What is the strength of the 2018 draft?
It’s still early but increasingly it’s looking like the following positions:
Defensive front seven
Running back
Quarterback
All three areas contain depth and first round talent.
There are numerous potential first round picks at defensive line and linebacker. Bradley Chubb could/should be the first defensive player drafted. Clelin Ferrell and Vita Vea won’t last long either. Tim Settle, if he declares, is another big talent. The depth is significant too with Christian Wilkins, Taven Bryan, Derrick Nnadi, Maurice Hurst, Harrison Phillips and Da’Ron Payne all possible top-50 types.
The depth at DE/EDGE isn’t quite as good but there are a few names that jump out including Austin Bryant and Marcus Davenport. Arden Key is talented but with baggage while Harold Landry is quick but had a fairly disappointing season.
The linebacker group is highlighted by Virginia Tech’s brilliant Tremaine Edmunds. He is legitimately one of the best players eligible for 2018. He should be the first linebacker taken if he declares with Leighton Vander Esch, Roquan Smith, Rashaan Evans and T.J. Edwards all possible top-40 picks.
It could be a glorious crop of running backs. Saquon Barkley is the headliner but Ronald Jones II, Damien Harris, Kerryon Johnson and Bryce Love could find a home in round one. Royce Freeman might not be a great fit in Seattle’s scheme but he’s worth a second round pick. The sky’s the limit for Nick Chubb if he tests well at the combine and checks out medically.
Then you run down the depth. Derrius Guice is limited physically and possibly won’t go as early as some are projecting — but there’ll come a point where he’s a value pick. Rashaad Penny, Sony Michel, Bo Scarborough, Kalen Ballage, Kamryn Pettway and others provide the depth.
Quarterback likely won’t be a position the Seahawks target early but if Sam Darnold declares there’s a realistic prospect of five QB’s going in round one. Josh Rosen, Baker Mayfield, Josh Allen, Lamar Jackson and Drew Lock have a chance while Mason Rudolph also has his backers. Luke Falk ended the season disappointingly but will be worth a shot in the middle rounds. Auburn’s Jarrett Stidham could be a wildcard and several teams will be interested in trying to develop Memphis’ Riley Ferguson.
The weaker positions appear to be offensive tackle, secondary and tight end. It’s possible no cornerbacks will be graded in the first round — unusual for such an important position. It’s also possible no tight ends will be drafted in the first two rounds. There are long standing issues with offensive tackles and while two or three could go in round one — it’s not a great class for the position.
Below are my ten best prospects eligible for the 2018 draft as of December 27th. I haven’t included quarterbacks because Seattle are one of the few teams with a Championship-winning franchise QB:
1. Saquon Barkley (RB, Penn State)
An incredible talent. Big, fast, versatile, great character, kick return skills. One way or another Barkley’s going to impact a game. He scored 116.79 in SPARQ at the Nike combine in 2014. He could be the #1 overall pick, easily. The only thing to keep an eye on is his speed. He ran a 4.63 in 2014 at 208lbs. He looks faster but it won’t be too surprising if he proves to be more sudden than a sprinter.
2. Quenton Nelson (G, Notre Dame)
Possibly as good a pure guard prospect as you’ll see entering the league. He has great size at 6-5 and 330lbs but moves well. He pulls nicely, he loves to get to the second level, he plays with an edge and he’s physical. Nelson’s got it all. It’s very difficult to identify flaws in his game. He deserves to go in the top-10.
3. Bradley Chubb (DE, NC State)
He’s the cousin of Georgia’s Nick Chubb. Nick famously had a sensational SPARQ combine, scoring an elite 143.91. Bradley is basically the 6-4, 275lbs version. He’s a difference-maker with the kind of charismatic personality often reserved for quality defensive linemen. He’s a great edge rusher but he’s strong with the ideal size to set the edge vs the run. Chubb has an incredible 25 TFL’s in 2017, having recorded 21.5 last year.
4. Clelin Ferrell (DE, Clemson)
Listed at 6-5 and 260lbs, Ferrell looks and plays big. He’s an inside-out rusher with the ability to attack from different positions. He could be the best defensive lineman in the class. It’ll be interesting to get official weight and height numbers to see how he compares athletically to the other top defensive linemen. He does play in a star-studded Clemson front. It’s been suggested he could end up as a three-technique. Ferrell has 17 TFL’s in 2017.
5. Vita Vea (DT, Washington)
I don’t think you can fully appreciate Vea until you’ve seen him live. When you see a 6-5, 340lbs defensive lineman sprinting to the sideline, roaming the field and chasing down runners — it’s an incredible sight. Vea could be Haloti Ngata. He can rush the passer, hold the point and anchor and move around with unreal mobility for his size. Despite suggestions to the contrary, I’ve seen little evidence of him taking snaps off. He plays very hard and he’s immensely powerful.
6. Tremaine Edmunds (LB, Virginia Tech)
There are things Edmunds can work on if he starts at middle linebacker at the next level. Sometimes he misreads the play, or he’s slightly out of position. The thing is, I wouldn’t keep him at middle linebacker. He’s 6-5 and 236lbs, flies around the field, apparently is set to run in the 4.5 range and push 40 inches in the vertical. He’s a Bruce Irvin. He can play any spot at linebacker and rush the edge. His run defense is excellent in short yardage situations, he’s super quick and constantly plays in attack mode. Fantastic prospect.
7. Tim Settle (DT, Virginia Tech)
When you know to look for Settle and Edmunds, it’s fun to watch Virginia Tech’s defense. One moment Edmunds appears from nowhere to close on a running back or receiver in space to make an open-field tackle. The next there’s this 6-3, 328lbs monster moving like a 290lber rushing the interior and beating blockers with quickness and a swim move. He had 12.5 TFL’s in 2017 which is unusual for a player this big. Settle is extremely underrated.
8. Ronald Jones II (RB, USC)
Some players just have ‘it’. It’s hard to describe but when you watch skill players on offense, the good ones just have a star quality sometimes. Odell Beckham Junior had it. Ezekiel Elliott had it. Mike Evans had it. Ronald Jones II has it. He plays with fantastic physicality despite weighing in the 200-210lbs range and will often break tackles and gain extra yardage. He’s also a home-run hitter if he finds a crease or the edge. The comparisons to Jamaal Charles are fair and Jones II just carries himself like a future stud. Look at the picture below. Jones II scores a touchdown on this play:
9. Damien Harris (RB, Alabama)
Harris is pretty close to the complete back. He’s a good size (5-11, 221lbs), he was a 126.93 SPARQ athlete at the Nike combine (where he ran a 4.48), he is a home-run hitter in the open field but also plays with great physicality. Harris pass-protects like the season is on the line every snap. There’s a legit feeling he might not declare for the draft. This year he averaged 8.2 YPC. Here’s a list of Alabama’s famous running backs over the years and their YPC’s:
Mark Ingram 2009 (Heisman winner) — 6.1 YPC
Mark Ingram 2010 — 5.5 YPC
Trent Richardson 2009 — 6.3 YPC
Trent Richardson 2010 — 5.9 YPC
Eddie Lacy 2012 — 6.5 YPC
T.J. Yeldon 2012 — 6.3 YPC
T.J. Yeldon 2013 — 6.0 YPC
T.J. Yeldon 2014 — 5.0 YPC
Derrick Henry 2014 — 5.8 YPC
Derrick Henry 2015 (Heisman winner) — 5.6 YPC
Bo Scarborough 2016 — 6.5 YPC
Bo Scarborough 2017 — 4.6 YPC
Damien Harris 2016 — 7.2 YPC
Damien Harris 2017 — 8.2 YPC
10. Billy Price (C, Ohio State)
Urban Meyer raves about Price. It’s worth remembering that Meyer has coached great interior O-line talent, including both Pouncey brothers. Price is in that mould. He can play guard or center and he combines edge, physicality and footwork to dominate up front. He’s really tough and plays like his hair’s on fire. Very active, very aggressive with the mobility to move to the second level. The type of player who helps set the tone and settles into the NFL quickly. He’s not too far behind Quenton Nelson.
#11 would be UTSA’s Marcus Davenport.
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I want as many top-flight QBs declaring as possible. There are always teams willing to trade up into round 1 for a QB, and I could see a situation develop whereby we get to trade down multiple times in round 1 and pick up some day 2 assets that are currently missing.
There might be some “surprise players” in the QB market in this draft too. Indianapolis, New England and New Orleans come to mind.
Also the more who enter the more players that fall to us.
Sounds like at least 3 quarterbacks will be taken in first round.
Anyone else favor a league rule that Cleveland isn’t allowed any more first round QBs?? Maybe they should only allow a team to pick a QB in the first round once every five years.
Good draft for Seattle. With Michael Bennett longer in the tooth every year (despite continuing to produce), Cliff Avril’s future in doubt, Jarran Reed mostly a run-clogger, and very little done to reload our linebacker corps in quite a while, it might be hard to go wrong with front seven next year.
What are the chances they go RB in round one, do you think, Rob?
There’s a fair chance. Or that they trade down then take a RB. A lot of talent at RB this year.
I would like to see an edge early and take advantage of the depth of other classes on day 3
I agree Kenny, seems like if you went front seven first then RB you would get the best value.
+1 I am with you on that Kenny!
Edmunds, Davenport or Key look like they would fit.
Is be good with that. It would be nice to get a Bruce Irvin type. Almost a 2 in 1 player. Play the Sam, Edge on passing downs, even fill in for KJ or Bobby if they were out.
Right. That third pro linebacker would make a difference. Perhaps the biggest difference of any defensive pick.
That’s a fun list of players. We have nothing at LB outside of our top two guys. They are all special teams guys trying to play defense, (and failing). Still, I want Ronald Jones. We can figure out how to get some more licks. I don’t know, however, how early Jones will go by the time the combine is over with. He would instantly help to make the offense more balanced, especially with a healthy Carson with whom to team.
Seattle haven´t drafted a Linebacker since KPL (2014 4th Round) So yeah would love to see a pick for the position this draft. Also, Bruce Irvin has not been replaced since he left.
Ronald Jones has me pretty excited, as well. Seattle needs a RB that defenses have to account for in the worst way. It’s almost as bad as when the team was franchise quarterback-less for the first two years under PC.
Hard to argue with any of those 10 players. I would do back flips if they somehow could get Nelson or Barkley but realistically from this list Edmonds, Vea, Settle or Price are guys who could be on the board whom could have a big impact in 2018.
The draft sets up nicely for the Hawks needs with depth on the DL and RB spots to fix those areas with quality. Sure would be nice to have a couple of day #2 picks.
If Lamar Jackson declares theres no reason he shouldn’t go first overall, if the giants picked him uo theyd be back in title contention
He might be this year’s Deshaun Watson. Nitpicked to death and ends up making a splash after being passed over by the top 5.
Every team that passes over him is going to regret it, if a team like Denver or Jacksonville get that kid, game over, probably the first rookie QB to win a superbowl
Glad to see you put Damien Harris so high. Simply put, he is incredible. I find it shocking how he is not a lock for R1 with many pundits. He does everything incredibly well and has some of the best vision I’ve ever seen.
A team in the top 5 is going to look like geniuses if they trade down and accumulate picks and go with a guy like Harris in the late teens over Barkley in the top 5 (and I say this as someone who loves Barkley and think he’s worthy of a top pick).
+1
I’ve been a big fan of Damien Harris all season.
I like Harris also. I am preparing myself for the inevitable trade back = but I hope they do pick a running back first pick and hopefully it will be someone like Harris.
Add me to the band wagon on Damian Harris, don’t bother trading down if he’s there when its time to pick just grab him. Seattle seems to have a knack for finding defensive players later in the draft.
Rob, how would you rank the QB mentioned personally? Assuming everyone declares
Darnold and Rosen at the top. Lamar Jackson third. The rest I’ll pass.
Thoughts on Mayfield?
I like his moxy, but I think any on field comparison to RW is misleading outside of him being a short QB who was another leader in efficiency. Mayfield doesn’t have the arm talent or athleticism that RW has and has made throws in college that he wouldn’t get away with in the nfl. He will have to be more Brees than Wilson.
I am torn between wanting the Hawks to win and getting in the playoffs, and losing for better draft position.
As much as I would love to kick Bruce Arians butt on his last day as coach, I would also like to lose and get a higher draft pick. Now that we know Earl Thomas wants to play for his childhood team Dallas, and his replacement is doing so well, I would like the hawks to trade ET to Dallas for their 1st rd pick, selling them that ET and his experience will greatly improve their defense and get them into SB contention, and a 1st rd pick is worth it.
Then use Dallas’s pick on Edmunds, and use Seattle’s 1st rd pick on Ronald Jones. PC and JS will high five and walk away, draft over, everything else is a bonus.
I want the playoffs. 100%. The NFC is wide open.
I agree, the top two seeds have Case Keenum and Nick Foles. The two teams that I could see playing for the NFC Champioship could be LA and NO. If we make it as the 6th seed we will most likely get LA, That has revenge written all over it. Win that and you get Nick Foles and Philly.
I also remember the Colts back in 2006. They had not a very good run game and couldnt stop the run. They did both fantastic those playoffs and went on to beat the Bears ion the Super Bowl. Also look at both of the Giants Super Bowls. They had 9-7, 10-6 seasons then just went on a roll.
I understand wanting the playoffs, but I have little hope for success since the Hawks only managed 135 yds of offense against Dallas, a team with one of the worst defenses in the NFL.
With such a poor of performance, the Hawks chances are very slim of making it to the SB. I would rather give up the playoffs and get a better draft pick.
The Seahawks also had exactly 135 yards in a game vs the Rams in 2013. The year they won the Super Bowl.
We have seen these types of offensive performances from Seattle in the past. It’s par for the course. They’ve shown they can win these contests with good defense and staying out of their own way (which they did vs Dallas and Philly).
Never ever reject the chance to make the playoffs. If a 10-6 and 9-7 Giants team can win two Super Bowls, I’ll take my chances on Pete Carroll’s Seahawks doing the same.
+10000000
This would not be the worst team to win a super bowl in the last 10 years.
Playoffs all the way! No handful of draft spots is worth missing a chance, however slim, of winning the whole thing.
Nice perspective Rob.
How can you root against the playoffs? Its a very small difference in where you draft. While the Hawks can look very bad, they also are capable of beating anyone.
It’s a complete conjob perpetuated by failing GMs, team PR people, and the media. Who cares about winning when you can sell perpetual hope? Then you get all the adherents claiming their cynicism as some sort of higher insight. Picks are fun, but Jesus.
As badly as the Seahawks have looked at times, there have also been games where they put it all together on both sides of the balls. Historically the offense has improved over the season, and the defense continues to look great despite the many injuries.
Overall I would rather they made the playoffs and we had an extended season. That’s why I am a fan!!! I mean who are you going to root for if they don’t make the playoffs? I don’t want to make that sort of decision!
Wishing to miss the playoffs is beyond ridiculous… If you’re in it for high draft picks why not just be a Browns fan?
Any fan base who has ever suffered from years of missing the playoffs should never take being a playoff team for granted. Ever. Root for them to go as far as possible and live with the results.
I’m not torn. Get into the playoffs. Anything can happen once you get there.
I still believe in this team beating anyone anywhere. They just have to play up to the potential we all know they have in them. They run so hot and cold but we could run hot four games in a row to win the BIG Game.
I’m still a believer in the potential of this team. Always try to win.
If the Hawks don’t want to go full rebuild and make another run next year
-Extend Earl and Sherm
-Kam Retires
-Extend Clark
-Re-sign Mcdougald, Shead, Coleman, Jordan
-Cut Avril, Lane
-Let Sheldon Richardson leave for 3rd Comp.
-McDowell comes back healthy
-Rd #1 Draft Edmunds or Davenport or Key
-Then take Azeem Victor on Day #3
Edge :Bennett, Jordan, Clark, 1st Round Pick
DT : McDowell, Reed, Jones, Branden Jackson or QJeff
Safety: Earl, Mcdougald, Hill, Thompson or Rookie
CB : Sherm, Griffin, Coleman, Shead, Thorpe or Rookie
LB : Bobby, KJ, Victor, Alexander , Vet or Rookie
That would be a really good D IMO with good combo of youth and experience.
I’m not sure this does enough to fix the running game.
I think he is strictly talking about the defense. Unless that was one of your good british jokes…lol
Ha! Sorry my mistake. For some reason I read Azeem Victor as Iowa running back Akrum Wadley.
I was just talking D
With a huge caveat that Sherm comes back 100%, KJ doesn’t continue to have knee issues, Earl stays healthy and McDowell 1) ever recovers to step on the field 2) he doesn’t need time to get in shape 3) he doesn’t do any more idiotic things 4) Ifedi and McDowell don’t get in to a fight in training camp and hurt each other.
Draft note: I love Josh Jackson from Iowa. I wonder if he’ll be available late rd 1
Lots if Ifs that is what this off season will be before training camp. The Summer of Ifs
Personally, I think Seattle could be just fine at DT with Naz Jones and Jarran Reed. If Malik McDowell comes back healthy and motivated, bonus.
The last few games have shown that the Seahawks have some good younger talent in the secondary. Add to that the issues with the Chancellor contract extension and injury guarantees. It makes me lean more toward only retaining veterans on team friendly contracts. The Seahawks simply can’t afford to pay multiple years of a contract for an injured player.
So I favor bringing in more young blood. How that plays out with Sherman and Thomas I don’t know. I just know that I’m not afraid of change in those areas because the Seahawks have proven they can pick and train players on defense.
does not fix the 135 yards we just got against Dallas.
Lots of contracts for aging or second tier players. That’s kind of how we got in the fix we are currently in.
Nice thoughts, I don’t think they will be rebuilding and would like the Edmunds pick.
I must, however, say that I watched Victor a few weeks ago and didn’t come away very impressed. Looked kind of slow to me.
Agree about Victor he needs to be 10-15lbs lighter. Next year he will be another year removed from injury as well.
Didn’t PC/JS have a motto like “Win Forever”……Seems like the moves they’ve made this says win now, for the short term. We shall see if this motto is for real in the next few years or not.
I don’t think win forever contradicts trying to win now.
the motto isn’t ‘win later’ either. Pretty sure now is part of ‘forever’…
One thing on Barkley: I’m pretty sure he ran sub 4.4 within the last year. He’s definitely not a 4.6 runner at this point in his career.
https://www.google.com/amp/www.stack.com/amp/freakish-penn-state-rb-saquon-barkley-power-cleans-405-pounds-and-runs-a-4-33-40-yard-dash
4.33 40. 406 lb power clean. Beast.
He’s definitely not a 4.33 runner. Schools overstate these times every year.
I heard he also ran that 4.33 at 6’2″ and 240 lbs… haha
We need to wait and see. His 4.6 time was at a meet and was timed by an independent source at the Nike Combine. It’s also a comparison point. People like Damien Harris and Bryce Love were also timed and ran in the 4.4’s. So it wasn’t a slow track.
When these prospects are in school and some source emerges internally that their guy runs a really quick 4.3 or 4.4 it’s always massively dubious. I think Barkley is faster than a 4.6 but will not be surprised if he runs something like a 4.55. Which is fine. He’s not a small back.
He plays pretty fast. 🙂
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=XfMF-uBQGAI
So explosive. How many guys has he simply leapt over??? I seriously hope that my Huskies can slow him down big time this weekend.
I think 40 times are more important for DB’s and WR’s. Overrated for running backs. You certainly don’t need to be in the 4.4’s
Leonard Fournette – 4.51
Alvin Kamara – 4.56
Alex Collins – 4.59
David Johnson – 4.50
Melvin Gordon – 4.52
Jay Ajayi – 4.57
Le’Veon Bell – 4.60
He was timed at 4.33 by hand.
You need to add .15-.25 ish to get onto the combine timing.
I expect him to post a 4.49 or 4.5 flat at the combine.
Good stuff all around.
Some questions to the group:
1. OK so I assume Shead was not completely ready to be part of the rotation at CB last game. It was encouraging that he was at least on the field for special teams. Anyone know his status for taking snaps at CB against Arizona?
2. McDowell’s name comes up a lot in our discussions, as you would expect. I have yet to hear anything definitive about what his exact injury was. Anyone have any information that would tell us more about the probability he is able to play next year?
3. For some reason, I thought Carson was going to play last week. Anyone have a current injury report update or no if he’s going to be up to playing against Arizona?
4. Was Prosise really hurt so bad that he had to be put on injured reserve such that he could not return to play with the team this year?
5. Am I the only one that would prefer to see Rawls in the RB rotation and have Lacey be a healthy scratch once again? (Time to release the Michelin Man)
Thanks all , looking forward to your responses.
Another fun thought, as much as the Seahawks have not been or looked themselves this year, I am starting to hear more and more that they are the team others in the playoffs would prefer not to see and I don’t blame them. I think if the stars align and the Seahawks get there wild-card spot, the NFC is going to be in for an unpleasant surprise as they face the Seahawks.
Go Hawks
1. I would assume that they just want to ease him in. Also Griffin, Coleman, and Maxi are top 3 with probably Lane 4.
2. Haven’t heard much on McDowell, sounds like it wasn’t a normal concussion.
3. You keep hearing he is coming back but he doesnt. Just guessing his ankle still isnt ready. Must be hanging out with Naz Jones.
4. I believe Prosise was moved to IR so Mike Davis could be on the team. No he wasnt hurt that bad.
5. Rawls all day, plus you save cap space every game Lacy isn’t on the active roster.
1. Just my hunch, but I’m going to guess that the team will feel inclined to continue with Maxwell, Griffin, and Coleman being the primary guys this week against Arizona. It would probably be a pretty high expectation for Shead to come in, not having played a down of football on defense in a live game in over a year, and but an upgrade with what they have now. It could see play time if Seattle gets a comfortable lead and wants to get him some work.
I think Shead’s injury probably makes him a RFA in 2018, and the team has the ability to bring him back. If they do decide to move on from Sherman, it would be really nice having Shead in the fold.
2. Since McDowell’s injury was away from football, the team can not, by law, get into specifics. So, his situation is kind of anyone’s guess. There has been word out there that his injury was quite serous and it may effect his ability to play in the future. Personally, I don’t think the team is going to put too much stock in being too dependent upon his healthy return. Fortunately, Naz Jones stepped up pretty well in his place and showed ability against he run and pass at DT. If the team doesn’t keep Sheldon Richardson, I would think they continue adding to the rotation either by FA or the draft.
3. I think he was going some more positive running recently. I don’t think he plays against the Cardinals, but if we get to postseason, maybe they get him out there.
4. As far as I know, there has been no word on Prosise. I wouldn’t be surprised if the team moves past him next year.
5. I’m with you on Rawls. I could stand to not see Lacy run the ball again in Seattle, honestly.
I agree with you on everythong except Prosise. Look how long they sat on Prich and how its paid off.
I see no reason to ditch proven talent that could be healthier for us.
I could see it go either way. I did catch a sense from PC that he had grown beyond exhausted with his rash of injuries. I could see a PRich scenario of redemption, and I could also see a Jordan Hill scenario of see ya later, kid.
I’m not really not getting what people see in Procise. One really good game against New England and one really long run against the eagles that year.
The rest of his game logs show a player who may be a better WR than a RB. But I have to think that’s from the surprise elements of splitting out wide.
Stat scouting at its finest.
His explosiveness and versatility are eye opening and a big reason he’s lasted this long.
Sometimes you have to read between the statlines and deduce why coaches have made the decisions they have.
They haven’t cut him because he’s immensely talented.
“One good game against one of the best teams of the last 10 years and i just don’t see what he brings to the table”
3. “Carroll said running back Chris Carson, who is on injured reserve because of a leg injury sustained in Week 4, won’t return to practice this week: “He’s not quite there, unfortunately.””
http://www.seahawks.com/news/2017/12/26/five-things-we-learned-seahawks-coach-pete-carroll-710-espn-seattle
A lot of Tremaine Edmunds and Damien Harris love around here, including myself. I would love to have them both. If you could only have one which one you want?
Edmunds. He’s a stud
You’re talking about a full round difference in value, though.
It’s bigger than a round of a difference though in that, Edmunds, ostensibly would be had in the mid first-ish and to get Harris, if he declares, you may be able to move down and grab an additional 3rd from someone. Drafting a guy like Harris in the second and going after someone like Nnadi in the third.
I’ll disagree about a full round diffetence. These guys are both going in the first.
I think if Harris declares he’s a first rounder.
I’m pretty intrigued to see the results from the combine for the RB’s. It feels like Seattle is going that way for a later rounder so I hope there’s a Carson like player to look for. Their parameters for RB are perhaps the most accurate tool for looking at a draftable player. Height/weight/jumping test results….
If I really don’t want to be bummed out at draft time I should start looking at Oline players that could be drafted at the 26th through the 35th spot. Probably a player from the SEC. Like another “swing tackle,” guy that plays guard…..
Late first or top of second round? Most teams will look for a key player in the first round and pick running back in the second round.
I think RB is having a bit of a resurgence as of late and realize that a good/great RB can have a big change in a teams fortunes.
That and it feels like a very down year for WR’s/ TE’s so teams looking for an offensive boost may have to set their sites on RB.
Each year (going back 10 seasons) an average of 4.5 RB’s are taken from the first through the second round. But with Seattle of course not picking in the entire 2nd and 3rd round it leaves them limited choices
I will also add that it can almost be assumed that the team trades out of the first round to pick up extra picks. Which I’m personally torn on. More picks? Yeah! though the results of doing that move have actually been pretty mixed. However staying pat and picking late think Carpenter/Ifedi has been decidedly meh.
I’m stoked for this weekend and I’m stoked if Seattle gets into the playoffs but the dark hearted me was kind of hoping for two straight losses so Seattle could pick in the mid first for the first time in forever. Irvin and Earl Thomas wheelhouse….
I agree that the results of trading down to second round have been mixed. Part of my perception is colored by last years defensive non playing pick. Seahawks also found Clark in the second round and I’m convinced he is a future pro bowler.
Yeah, drafting talent is the last thing we should worry about.
If there’s one thing this FO is known, its assembling a competitive squad
I’m not rehashing the clark pick but had he not had the troubles he had in college seattle I don’t think would have been anywhere near being able to drafting him.
I think on the whole any of Seattle’s picks when they’ve stood pat have been better. carpenter, even ifedi if he improves which I hope he does, jarran reed….
I actually was stoked on the graham trade but pretty bummed on the harvin trade. I’m not a big fan of the idea that a team is only “one player away,” from greatness. maybe in baseball but in football there’s much more to it.
Ditto McDowell^
peter, FYI Ifedi and Reed weren’t acquired by standing pat. Ifedi was a trade down and Reed was a trade up.
Cha-
Thanks for that. I had forgotten that they moved around for those picks. So now I’m starting to think for all the talk of having great mid round picks I wonder if that’s at the expense of having good top of the draft picks…..
More specifically if you gain a good player in the 3-5th round by moving down from the first round has that then really paid off?
Edmunds is about a 15
Harris is about a 45.
That’s exactly where Derrick Henry went. Sounds about right
sadly seattle currently is nowhere near either of those two spots!
There is zero chance that Harris lasts to 45.
Spoken like a draft guru Greg
Hawks need to have a mini retooling. They are long in the tooth on defense and while it was still good, it will never live up to how good it needs to be with the pourous offense they have. So, cut the fat (Bennett/Avril/Kam/Richardson/Sherman/Thomas/Wright/Graham/Joeckel) because you have shown to be ok without them with replacements for a good portion of them (Jones/Jordan/Pocic/Vannett/McDougald/Griffin) and bolster the offense.
Draft and FA (nothing big):
1. RB (need a difference maker in the biggest of ways)
2. OT (Pocic/Britt/Ifedi could be the inside, get another tackle to play RT then move to LT in 2019)
3. WR (all you have is DB and not as dynamic Lockett)
4. LB (need to still replace Irvin and KJ is in final year, need a difference maker)
5. DL (would need another outside pass rusher)
5. DB (hope one of the safeties hit from last year, but need more if Kam and Thomas both gone)
Is a big 1 month boost the best way to get you to senior bowl or shrine game Rob?
That’s not really a mini retooling, that’s a major.
getting rid of 7 pro bowlers on defense and they will be OK??
And then spend that money on who?
The Hawks will probably take a very cautious route in FA this year in order to preserve comp pics for next year. That means keeping some of their own FA’s.
I am in the camp of extending Thomas. All Pro safeties do not grow on trees and they have to replace Kam, Avril and maybe Sherm and Bennett the year after. Also hoping Kam can play next year, as long as he does not do anything to damage his long term health. He is THE leader on that team and would be critical to helping new and young players grow and develop.
One thing that’s been established pretty well here by Rob and folks is seeing the consistency of Seattle identifying it’s needs and going aggressively after them in the offseason.
That last couple years have been largely about the offense and defensive lines, especially interior linemen. Last year, when the draft was heavy at DB, they loaded up on 4 of them.
This year, the draft is deep at RB, LB, and Edge talent. It’s a good year for Seattle to go after it’s biggest needs.
For me it’s really easy to get enticed with players like Edmunds and other defenders. I would leap out of my skull in excitement if they ended up with Vea, I wouldn’t be upset with any of these front line guys being Seattle’s first selection, but as I stare at this team, and what was this 2017, RB is the Mission. IMO, Seattle is desperate for a RB that defenses have to account for.
If that special player is there, or if there are a few there around the first pick, this might actually be the first time in ages that I would actually be disappointed if Seattle passed one of them up for a defender. The need just feels that big. If the player isn’t there, then it’s a whole other story, go grab a stud front seven player.
Plus, based on what this team has done with day two and mid round picks on the defense, I trust that they will find some players to mold.
Bobby Wagner R2, Frank Clark R2, Jarran Reed R2, Shaq Griffin R3, Naz Jones R3, KJ Wright R4, Richard Sherman R5, Kam Chancellor R5, Q Jefferson R5.
All of these guys have factored in significantly to the defense this year. What Seattle did to Dallas on Sunday without Sherm, Kam, Naz was really, really impressive. I think that has gotten lost a bit with all the offensive whoas.
FWIW, I’m hopeful for Delano Hill and Cedric Thompson, and Mike Tyson next year.
Just Fix the Run Game.
If Seattle picks at 20, finds a trade partner with the Vikings who maybe want to leap frog the Saints for a QB, Seattle could deal their picks 20 and 170 in R5 for the Vikings pick 31 and there second round pick 62.
This isn’t even factoring if the team is able to find a trade partner for one of their veteran defenders that Silver was speculating about, an what they might land there. We could look at another classic JS trade back and then trade up.
30: R1P30, RB RONALD JONES II, USC
Seattle takes a unique talent at it’s biggest area of need.
62: R2P30 EDGE, MARCUS DAVENPORT, UTSA
Seattle drafts a freak athlete at Edge the end of R2, a la, Frank Clark.
122: R4P20, LB SIONE TEUHEMA, SE LOUISIANA
Seattle drafts under the radar athletic rush ‘backer
143: R5P4, DL JUSTIN JONES, NORTH CAROLINA STATE
Seattle adds depth at DT with a player who can play nose and has plus rush ability
150: R5P11 , LB AZEEM VICTOR, WASHINGTON
Seattle finds good value in R5 with this former Husky
226: R7P7, OT IKE BOETTGER, IOWA
Seattle adds depth at OT
249: R7P30 G BRENDAN MAHON, PENN STATE
Seattle adds depth at OG
251: R7P32 RB LAVON COLEMAN, WASHINGTON
Seattle drafts a power back.
I really am coming around on Ronald Jones.
I will say Every game of Harris’ I’ve watched he has some of the nicest lateral cuts I’ve seen in a long time. To create running space for himself out of clogged lanes and to just a great ability to pick through the backs of the olinemen to find creases to run through. He gets up to speed so quickly it’s funny.
Back to Jones, however. Dude could be a real weapon here. He doesn’t look impatient where his body and his feet aren’t connected like Michael/Turbin. THose easy yards are killer when you outrun yourself and fall down. Instead, he looks in great control but is able to get through his gears in a step it seems. On the few pass plays I’ve seen his ability to secure the ball while moving is incredible. If Seattle abandoned the slow floater screen passes he could be a great total yards from scrimmage kind of guy. Like Kamara from last year, a guy I was very high on.
I like Davenport quite a bit and think your scenario is pretty good with the trade down. I wish Seattle could land Edmunds but Rob has year to year mocked special Lb’s going back to Shazier and maybe even earlier who have really climbed during the draft and to get him barring a player trade from the current roster I think it would mean Seattle misses out on a bunch of talent in the mid-rounds.
Ronald Jones and Damien Harris seem to be the favorites in here. I know there my 2 favorites.
It would be a pretty tough choice if I had to pick between Harris and Jones. I just look at Harris and think complete back who can kind of do it all. Jones is an exciting home run hitter who can run with a lot of toughness. I would be really happy with either. I think there might be a chance Harris returns for his senior year.
It’s really exciting to think about what Edmunds can do for this defense. If it happened, I think it could signal back to some of those USC defenses Carroll coached and a bit of the 2013-14 defense. Just a lot of flexibility up front.
Edmunds with that length and watching his motor and pursuit is something to behold. I’d love to see him play that old Bruce Irvin role and or be the younger, faster (?) KJ Wright.
I’m super interested in LB’s this year. I truly thought Seattle was going to run some sort of “Big Nickel,” this year. A variant on the 4-2-5 lineup. But, I’ve mentioned this before, they didn’t and along with that the teams 3rd and long defense was truly terrible. I know Kam’s been out but I actually think McDougald has acquitted himself well in that spot. I know Sherman is out but I think the real problem and has been for a while is the Irvin style defender that can run down those short plays that turn into 8-9 yards and convert.
Azeem Victor is probably going to be a reach at Round 5. I can see him going undrafted if he doesn’t impress at the combine with his terrible season, injury concerns, DUI, and other off-the-field issues.
+1 a lot of UW overvaluation
as a former seattleite I kind of get a kick guessing how close to the Uw campus posters live.
He definitely could go undrafted. But say he does test really well at the combine. That 2016 tape was really, really good. Maybe it’s my purple color glasses, but I think Seattle would probably weigh that out. They’ve had a track record on taking flyers.
Agree his 2016 tape was good. He needs to play lighter and will be another year removed from injury. If he is sorted out off the field I would be all for the pick.
That said, I’d consider him the sort of player the Seahawks might take a UDFA flyer on (as they have with UW players in the past, though usually WRs).
Some good bowl games today.
A lot of stud freshmen runningbacks. I really like drew lock as a QB. I read that the advisory committee gave him a “return to school” grade, but I personally think he’s the 3rd most talented QB that could be in this draft.
Jmon Moore continued his super inconsistent hands.
Iowa and BC. Damn that’s fun old school football.
Great games the rest of the way. Looking forward to Stanford V Tcu tomorrow. Really hoping to see Bryce love finally 100%, and also to see Harrison Phillips continue to wreck his opposition.
Also. That punter from Texas. MVP won the game for his team. They got the Ray guy award right for sure.
It isn’t anywhere near as glamorous as eyeing off a blue chip running back or pass rusher to fill a big need in the first round but we will probably need to pay close attention to the value picks in the punting and kicking talent of this draft. Blair Walsh is almost certainly not going to be retained and the Jon Ryan contract is getting hefty, relatively speaking to punters, in a time where every dollar counts for the Seahawks.
As much as we desperately need to improve the running game and transition the defence into life after the LOB, our special teams performances have been direly costly this season and equally need to be revitalised.
Agree completely if we could pick up the Punter from Texas and the Kicker from either Auburn or Florida in the late rounds it would setup us up nicely on special teams for the next 5 years and help with cap space.
yep. Compare our kicking game to the Rams and look at the cap cost. Could make a big difference next year with not a lot of cap room used. Having a top 5 or 10 kicking game, returning and coverage can add a couple wins.
Yep. I mentioned Zuerlein and Hecker as key players in the first Rams v Hawks matchup and was ridiculed. Throw in Pharoh Cooper…
“Special Teams” are SPECIAL! How many games just this year did the Hawks’ ST lose the battle to the opponents’ ST. The Rams have beaten us several times over the years with their elite unit.
I think it should be noted that the Seahawks use a lot of their starters on ST and when those guys go down with injury, less experienced guy’s have to play ST, this has surely been an effect this season both in kick coverage and in the blocking for returns. I also firmly agree that both kickers can and should be replaced next season. Also, I think Lockett is a better returner when he gets good blocking, which has been spotty at best this year.
IMO- When you have any 11 players on the field, 1 or maybe 2 can and will miss or underperform their assignments and maybe you can still be reasonably successful. If more than 1 or 2 don’t execute, big trouble to find consistency, (see OL, for the last couple of years).
I like that idea. I don’t have anything against either player, other than a few missed field goals that affected the season = ha ha. But if you can find young talent then why not? At least give them a try out.
I love the Ginger Ninjah but it’s probably time for new young players at both kicker spots. But I’m most concerned with how bad the coverage has seemed this year. Also I get pretty worried when Lockett brings out kickoffs and gets 20ish yards when he could just take a knee and start on the 25.
I’m having serious doubts about whether the Seahawks should have signed Justin Britt to an extension. He’s not been nearly as good this year, which makes me question his ceiling. Might have been better off moving Pocic to center, and spending on a free agent guard like Norwell.
This is hawksblogger’s tweet.
I agree 100% with this.
In general, I think the Seahawks are better off limiting extensions to elite talent. Trade away or get comp picks for good-but-not-great players. Britt fits that. PRich. Lane. Kearse. Ryan. Pretty sure cap and roster would be better. – hawkblogger
In the case of Britt: Who would have played Center? Pocic lacks strength from the guard spot. I’m not sure he would have been better or would be better at Center. Joey Hunt? Same thing.
So no extension for Britt for an unproven Center and yet another free agent guard in Norwell?
They tried to get rid of Lane and he allegedly failed his physical.
They did trade Kearse. He was part of the Richardson trade. Other than that if you average his stats he’s a sub 600 yard, 2.5 td a year WR. I’m not sure what his straight up trade value or letting him go what his comp pick value would have been.
Rob, when you get a chance, check out Oklahoma Tight end Mark Andrews. I had the opportunity to watch him as a high school senior and he’s always been a really great receiver. ESPN flashes a stat today that made me stop what I was doing: He has 31 receptions 10+ yards downfield this year, which was first in FBS among RBs or TE’s. Second most? 16… he may be out eventual Joker TE or Jimmy replacement.
I’ve seen him. I’ve also seen suggestions from scouts — and I agree — that he’s not much of a blocker. I think any TE Seattle drafts now will need to block. I wouldn’t expect any TE’s to go in the top-50 at this early stage.
I’m hoping Seattle goes after a big husky blocking TE. Either keep Graham or not I’m pretty indifferent either way. I like how Vannett is slowly coming on and yes I get he probably won’t ever match Graham’s red zone production but how hard is it to get to the red zone when your TE is very unproductive between the 20’s? Seattle is currently only getting just short of 32 yards a game from Graham.
But what worries me most is not his Yards but his catch percentage is the lowest of his career and currently almost 5 percentage points lower than any of his seasons in Seattle. Is this a trend down? Or just a glitchy season?
I like Vannett, and I think his production would be as good as Grahams if they didn’t have Graham and if Wilson would throw Vannett the ball in the red zone the way he throws it to Graham. As far as keeping Graham, it doesn’t hurt to have two tight ends to throw to.
I’ve never seen Vannett high point a ball and straight outmuscle an elite athlete in a phone booth
You guys are seriously mistaking upside for potential and potential for production saying Jimmy can stay or go.
You’ve seen Vannett targeted 3 times.
I have watched college football before?
I like Goedert….
And I would agree, he’s a glorified WR. However, he would be that weapon down the middle of the field and he wouldn’t cost a ton of draft capital, I don’t think. I’m also all for taking Will Disley from UW on day 3 if he’s available. I’m just saying if you’re not going to resign Jimmy, you have to find that replacement weapon. You also don’t want to spend a high pick on that player.
I hope we get Luke Willson back on a 1 pr 2 year
+ 1
I would be fine with Willson, Vannett and Swopes or a Vet blocking TE.
?
Why would you move Jimmy?
El em ay oh
about 10 million a year + and no cap space is why you move Jimmy, that and no heart and worthless between the 20’s
Like you gotta be some kind of crazy to be ok with losing Jimmy.
I would be fine with letting Jimmy walk. What have the Hawks won with him. He is invisible in big games or played physically. I dont see how you pay a guy like that super star $. He is not that athletic anymore, the definition of soft and can’t block.
Unless it is a $3-5 mil APY to come back as a big red zone WR I would pass because that is what he is at this stage in his career. Ever wonder why NO traded him in his prime?
People point to Grahams 10 TDs but LaGarrett Blount had 18 TDs last year and did not get re-signed.
Your Blount comparison is so fallacious I can’t even.
The seahawks have won about 40 games with Jimmy.
Pro athlete *not that athletic* good thing its not called athlete-ball.
I would insist that Jimmy has grown into a complete player with Seattle. He’s actually become an excellent blocker and outside of that mini-slump this year when he was losing battles for the ball has been ferocious and energetic.
He’s playing with a fire he never did with NOLA.
Funny that now that he’s productive some fans want to move him
Thats why its absolutely nuts to me to read your comments.
2013 was his best year. not this year. his catch rate is down tjis season against all previous.. his yards per game is non existent tjis year.
solving the red zone problem or at least having an answer to it has been great. its,all the space in between the red zone that’s the problem. it’s going 3 for 8 in a close opening game against green bay. that’s my problem. it’s fading in and out of games. and it’s also trying to figure out what to pay a player moving into next year that you have to hope maintains tjis red zone production but can hopefully improve in moving the chains because they have to move to get to the red zone.
You want to trade Jimmy because we kept it close in Lambeau?
He’s giving more than he’s ever given to a team, emotionally and physically, and you can’t replace what he’s doing.
Look at what a guy can do not what he can’t.
Doug Baldwin. marshawn lynch. two other players that have produced for seattle.
and the green bay game by itself isn’t important but his reduced catch rate is. and his inability to move the chains is.
and more importantly is he going to remain a 10 td a year player moving forward? if so great. but is he going to move back to his yearly average and continue being less effective outside the red zone?
I’m sorry but what a guy can’t do is actually just as important. a RB that can’t pass protect, a te that has drops those things matter.
The tape shows more of Russell still developing his ability to throw receivers open and winnable contested balls than Jimmy suddenly not being able to get it done.
Jimmy is tied for 3rd with 10 receiving tds this season, but only 475 receiving yards, which has him as the 81st best in the league. The eighty-first ranked receiving threat, for a player making $10 mil/year, which is the highest salary for a TE this year, that’s a serious issue.
http://www.nfl.com/stats
Stat scouting
Who is having a good year in seattle outside of Bobby and Russ?
Maybe Reed, KJ, Bennett, Jimmy, and Paul
Doug, Frank Clark, Britt, Shaq, Earl, McDougald, Sheldon, KJ, and Bennett are having good years.
What is your argument to support Seattle keeping Jimmy around, at his current $10 mil/year salary?
I think it’s become tougher to justify re-signing Graham as the season has gone on. His production fell off a cliff and the TD against Dallas covers up that fact. However, I also don’t think it’s a completely straight forward decision not to re-sign him (albeit at less than $10m a year). After all, Seattle has tried to solve their red zone woes for years and they’ve finally done that thanks to Graham. He’s Russell Wilson’s BFF. And ten touchdowns are hard to replace.
So I think they quite possibly do move on, they quite possibly should — but it’s not cut and dried and it’s at least worth entertaining the idea he could return (just not on $10m a year).
He does things no-one in the league can
I didn’t realize he was a UFA after this season!
He would be extended by now imo if they were willing to commit beyond 1 or 2 years.
I wouldn’t mind the franchise tag either tbh if we could afford it.
Good blocker? What tape are you watching Kenny?
He’s developed into a Seattle TE. And Seattle TEs block.
Hell he’s had to at times. There’s been plenty of film review over at field gulls showing his improvements since the trade.
sorry, seen him completely whiff on blocks too many times this year and have a big DE slamming down the RB 4 -5 yards behind the line of scrimmage to buy into any theory that JG is a good blocker. He has the size to do it, and he can do it sometimes, but too often it looks like he is not even trying. The QB ain’t blocking, so you end up playing 8 guys blocking against 11 guys going after the RB. One guys misses his block, the play can end quickly.
+1
+1
I’m a Luke fan.
I think you have to compare his 10 million dollar salary against other wide receivers with a big frame that are available. If he wins out on that comparison then fine. Who can they get for 10 million. I still have regrets they let Golden TAte go, he wasn’t big but he went after the ball.
Finally the 9ers got a Franchise QB with the right complexion.
Seriously though, Garropolo has them riding high right now, but he really might just be Matt Cassel, guys.
Im not suuuper concernes juat yet
it’ll be interesting to see what they do when garropolo starts eating up a lot of their cap space
I’m very curious to see what kind of contract he gets. SF taking an interesting risk in giving up a good draft pick for him and (apparently) not having worked out an extension. I doubt he’d walk but wouldn’t that be something? Another team comes along and blows him away with a package.
Franchise tag him for 1 year… 23 million…. perfect way to play it out for them.
I would laugh soooooo hard if he signed somewhere else!
Drew Lock is difficult to evaluate because of all the drops and that scheme in general.
He stands about 6.5 yards deep and claps for the ball and either loops the ball in with touch or rifles it like a dart.
Big big guy, decent vision and obviously has the arm strength to deliver it underneath. He can be baited and picked off. Not a ton of evidence of him pushing the ball down the field.
The guy I really want to watch more is Virginia’s Kurt Benkurk.
I just watched his Miami game and that first half was a clinic in taking what the defense gives you.
He’s throwing from all kinds of angles and with different velocity. Pushed the ball downfield with good deep accuracy.
Same kind of scheme as Lock, but I was impressed by the more slender senior.
They both stare down receivers and smart defenders make them pay.
I’d take either as a backup for 2 years.
We have a franchise QB. I’m not considering QBs before the 3rd
Josh Allen kind of sucks
Drew Lock is incredibly rough around the edges.
Clearly not a perfectionist at all and didn’t win a ton of games.
Takes a lot to get him into a rhythm.
Terribly inaccurate downfield. Probably has to throw hard to compensate for arm strength or poor mechanics
That Mizzou team is terribly coached and his SEC games were pretty terrible.
He’s not heady, just confident.
Makes sense to me, one of their graduating players just blasted his coaching staff after the Texas bowl game.
I could see Benkurk become a riser.
He just has tons of bad habits and is quite thin.
Deadly accurate, but perhaps a half-field QB with a max throw of only 45
Boy do I like this Kurt Benkert. Really classy footwork and pocket presence
But he really doesn’t cycle through progressions.
And he really doesn’t have next level arm strength
Josh Jackson just looks like Hawks CB to me and has Sherm like ball skills. Don’t think the Hawks take a CB early but if they did I love this kid for our scheme!
Josh Rosen plays like his only experience with football is in a classroom. Hyper intelligent, overconfident, gamey, and starts slow. Takes a ton of chances, but he is dangerous and a leader.
Darnold is grittier and more talented, but they’re like Stafford vs Eli.
You know what you’re getting for the next decade and because of that, they both should be #1 picks.
Although, judging from his TD celebration, Josh Rosen has never swung a sledgehammer in his life
Who would you take Kenny if you were Browns GM?
What is your take on Mayfeild?
If they both declare I take Darnold all day if I’m Dorsey, but I’m sure he likes a Rosen (Alex Smith) type more.
Mayfield can be someone else’s headache
I think Mayfield is a good player and looks like an NFL starter, but he is wacky.
Getting arrested, crotch grabs, flag planting fails.
I hear his dad is a total headache and there is a good reason he didnt get offered a scholarship at either school he attended.
The thing that really gets me is him hitting opponents with the football before warmups.
What are you? A fan?
It shows not only a lack of respect for his opponent, but also for himself, his colors, and The Game Itself.
That horrifies me as a GM
If it’s really me, I trade down and down and down. You have another top5 pick and I personally think Lamar Jackson is a stud.
.
I am with you on Darnold I think he is the surest thing in this draft class.
Mayfeild and Rosen both scare me with off field crap.Rosen seems like a spoiled brat who plays FBall because he is ulta talented and can make big $. Mayfeild clearly loves the game, can lead guys and wins but wow he is immature and can you trust him.
Really like Jackson as well. Allen I am not sold at all on.
Now I didn’t say sure thing.
I think he has major bust potential.
But he’s a gamer.
I think the Rosen stuff is missing the mark.
He’s not the first middle class QB from Cali.
Tom Brady comes from a really similar background.
Football ain’t all syrup sandwiches and I think there’s plenty of room for the priveleged in this sport.
Josh Rosen is definitely grittier than Jared Goff.
What I loved about Wentz and Watson was their leadership, character and the fact that they won, played best in big games. Wentz did it at a lower level but still won and stepped when the competition got better.
Darnold fits that mould this year. USC were a mess going down the tubes. they bring him in at QB and the whole thing turns around because other players follow and believe in him. At the Rose Bowl last year when the lights were brightest he shone.
I dont see any of that in Rosen. His college HC on the other hand got fired.
Mayfeild while seeming like a bit of a jerk does seem to be a leader /winner. A little like Cam Newton and J Winston in that regard.
I always thought Rosen was soft, but on the other hand Mora is one of the softest coaches around. If your coach was out there taking shots at announcers and constantly whining to the media, would you really want to give him your all?
I agree I have never liked Mora and I think Kelly will likely be good for that program.
What a backhanded compliment, haha. Hugh Hefner’s pajamas are grittier than Goff…
Texas Safety DeShon Elliott declares for the draft
Hubba hubba
Could he be replacement for ET? 4,58 projected 40yard?
Naw he’s more McDougald
Mcdougald ran a 4.7 if the Seahawks want a good 40 time at fs I would look at Armani watts he will run in the 4.4s
With successful late/UDFA RB picks like Rawls and Carson, I have a hard time seeing SEA take a RB early, especially in a draft with such great depth at the position.
Having said that, Harris seems ideal for SEA’s scheme. If he lasts into R2, I could see them selecting him. Otherwise, I think Jones II will last into R3, and he will be hard for SEA to pass up at that point.
Either one of those two would work for me. I like Harris better but Jones would work as well.
Bill Barnwell
@billbarnwell
Dec 24
More
If the Ravens and Chargers win and the Titans lose next week, the Bills will miss the playoffs by virtue of losing to the Chargers in the Nathan Peterman game.
****************************
Can we just take a moment and reflect on the good things we have as Hawks fans?
I’m grateful!
Hey Gang
I worked on a Mock today. Let me know your thoughts. Cheers.
1. Cleveland, Josh Rosen, QB, ULCA. Browns don’t follow the motion picture Draft Day’s model. They take this franchise passer #1 overall.
2. NY Giants, Vita Vea, DT, Washington. Giants rebuild starts upfront. They draft a potential generational DT
3. Indianapolis, Saquan Barkley, RB, Penn State. This pick makes Andrew Luck very happy.
4. Cleveland, Bradley Chubb, DE, NC State. Miles Garrett last year, and Bradley Chubb this year, along with the Rosen the Chosen? Look out for the Cleveland Browns in 2018.
5. Tampa Bay, Quenton Nelson, OG, Notre Dame. Make Winston happy, and get him a dominant offensive lineman.
6. Denver, Baker Mayfield, QB, Oklahoma. I think feisty competitor John Elway with appreciate feisty competitor Baker Mayfield.
7. NY Jets, Lamar Jackson, QB, Louisville. The Jets follow the Texans mold and get a really exciting playmaker at QB.
8. San Francisco, Clelin Ferrell, Clemson. The 49ers add another rusher to make life miserable for RW and Goff.
9. Chicago, Rashaan Evans, LB, Alabama. The Bears want to return to Monsters of the Midway status. Evans is a good start.
10. Cincinnati, Christian Wilkins, DT, Clemson. Geno Atkins isn’t getting younger. Could be a good year to add an eventual replacement.
11. Oakland, Tremaine Edmunds, LB, Virginia Tech. Oakland’s hybrid defense is a mess. Edmunds is a playmaker that could make it a lot better in a hurry
12. Miami, Courtland Sutton, WR, SMU. Adam Gase would love to get his hands on this big WR threat.
13. Arizona, Drew Lock, QB, Missouri. I want Arians to stick around to coach this guy.
14. Washington, Austin Bryant, Edge, Clemson. Washington adds more edge rush
15. Green Bay, Marcus Davenport, Edge, UTSA. Clay Matthews is getting older. GB looks to add uniqueness to it’s edge rush.
16. LA Chargers, Orlando Brown, OT, Oklahoma. Chargers are doing nice things on the defense. I could see them following the Dallas mold building the offense with the OL first.
17. Buffalo, Minkah Fitzpatrick, S, Alabama. Bills could go QB or WR, but might not be able to pass up on Fitzpatrick
18. Detroit, Derwin James, S, Florida St. The Lions jump all over James.
19. Dallas, Taven Bryan, DT, Florida. Dallas lands a perfect 3 tech for their under front
20. NY Giants, Mason Rudolph, QB, Oklahoma St. The Giants see Buffalo, NO, and Minnesota in front of them potentially targeting QB, and they get on the phone with Seattle.
21. Tennessee, Sam Hubbard, Edge, Ohio St. Titans have nice young pieces on the offense. Further adding to the defense makes sense. Some of the edge rush is getting long in the tooth
22. Baltimore, Bryce Love, RB, Stanford. Alex Collins has been a great story. Bryce Love would be an exciting pick.
23. Atlanta, Billy Price, OG, Ohio St. DQ likes his defense enough to be patient. Sees the value in adding Price.
24. New Orleans, Josh Allen, QB, Wyoming. Brees signs a short extension. Josh Allen gets the luxury of learning from one of the best.
25. Buffalo, Derrick Nnadi, DT, Florida St. Bills skip QB and WR again for a talented DT with rush ability
26. Jacksonville, Braden Smith, OG, Auburn. How to make Leonard and Blake happy? Give them Braden Smith.
27. LA Rams, Harold Landry, Edge, Boston College. Landry seems like the perfect fit for the Wade Phillips defense.
28. Carolina, Joshua Jackson, CB, Iowa. Panthers continue building up their defense
29. Pittsburgh, Mike McGlinchey, OT, Norte Dame. Steelers find OT value in McGlinchey
30. Vikings, Maurice Hurst, DT, Michigan. Vikings part ways with Sharif Floyd and say hello to inside rusher Hurst.
31. New England, Arden Key, Edge, LSU. NE continues to make draft day steals that make other teams look stupid.
32. Philadelphia, Damien Harris, RB, Alabama. The Eagles crush the hearts of many Seahawks fan, including this one, in particular.
33. Cleveland, Kerryon Johnson, RB, Auburn. How to help Rosen the Chosen? Give him a run game.
34. Seattle, Leighton Vander Esch, LB, Boise St. Per usual, Seahawk fans are stunned, and are left screaming at their TV sets.
Thoughts on Seattle’s Selection:
Seattle kind of does a classic Seattle PC/JS draft maneuver. When pundits expect Seattle to zig, they zag. The words out of PC’s mouth in his post season press conference is getting back to a dominant run game, and also adding youth and speed on the defense. Seattle has committed a fair amount of draft resources on the DL and secondary over the last couple drafts. They haven’t invested at LB. This could change with this draft. In a trade with the NY Football Giants, Seattle could land picks 24, 66, and R6 pick 180. That would give JS picks in each round moving forward. This is classic JS maneuvering.
Vander Esch was a tackling machine at Boise St in 2017. He also displayed solid production rushing the passer and playing coverage. Vander Esch has the length to play SAM and looks to have the instincts to sub in for KJ or Bobby if one of those starters get injury. Seattle could land a young Brian Urlacher to this defense. That’s a pretty exciting prospect, especially when you consider how Seattle is going to match up with Todd Gurley in that Rams offense moving forward.
Seattle’s Other Picks and Thoughts:
R3 Pick 66. Sony Michel, RB, Georgia
The couple RBs that Seattle would have considered at 20 came off the board making the trade back easier. Seattle then watched the other RBs they had R1 grades on get selected before 34. That’s okay, there are a number of RBs Seattle likes in this draft. They feel that they can be patient. With Michel, Seattle feels like they got a steal, and they are excited to pair him with Chris Carson in 2018.
R4 Pick 122. Marcell Frazier, Edge, Missouri
Even if Seattle parts ways with Cliff Avril, they hold the rights to Dion Jordan for another year. They could also bring back Marcus Smith or Cassius Marsh. Frazier looks to have talent, but had a bit of a down year. Seattle finds value here.
R5 Pick 143. BJ Hill, DT, NC State
Good spot to draft big sturdy run stopping DT. Hill might have a little bit of a Naz Jones/Jarran Reed feel, which for Seattle, is not a bad thing. If they don’t extend Sheldon Richardson, DT feels like a likely target again
R5 Pick 150. Mike Gesicki, TE, Penn State
Assuming Seattle moves on from JG, TE probably becomes a target. If JG isn’t in Seattle in 2018, I would expect Luke Willson is. Gesicki isn’t a finished product, but could be something to mold.
R5 Pick 170. Quenton Meeks, CB, Stanford
Even if Sherman comes back, Seattle probably looks to continue adding at corner. Meeks didn’t play as great as expected, but he has a Seahawky corner vibe.
R6 Pick 180. Kalen Ballage, RB, Arizona St
This could end up being a fun pick for Seattle. What is he? RB, FB, H-Back? Offensive Weapon? I kinda like the team taking a flyer on him as a play making FB in the Leonard Weaver mold.
R7 Pick 226. Darren Carrington, WR, Utah
Even if Seattle hangs onto PRich, taking a flyer on another speedy WR could be wise.
R7 Pick 249. Geron Christian, OT, Louisville
Seattle could feel fine at OL despite the cry of fans, even if they don’t extend Luke Joekel. I don’t think they reach of talent in this draft. They look at the later rounds for depth.
R7 Pick 251. Maea Teuhema, OG, Southeastern Louisiana
See above comment.
I was just going to post a player to watch tomorrow. BJ Hill from NC State. Nice mid to late round Defensive Tackle about right where you mocked him.
I guess my only argument would be that it might be a bit high for Vea and they do have Snacks Harrison. Would the Eagles really choose Harris? They have a ton of backs and just traded for Ajayi. Other than that sounds good.
I considered Harris as a luxury pick for the Eagles, as they seem like a team with no glaring need. I think the old Ferndale High School QB, who ran the wishbone up there, and who is the Eagles current head coach might appreciate a heavy stampede at RB. Blount is a FA. Ajayi is nice. I think Harris can be better.
Another guy for NC State is Kentavious Street. That guy is a freak of nature.
http://www.stack.com/a/n-c-state-dl-kentavius-street-squats-700-pounds-and-runs-a-4-58-laser-timed-40-yard-dash
Cool. yeah, I’ve been thinking of BJ Hill kind of all season as a mid round guy they could be interested in, especially with the uncertainty of Malik McDowell, and the uncertainty if whether they sign Sheldon. I think McDowell is more of a 5 tech DE, anyways. Seattle seems to appreciate big men who can hold the point, two gap, but also get upfield. BJ Hill looks like that type.
Interesting Mock! Love the work and detail you put into your posts!
Really hope they dont take Vander Esch with their 1st pick. He reminds me of Kyler Fackrell whom I know a lot of people on the blog liked. I just hope they take a guy with true impact potential with that 1st pick.
Also I think he is best suited to play Middle LB. Like the player as a 2nd/3rd round pick but just dont see the fit.
Admittedly, I’ve jumped onto the Vander Esch bandwagon late.
I hadn’t paid much attention to Boise State this year. I follow the Ducks with my Duck wife, and was actually quite impressed with the way Vander Esch balled out against that Oregon offense. It was a terrific display of linebackering, IMO. Looking into him more, I think he might not be limited to one LB spot, and the way Seattle likes to have versatility in it’s front seven, I can see where he could be one to watch. I actually kind of thought he had a bit of a Clay Matthews vibe watching him.
He’s a very good player. I think he’s absolutely at his best inside though. And I’m not sure a R1 pick on someone best suited to Bobby’s role is likely. Tremaine Edmunds has versatility too but looks like a Bruce type. Can play some SAM/LEO but move inside if needs be. Ultimately though I think if they consider any LB in round one they’ll have to have a ton of speed.
So would you imagine that if Seattle went LB early it would most likely be to provide that Bruce Irvin role as a SAM/LEO?
Possibly. I think they want speed and quickness. It could be a versatile, quick LB capable of playing different spots. But that SAM/LEO type is something they haven’t really had since Bruce. And Tremaine Edmunds fits that role beautifully. Will he be there for them? Debatable.
Curious what people think about Miami RB Mark Walton as a 3/4th round RB option. I liked his tape and seems like a nice compliment to Carson, David + Prosise or Mckissic.
I think we have enough “complimentary” backs. Need a guy who can carry the load. Not sure if Walton gets that done at the next level.
I wouldn’t mind taking a flier on him if they see something they like, but only on day 3.
https://www.si.com/nfl/2017/12/28/dion-jordan-seahawks-comeback-2013-draft-drug-alchohol-suspension
Dion Jordan’s story is pretty heavy reading and a good insight into the dark places young elite athletes can take themselves with all that money and a poor league support system surrounding suspensions. What really jumped out of the SI piece is the roles that Marshawn Lynch and especially Tom Cable played in getting him to Seattle.
He also features in ‘Driving with Gee’ on the official Seahawks media channels this week if you want to listen to his story directly.
Jordan is a RFA heading into 2018 if I am not mistaken and an original round tender makes plenty of sense both cap wise and compensatory basis otherwise. If he can continue to plug away and polish his game he could be an important piece for the defence moving forwards.
Hope for the young man he can keep things on track. We forget sometimes these guys have issues like the rest of society.
When on the field I thought he looked great!
I think as I read that it was the first time in 6 years I was glad Cable was a Seahawks coach. It is stuff like that which we as fans are not privy to which explain the decisions organizations make sometimes.
He could have an effect on 2017. Playoff teams always seem to have a guy or two off the scrap heap to make a significant contribution.
And he’s still a darkhorse in fans’ plans for 2018. It’s possible the Hawks have uncovered another gem.
Want more pass rush? He’s been about a sack a game with limited snaps.
(disclaimer: this is not a statement that I think he’s going to get 16 sacks next year)
710 Radio did a Player Spotlight interview with him during their afternoon show, and he went into a bunch of this. He came across pretty impressive. Didn’t shy away from any of his backstory. Just seems really thankful to be given this opportunity and sounds like a guy who would really like to stick around.
Knock on wood, he could end up being the player that the team was hoping Malik McDowell could be. I just want to see him show the ability to stay healthy for a season.
Who are some Free Agents the Hawks should target this off season. Assuming they don’t sign Richarson, Graham, Joeckel or PRich to a big $ deal?
Internal
-Mcdougald
-Willson
-Shead
-Dion Jordan
-Coleman
External
Pryor- Big WR to compliment Baldwin and Locket while Moore and Darboh develop.
DJ Fluker- Big mauling run blocking LG to team w/ Duane Brown. Could also play OT in emergency.
Kenny Vaccaro- If Kam Retires or Earl is moved he seems like a great fit. Alot like Mcdougald as he can play either Safety spot.
All three should come at a reasonable price and are still young under 27.
A blocking TE that might be coming off a rookie deal. Ive been searching and its hard to find who this might be.
Good call unless they believe in Swoopes.
Fluker could be good to replace Joeckel if he was willing to take a one year deal. Not sure what happen with Vaccaro, he was so good as a rookie then kind of fell off. For me I understand the Pryor argument but I just hate bringing in FA receivers. Seems to fail more then it does work. I like system guys who just come in from the beginning and just work there way in. Coleman, Jordan, and Shead should be no brainers. Maybe $5-$5.5 million between the three.
I would really hope Odhiambo, Roos, Pocic, maybe even Fant can replace Joeckel in house. I’m willing to accept the possibility that Free Agent will be the way the Hawks go, but one of those four really should be able to step into the role, given the time the Hawks have invested in them.
I think Pocic can be that guy at LG, just needs to get stronger so he isn’t bull rushed so easily. Might be tough, being a taller guy, but hope he can do it.
Looking over the Seahawks roster at guard it just seems like there are a lot of players who will never be starters. Even Pocic has a qualifying statement: If he can bulk up and get stronger. Others like Glowinski and Hunt were tried and replaced. I for see a lot of turnover in the backups. Just not sure that they have what they want for that position.
If Seattle wants to play the running back market again, Tevin Coleman would be a much better option than any of the free agents last year. I doubt Atlanta pays big money for two running backs, that would be pretty dumb. Coleman has fantastic vision and 4.3 speed, but he also has injury risks. He can also catch passes out of the backfield.
Tevin Coleman still has one year left on his rookie deal.
Dion Jordan still has one more year on his “rookie” deal…. since he missed so much time.
This was reported on 710 locally a few days ago.
Jordan is an RFA. We should be able to keep him for $2 million next year.
Virginia Tech playing. So many players to watch! Settle, Edmunds, Alexander. Also CB Facyson and SS Terrell Edmunds are interesting.
I’m watching Virginia Tech’s defense and then flipping to Marcus Davenport. Wow. Wow wow wow. Davenport is really good. Watch Baylor and Texas State. He is incredible.
Wow is right. He is a Bigger DeMarcus Ware
Ware was the player I thought of
He is amazing. Hard to keep him a secret now…
is this you announcing your annual blog favorite riser that goes way higher than seattle can draft!?
Yeah, after readin that MMQB article, he’s definitely no secret. If he’s as good as advertised, it wouldn’t break my heart to find a way to move up to get him. Also, and this can’t be understated, our division has suddenly become dangerous offensively. Jimmy G has sped up the timetable for the Niners by at least a year or two. They have a ton of cap soeafe as well. The Rams have weapon X, and some young, exciting receivers so maybe Ryan Gosling’s doppelgänger can’t mess it up. We need young, scary, “we have to gameplan for that dude” types of defenders. Running back aside, we need to take back the line of scrimmage. The edges are a good place to start.
He is this years big riser at Senior Bowl and combine like Hassan Reddick last year.
Edmunds or Davenport would be perfect for our D in Rd#1
Being a Washingtonian, I get to listen to ESPN 710AM KIRO radio every where I go in my car. I was impress with Doug Baldwin as he talked about Larry Frizgerald in Arizona. I what this guy to be a Seahawk for his career here, hell I want him part of this community. Doug Baldwin is in many ways Steve Largent. Did you know Doug join Larry for work outs in offseason to learn from him not just the game but life and what a better role model you can become. There are players who are so good but never win the big one but they do show they are the most talented player while they played. Doug talked about how Larry got you thinking he going right when left was the spot. How he ask ya about your life off the field in between plays and never talk football hehe. The great thing about Doug is he will be willing to do anything Larry did for Arizona to win. Doug I think is a leader on this team I believe we will keep him longer than anyone cause he has that short mans attitude but the Stanford intelligence to study the game. Kindia like Richard Sherman who not going anywhere.
Only 10 non QBs have 10 total touchdowns or more.
Gurley 19
Hopkins 13
Gordon 12
Ingram 12
Kamara 12
Bell 11
Adams 10
Hunt 10
Graham 10
Fournette 10
Russell leads the league in total touchdowns with 35, 5 more than 3rd place Tom Brady
Gurley also has over 2000 all purpose yards now….. very impressive season.
Look at New Orleans. They have 24 touchdowns between those 2 running backs. How many TD’s did we have from ours?
Hot dam. What TCU is doing against Stanford is fun to watch. Desmon White and Kenny Hill are putting on a show. That defense is flying.
just crept up on me that Ronald Jones will get a chance to hopefully shine tomorrow against Ohio
I’m really looking forward to watching that game. There’s going to be a lot of players to watch on both sides.
That was a fun bowl game to watch. RB Love would pair well with a team like Tennessee or Dallas by offering them that elusive, shifty speed that a back of his size brings. I’m also interested in TCU’s OL as a whole, because Hill scrambles much like Wilson, and those linemen did well at keeping rushers at bay. TCU’s DE Boesen had a nice game as well.
Speaking of Hill and that TCU offense; how fun was it watching how Gary Patterson adjusted things in the second half, spread things out, used Hill’s ability to run mixed with attacking the perimeters, and going uptempo?
Hill suddenly became very Russell Wilson-esque with his arm and legs. Kind of opened up a debate in my mind whether, in 2018, Seattle needs to further go more speed and uptempo for RW, or whether they go back to their roots of 2012-2014, and RW’s day of Wisconsin power run. IMO, I kinda think part of the issue of 2017 is that the coaching staff hasn’t fully committed to either, and has been stuck in a football purgatory of being in-between.
Just some thoughts.
TCU played their brand of football, and it paid off. There is a lot of speed on Patterson’s team, and they had Stanford’s defense gassed by the 4th. Love may have rushed for nearly 150 yards, but TCU made him pay for it.
I think in regards to Seattle’s offense being in limbo, you’re spot on, and isn’t just a game-to-game occurrence either, it also happens drive-to-drive. They are too inconsistent to feel great about them, but I’ll be rooting for a Seattle win regardless.
My biggest wish for 2018 Seahawks is to fully figure out their Identity on the Offense, and then fully commit to that.
+infinity lol
I’ll say it …. the Browns need to draft Vita Vea (DT, Washington).
Pair him up with who they have on the DL already…… scary
Vita and Danny would be a whole lot of Husky Hunan in the middle, but I haven’t kept up with them since the last regime, what system do they run? Used to be a 3-4.
*human
That would be pretty scary. I “feel,” for the Browns. The team I think is going to be pressured into taking a QB with the first pick and I for one am pretty down on this year’s crop of QB’s.
I’ve watched a bunch of Darnold since USC plays those late games and I think he’s just Okay. He has a seriously wonky delivery at times and this last year his stats have gone down not up which is not a trend that often portends to good thing moving forward.
I suppose they could go with Baker Mayfield early.
Word has it John Dorsey is not a Josh Rosen fan.
Word is John Dorsey isn’t a fan of any members of the Browns.
I read a lot abouth Minkah Fitzpatric. Trade ET and Sheldon to Browns (for Texans pick) and draft this kid.
Rob, he is not your top 10?
I think Fitzpatrick is OK. Not great.
Losing a 28-year-old safety who’s likelier than not to go to the Hall of Fame, forcing the team to change its entire defensive scheme, and the best DT on the team into the bargain?
Richardson is a free agent you can’t trade him unless you franchise him and even then he has to agree to a contract with the other team.
Can’t trade Sheldon unless you franchise him. Also, I agree with Rob. Minkah is actually a solid player, but his ceiling, to me, is a bit limited. I think corner is something they aren’t too worried about this draft, maybe later. Sherman will most likely be back, and he will be pissed off. Shaq and Coleman seem like future fixtures. Edge, OLB, maybe even DT are a priority. Our linebacker play outside of the two stalwarts is borderline pathetic. I watch Wilhoite, Alexander, Garvin blow assignments, lose coverage, miss run fits and my stomach turns. Have to replace Avril and upgrade eventually for Bennett. Someone the other day was quoting his stats. He’s not a consistent force and he’s had 2-3 games where he’s filled a stat sheet. However, he’s rendered ineffective most games this season.
Could trade Sheldon if he’s franchised, but if other teams feel Seattle franchised him just to trade him, that’s probably going to be a pretty easy bluff to call.
Hey Rob, what are your thoughts on Christian Kirk? He would be a great complement for Baldwin if P-Rich/Lockett are out of contract soon. Returns kicks, punts, and is a threat to score every time he touches the ball. Plus he has that alpha male mentality. Maybe Seattle trades out of Round 1, gets 2 second round picks and uses one on him?
He’s dynamic, can see him going too 50. Just not sure they go WR early
Got a lot of Golden Tate in him
no4 or no5 pick are bargain???
Forget getting cute with a bunch of trade backs. Lets snatch either Jones USC or Love Stanford and hope to make magic on day 3. Paring either one with Russ for the next 10 will be hard to deal with. Then focus on stock piling picks for 2019.
Jones or Harris I’ll take. No thanks on Love. That guy will spend to much time under the blue tent.
The more I watch Nick Chubb, the more i am digging him. Hopefully his medicals check out during the combine. I would love to have either Harris or Chubb round 1.
Cool little article about Chubb –
http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000839736/article/after-knee-injury-georgia-rb-nick-chubb-has-nfl-back-in-sight
So as someone who’s followed this draft and the process itself for 21 years, this is why I take everything these execs, scouts, and analysts say with a HUGE grain of salt. These dudes are full of sh*t and fed so much misinformation. The buzzword is always ‘1st round consideration.’
Anyways…
AFC executive: thinks QB Baker Mayfield missing his presser due to the flu is a sign of a weak immune system and therefore he won’t be able to play in cold weather cities. Mainly the AFC/NFC North.
Hahaha. This is the garbage that we’re supposed to buy into. Couldn’t be me.
//waves hand
“this is not the quarterback you’re looking for”
Hi Vol, sorry i saw that post too but thought it was a joke? If not sarcastic then wow.