson
DT Chris Williams
DT T.J. Smith
I accidentally pressed ctrl+enter…
Continued…
2.64: DT/DE Raekwon Davis – Alabama
Davis has great length and the versatility to play primarily either 5T or 3T, but I would put him as a 5T. He has been a stout run defender for Alabama, which is what the team could need in the future at 5T if Clowney is gone and Green and Collier don’t pan out (and if they do he could play 3T). There is always a hope that his pass rushing could return to its 2017 form, but even if it doesn’t, he could still be a rotational defender on running downs.
3.85: RB Cam Akers – Florida State
Akers is a Seahawks-sized RB, with a great combination of size and explosiveness (he had a 1.47 split!), along with good speed. He can make plays in the open field and has solid vision to boot. He has experience with bad offensive line play too just in case the o-line gets banged up. These factors make him a superb fit in Seattle. He could be the next feature back for the Seahawks, which could be needed in light of Carson and Penny’s durability issues and Carson’s expiring contract next year.
3.101: DT DaVon Hamilton – Ohio State
He is a big defensive tackle with great power and a solid first step for his size. He has the versatility to play nose tackle or 3-tech. He did well at the Senior Bowl, which is where the Seahawks often like to find talent. He would fill the Al Woods as a rotational defensive tackle, and could eventually be an above-average starter.
4.133: C Keith Ismael – San Diego State
Ismael is on the smaller side. His arms are only 32.25 inches long. However, the Seahawks drafted Joey Hunt a few years back, showing that they aren’t afraid of drafting smaller centers. Ismael had the best explosiveness testing out of every center at the combine except for Ruiz. He has the flexibility to play guard as well as center.
5.176: WR John Hightower – Boise State
Hightower is a fast and explosive receiver who could play outside or in the slot. He threatens on short throws, intermediate passes, and deep balls. While he would be 24 years old as a rookie, he could have immediate impact as a kick returner and eventually use his quickness combined with his burner speed to be a solid WR3.
6.188: CB Madre Harper – Southern Illinois
Harper is a player that pretty much everyone in the Seahawks draft world has talked about. His length (33 7/8″ arms), speed (4.43 40), explosiveness (40″ vert, 11′ 2″ broad), and physicality give him the traits the Seahawks look for in an outside cornerback. If he develops quickly, he could be an option when Griffin and Dunbar are free agents next year.
6.214: DT/DE Rob Windsor – Penn State
While Windsor’s production fell off and he doesn’t have great explosiveness, his length and agility make him another option as a rotational 5T or 3T. He could be a Quinton Jefferson type defender. While he doesn’t have superb length, it is definitely adequate (33 1/8″ arms).
UDFA Targets above^
Some really nice personnel in that group, however, I have concerns that even one of them will be available when the pick comes you have assigned to them.
This was actually from a community mock draft, and I decided to choose my alternative picks. I agree – many of these players shouldn’t be available in the actual draft.
Incredible write-up. Just the best at this sort of thing anywhere. Shocking no one has snatched you up yet for the big bucks. You’d do so much better than most of the national media types.
Thanks Jim
My post from April 2nd:
millhouse-serbia says:
April 2, 2020 at 12:53 am
Seahawks DE/Edge before 2019 NFL draft:
Green, QJeff, Jacob Martin, Mingo, Jackson…that’s it…the end…
Just year ago , this FO enter the draft with these pass rush option…
Now they have : Green, LJ, Jackson, Irvin, Mayowa…
Dont be shocked, not shocked, dont be surprised if they enter this year draft without any new aditions..
I mean its the same FO just year later and this 2020 group is defenetly better than 2019 (speaking before drafts)…
I am not saying thats what they should do, nor that I agree with it(i dont)…just saying its more than possible
Even I said this 20 day ago, I must admit I am surprise little bit…until this morning I thought they will trade for YN…
I don’t know how to read Johns words that they are going into draft to take BPA…do they really think they don’t have huuuge need for pass rusher? He did mention LJ again (obviously they expect jump for him and much bigger role than last year but its not hard to have bigger role than be inactive)…he did mention 15-16 sacks from Irvin and Mayowa…maybe they will go into the season with what they have plus one rookie Edge…
https://youtu.be/ODnV4t3Od9Y?t=1149
And from what he said you think they will 100% add one more veteran pass rusher before season? because I didn’t understand it that way…There are two things he mentioned (development and scheme) that don’t need new veteran faces…(and development part is for sure about LJ and Green)…and about acquisition…they already added Irvin and Mayowa (and again, they see them as two players who bring 16 sacks (Rob and I had conversation about that number and more or less I agree with Rob, but those were John’s words)…
I really really hope they will add big name before season , but as I already said it wont surprise me at all if they don’t add anyone except one rookie before season…
They will add another veteran.
100%
Those are just words on Mayowa and Irvin, two days before a draft.
They had 7.5 sacks in the year before. They know this isn’t good enough.
FWIW, results of my PFN mock. Traded 27 for 40 & 90 with Texans.
Results are probably a bit unrealistic, but one can dream. Full of athletic marvels and upside.
SEA 40.
Clyde Edwards-Helaire
RB LSU
SEA 59.
Joshua Uche
OLB Michigan
SEA 64.
Chase Claypool
WR Notre Dame
SEA 90.
Willie Gay Jr.
OLB Mississippi State
SEA 101.
Robert Hunt
OT Louisiana
SEA 133.
Leki Fotu
DT Utah
SEA 144.
Trevis Gipson
DE Tulsa
SEA 214.
Trey Adams
Love that group of players.
Love this!
Another great group of players, but hunt and gay will probably be long gone at that point.
I just want some cool cats who are ready to compete!
I want some turd-burglars who help the Hawks win a Soup.
If I could pile on just a bit, I just wanted to thank Rob for all the work you put in. I just look over your shoulder and copy your homework.
I’m just really looking forward to draft night and seeing who the Hawks will not pick that night.
Thanks KD
Does anyone know if there are spoiler free options (maybe a slide show or something like that) to check out the first round picks?
Can’t watch the first round, unfortunately.
I think NFL.com will post the first round in full on YouTube.
That’s awesome, thank you
I would Sim the draft if I could. I dont want to watch that crap. Some of the worst sports tv I’ve ever seen, the NFL draft.
But I understand and respect people who enjoy the experience
(Almost) all Seahawks tough draft:
#27 to #37+#71
#37 – Chase Claypool, WR
#59+#133+2021 R3 for #47
#47 – Robert Hunt, OT/OG
#64 – Jabari Zuniga, DE
#71 – Amik Robertson, nCB
#101 – Leki Fotu, DT
#144+2021 R4 for #129
#129 – AJ Dillon, RB
#214 – Javelin Guidry, S
Had to mortgage the future a bit, but I’d like this haul
Nice work. Could be my personal favorite mock yet
Going off of Rob’s Big Board..
2nd: Chase Claypool, Robert Hunt, Jeremy Chinn, Antoine Winfield, Logan Wilson
3rd: Bradlee Anae, Leki Fotu, Damien Lewis
4th: Amik Robertson, AJ Dillon, Lynn Bowden
Assuming a trade down to the 2nd and picking up a 3rd, we could realistically pick up 6 of these guys.
2nd: Claypool WR
2nd: Hunt OT
2nd: Wilson LB
3rd: Anae DE
3rd: Fotu DT
4th: Robertson CB
How’s that for getting tougher..
Even more gross is AJ Dillon ahead of big Clyde.
To whom do you compare CEH? Is he big enough to be an NFL starter?
Barry Sanders and Jones-Drew.
40 lbs tougher
Clyde is 40 times better.
Falcons gonna trade up for CJ Henderson?
Probably right here, yes.
They might go for Kinlaw if he’s still there. That’s a decent jump up.
IMO, Kinlaw will be there at #16; prob drops into the mid-20s because of medicals, injury concerns.
Rob, this is exceptional work, I’ll be referencing it throughout the weekend.
Not a big fan of Walter Football but if you didn’t catch it, he gave you a big shout out in your final mock (and aligned his picks with players you’ve highlighted).
On top of the player interviews your star is really rising in football, and deservedly so. I think next year could be a big year for you, and you’ll be seeing offers to appear on more mainstream NFL shows.
Thanks again for all of your work, I’ll enjoy the draft a hundred times more because of your insights.
Thank you 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Of course, maybe he was just trying to make up for posting this pancake yesterday…
https://twitter.com/JimNagy_SB/status/1252746709555388419
He says great length yet his arms are sub 33″.
😂🤣😂🤣
https://mobile.twitter.com/CBSSports/status/1252704604405616640
No way. First Gronk, now this???
Man, I still drool over the possibility of him returning kicks for us. Imagine he might be even faster at 185 lbs.! So, here’s the “plan” 😉:
We bring him back on vet. min. contract (cause he actually still owes us quite a few games after we paid him $18.4m for just 8 games…).
He is kept isolated from the team, trains on his own. Literally just shows up to games and jumps out from his end zone seat in the stands to return kickoffs, then promptly returns there afterwards.
You owe us games Percy 💀
Eggzackly
This feels like a reaction to the relaxed standards on weed in the new CBA.
Thanks Rob!
I think mid-R2 or end of R2 will be really-really strong.
I’d like a draft like this:
Akers, Peart, Zuniga, Duvernay, Uche/Okwara, Willie Gay, Amik Robertson/Bryce Hall, DaVon Hamilton, Bryan Edwards…and I think all/most of these guys will be drafted between 40 and 70.
Also checked some highlights of Joe Reed and he could be an absolute steal and a must have target imo. He’s a plug’n’play returner which would be nice to have, and he’s a solid big slot. Good hands, solid body control. Can use for slants, screens, but can be used for some vertical routes. Not an excellent route runner but OK still. Doesn’t have true elite speed, but has enough speed. Not a crazy tackle breaker, but will break arm tackles and punish bad angles.
If he’s there at R4, I’d be pretty happy to select him
Rob you are the man. This year you really took a great blog and made it its own news organization. Just incredible..
Also, I think I figured out what the league sees in K’laivon Chaisson. You’ve been pointing how his not impressive stats, which seem to be opposite of the medias impression. It now makes more sense to me. He isn’t a “freak athlete”, or even a decent pass rusher. Watching his film (not highlights) made me see he was no better than average, or even below average in those. His stats make sense. However, what he was, was instinctual. He’s that second effort guy that reads what the play is doing faster than his teammates and runs to places he needs to be. You see things like a cornerback getting in his way to the tackle because he read the play that much faster than even the DBs.
I see why some like him now, even though what is to like is definitely not his pass rush. He’s a project you’d need to teach that to. He doesn’t attack the line of scrimmage with a plan or hand fighting the way pule DE prospects do.
The other i watched was yetur-gross matos. The big ball of clay analogy everyones saying really is warranted. The guy is shaped like a top DE..but his football IQ is awfully low. His production seemed almost like it occurred on accident. He has the physical traits, sure. He can set the edge for the run decently, but aside from pure athleticism wins, he gets beat by opponents that are just more polished.
The most glaring weakness is his hand fighting, or the complete absence of hand fighting. He looks timid to engage and often just pushes his shoulder into a guy. No pass rush plan. Definitely not nastiness or violence in his hands. He almost appears scared of contact in that way. Im not saying he’s a bust, but you better get him hand fighting training, and football training, all during covid-19. He may be more of a 3-year project..and teaching nastiness and violence isn’t something that is easily taught. Its much easier to teach refinement to someone who already has that scrap dog mentality (i have a football DE/RT, rugby, wrestling, and jui jitsu background). If you draft him, you should probably hire 2 personal coaches just to make sure he gets trained as fast as possible.
Behold the self-proclaimed “sack guru” against an NFL-caliber LT:
https://twitter.com/PFF_AustinGayle/status/1251937574693855234
Thanks for the kind words 👍🏻
Rob, thank you for the incredible work that you have done this season, especially over the past 5 weeks. You have really outdone yourself and the quality of the content is just going to help me enjoy the draft that much more. I’m here 5-10 times a day most days and I really appreciate the understanding that you have given me of what the Seahawks look for. It has me excited as hell for the fall. Thanks again.
Thanks man 👍🏻
Only about halfway through the PCJS presser, but two things stuck out.
First, I found it funny that when talking about trading during the draft, the first example team Pete mentioned was IND. I’m sure it means absolutely nothing, but Rob has been mocking the trade back with them forever.
Second, the statement about how “face to face” zoom interviews are helping them as opposed to just texting or calling over the phone because they can look people in the face all the time. Specifically the part about not having VMAC visits and having to do it over the phone, where one guy was in a suit and tie and another was laying in his bed. This might give some character insight that they wouldn’t have had before. When everyone was coming to the VMAC, they were likely all on their best behavior. Now, prospects are at home and comfortable. Who really wants it and is prepared for the meeting?
Also forgot to mention that the first thing John mentioned about missing by not having these visits and pro days was the medical checks. I wonder if that will keep them away from guys with injury history to be safe?
Theories:
1, They got so many OLs because OTAs will be limited or almost none, so they’ll keep the players that can adept the quickest
2, Also they might not want to draft an OL because even without the virus the learning curve is steep for them. With this they probably wouldn’t able to have any effect 1st year (probably a redshirt year for most OL)
3, As they cannot have private workouts and won’t have pro days, etc, I think they’ll focus on maturity, attitude. The guys who get drafted will have to jump on the opportunity, learn everything they can away from the team and ready as soon as possible
4, As they can’t have medicals, they’ll be extra careful (most teams will imo)
5, with limited information probably safer choices and high floor guys will rise and questionable attitude, medical redflag guys will fall much more then they’d usually do
6, I think they brought back Mayowa and Irvin because they know them. They didn’t go hard for Fowler, Beasley, Ngakoue, etc because they don’t have coaching exp with them in the NFL (Clowney situation is different)
Interesting. thanks for posting, I was looking for an article on the press conf, checked 710 page and saw nothing. Dug through Twitter and some post re signing Irvin Mayawa was sort of “moving on” from Clowney, but door is still open. That seems dumbfounding that this really seems to be their plan!
Anything else stand out?
Yes, we mentioned a few things higher up in the comments (you can start here and scroll up):
https://seahawksdraftblog.com/seahawks-2020-draft-guide-identifying-potential-targets#comment-493478
Thanks bud!
The Zoom meeting stuff was funny. I will say as a word of caution – I hope they don’t glean too much from “how the prospect looked on camera.”
We’ve all been adjusting to life with Corona and I have been fortunate enough to be able to work virtual…I can tell you, the best dressed-most coiffed employee on our calls…easily our weakest link and everybody knows it.
No real point to this anecdote other than I’m always very, very cautious about anybody doing any sort of job interview. It’s the hardest thing for companies to do, let alone professional sports teams. It’s very easy to get caught up in “oh this guy was so polished for this interview.” Sometimes that’s a great tell to the quality of employee…other times, you just got duped by a used car salesman. This draft really provides a unique opportunity to trust the tape.
To counter this, there is the risk that you may get duped by a car salesman, but i hope they do glean what they can and care about how the prospect looked on camera. You may be correct in employees that are dressed well vs. not dressed well, the difference is that they are not interviewing for the job. As an executive of company, if im interviewing over skype, and one employee is dressed sharply, and another is in PJs with music or tv on, you sure as heck know that im taking the sharply dressed one if all things are equal. That is an important indicator to show whether a person cares or not. If they don’t care about the interview, they likely wont care about their job, or the company, and i don’t want a person like that on my team or the hawks. For instance, i don’t want to draft Jachai polite over Maxx Crosby (not saying Maxx was a great interview, just an example of someone you had a good rookie year), and these interviews will give indictors of delineating factors.
Eh, Gronk took a nap during his visit with the Patriots. Pretty sure they aren’t sad they took him anyway.
What do you guys think of Thriston Jackson (WR, Syracuse), Bryce Huff (EDGE, Memphis), Jashon Cornell (DT, Ohio State) as late R5-R7 picks? Found them in this sleepers video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TR7t5MpExhI
Per Jenna Laine (ESPN)
https://www.espn.com/blog/tampa-bay-buccaneers/post/_/id/23634/tom-brady-lures-rob-gronkowski-showing-bucs-all-in-to-win-hometown-super-bowl
Interesting…thanls a trade I could see happening betweeen Wash – TB. Maybe after the draft now, but certainly makes sense.
In his two round mock draft, Tony Pauline has the Seahawks taking Jaylon Johnson, CB, Utah at 27. Part of his reasoning was that they reportedly love his size and physicality. What are peoples thoughts on the pick, considering they don’t take CB’s early
I can’t see it
I agree with Rob; really hard to see it.
I think it’s just due diligence in case a guy like that somehow slips through the cracks all the way to, let’s say, one of our late R2 picks. Then, just like DK, there comes a point when the value could be just too good to pass up, and so you want to have done your homework.
That’s actually a great call – this screams “hey if he is around pick #64 – let’s be ready to roll because the value is too high.”
Otherwise, this makes zero sense and would be a bad move despite him being a good player.
Not only can I not see it, but it doesn’t make any sense at all for a team that needs to win now. I like Jaylon Johnson but there is nothing to suggest that outside CB is a need nor is there a history of us expending such draft capital.
So is Shaq, Dunbar, or Johnson going to be on the bench?
It’s exactly like when I see us taking a TE in R2 – cool…so which of the guys have we paid will be inactive?
On the other hand, there is nothing to suggest that the Seahawks couldn’t find a better outside corner and a better slot corner. Both positions could change.
I think we are arguing more about the range the cornerbacks are chosen in, because they will draft more cornerbacks.
Totally fair point and I don’t disagree. But, we are talking about a team with massive voids – and if we are drafting a CB in R1 – even if they are an upgrade; I’d contend this team isn’t better with the current holes going unfilled.
They will absolutely draft a CB, like they always do. I just think the idea of it being in R1…there is just no basis for that.
Just read the entire mock draft…yikes I do not like it for Seattle.
Elliott is a nice player but is he a difference maker? His athleticism has been massively oversold. Not to mention, I’m thinking I like the idea of using our 3rd rounder (probably trading up) to address DT. I like Ford and Reed – I think it’s a better use of resources to get that 3rd DT with our 4th pick.
I know folks on this board love Anae…I can’t stand it in R2. He is a terrible, terrible athlete. You are asking a guy to overcome massive limitations, I don’t care how much of a bad ass he is (in the Pac 12, grain of salt). Furthermore, with his size and limited athleticism – if he can’t rush the QB, he will be a worthless pick. What’s his ceiling as a pass rusher? 6 sacks? Rob said it before – this team does better when they gamble on upside. It doesn’t mean it will automatically work, but I’m struggling to think of a “football guy with terrible athleticism” that really worked out well for Seattle…and no KJ Wright doesn’t qualify as that.
Anyways, I hope your boy Tony is way off base on this one. This draft screams 3rd place finish in the NFC West – to be dramatic, lol.
I don’t remember anyone here pounding the table for Anae tbh…
Maybe I’m confusing this with Seahawks twitter or another board we don’t speak of, lol.
Shoot…actually might be local sports radio – which is…”special.”
When you run the PFN Sim on auto and let it draft everyone, Seattle picks a CB with it’s first pick about 75% of the time. And the other 25% it will pick a CB with the second pick! So they have Seattle really needing a CB early…very strange.
Totally agree. I absolutely think a Nickel player is definitely on the menu, probably at 101, 133, or 144. Otherwise, you are talking about drafting a CB who will be on the bench.
Well, my girlfriend took Jeff Gladney at #27, so it could be worse. FWIW, she doesn’t watch football.
I would bet everything Rob owns this will never happen.
Yeah agree with all here. I just dont see that happening.
The secondary is the only part of the D I feel ok about. The trade gives us 3 experienced starters, a full season of Diggs, hopefully some ball skill improvement from Griffin will take a step forward. It’s a strength that other teams covet, but at least there is some talent and depth
While their meetings don’t tell us exactly who they might draft, because there are many we don’t find out about until afterwards, perhaps they could tell us what positions they are looking at, supposing the known visits are probably roughly proportional to the unknown as far as position. (i.e. we are unlikely to find out about all the CBs, but no OL, for example)
Here are how many guys we’ve known to have met with at each position:
DE- 7
OG- 6
CB- 5
RB- 3
TE- 3
DT- 3
OLB- 2
LB- 2
NCB- 2
WR- 2
FS- 2
OT- 1
SS- 1
QB- 1
Looking back at past drafts, it doesn’t correspond perfectly, but it is usually somewhat indicative. An outlier, for example, was last year when there were no known OG visits, and they took Phil Haynes (who later revealed he had visited the VMAC).
So a working theory could be that when they hone in on one guy they really like, they don’t necessarily bring in a ton more at that position.
Of course, it could also just be a fluke that we happened not to get info on any other OG visits last year.
One other pattern is that they seem to always bring in a ton of DBs, and some years they take a bunch of them (2017) and others none of them (2016). This might align with what PC has said it’s important to look for in the mental makeup of his DB projects, so they need to get an up close look at them.
Here’s a talking point that has really made me re-evaluate certain things in regards to the draft:
“X QB has a higher ceiling because he is bigger and has a better arm.”
I think where QB evaluation has really failed is thinking “well you can’t teach arm strength” (which is true, you can enhance it – but not make wholesale changes) but there’s this automatic assumption that you can teach pocket awareness, ability to read defenses in a split second, being comfortable scanning the field – not just locking onto your first target.
Are we sure some of those things aren’t innate? And no, I don’t mean waking up knowing how to exploit cover 3, but I’m mean having the internal fortitude to trust something you don’t necessarily see – ie a window that will come open but is not open yet and making the throw.
I don’t think you can just assume this stuff can be taught. I bring this up because of what I hear about Justin Herbert. He has started for 4 years and still struggles with very simple things at the QB position DESPITE being an extremely book smart kid. Tua scored very low on the Wonderlic, but you watch him play and you see a guy who can read the field, is comfortable moving his eyes.
I know Seattle is not on the market for a QB (thank God), but I thought this would be an interesting conversation to start on this board. I mean, how many guys have really gone from “struggles to make reads, go through progressions” and magically has become a master of that in the NFL? I can’t think of one guy, to be honest.
Anyways, I think part of the hubris problem in the NFL has a great deal to do with QBs and “oh we can teach him to feel comfortable in the pocket and throwing into tight windows.” Again, I think you can enhance qualities but not necessarily make wholesale changes.
I’m very confident that Jacob Eason won’t survive in the NFL – mainly because he didn’t look comfortable playing QB for a good college program in a weak conference.
Just a talking point that I’ve been thinking about and wanted to throw out there to get some dialogue.
Big agree. The ego of GMs and coaches regularly blinds them to what’s actually possible.
It’s just funny how the mental side of the game they automatically go to “oh we can easily teach them this.”
“Hey, is really a brilliant writer. We can just teach them to be an engineer.”
Just funny to me…I think physical tools are absolutely important, but I think they are important from a baseline perspective. I’m convinced the mental stuff is so much more important and ultimately is not something you can teach. Again, you can enhance things but not make wholesale changes – I’ve seen it way too many times and with “insane athletes” who were smart guys with great work ethics.
I agree that physical skills can be tantalizing and lead to ill advised choices.
I think hubris is very much present but I’ve been impressed very recently with teams that actually have the humility to admit when a QB isn’t working out.
Tampa Bay – their #1 overall draft pick is a street free agent after some dazzling and maddening play. They went and got Brady (or rather, were chosen by Brady).
Tennessee – their #2 overall is a backup in LV now. They bought low on a competition QB and were richly rewarded with excellent play within their scheme by Tannehill.
Chicago – Following Tennesee’s lead they brought in Foles at a reasonable cost after giving Trubisky 3 seasons to show what he’s got. The “all in” approach, trading for Mack didn’t bear fruit and they’re assessing their options instead of handing Trubisky the keys to the org before he’s earned it.
Arizona – Josh Rosen wasn’t given a real great opportunity, but the allure of Kyler Murray was just too great, and how right they are. It looks bad in the press to draft a QB high 2 years in a row, but what a smart decision that was in hindsight.
Jacksonville – Not being seduced by a few good games by Blake Bortles over a few seasons, they stacked QBs by signing Foles and drafting Mustache. Going with youth, they ate a cap hit on Foles and seem intent on working with Mustache and/or drafting another QB this year.
Good post.
I will only add that the real litmus test on this is not drafting some of these QBs in the first place. And that’s not to imply they should never miss – but I am saying that while it’s great they are acknowledging and moving on – it doesn’t change the fact that they overlooked these gross shortcomings in the first place.
Excellent response and I don’t disagree with any of that.
Or overanalyzed guys to death. Deshaun Watson never should have gone that low.
100%. Great point. Mystery almost helps these guys.
Meh I don’t agree with this at all. At the end of the day if the QB does not have certain physical attributes he will never be able to make certain types of throws.
Also you were looking for an example, check out Dak Prescott coming out of college. He was a raw prospect with pysical tools but with a lot of issues with his mechanics, awareness, and reads. Read Zierlien’s profile of him.
WEAKNESSES Beat up this year thanks to poor protection. When he wasn’t being sacked, he was being hit hard. Not as competitive a rusher in 2015. Sacks and usage in run game might be taking a toll. Increase in short pass attempts from 86 to 208 this year reason for higher completion numbers. Accuracy on intermediate and deep throws dropped sharply. Pocket poise has been compromised. Hyper aware of pressure around him and lacks awareness to slide and find temporary shelter to make throw. Concern over pressure too often trumps ability to get through progressions. Must speed up the pace of his reads. Footwork is a mess. Slight stride onto stiff upper leg with little weight shift. Restricted follow through and too often tries to muscle throws with upper body. Throws to target rather than leading or throwing them open on short/intermediate throws. Too respectful of underneath coverage and must be more willing to challenge the defense. Needs to improve anticipation.
I am waiting for the masses to be introduced to the “middle infielder” as the QB of the future. Russ may have started it, Mahomes took it to another level, and the little guy in Arizona may add some more.
The two things I can say are that a baseball player is better at sliding and this makes all the difference, and the quick action and decision making of a middle infielder enhances the abilities of the QB.
They can make odd angle throws and improvise under pressure. From my perspective it would also increase the advantages of being a multi-sport athlete.
Check out the “too big to QB” article on The Ringer. Big, stiff, hard throwing QB at on the way out and little, fast, flexible QBs are the future.
…hard throwing QBs are on the way……
Another monumental effort, Rob. Enormous thanks.
The quality of your work really shines when you start reading some of the ‘bigger’ names. Just saw a name writer suggest the best comp for AJ Epanesa is Frank Clark, completely deranged stuff.
Haven’t been able to watch much this year, don’t feel like I’ve got a great grasp on the class, but thanks to this site I don’t think I’ll be too surprised with whatever comes.
Hope you and your family are all well, here’s hoping for another successful draft
Thanks Ishmael 👍🏻 Really appreciate you saying those things. Family all well and good and having a lot of fun at home.
Rob. I’ve been following the Seahawk draft every season since the beginning and have never felt so prepared as this one because of your blog. You’ve been great in the past. Fantastic this draft season! Thanks so much.
John said something in the pre-draft presser about how they wanted to put some “men” in front of Russell and that’s why they went out and signed so many linemen. He also went on to say now they can just draft BPA. I’m sorry, what? They have not learned anything, have they? Late round picks, journeyman FA’s… For what? John, here is the deal. You can’t draft a Jamarco Jones and expect him to be a player, (he isn’t, so people need to stop saying he is). There are 2-4 tackles that are realistic for them, and if they aren’t planning for a future without Duane, and with, (gulp), Shell at RT… That’s GM malpractice. I guess its better to reach for DL early then?
As they say, the internet is undefeated… 😂 (it’s also its own worst enemy, but we’ll forget about that for now)
Rob,
Amazing job as always! I’m working on my final mock draft and was curious what people think Leonard Fournette is worth in pick compensation. He’s due $4.2M this year and hasn’t been optioned for his 5th year yet. Thoughts?
I think they’ll get a 6.
Per Pauline:
https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2020-nfl-draft-news-rumors-tony-pauline/
Want to thank you for all the embeds. Invaluable, but you’re wearing out my eraser.
🙂
Pittman also has an NFL pedigree. He’ll be plug & play, which isn’t always the case for rookie WRs.
And he’s a baller on special teams. I agree he’s underrated. I could see him going in R2 and being better than most the guys that are drafted before him.
Rob, thank you so much for your passion for the NFL draft and the Seattle Seahawks. Your work has enabled so many Seahawk fans this year to become familiar with prospects and enjoy the draft.
Have you shared your story of how you became such a Seahawk fan? Where can I read or hear about your story?
As for me, my Dad acquired season tickets to Seahawk games from 1976, their inaugural season. I attended all home games in Kingdome since age 6 thru high school graduation. Watching Zorn, Largent, Jacob Green, Easley and some of the great NFL players in those days was fantastic. Now at age 50, think I am so attached to Seattle Seahawks as they are intertwined with and representative of my relationship with my Dad and spending quality time with him as a boy and having a common interest.
I am not a college football fan and have not watched these prospect players play. I realize I am unlikely to be able to predict Seahawks picking one offensive lineman over another, one receiver over another. The analysis you have provided on all these players has given a list of types of players at each position that the Seahawks might select and why they are exciting prospects. I can say, I would like the Seahawks to draft one OT, one NT, one 3 Tech, one DE, one WR, and one RB. I hope they select a quality player at each of these positions.
I moved to Vancouver about 15 years ago and while I was there, I travelled to Seattle a few times. Attended a game and was hooked immediately. Have followed the team ever since.
Wow, your commitment to reply to posters is amazing. So glad you visited a game and got hooked!
Did you live in Vancouver BC or Vancouver, WA?. I live in Vancouver WA just across the Columbia River from Portland, OR.
The amount of information and analysis you provide is truly fantastic!
Vancouver BC. Abbotsford for a few weeks then moved into Downtown.
Thank you for the kind words too.
Converted in person, at the sacred site, in the presence of our passion. Beautiful.
That is hilarious. Genuinely hilarious.
Daniel Jones was quite good last year. This is 1000000% about trying to find a trade down partner because Gettleman wants a big body and he will absolutely get one, even with a trade down.
I will never understand the love affair with Justin Herbert. His own college coaches didn’t trust him. 4 year starter who looks uncomfortable playing the position and didn’t get better since his Sophomore year.
Reference my QB diatribe above, lol.
Oregon went through 3 head coaches in his time there and every unit suffered for it at some point.
He’s smart and strong. Prototype frame. Mobile. Had the statement Rose Bowl win going out, but there is no grittiness to his profile at all.
They also have had pretty awful WR’s. That’s one position Oregon has never been able to recruit.
Kenny is right though, and that (lack of) intangible is the main thing that worries me about his future as a pro. I have the same feeling about his prospects as my chances of landing on the green on a 185 yd par 3… hopeful, but not optimistic.
Rob/anyone,
Does it sound like Taylor has a promise from the Seahawks? If there at #27, they’re taking him.
Nobody has a promise.
More of a mutual interest I bet.
Was imagining earlier today, what if Taylor were available and the Hawks selected CEH! Not sure he would ever get over it…
Kinda like when Taylor Mays got bypassed to pick Earl Thomas?
He got pissed!!! 😡
So pissed that he played 5 years on 4 teams (CIN 2x), got no INT’s and finished his career in Canada.
I’m starting to doubt he’s there at #27, but I bet PCJS would violate all sorts of social distancing to celebrate when they got the chance.
I want SEA to draft him not just because I think he’s a great prospect, but also to see Seahawks Twitter lose their minds.
In for the Twitter melt as well. Would love CEH or Taylor with the first pick. Take this O to the next level, especially if they get dynamic WR3.
The offense has to score 30+ imo
(Ah, man. 2nd sentence was meant as question, not some definitive statement. Apologies for the ‘book it’ vibe.)
It’s ok, Danno! Book it!
I actually wonder if the Seahawks are as interested in Taylor (as a 1st rd pick) because of the fumblitis issue he has.
Watching that Percy Harvin workout… it just reminds you how he’s one of the world’s truly elite athletes. Just look at him. What a shame he couldn’t ever work it out. He could’ve been a legend.
His ability to cut and seemingly not lose any speed was always just ridiculous. The way he could stand out athletically in the NFL with all those other elite athletes was absurd.
Absolutely. I remember describing him to a soccer-fan friend when we acquired him, excited and struggling for words to do justice to how impossibly fast and sudden he was. I think maybe Thierry Henry in his prime was the best example I could come up with at the time as far as acceleration and top speed.
Well, we do need a KR. If they sold him on a low-stress, pure KR specialist role ala Devin Hester? Never say never…?
For me the closest comp was Pavel Bure in hockey. In two strides he was at top speed and could stickhandle and maintain control of the puck and not lose speed. Painting Picassos while everyone else was coloring inside the lines with crayons.
I got to be frustrated 2X, in Minnesota and Seattle. Dude’s migraines gave me migraines. High maintenance.
The true definition of the word ‘freak’
Rob, Truly amazing stuff this year leading up to the draft. I have really enjoyed reading your stuff over the years and listening to an occasional podcast when they were available. However, I do have to agree with many previous comments that this year was definitely a step up for SDB and your effort to provide the best content possible. The number of podcasts in interviews was truly exceptional And absolutely set a new standard for our fabulous community. Like me, if anyone liked the site in the community before this year, they were blown away and unrepairably addicted to it this year.
I do have one request that I will leave you with that I am not sure you will be able to accomplish. One of the things that set you apart in your content and journalistic effort is that you represent so many different possibilities and viewpoints on various subjects and concerns. We fully get to see a 360 view of most everything that’s going on as you have the ability to address all aspects and viewpoints.
As a fan and consumer, I have incredible appreciation for that perspective and related content. The one thing I would really like to have is your opinion AS A FAN. What I mean by that specifically is that I see a great number of mock drafts representing various opinions and situations. What I would really like to see from you is a very puristic, non-journalistic presentation of your fan version of a mock draft. The equivalent of, Seahawk ownership just gave you GM responsibilities for 2020. They believe you understand the landscape of possible trades and best value of players to the organization better than any other human being on the planet. That being said, they (we) want to see what your mock draft would be if you got exactly what you wanted at what you thought were reasonable points in this draft where we had picks available.
I would so love to see this: Robs personal fan mock draft. Bring it big guy!!! 🙂
Thanks Hawktalker#1, really appreciate those really positive words about the coverage.
As a fan the truth is I don’t have my heart set on one scenario. I have a collection of players — about 10-15 — who I’ll be really happy if they draft. And I’ll be even happier if at some point in the next seven days I could feel more confident about the pass rush. But there isn’t one early pick or one particular scenario I’m rooting for.
Rob, will you list outright the 10-15 players you would be really happy if they drafted? Based on your analysis of prospects on this blog, we could likely guess your favorite prospects. Will you list them before the draft?
Probably not — because then you get pigeon holed with certain players. But I think you guys could probably guess them. Big Clyde is definitely on the list, for example.
So is Simmons I’ll bet!
a few other guesses:
Jonathan Taylor
Isaiah Wilson
Josh Uche
Chase Claypool
Devon Hamilton
Amik Robertson
Stenberg
…and Robert Hunt
You can run, but you cannot hide!
As I work on my mock draft, I keep trying to force / overdraft DL/Edge with first pick. IMO, value and talent will be at WR, maybe RB. Taking Reagor over Uche until I change my mind.
Lots of little cliffs. Deep WR class.
Thoughts?
And I’m convinced the value will be at OT
Good choice. None of the DL are worth it unless Kinlaw falls. And they have met with and shown constant interest in Reagor.
I haven’t finalized mine yet, but I’m thinking:
Small trade back.
R2- CEH
Small trade up.
R2- Robert Hunt
R2- Raekwon Davis/Davon Hamilton
R3- Jabari Zuniga
Maybe even trade up again into mid R3 using 2021 R4.
R3- Bryan Edwards
The alternative is picking Reagor/Aiyuk/Claypool instead of CEH and then Cam Akers instead of Bryan Edwards.
LOL. That’s pretty much mine, right there.
I went Reagor over CEH (size + Moss, later); Fotu/Hamilton over Davis; then some combo of Hunt, Zuniga, Edwards/Claypool; add a Bryant (Myles or Hunter) to meet UW requirement.
Cam Akers has been my favorite RB throughout, so can’t get my hopes up.
I would’ve changed my mock every 5 minutes as a leaf in the wind. Got tired of it and just let it be 2 days ago.
I’m about to do the same. Never been good at ’em. Too often you find yourself assigning positions to rounds and that’s not how it works.
I’m fine with it, but I’d trade Edwards for Duvernay. And I’m missing a guy who could compete for nCB
Please please please please please give me those guys in the draft. Please.
I’ll be off here until after the draft, but I want to thank you Rob for all this work. I love it every year and this one is no different.
Last thing is that what I really want is SEA to go back to getting freak athletes with special qualities. Yeah, some of them may bust, but when they hit it’s so much fun. Give me more DK. Give me a S that’s built like a linebacker. Whatever happens, I know I’ll be coming back to read everyone’s thoughts on it.
Bruh, are you a wrestler?
Yeah dude! That’s why I’ve always loved talking wrestling with you on here haha.
My Twitter should be linked in my name on the comment. Also have a YouTube channel “Weapon Next” and Instagram account “weapon_next” making use of my moniker. I’ve got my match with John Morrison before he got signed back by WWE in a my matches playlist on YouTube. Feel free to follow and subscribe anyone who reads this.
There, I’m done shilling and promoting myself!
That’s how I figured it out. Accidentally clicked on your name and your twitter popped up.
That’s so f**kn’ awesome! Keep doing your thing my man.
I’ll check out your match w/ JoMo later tonight and subscribe to your channel too.
You watched the Boneyard match yet?
Thanks man, I appreciate that!
No, I haven’t yet. Just a few clips from it. What were your thoughts? I heard a lot of positive things and people saying that’s the kind of stuff they should’ve done with Matt Hardy while he was there.
Loved it! They made a half hour feel like 10-12. It was perfect for ‘Taker, but man AJ is so good in it. He’s hands down one of the best dorky, yokel heels of all time. I didn’t think I’d like it and it ended up being my favorite match of the year (other than Bryan vs Gulak). Highly recommend the bone zone.
I’m not a big ‘Broken’ Matt Hardy guy, but I’d agree w/ that.
The MITB PPV is gonna be bats**t insane too. They start at the bottom of the old WWE headquarters (Titan Towers) and have to work their way up to the roof where the briefcase will be suspended. lmao
I’ll definitely have to check it out. That’s the perfect way to describe Styles as a heel haha.
I love the idea for MITB. It’s different. It’s weird. Perfect for a time like this. Wrestling is supposed to be fun.
Feel exactly the same. I applaud them for thinking outside the box. Looking forward to it and like you said, should be a lot of fun.
So what do you guys think of AEW so far? Or are you mostly WWE fans? I think Chris Jericho might be one of the best talkers I’ve ever seen – always has been – but I think he’s really getting to stretch it out a bit and have some fun.
I always think competition is good and it gives guys more opportunities. The buzz for wrestling in general when AEW started went up too. I love Jericho and Omega. Cody too. I’ll be interested to see what happens with this pandemic situation. The Khan’s have a lot of money, but even Vince had to make some cuts.
“Will It Promo” 😂😂
Gotta have some fun right? Thanks for subscribing!
I know you talked a little about Taylor RB Wisconsin above, but did I hear correctly that he has the best stats for a college rb ever? Does that mean that we could possibly have the opportunity to draft one of the best rb to ever play in the NFL – potential Hall of Famer?
I say we have to make the most of that opportunity if he’s there at 27! (especially with Carson’s contract ending next year).
Who is his comp? Could he be the next Adrian Peterson?
He’s who I’m rooting for with our first pick. With all of the mocks, it looks like we’ll be able to then get our impact defenders and wr in rounds 2-6.
Thoughts?
Go Hawks!!
This is a big reason there are a lot of us giddy at the prospect of Taylor or CEH with the first pick. You are talking major talents.
As far as a comp for Taylor – he is pretty unique. He is extraordinary in tight spaces, which is very abnormal for a guy with track speed. And that’s what excites me the most – he is so efficient between the tackles, with subtles cuts and moves, whilst being able to get up to full speed in a few steps.
Rare guy indeed. And the “mileage” means nothing to me…he’s a young guy and built like a tank. I only worry about NFL mileage, to be honest – but that’s a problem for down the road, not now.
I wonder how Pete feels about the fumbles? Can’t imagine he’s enamored with Carson putting it on the turf regularly.
I think Pete is very willing to overlook critical shortcomings if said player does something he loves. And he loves Chris Carson, especially his physicality.
It’s one of the things that I truly love about Pete – he really does stick by his guys, to a fault.
The comp I saw recently was another Badger – Melvin Gordon
He’s very, very similar to Fred Taylor
What a thoughtful comp. He’d be lucky to be like that minus the injuries
@Coach made a good point I was thinking about it. If we pick any player at @27 it will effect the rest of the draft. We do have 2 late 2nd rounders but no native 3rd but 2 late fourth rounders.
It would be interesting to see what we do at 27 when you have handful of first grade player. Add complexity because of COVID. I hope this time Seahawks do normal thing take Taylor or some one we talked here in SDB
Thanks for all the work this season Rob. Speaking as someone who has loved all things tackle football for nearly 40 years, this blog has elevated my understanding of the game immensely. Thanks to you, I have much more interest in offseason/FO work than I ever had most of those years.
Regarding the your horizontal board, I’m intrigued by the implication of different ’rounds’ of sorts. You have 18 players with 1st round pedigree and 33 players with 2nd round. The real R1 in this case is 1-18, and R2 is 19-51, R3 52-85, R4 86-111, etc.- purely based on ‘grades’. I know the draft plays out more on needs and more variability in grades in the later rounds.
If Hawks can trade back from 27 and gather up a pick in the hypothetical R3, this would imply they aren’t really giving up much at all to add a starting caliper player.
Perhaps this ‘grading’ strategy is why they are so keen to trade back each year and love picking later in the draft when quality players drop.
You’ve nailed it. That’s how they (and others) draft.
Yes, trade back for best value, unless one or more of the 18 fall to 27. Then need comes into play, and the higher salary, 5th year options and new collective bargaining agreement.
Great stuff as always. The #1 source for all Seahawks Draft insight several years running.
Apologies if already asked before, but for a backup QB, but why would a Montez, QB from Colorado be on the Seahawks’ radar, but not perhaps a Huntley, QB from Utah? As a 7th rounder, I see some value (sort of like a McGough flyer).
Looking at this Utah team, I’d be shocked if the Seahawks don’t draft at least one player (again).
I just like Montez’s potential. Always have. He just never delivered consistently.
How about the guy from FIU? James Morgan He was really productive last season and played through injury this year.
Got a decent deep ball and will throw frozen ropes all over the yard. Led FIU to an upset over Miami
Don’t get a Seahawks feel from him.
He’s a pretty traditional pocket passer, and I’ve only looked at him because he’s the only QB with whom I’ve seen they had met. He reminds me of Russ in interviews at least
I feel like CEH would be an ideal draft pick and RB for the Hawks. On top of all the scouting that Rob and others have done…
RB is a position that does not require as much transition to the NL, and with the abbreviated training done before the season taking an RB makes a lot of sense. I feel like Jonathon Taylor will be selected before the Hawks have an opportunity. An elite pass catching RB that can flex out and perform as a WR (not just impersonate one) is a wrinkle that could make this offense even more unpredictable.
The one hang up for CEH to the Hawks has been that the Hawks have certain size they prefer at the RB position. But I could see an argument to be made that PC has had an RB that is CEH-lite (and I use the “lite” here lightly because he was a major contributor in his on way), and that is Leon Washington. LW had more of the return chops, while CEH excels more as a pass catcher and pure RB. But they are/were similar in stature, and LW served PC well in his time here.
Idk, I was thinking that the 5-10, 220 ideal they have set up might be more about body mass, and thus able to be adjusted proportionally for height difference.
For example, I think PC even said once that his ideal RB would be like 6-2, 240, and just as explosive as they always seek. But there just aren’t many Derrick Henrys out there in the world.
So, inversely, I would think that 5072, 207 would also work for PC, because CEH clearly has all the other attributes. And they could use that unique size to their advantage, kind of like with Poona Ford. He’s not gonna bat down any passes for you, but he does automatically win the leverage battle as the lower man out of the gate.
He certainly has unique traits… Will be so interested to see where he ends up. I remember hoping he would be around at the 64, then had convinced myself they would need to take him with the first pick, now kinda hoping he lasts to the mid 2nd pick… Who knows!?!?
It’s true that you don’t see many players with that sort of weight at smaller height, so it isn’t possible to really have a preference for them, but damn they can be amazing. I loved watching MJD Play (and was able to see him live early in his career).
When you watch CEH, he can sink really low, just like MJD. The compact body and low center of gravity makes them so tough to tackle and lets them do crazy things with change of direction.
Honestly I’ve been hoping for Akers, because I think he is a more likely pick because of where he will be picked, but I’d be ecstatic to get him.
The standard size results in a specific center of gravity and associated mass vector. The miniature version with a lower center of gravity could be even harder to stop. He may not deal out as much punishment, but it is first downs that really count. The punishment of missed tackles may make up for the actual fatigue and fear created by a more punishing back. I think Pete is the best judge of this. In FO we trust.
Rob – you are the man. Thank you so much for all of the extra efforts this offseason. It may not seem like much, but it’s exactly what I needed during these crazy times.
I learned a LOT about this draft class from my daily reads on here.
GO HAWKS!!!
Thanks man, appreciate you saying so.
Let me ask this.
Who’s someone you might not like or be high on, but think Seattle could be?
Bradlee Anae
What don’t you like about him?
Personally I cant see them liking Anae due to his terrible testing. Unless he has a rise up there board due to the Senior Bowl like Collier did.
I think these two sentances by Lance Z. sum it up with Anae:
“He’s not a natural bender or the longest edge defender and he’s much better at attacking blockers than defending his territory against the run. He has the size, hands and strength to play standing or with a hand down, but may have a better chance of becoming a starter as a rush linebacker in a 3-4.”
Might be a guy that can get 5-8 sacks a year, but limited upside and could be limited to just a pass rush specialist.
Might have the best hands out of all the pass rushers. I agree about him having athletic limitations. Combine that with his lack of length and I’d be surprised if he ends up in Seattle, even if I’d like the pick.
+10 on Anae for sure…and I would throw Leki Fotu in there as well. Both showed flashes, but have their warts as well. And coming out of the Utah program, I could see PC/JS loving their potential!
I could see them liking a bunch of safeties. What I wouldnt like about them taking a safety early is that we already have what you would think is our future in Diggs and Blair.
Weaver, Epenesa, YGM, Moss, Fotu, Shenault.
For me, Ezra Cleveland.
I think Seattle will LOVE his athletic profile. But I won’t be thrilled drafting a guy who won’t see the field for a year or two.
Gross Toast
Raekwon Davis. Mostly just a gut feeling, but I hope they pass.
https://twitter.com/PeteVandeventer/status/1252801473282367490
😂
See, that’s what they’re good at. Not when they get all serious about player evaluation…
Also of note:
Get on it, JS! 😝
From “my last free article”:
https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/seahawks/former-seahawks-wr-percy-harvin-planning-nfl-comeback-after-4-year-hiatus
Pete! I used to be buddies with that guy before I completely left the platform.
Dang I can’t post a single thing on FieldGulls anymore without Mr Corp getting all heated.
Anyone else have the same experience?
Everyone over there wants YGM, Chaisson, Epenesa and Blacklock and they are hard passing on Uche and Okwara!
I won’t be silenced. We need to share truth even in the darkest of places like FG.
If you want to get him riled up too, just mention drafting Thaddeus Moss late.
I’m going to make a mean comment about a lot of that crew – it doesn’t matter what topic is being discussed, too many of that Seahawks Twitter crew can’t handle an opposing opinion/view. They are intellectual and emotional lightweights when it comes to debate/dialogue.
It’s what makes Rob and this blog so great. Group-think is boring and sucks when it comes to extraordinarily subjective things like the Draft. I love people that have convictions about players, positions, etc…but at least back it up and be able to listen to an opposing POV.
I used to post on FG a lot, but SBN nation sites tend to have a lot of groupthink. Back in 2009, when we drafted Aaron Curry, a poster would incessantly say it was a mistake, and the site owner would go on about his smarts, coverage ability, and sheer athleticism. True that poster was a bit too consistent about bringing this topic up, but people were very annoyed that there was so much criticism over the #3 overall pick, a pick the site owner/manager gushed over. Time told who won that analysis argument I guess.
Seems clear to me, SDB is the best site for Seahawks analysis and commentary. Only critique would be the SBN sites have a better commenting system.
Absolutely.
Groupthink happens in this community, too (I’m guilty of it!). But for the most part I’d say the SDB community is far more willing to think “outside of the groupthink”.
I think the “rec” system over there somehow makes people feel important, or worse, right whenever they get any.
He’s weak: Not worth your time or energy. Doesn’t help that his name makes me think of Carlton, The Fresh Prince of Bel Air.
I think the last article I read over there was a piece touting Ziggy Ansah as a possible solution to our 2020 pass rush problem.
My Field Gulls bookmark has been deleted for a few months now.
I never could put up with the comments there, even to read.
The difference is this:
FG is nearly all emotional conjecture with rare stats apart from height/weight/measurements.
SDB is nearly all logic based decision making based on past draft history with rare emotional conjecture.
The commonality is that both can lead to insanity when trying to predict Seahawks draft picks.
Mike Garafolo
@MikeGarafolo
I’ll throw out a name here: UCLA TE Devin Asiasi. Mentioned as a Day 3 guy but could be in play Day 2. Lots of teams have done work on him, with the #Jaguars, #Bears and #Seahawks among those who had videoconferences with him recently. Likely a top 5 TE in this draft.
I just don’t see TE as a big need in the range that he’d go.
Chase Claypool, as previously discussed on here, could be someone they might want to try and give some looks as a hybrid WR/TE. That comp at the end of round 3 is where an Asiasi or Hunter Bryant would probably be in play, but I think your more than likely right. More of a day 3 selection.
Good call on Claypool. If he’s there at 59 or 64 that would make more sense. A hybrid WR/TE.
He’s a quality TE.
I use the upside/potential word a lot. Asiasi is one of the more intriguing guys in the draft, regardless of position, in terms of that. Silky smooth, looks like he’s got a really high football IQ, and just a natural receiver.
Getting the feeling that they’ll pull the trigger on a TE or DB in the 3rd. 🤷♂️
Yes! Really like him. Great body control and catch radius. Have been mocking him to us with one of our R4 picks.
I like him and Josh Kelley.
Sea Mode I lost the link to your visits tracker. Did you include CB Michael Jacquet III?
No, I didn’t. I’ll check it out.
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1J3d023YdKp9MFv7OQTy0YTssJ65qLd_aB0UJFGVHxPY/edit?usp=sharing
Got it. Nice find.
BTW, how’d we miss him???
6015, 195
33 1/2 arm length
82 1/8 wingspan
Dang.
43 on there, not bad.
So with about 27+ hours to go in the draft and no player trade news popping, it seems like Jacksonville is not going to be able trade Ngakoue or Fournette for 2020 draft picks. Can’t help but feel that means the Jags have “lost” in their attempts to get the value they want for their guys.
They have for now —- but I sense they want 2021 picks anyway
They might have to work even harder this year to make the trade down happen:
A mere drop to GB at 30 could be all we can gather. Complete conjecture at this point, but I can’t help myself!
What with the cap still projected to keep going up a lot each year, I’d guess you’d still find at least one R2->R1 trade partner. But maybe you’d end up dealing with the teams that are worse at cap management because they don’t think 5 years ahead?
The best look you’re gonna get at the Seahawks war room this year… 😢
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hNX87LhYfMg&feature=youtu.be&t=335
Did you stay on to see Gettleman’s home office? Pretty funny, only has a small laptop and hes’ set up behind the couch. Not very sophisticated!!
I took a screen shot to see if i couldnt scope out a reflection off of something 🙃🙃
Jared?
what 😶
That doesnt really look like much compared to Lynch’s…lol
Yeah Lynch definitely made his stuff look good. Schneiders looks more practical. Probably have a few phones and a tablet on him as well
Hehe, I get it and am here for it.
I get it, it just hurts bad
J Hurts is bad? Got it.
U heard it hear furst
You’re a pioneer my man lol.
Whew! Finally got through this post. I know you posted it yesterday and I started reading it yesterday but didn’t get to finish until now with all the comments. This is excellent content (by Rob of course but also all the SDB community) and I thank you (all) for it.
Thanks for all you do for us, Rob!
Thanks
I remember you recently saying that you wanted to be sure to pay extra attention to who feels like a Seahawk. Do any of these names just scream Seahawk to you? Tough. Physical. Always competing. I’d love to see those people highlighted somehow so we can root for them extra as this all goes down! Go Hawks!
Ran a PFN Mock with a goal of getting 4 picks inside 85 as this number (or close to it) seems like a big shelf.
After a trade with Detroit and a trade up with the Steelers, I ended with this:
35. Uche
49. Raekwon
64. Claypool (could have selected Aiyuk here also)
85. Hunt
Thought this semi-realistic and would be totally stoked with this outcome.
What did you give up to go from 59 to 49?
I gave 101, but also got another pick back at 198
It would be nice to trade up and get more in the middle of round 2 but they would then have a monster gap between 85 and 133. I guess they could look to get back into the early fourth from 133?
That was my thinking if there was someone they wanted in that range. I just saw a drop off in talent there that seemed like lower value.
Hunt 85 realistic?
Golden Tate is no longer here. Should we entertain the idea of adding Harvin as a kick return specialist?
Let’s see him try to punch DK… 😏
This is the year to NOT trade down! Take this difference maker at 27 please!
School: Wisconsin | Year: Junior
DJ’s Big Board Ranking: No. 35
Production Score: 98
Athleticism Score: 96
OVERALL DRAFT SCORE: 98
When it comes to quantifying athleticism and production, Taylor has a similar profile to recent first-round running backs. Taylor’s overall draft score of 98 ranks behind only Saquon Barkley (99) among running backs since 2016. ( Ezekiel Elliott and Christian McCaffrey also boasted a 98.) The back-to-back Doak Walker Award winner (college football’s most outstanding running back) produced in all three seasons at Wisconsin (98 production score) and has the size/athleticism profile (226 pounds, 96 athleticism score) scouts look for at the position. Though, as NFL clubs become more averse to using premium capital on running backs, we will continue to see fewer RBs taken in the first round. Ten years ago, Jonathan Taylor likely would’ve been a top-10 pick. In 2020, he might end up as a second-rounder with a high floor.
Go Hawks!!
If you can get the same player at 27 that you could get at say 35 and get pick 85 why not trade down? Not saying that is how it will go but just a thought.
I think the Chiefs might be looking rb and I would hate to lose the guy who is in the same conversation as Barkley, Ezekiel, and CMC by trying to get cute! Barkely went #1, we can get JT at 27 – I say make the pick!!
Can’t afford to take Taylor in a draft class like this. Maybe of we had resigned Clowney already. Would rather wait for Akers, Dillon, or Moss
I could see the Chiefs going with CEH. That guy would be a perfect fit for them.
New Orleans too
According to nfl.com – Day 3 Gems!
School: Florida | Year: Senior (RS)
DJ’s Big Board Ranking: 127
Production Score: 69
Athleticism Score: 93
OVERALL DRAFT SCORE: 78
Zuniga was a combine standout in the D-line class, running a 4.64 40 (second-fastest among edge rushers) and 1.61 10-yard split (fastest) at 264 pounds. His 93 athleticism score ranks first among edge rushers who participated at February’s combine. After leading the Gators in sacks as a redshirt freshman (five in 2016), Zuniga missed time as a sophomore and over half of his senior season with a nagging ankle injury. Whether Zuniga has reached his full potential is unclear — the former high school basketball star did not play football until his junior year.
School: Nebraska | Year: Senior (RS)
DJ’s Big Board Ranking: Unranked
Production Score: 66
Athleticism Score: 99
OVERALL DRAFT SCORE: 79
With his rare athletic profile, Davis is the kind of late-round pick you take a chance on. He ran a 4.75 40 at 308 pounds and logged 32 bench reps, giving him a 99 athleticism score relative to historical defensive tackles. Concerns over his production at Nebraska are valid — he started in just 11 games over four seasons, though he did make an impact off the bench as a junior in 2018. His team-high eight sacks last season offers a glimpse of Davis’ upside, but his lack of consistent statistical output gives him a production score of 66. Khalil’s twin brother, Carlos, is also in this year’s class, and also shined at February’s combine (97 athleticism score, second-best among DTs).
We’ve talked about Zuniga and I hope we get him.
Anyone have knowledge about Davis? Would he be a good late-round flier for us?
Go Hawks!
31.5 inch arms on Davis. It’s basically a non-starter for the Seahawks on the DL.
Yassss…
Hell yes! Pete will troll all of us as we never figure the damn things out.
Seriously though, I think we all could use something like this right about now. Wonder if there’ll a be a theme to the clues like in years past?
Nice / About to get stupid.
Jalen Hurt and Justin Herbert are 1-2 respectively in sparq among QBs
AJ Dillon 144.1 sparq score tops among 2020 RBs
JoTay is tied second at 137.2 w Jamychal Hasty
Peoples-Jones, Ruggs, Claypool, Mims, Brandon Aiyuk, Jalen Reagor, Tyrie Cleveland all scored 130 or higher in Sparq
Wirfs scored 135.6, Ezra Cleveland scored 122.5
Jabari Zuniga 133, Casey Toohill 140.7, Carter Coughlin 133
Isaiah Simmons 150, Willie Gay 149, Kenneth Murray 142, Patrick Queen, Davion Taylor, and Malik Harrison all scored over 130.
All via 3sigmaathlete.com
Tested very similarly to Carson. I think he might be our guy at RB.
Get your 🥞 fix for the day:
https://twitter.com/ChaseClaypool/status/1253054170564661248
Seattle gonna take Ezra Cleveland?
Why?
They’ve been one of the teams showing the most interest in him according to his agent.
Hawks, Phins, Browns, Jags, and Vikings,
Sparq’d up
Yup. Saw that post of yours above and it clicked. Fills a need, fits the m.o. of swinging for the fences eaely, and some would consider it ‘reaching’ to get their guy.
I could see him being in their 1A or 1B clusters.
Or however the hell that goes.
Could be just agent talk. Happens all the time.
Absolutely. At the same time, I think he could be a realistic target.
It would be a terrible pick. Athletic but not NFL ready for a few years. He’s a guy a team looking to stockpile for the future should take, not a team on the brink of getting to a championship level.
I could see it for sure.
Isaiah Wilson is my guy though. Maybe Niang if the hip is ok. Or Hunt.
Why am I seeing Jason Spriggs?
I know this is going to be the pick because thinking about it happening feels like a gut punch.
Awesome draft primer.
Surprised to see no mention of J. Greenard or R. Lawrence.
Can’t wait for the draft.
Where is Tee Higgins going? I had him at the top of day 3
I’d take him in round four.
Cleveland is gonna go top 25 I think. If you divide the OL prospects into LTs, RTs and OGs, hes probably #2 or 3 LT. That’s one of the most vital positions. Someone will pick him early.
Time for me to throw a legit mock out there to the world. It was a fascinating scenario. I traded down with The L.A. Charger, They got Jordon Love with 27th pick and I got 37, 71, and 186. Indy calls and we work out a trade with them. They get 37 and take Chase Claypool and they get 144 I forget who that pick was but I get 44,122, and 160. I got 10 picks evenly spaced out thru this draft.
44 Clyde Edwards-Helaire RB LSU
59 Raekwon Davis DT Alabama
64 Davon Hamilton DT Ohio St.
71 Malik Harrison OLB Ohio St.
101 Hakeem Adeniji RT Kansas
122 Trevis Gipson DE Tulsa
133 Michael Ojemudia CB Iowa
160 Stephen Sullivan TE LSU
186 Trey Adams T Washington
214 Mike Warran II RB Cincinnati
I needed a RB got him. I needed to make the defensive line better. I did that with 3 picks and I got a Will OLB to hopefully take K.J. Wright spot. Another CB who big enough to play safety. I’ll let Pete figure that out. Brought in TE who can definitely take Swopes place hehe. Another running back just in case Carsons not ready to go or get injured and with Penny on the pup list 5 backs is a nice number to have. Trey is the odd ball pick if he became a practice squad guy I think that a win and we can get rid of Roos. I actually like this draft for helping now and into the future. I would also go get Griffin on a 2 year 20 million contract with incentive clause to escalate it to 25million. Each if Griffin gets double digit sacks he gets 2.5 million bonus per year. This draft was to fix a need to improve the defense 5 picks I have for them. The offense RB got 2 picks, WR/TE got 1, OL got 2. 18 OL in camp already, The 1 I have will stick the 2nd I hope makes it to the practice squad.
How does this help our number one priority pass rush problem?
if you think draft edge rusher this year and think he can fill a position as good as a Everson Griffin signing your sadly mistaken. the !tech for Hamiltton and Davis at 3 tech are the improvements. Gipson will be a Frank Clark type that will get it hopefully after the 2year.
Just another thought after yet another PFN mock draft…
I’ve been trying to get 6 picks in the first three rounds. I feel that the interrupted offseason/preseason will put an emphasis on players that could play right away, instead of picking developmental players.
I wanted to target an OL, DL, DE, WR and RB in the first three rounds. I think NCB or a second DT/DE/OT could be targets in the later rounds.
Trades:
27 + 144 -> IND for 34, 75, 160
34 -> DEN for 46, 95, 178
95 + 160 -> NO for 88
46. Uche
59. Hunt
64. Claypool
75. Akers
88. Hamilton
101. Gay
144. Adeniji
178. Agim
213. Reid
I also could have dropped Hunt to 46 and Claypool to 59, with Zuniga at 64.
Some of these may be gone before the picks, but I honestly don’t know about what to expect. I read a lot about who’s moving into the first round, but not as much about who must be falling out to make room.
Hunt 59? California dreamin.
Simmons to Carolina? Maybe Kinlaw if the health is there
I will never forgive the panthers if they have Simmons sitting there and they pass on him and the cardinals take him. Dude should not fall that far, but teams need QBs.
Carolina needs to replace Kuechly, not that I think Simmons is a MLB, but Arizona is exactly the team to take that type. Deone Bucannon, Hassan Reddick.
Is Bryan Edwards a slightly smaller Dez Bryant?
Bryant: 6020, 225, 34.00 arm, 9 3/4 hand, 4.52 40yd, 4.46 SS, 38.0 vert
Bryan.: 6026, 212, 32.25 arm, 9 1/2 hand, 4.53 40yd, 4.31 SS, 37.7 vert*
*Edwards’ measurements from Combine, testing numbers from SPARQ Opening @208 lbs.
I don’t see it. Cool comparison though. Dez made his money on the 50/50 balls and jumping in/out of stride. I don’t think that’s one of Edward’s strengths. He can do it, but it’s not his forte imo. Edwards will make his money with route running and YAC imo. Hes a ‘do it all’ type to me. The best comp I’ve come up with, which isnt exactly the same, is Keenan Allen.
Anyone else have some comps for Edwards?
Yes
OMG. Enjoy!
https://twitter.com/BleacherReport/status/1253081145341808646
We need an extended version of that one! That was funny
“I love you, Football Daddy!”
https://twitter.com/PFF/status/1250854222331105282?s=20
Thought this would be fun to get us all through the next 24 hours.
Heres mine:
QB: Dan Marino
HB: Jim Brown
WR: Jerry Rice
WR: Calvin Johnson
WR: Larry Fitzgerald
TE: Tony Gonzalez
LT: Walter Jones
LG: Steve Hutchinson
C: Mike Webster
RG: Larry Allen
RT: Jonathan Ogden
That’s a good group.
This was tough.
QB: Mahomes
HB: Barry Sanders
WR: Randy Moss
WR: Jerry Rice
WR: Steve Smith
TE: Shannon Sharpe
LT: Walter Jones
LG: Quenton Nelson
C: Matt Birk
RG: Larry Allen
RT: Orlando Pace
FB: Mike Alstott
QB: Russel Wilson
HB: Bo Jackson
WR: Doug Baldwin
WR: Jerry Rice
WR: Steve Largent
TE: Kellen Winslow
LT: Walter Jones
LG: Steve Hutchinson
C: Jeff Saturday
RG: Bruce Mathews
RT: Anthony Munoz
FB: Mack Strong
QB: Peyton Manning
HB: Barry Sanders
WR: Jerry Rice
WR: Steve Largent
WR: Randy Miss
TE: Rob Gronkowski
LT: Walter Jones
LG: Steve Hutchinson
C: Mike Webster
RG: Marshal Yanda
RT: Tyron Smith
FB: Jim Brown