The final 2018 mock draft

This is my final mock draft to be sent to the Huddle Report for scoring. It includes:

— Two rounds
— Multiple trades
— An Earl Thomas to Dallas trade
— A full Seahawks seven-round projection

First round

#1 Cleveland — Sam Darnold (QB, USC)
#2 NY Giants — Saquon Barkley (RB, Penn State)
#3 NY Jets (via Ind) — Baker Mayfield (QB, Oklahoma)
#4 Cleveland (via Hou) — Bradley Chubb (EDGE, NC State)
#5 Buffalo (via Den) — Josh Allen (QB, Wyoming)
#6 Indianapolis (via NYJ) — Roquan Smith (LB, Georgia)
#7 San Francisco (via TB) — Tremaine Edmunds (LB, Virginia Tech)
#8 Chicago — Quenton Nelson (G, Notre Dame)
#9 Tampa Bay (via SF) — Vita Vea (DT, Washington)
#10 Oakland — Mike McGlinchey (T, Notre Dame)
#11 Miami — Josh Rosen (QB, UCLA)
#12 Denver (via Buf, Cin) — Leighton Vander Esch (LB, Boise State)
#13 Washington — Denzel Ward (CB, Ohio State)
#14 Green Bay — Minkah Fitzpatrick (S, Alabama)
#15 Arizona — Lamar Jackson (QB, Louisville)
#16 Baltimore — Da’Ron Payne (DT, Alabama)
#17 LA Chargers — Derwin James (S, Florida State)
#18 Cleveland (via Sea) — Kolton Miller (T, UCLA)
#19 Atlanta (via Dal) — Taven Bryan (DT, Florida)
#20 Detroit — Marcus Davenport (DE, UTSA)
#21 Cincinnati (via Buf) — Frank Ragnow (C, Arkansas)
#22 Denver (via Buf, KC) — Will Hernandez (G, UTEP)
#23 New England (via LAR) — Rashaan Evans (LB, Alabama)
#24 Carolina — Joshua Jackson (CB, Iowa)
#25 Tennessee — Harold Landry (DE, Boston College)
#26 Dallas (via Atl) — Calvin Ridley (WR, Alabama)
#27 New Orleans — Hayden Hurst (TE, South Carolina)
#28 Pittsburgh — Justin Reid (S, Stanford)
#29 Jacksonville — D.J. Moore (WR, Maryland)
#30 Minnesota — James Daniels (C, Iowa)
#31 New England — Isaiah Wynn (G, Georgia)
#32 Philadelphia — Austin Corbett (G, Nevada)

How would this leave things for the Seahawks?

Having dropped down to #33 from #18, there are many things to consider:

— What are the cliffs at each position? Which areas can you address in rounds 4-7 and feel like you added a potential starter? Which positions are thin after rounds 1-3?

— How do you fix the run? This has been a consistent stated priority after two miserable years running the ball. Are you willing to roll with what you’ve got at running back, tight end and the offensive line? Is it all about Mike Solari’s ability to turn things around? Or do you need to seriously consider the three positions early in the draft? Especially when this appears to be a tailor-made draft for fixing a running game.

— Is the biggest hole on the roster the void left by Richard Sherman? With Byron Maxwell unsigned they might feel like they have to address this need as a priority if they wish to be competitive in 2018. Both Tony Pauline and Ian Rapoport have linked the Seahawks with Isaiah Oliver today. Drafting him early would solve a major need and arguably he has more potential than any other cornerback in this class to achieve greatness. However, this isn’t the way the Seahawks do things at corner. They run a scheme that allows them to plug in prototypes bought at a discount. It’d be a big departure from how they’ve done things in the past and that has to be taken into account.

— There’s a serious lack of edge rushers in this draft and that could force the Seahawks to consider the position early. Yet who are the smart, reliable and tough players at the position with no injury or character risks? There are players they could draft early, such as Kemoko Turay or Josh Sweat, but they’d be taking the kind of gamble they appear less willing to take this year.

— Do they need to draft a touchdown maker early? They had no production from the running backs last year and they’ve lost Jimmy Graham and Paul Richardson. If Russell Wilson is going to be more of a focal point in 2018 he’ll need some help.

Second round

#33 Seattle (via Cle) — Isaiah Oliver (CB, Colorado)
#34 NY Giants — Billy Price (C, Ohio State)
#35 Cleveland — Jaire Alexander (CB, Louisville)
#36 Indianapolis — Sam Hubbard (DE, Ohio State)
#37 Indianapolis — Sony Michel (RB, Georgia)
#38 Tampa Bay — Derrius Guice (RB, LSU)
#39 Chicago — Tim Settle (DT, Virginia Tech)
#40 Denver — Nick Chubb (RB, Georgia)
#41 Oakland — Geron Christian (T, Louisville)
#42 Miami — Dallas Goedert (TE, South Dakota State)
#43 New England (via SF) — Tyrell Crosby (T, Oregon)
#44 Washington — Ronald Jones II (RB, USC)
#45 Green Bay — Courtland Sutton (WR, SMU)
#46 Cincinnati — Ronnie Harrison (S, Alabama)
#47 Arizona — Carlton Davis (CB, Auburn)
#48 LA Chargers — Mason Rudolph (QB, Oklahoma State)
#49 Indianapolis — Mike Hughes (CB, UCF)
#50 Seattle (via Dal) — Christian Kirk (WR, Texas A&M)
#51 Detroit — Ian Thomas (TE, Indiana)
#52 Baltimore — Lorenzo Carter (LB, Georgia)
#53 Buffalo — Braden Smith (G, Auburn)
#54 Kansas City — Kemoko Turay (DE, Rutgers)
#55 Carolina — Rasheem Green (DE, USC)
#56 Denver (via Buf, LAR) — Connor Williams (G, Texas)
#57 Tennessee — Malik Jefferson (LB, Texas)
#58 Atlanta — Donte Jackson (CB, LSU)
#59 San Francisco (via NO) — Rashaad Penny (RB, San Diego State)
#60 Pittsburgh — B.J. Hill (DT, NC State)
#61 Jacksonville — Harrison Phillips (DT, Stanford)
#62 Minnesota — Maurice Hurst (DT, Michigan)
#63 Chicago (via NE) — Jessie Bates III (S, Wake Forest)
#64 Seattle (via Cle, Phi) — Andrew Brown (DE, Virginia)

The trades

— Buffalo trades #12, #22 and a 2019 pick to Denver for #5 to select Josh Allen

— The San Francisco 49ers trade #9 and #74 to Tampa Bay for #7 to select Tremaine Edmunds

— Cleveland trades #33, #64 and #114 to Seattle for #18 to select Kolton Miller

— Atlanta trades #26 and #90 to Dallas for the #19 pick to select Taven Bryan

— Dallas trades #50 and #90 to Seattle for Earl Thomas

Seahawks seven rounder

R2 (33) — Isaiah Oliver (CB, Colorado)
R2 (50) — Christian Kirk (WR, Texas A&M)
R2 (64) — Andrew Brown (DE, Virginia)
R3 (90) — Kalen Ballage (RB, Arizona State)
R4 (114) — Shaquem Griffin (LB, UCF)
R4 (120) — Dorance Armstrong (DE, Kansas)
R5 (141) — Leon Jacobs (LB, Wisconsin)
R5 (146) — Kameron Kelly (S, San Diego State)
R5 (156) — Tony Brown (CB, Alabama)
R5 (168) — Will Dissly (TE, Washington)
R7 (226) — Kyle Allen (QB, Houston)
R7 (248) — Keith Kirkwood (WR, Temple)

Notes

— In this projection I’ve included an Earl Thomas trade. The Cowboys trade down from #19 with Atlanta and collect a third round pick. They then use that pick and #50 to deal for Thomas. I’m not passing comment on whether I think it’s the right or wrong thing to do. I just think there’s a pretty good chance of it happening. The good news is in two days time the saga will be over one way or another.

— I’ve tried to fill multiple needs for the Seahawks, assessing where the cliffs are to maximise the number of contributors they can collect. The toughest challenge facing the Seahawks will be to bolster the D-line. The options are so thin at EDGE both in the early and later rounds. I have them passing on the early EDGE rushers (Josh Sweat, Kemoko Turay) and taking Dorance Armstrong later. I still think Andrew Brown is a viable target given his strong character, versatility and fantastic short shuttle time (a test that appeals to Seattle for defensive linemen).

— I’m not sure this is a seven-round projection that sufficiently addresses the running game. I still believe there’s a chance the Seahawks focus their attention on fixing the run. That could mean taking an offensive lineman and a running back with two of their first three picks. Yet there are so many new needs and areas to address you’ll have to see where the cliffs are in order to get ‘your guys’. And they may just think Kalen Ballage in round three and having the opportunity to go CB-WR-DL in round two is a better use of resources than taking Nick Chubb or Ronald Jones II earlier.

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274 Comments

  1. Sean-O

    Thanks for the hard work Rob! Can’t wait to see how it all comes together over the next few days. I know it’s impossible to predict but if SEA makes the moves projected above, I could see them slide down again. I like the idea of a high-end CB like Oliver (SEA would have that position locked down for years) but just wonder if they move down one more time from 32 to see if they could snag another 3rd.

  2. Ralphy

    No Rob! Don’t fall for the national media hype tying the Hawks to a DB early! It won’t happen. This was confirmed last year. 🙂

    Thanks Rob for all you do. What would we all read daily if it wasn’t for you?

    • Rob Staton

      I spent all day agonising over whether to put Oliver at #33 (which, strangely, was also a day spent at Magic Kingdom). I came to this conclusion — it’s unlikely because they never do it. And it’s likely because they have a gaping void at CB and Oliver warrants the pick after further study. But it could’ve been Corbett, Chubb, Jones II, Kirk, Price, Hurst or another there easily. Very difficult to pin down ‘one guy’ for Seattle this year. Easier to get a group of options though.

      • Michigan 12th

        Thanks for another entertaining piece. I am puzzled at your choice to go CB early, I read your argument to justify it, but still I just don’t see Pete bucking the trend on this one, especially when he has consistently developed quality CB’s from the later rounds. I think they would take Maurice Hurt before they will take a CB.

        I will say it’s easy for me to respond to these articles, because you do all the leg work and give me the information I use. Without you I would still be draft ignorant, so thank you.

        • Rob Staton

          Too many respectable people are saying it’s possible (CB early). When Tony Pauline starts discussing it, I have to listen. Plus there is a huge void to be filled there. It’s one of the few positions they haven’t addressed early. But if Oliver’s off the board I think that’s it until day three at CB.

          • Thy Hawk is Howling

            Oliver would be an optimal replacement for Sherman with his length as a cornerback.

            Mocking a player to Seattle that goes against the grain for what they’ve done in the past is a viable angle Rob.

            Either way I bet your research has calculated alot of these various variables correct Sir!

            Cheers for being such an inspired Fanatic of my team Rob Staton!

            Go….. Hawks…!!!

          • Brett

            Here is an argument for why it might just happen. For years the Seahawks had a type and no one else in the league was really looking at corners the way they were. Now everyone is looking for tall, long armed corners so waiting until the 5th or 6th round and feeling like they can get their guy isn’t really a luxury anymore.

            Before last year it was that they had never taken a corner before the 5th round … and then they take Griffin at 3/90 so they already bucked that trend. Maybe this is the year they finally take a CB early because the premium guys that fit their profile just arent falling in the draft anymore.

            • fransg

              Very good reasoning!

          • Richard aka deserteahawk

            Rob, I’ve always come here 1st, to get the goods. I rarely comment anymore because I can’t possibly keep up. But this final draft is so, Wow! If Earl is gone too, is it twice as much of a gaping hole in the D-backfield? No Kam either, means it’s the legion of beginners, till they fill 3 sets of huge shoes. I can see what you’re saying, but I can’t see this path. I bow, to your much greater assessment skills.
            Would they trade aggressively and pick this conservatively? Yeah, I guess that is their history, isn’t it? I will respect and look forward to the results.

            • Rob Staton

              The good news is we’ll all know the answers we’re looking for within 48 hours 🙂

          • STTBM

            And word came out a couple years ago Seattle was considering drafting William Jackson III in the first, even despite his arms being a tad short. Bengals got him. So they have seriously considered breaking tradition before–it just hasnt happened yet.

            Seattle has done a great job making sure there is no consensus as to which player or even positions they are targeting in the top of the Draft. This should be fun!

          • Cameron

            I understand the pressure there and can’t argue the logic. Personally, I would rather see any other of the names at 33 that you mentioned (Corbett, Chubb, Jones II, Kirk, Price, Hurst, etc.) over Oliver, and instead grab Meeks in round 4, as the value just seems much higher to me there.

            Otherwise, the remainder of this mock looks fantastic, I can only hope it holds true! Many thanks for your time and effort once again this season Rob, your work helps to make the offseason bearable!

        • Brett

          I dont know if i would go so far as to say they have consistently developed CBs in the later rounds (and i dont out Griffin as a later round CB). Jeremy Lane was really the last guy who carved out a career and he was drafted in 2012. Since then their late round CB picks (5th round and later) have been Tharold Simon, Eric Pinkins, Tye Smith, and Mike Tyson.

          • Saxon

            Rob, if you’re at the parks in Orlando be sure to check out Islands of Adventure, if you haven’t already.. The Harry Potter park is rad.

            I think if we pass on Davenport to trade down we’re making a huge mistake. No one we get in round 2 will have his impact and upside.

            Also, this is an exceptionally deep draft at CB, plus Caroll is great at developing later round DBs, so I’d rather wait on that position. I do like Oliver a lot, though.

            • drewdawg11

              Islands of adventure/ universal is money. I’ve taken several classes on field trips there. Islands is a really underrrated park, but I know you have the little ones, so f you want to go on the big kid rides, you may have to take turns with the wife. 😂

          • Michigan 12th

            I was referring to Maxwell, Justin Coleman (UDFA), Shead (UDFA), Sherman, and I was including Griffen but you could go either way on that. Plus Lane played for a while,. I am just saying that they can find guys to play corner from out of nowhere. So I guess I just have more confidence in them finding a CB than an O-lineman, or D-lineman that wreaks havoc on the opposing team. They have done OK with D-Line, but I feel their best track record at drafting has definitely been Secondary.

      • FresnoHawk

        Oliver at 33 is a great pick what’s going on in CO secondary.com

        • SheHawk

          Oliver and Thompson were teammates at Colorado. Will bring instant chemistry to LOB 2 btw the buffalos and twin turbo s (Griffin x2)

      • lil'stink

        The Magic Kingdom is agonizing enough in and of itself (unless you go there on an odd slow day).

  3. 503Hawk

    Rob, thanks for all you do. Another year in the books. Come Sunday you get to reintroduce yourself to your family.

    I just don’t see Cleveland giving up three picks to move to 18. As long as they get ahead of Cincinnati at 20 I think they can still get their man.
    Definitely not a Ballage fan.
    Pretty much like everything else.

    • Rob Staton

      Certainly this isn’t necessarily what I would do. Would prefer a focus on the running game, followed by a defensive splurge.

      • LouieLouie

        Rob: I would not be surprised if Carroll and Co agree with you. The status quo with the running game is simply not acceptable.

    • Lewis

      Yes, thanks to you, Rob, and also to the rest of the community. Don’t what I’d do without this place sometimes. I was pretty disgusted with last season and I stayed away from Seahawks news for a long time, but it was nice to know I could come here and find passionate but reasoned discussion, without incessant raging over this player or that player that had been traded or let go.

  4. no frickin' clue

    Rob,

    If these trades come to pass and Seattle is on the clock at #33, but elect to go a different direction than CB with the pick (maybe Hurst, maybe Chubb, whatever), then what caliber CBs are likely still out there at #64 or #90? How much of a talent drop-off is that from Oliver?

    Thanks for all you do on the Hawks. It’s destination reading for me.

    • Rob Staton

      Major drop off.

      They’d probably have to wait until round four and hope Holton Hill was there, or Isaac Yiadom.

    • Lewis

      If we are on the clock at 33, I’m hoping to benefit from a player that multiple teams feel they need to have, making a small/medium trade back to pick a wr/rb and add another pick.

  5. Madmark

    Sorry Rob and I love ya for ever thing you do but I just can’t buy that draft. Unless you know Cleveland just isn’t going to make that trade its just to easy to get all those draft picks. Cleveland picking from 35 to 150 just doesn’t work for me.

    • Madmark

      Love ya like a brother ROB. HeHe.

    • DCD2

      Cleveland trading down from pick #4 is the missing piece of this equation. I would think that there’s a better than 50% chance that QB’s go 1,2,3. If so, Cleveland will be fielding some interesting offers to get the last of the big 4.

      They can move down with Buffalo instead of Denver doing it and get all sorts of quality picks back that way.

    • Rob Staton

      Fair points. One of the hardest things to do this year was project every mock with the Seahawks moving down. They equally aren’t going to pick at #18 and then not again until #120. Not this year. So you have to piece together a trade that fits and players that fit. It’s been tougher than usual.

      • Sea Mode

        I feel ya on that one.

        • Mark Souza

          I only had 2 issues with Rob’s mock. First, I hate Ballage (I pray a story comes out before we pick that his first love is the ballet and he’s going to try out for the Ballansheen in June). And second, you have Denver trading out of #5 with Josh Allen on the board – no way. He’s Elway’s man-crush.

  6. James

    It’d be hard for me to pass on Rasheem Green, Maurice Hurst and Guice/Jones/Chubb/Penny in the 2nd but wouldn’t complain about Oliver, Kirk and Brown.

    Wondering if they do indeed trade Thomas, what are the chances they sign Eric Reid? Or would you feel good about McDougald, Hill, Tedric and Kameron Kelly?

    • Rob Staton

      I think they’d probably be best served adding another safety unless there was positive news coming on Kam.

  7. Millhouse-serbia

    FirsT of all one big thnx for everything you are doing.

    This would be almost perfect, dream scenario draft for me. I want Oliver, Kirk and Green. If we use one of our 4th rounds pick to trade up maybe we can get Green. 64+114 for 55.

  8. RWIII

    If the Hawks could pull off those two trades I would give everyone at the Stadium a high five at the Cowboy game.

  9. Coleslaw

    Wow Rob, good to see you go out on a limb and commit to things you weren’t comfortable projecting earlier. Like mocking an Earl trade, mocking a corner early. Props, man. Love the picks aside from Ballage.

  10. TonyD

    i love this 7 round mock

    just look at all the holes that got filled…with these players this is no longer a 9 win team.

  11. Aaron

    Mike Mayock says Hawks are going with best CB or DE on their board with their first pick. If the talent cliff is earlier for CB and DE than it is for interior OL or RB then they could go that way. JS said it himself that they got too focused on drafting for need. They need talent, and identifying those talent cliffs are going to be key to this draft. I’m okay with anything with their first pick outside QB. Go get talent and LET’S GO!!! Video link below for Mayock’s first round mock…

    https://youtu.be/94uoXTU3_iE

  12. RWIII

    Would LOVE to see those two trade senarios. But I feel I am being set up to have a huge let down.

    Agree with Madmark. Cleveland going from 35 to 150 doesn’t make sense to me

    • Lewis

      If they want a tackle that can step in and protect their #1 pick, it makes plenty of sense. The drop off from McGlinchey and Miller is large, from everything I’ve read.

      • Madmark

        I think the 1st pick is with Patriots 23 for 95 and they get their left tackle that they need can we get their 198 to even up the points , not sure its the only offer they gotten

  13. RWIII

    Here is my thinking on Cleveland. Let’s say the Browns take a QB for the first overall pick (shocker). Second the Giants take Barkley. So now that Barkley is off the board the Browns take number 4 overall pick and trade down . Now they gave acquired an extra 1st round pick. With those two picks they could acquire a OT and a running back. Plus they would still have three 2nd round picks. So now you have 6 picks in the first two rounds instead of 4 picks.

    • Lewis

      There isn’t an RB worth taking and you’ve given up the premier edge rusher. Personally, if it were me, I’d be taking the RB at 1.

      • Mark Souza

        I’m with you Lewis. None of the QB’s in this class is a lock franchise QB. Most are very raw, and all have issues. There is better value at other positions.

        • Michigan 12th

          That’s what a lot of people were saying about Watson last year and he is one of the most exciting rookie QB’s we have seen in a long time. I would not say there are not franchise QB’S in this draft. I think there will be. If I am the Browns no way I pass on my QB. QB far greater value to a team than a RB. I don’t even think Barkley is as good as Zeke was coming out of college. I would definitely take my QB from this class at number 1 and not even consider anything else.

    • Hawktalker#1

      So is your point that with these additional picks it make the trade with the Hawks more likely?

      • RWIII

        Hawktalk. Under my senario. It would be less likely the Browns would trade up with Seattle.

        However, if I was Buffalo I probably would not trade those two 1st round picks to the Browns. The Bills need three offensive linemen, plus a Quarterback. The Bills really don’t need to trade up for a QB unless there is a QB that stands head and shoulders above the remaining QBs in their eyes. I heard the Bills like Mason Rudolph. Rudolph probably isn’t their 1sr choice. But I think the Bills are comfortable with Rudolph.

    • DCD2

      I think the Browns take a QB and then trade down regardless of Chubb or Saquon being available. The Bills will give up a ton to get a QB.

      This then begs the question of whether they would even need to trade up with us though.

    • Net Beselek

      This is such a weird draft. All of the pundits say this is such a good draft for QBs, and that Cleveland will absolutely take one of them. Yet the all also point out the deficiencies that all of the QBs have.

      If I were the Brownies staff I would take Barkley first, all day, every day. Then I would know that I could still get one of what considered the top three QBs, and the top RB in the draft.

      • Michigan 12th

        The problem is they have the number 1 pick, and if they pass on a guy that kills it, while the guy they get does not, then they will be run out of town. They can not make that mistake again, they have to take QB with number 1. Further we do not know what Barkley is going to be, he would not be the first can’t miss running back to miss in the NFL. Ricky Williams comes to mind. He was a can’t miss pick coming out of college, and he did very little.

        • Lewis

          Ricky Williams flaming out had nothing to do with talent. Guy was a head case. But yeah, you need to do your research so that doesn’t happen. But there’s exactly one guy in this draft thought to be a generational talent, and that’s Barkley. The QBs are going high because teams need them, but that doesn’t make this the ‘83 class..

  14. DCD2

    Rob, you have Indy taking Sony Michel and Rashaad Penny back to back in the 2nd. Just curious, is that because you think they’ll take one of them and are going for the Huddle score, or think they would actually take 2 RB’s so early and feel those two compliment each other? They have high hopes for Marlon Mack and he seems like the same type of player as Michel.

    • Rob Staton

      Made a mistake, now rectified.

  15. DCD2

    If we miss on Hurst by two picks to take Brown, I will probably break my TV… just sayin

    • hughmungusfan

      Completely agree. why so much interest in Brown? don’t get it.

  16. Ashish

    Great job @Rob every day you came up most interesting read this off season.
    I agree with other user, i will be shocked Hawks pick CB as their first pick. PC is too confident to make late rounder to deliver. B Max is still available as an option. I hope to see RB or OL/Guard/DE as a first pick.

    Good luck to Hawks and all 12’s out there. Let’s not panic whatever PC/JS decide to do next 3 days.

    • Hawktalker#1

      I also wonder if keeping Max in their back pocket is just a different kind of CB draft hedge. Can always sign him after the draft. Personally I think they could use a CB with more speed, but there is no substitute for experience.

  17. AndrewP

    Rob (or anyone who knows)- Do Kemoko Turray or Sam Hubbard have character concerns? Only objection is have with this draft is I’d rather take one of those two @33, then Hill in RD5.

    Otherwise, I can’t find a lot of complaints here. Thanks for everything, Rob!

    • Rob Staton

      No character concerns. Turay isn’t considered the most intelligent player and there are some concerns about his ability to pick up a new scheme but overall he’s seen to be a good kid and a plus athlete. Hubbard is all work. Turay has injury history though (shoulder issue) and Hubbard might not be quite special enough.

  18. Hawktalker#1

    If this is PCs way of fixing a priority problem, the run game, it will be hard to believe anything he says going forward. This would be a joke. IMO, the run game wouldn’t improve a bit with this draft. Also, regardless of what reputable sources say, Seattle has a way of doing things (i.e. Where they pick CBs) and until they break that habit, it’s hard to mock an early CB. Seeing is believing and so much of the rest is just educated guessing. Part of me doesn’t care how bad they screw up this draft as long as we get a Chubb, Jones or Johnson @ RB and Quem. Actually, if they can get that done, I think the rest will work itself out. I’m already starting to get that crappy 2017 draft feeling. Say what you want, to date 2017 was a bad draft IMO.

    • Saxon

      Pete fired Cable and Bevell and replaced them with two guys bringing in new blocking schemes and play calling.If our backs can stay healthy the running game should graduate to at least average.

      I’m hoping we get Penny, but Ballage is a good option in a backfield by committee….

      • Mark Souza

        I don’t look on it as a bad draft. We got a starting lineman, a CB on his way to being All Pro, Naz Jones – the big Energizer bunny who is everywhere, and a starting RB (who unfortunately got hurt). And in the wings is a group we don’t know about yet because as rookies, they couldn’t displace the future Hall of Famers and All-Pros in front of them to get on the field.

        The only real disappointment is that we never got to see what Malik McDowell could do on the field and likely never will.

    • AlaskaHawk

      Except PC has always wanted a great defense too. So it is hard to criticize a defensive pick. And even though we think they can find cornerbacks later in the draft, they have an uneven record of that since the early days of Kam Chancellor and Richard Sherman. I think the real criteria for these folks shouldn’t be their size or speed, it is whether they are capable of fighting for the ball and making an interception. Whether they are a Game Changer! Like Richard Sherman who was so feared that many QBs wouldn’t even throw to his side of the field.

  19. Greg Haugsven

    I would take a draft like that all day long.

  20. James

    Fill out the card, Rob, and pass it to the Commish. I would be very happy with this haul. I am a little worried about Isaiah Oliver being rumored as a fast-riser and going late R1, and he seems by-far the best CB for the Seahawks, but we will trust that you (and John) have read the board correctly. You meet all our needs, and with a load of outstanding players to stock up the roster.

    Earl for a R2 and R3 (for Kirk and Ballage) is adding firepower; and I believe you have to trade him if you have decided not to extend him. I think it will take a rare player at a position where quicks aren’t the key factor, for Seattle to agree to any more 3rd contracts, only for guys like Russ, Brown and Wagz.

  21. Dale

    Who would the Hawks take if they can’t bail on #18? Davenport? If Davenport is taken Leighton Vander Esch might be available. Mayock has him ranked as the 20th best player and doesn’t have him taken in the first round. He screams Patriots to me but he’s the kind of athlete and character JS has been touting. He’s also got some pass rush potential. If Denver is looking at Quentin Nelson I don’t think they trade out for any reason. Two pretty good players don’t equal one perennial all pro.

    • Rob Staton

      They’ll be able to bail on #18

  22. Josh Emmett

    Thanks for all the analysis. It’s been fun as always! I like the spin on your final mock. The trenches are king in the early rounds in my humble opinion and I’d be surprised if they went corner with their first pick of the draft but it is the Pete Carroll/John Schneider Seahawks so who knows! Especially this year! Thanks to all the lovely conversation from the Motley Crue on here too! One of my favorite sports outlets!

  23. John

    Rob-

    If a top safety such as Derwin James or Minkah Fitzpatrick slides to 18 for some reason, do you think the Hawks will bite or still opt for a trade down?

    • Rob Staton

      Trade down

  24. Strategicdust

    Another year of incredible coverage, thanks so much for your hard work and dedication. This draft leaves me so uneasy. There are so many holes to fill and so much pressure to get it right. LA and SF are on the rise and they can’t afford another missed year of prospects not working out.
    I don’t see Cleveland making this trade, it would d certainly be a dream scenario for Seattle. I think they end up making a couple of smaller trade down moves and pick up a third or fourth round pick to increase the pool. I don’t see the Thomas trade happening either. I think Jerry Jones doesn’t want to “lose” a trade and will just wait it out a year.
    My guess is that the Seahawks go D-line first to get more pass rush and then take the best RB or WR remaining in the third round. They’ll have better luck adding additional picks in rounds 3-5 than in the first two rounds. Hope I’m wrong, it’s much more fun with the dream scenarios. Especially hope things break the right way this year and have a strong draft to rebuild!

  25. Madmark

    If I really could get one player it would be Barkley but that’s a pipe dream. The next best guy, Nick Chubbs, has the athletics they love. He can run between the tackles and wear the line down for the change of pace back to jump in with more speed.
    In all seriousness I have been more aware of the players that play in the NFL since I started this draft thing in 2010 with draft blog with ROB. In my time here there is no right or wrong to how the draft goes. It is the predictions and if you get some guys right. The ya wanted will go to other teams and you can follow them. If they do great you will always have bragging rights. I will harp to the end of Days that I had Tracey Kelce as my pick when we picked running back and the next pick he was gone. I’m still piss about that. I have my jersey Nu 12 Dickinson.
    we I ranted enough I want Nick Chubb and Billy Price . That improves my running game and about time Rees gets hurt Billy will be ready to jump in. Hoping to get him with pick 50. The draft is nothing like march madness for the championship. If you get 2 in your draft you had a god draft. Robs throw us lots of offense line prospects over a couple of years and Seattle has not taken them but that doesn’t mean I haven’t watched where they went. 600 players in this draft can I get 2 of them for my team right. Nick Chubb and Billy Price and then I have my run fix the best I came. Done raving

  26. HawkfaninMT

    Wow! Did not see a CB before round 3 coming! Would have expected wynn before Oliver even!

    I think they keep ET, and deal with Cleveland.

    I would like: Oliver, RoJo along with signing Dez and CJA

    I think they go: Corbett, Sweat, Ballage

  27. DCD2

    Quick question Rob. Do you think that Tony Pauline has “sources” telling him that we would consider a CB as our first pick, or is it more a “feeling” based on us meeting with Oliver and not exactly having a 2nd starting CB heading into the draft?

    I tend to take what many of the National guys (Mayock, ESPN, etc.) say with a grain of salt as they don’t seem to have a clue about how Seattle approaches a draft, but I know that you and many of us respect Tony. Just wondering if this Oliver idea seems like more of an insider thing, or a connect-the-dots thing.

    • Rob Staton

      I think teams within the league have a feel for what other teams will do. Heck, even Chris Mortensen told Russell Wilson he was going to be a Seahawk before the draft. Tony has proven, legit contacts and I think Seattle are the type of team that’s either a little easier to read within the league circles or maybe they have a way of doing things that is a little more transparent.

  28. Ely

    I don’t know why they wouldn’t just sign Maxwell back as a stopgap for one or two years. This way they can select a corner in the 3rd rd and beyond per the usual it the next draft. If they take didnt take King last year I have a hard time believing they ever go corner early. Should be a very interesting draft. I hope they take the likes of Wynn or RoJo but I fully expect to be angry at their trades, picks and overall draft after Sunday! 😆
    thanks for another great season Rob! Cheers!

  29. DCD2

    One more, Rob (and the rest of SDB)… If you were John and Pete for a day and knew that the board would fall exactly like this, who would you take with our first 3 picks?

    Chubb/Hurst/Anthony Miller for me

    • hughmungusfan

      Guice/Williams/Gesicki

  30. peter

    Rob excellent work. I’ve stared at this draft for a bit. I’ve come to terms with Oliver (because he’s good!) I don’t understand but get the sense that ballage is happening. I’m pretty meh and don’t see the point of that pick since I have big doubts on him upgrading anything, maybe improving the fairly vague episode role…?….

    I really like the other picks. But I’m curious about armstrong. what made you think him? His tape is pretty uninspiring and he’s not some uber athlete. Is their a bunch of was there a point that made you think he’s a possible choice.

    • Rob Staton

      Ballage fits their physical profile to a tee, they worked him out in Arizona and he’s probably the last RB they can take with a chance to be a somewhat useful contributor.

      Wouldn’t be my pick.

  31. hughmungusfan

    Thanks for doing this. I like the way this draft fell for us but I’d prefer a different set of the players available. You’ve got to go with Derrius Guice if he’s there or Rojo. Ballage is not a comparable back. We don’t have room for more RBs on the roster who are not suited to take the first snap.
    R2P1 – Derrius Guice

    Second I really like Kirk and see his value immediately making an impact, but if Connor Williams is there I can’t see the Hawks passing on a Guard like that.
    R2P18 – Connor Williams

    As for your third pick, I couldn’t disagree more. Andrew Brown would be a massive waste of a 2nd round pick. He’ll be there in the 4th or 5th even, and there are much better options available at DE although nfl.com has him listed as a D Tackle. If you’re shopping for a DE Da’Shawn Hand and Jalyn Holmes are better at that spot. If you’re shopping for a DT Derrick Nnadi, Nathan Shepherd and Foley Fatukasi are better. Or you could grab this dude 3 rounds later.. For this pick, I’d go for an impact TE.
    R2P32 – Mike Gesicki

    I can’t see how the rest of your draft rolled out but some quick reactions:
    R3P90 – Holton Hill for sure, He and Brown would be a nice pair.
    Great LB picks!!! Tough choice between Leon Jacobs and Fred Warner.
    For DE I’d prefer Jalyn Holmes over Dorance Armstrong or I’d get Kentavious Street.
    For S I’d much rather see Kyzir White than Kameron Kelly if he’s there or get another DE/DT/EDGE.
    Good pick with Dissly for run blocking, I’d be cool with 2 TEs chosen.

    R2 (33) – Derrius Guice, RB
    R2 (50) – Connor Williams, G
    R2 (64) – Mike Gesicki, TE
    R3 (90) – Holton Hill, CB
    R4 (114) – Shaquem Griffin, LB
    R4 (120) – Jalyn Holmes, DE
    R5 (141) – Kyzir White, SS
    R5 (146) – Leon Jacobs, LB
    R5 (156) – Tony Brown, CB
    R5 (168) – Will Dissly, TE
    R7 (226) – Kyle Allen, QB
    R7 (248) – Keith Kirkwood, WR

    • Rob Staton

      Too much going on with Guice.

      • hughmungusfan

        For sure, I’d be just as happy with RJII. My suspicion as a self-proclaimed occasional conspiracy theorist is that the Eagles want him at the end of the 1st and have drummed up this entire character story themselves with his permission so that he can get a SB ring right off the bat.

        A stretch but a theory nonetheless…

    • Sea Mode

      Thanks for putting this together. Three massive question marks with our first three picks though? No way for me. This is exactly the type of draft I would hope they stay away from.

      Like all your picks after that though.

      • hughmungusfan

        Got it. I wasn’t aware of any question marks with Connor or Mike when I made this. Character concerns or on field concerns?

        My argument for Guice is JuiceMode. He may not be able to match BeastMode for comedic value in his off-field choices but can’t deny Marshawn was also a bit of a wildcard.

        • hughmungusfan

          Hyundai just signed Guice, so he can’t be that bad (sarcasm)

          • Kenny Sloth

            He jyst did a head and shoulders commercial

            • hughmungusfan

              draft him for sure then

    • Trevor

      I would not touch Guice! I bet he falls out of the first 3 Rounds. Way too much drama and he had not even played a snap in the NFL yet.

      • hughmungusfan

        He didn’t have any infractions at LSU. I just don’t get the character concerns being drummed up about him and we will never know for sure whether those questions were asked at the combine or not. Either way, we can just teach him how to handle the press like Lynch did and he won’t have to say anything.

        Looking back at our Super Bowl roster it was built on a high-risk, high-reward character policy and I’m not sure how I feel about breaking away from that like Pete has been saying. Key cogs like Sherman, Lynch, and Irvin for example.

  32. Kelly Smith

    I’m not complaining about the trades I just want to make a point about how annoying it is the value in the NFL. An Unproven athlete Taven Bryan no matter how great his film is, is worth more draft capital then Earl Thomas…The best safety in the league IN HIS prime, and the best safety since Troy Polamalu…Just doesn’t seem fair. What a cruel world.

    • Chris

      He’s not worth more than Earl … he’s worth more than Earl + Earl’s huge salary.

  33. Volume12

    I’ll use Rob’s trades with Cleveland. Will exclude the ET trade even though it’s plausible 2nd if it does happen? Pull the trigger on Stanford’s Justin Reid

    2nd. Isaiah Oliver, CB Colorado: Said it before. I believe in my heart of hearts that Bradley Roby was their guy in 2014. Just because they’ve never gone corner this early don’t meant they won’t. Oliver is the most ‘Seahawky’ of this group. Athletic as hell.

    2nd. Mo Hurst, DT, Michigan: He screams PC guy at me. Seattle has spent more picks on the DT position in the last 5 years than any other team. This is the spot they’ve historically either pounced on someone who falls or pulled a rabbit out the hat

    3rd. Dante Pettis, WR, Udub: One of the better route runners in this class. Replaces P-Rich. Adds to STs.

    4th. Royce Freeman, HB, Oregon: What can I say? I love him. Was between him, Ballage, and Scarbrough. Freeman is value if you can get it here. THE sleeper at RB. Flying under the radar. Safe pick. Either you get a workhorse or a damn good #2. (6th most yards after contact in 2017)

    4th. Dorance Armstrong, DE, Kansas: Production took a dip this year. He was the lone guy on that line. But, fits the ‘scout the body of work m.o.’ Has a Cliff Avril like mindset of always trying to strip/knock the ball out.

    5th. Natrell Jamerson, S, Wisconsin: A prototype center fielder at FS. Cover 1 & 3 teams will take more of a liking to him.

    5th. Durham Smythe, TE, ND: Excellent blocker, good size and soft hands.

    5th. Skyler Phillips, OL/G, Idaho St.: Like his backstory and upbringing. Plays with a self described chip on his shoulder. Moves easily, very good balance, smart kid that could also play C. Looks like an NFL G.

    5th. Chase Edmonds, HB, Fordham: Throw a dart at him, Ito Smith, or Wadley. Went with Edmonds for a few reasons-
    A) He caught my eye at the combine
    B) Incredibly smart with what’s said to be a work ethic that’s second to none and is over looked something we know that attracts Seattle
    C) Last but not least, he can do a little bit of everything. Incredibly elusive

    *Seattle moves up into the 6th using one of their 7ths*

    6th. J.T. Barrett, QB, Ohio St.: Ideal game manager type. Dudes a winner. Team captain what, 3 years IIRC?

    7th. Jacob Pugh, LB/EDGE, Florida St.: Let’s load up here and in UDFA on some athletic hybrids at LB that are projects but come with high upside. He was used sparingly, but can play multiple LB positions and rush the passer.

    UDFA:

    Khalid Hill, FB, Michigan
    Peter Kalambayi, LB, Stanford
    Jacob Martin, LB/EDGE, Temple
    Josh Frazier, DT, ‘Bama

    Wanted to and would’ve loved to slot Shaquem Griffin in but couldn’t find a spot. Hope that’s wrong for reals.

    Whatever the case may be, and these are probably all wrong, the next few days are gonna be wild!

    • HawkfaninMT

      I like it… would add Jordan Thomas in the 7th, but that’s just cause he’s my guy!

    • Volume12

      * throw in a Greg Senat, OT, Wagner in UDFA for sh**s and gigs. Basketball player turned NFL O-lineman with almost 34″ arms and close to 85″ wingspan? Hmmm…

      • Thy Hawk is Howling

        Vol!

        I didn’t realize you are down for Pettis! Dante is a very special player he’s got this way about him. Elusive and slippery, Deceptively Fast, excellent vision, reliable hands, great at high pointing the ball, and seems to comprehend route tree equations. His personality seems genuinely nice while not being conceded and all about him.

        He’s a guy who Loves Football and has been given a gift of talent for the game.

        Oh I almost forgot (NOT) He holds the All Time Division 1 College
        Football Record with NINE punt returns for Touchdowns. I think his punt return skills will translate to the NFL because he’s excellent at setting up his blocks instead of relying on his Speedy Gonzales athleticism. I believe he’s very much a student of the game.

        Yes UW is my team. However I wasn’t obsessed with John Ross last or any UW player recently. Now Beno Bryant, Napoleon Koffman, and Corey Dillon I wanted the Hawks to draft as a Younger Ladie. Oh and I really wanted Jake Locker but we got DangeRuss now!

        I’m gonna freak the Frack out when we Draft Dante!

        It’s the final Countdown Sea gals and Sea Lads!

        Go Robbie and all of SDB !!!

        Who’s down with SDB?
        Yeah you know We!

        • Thy Hawk is Howling

          Oh I can go back and copy and paste my well thought out Brilliant ( See DruDawg I don’t have a inferiority Complex, I’m fairly confident you were speaking to me) Plan to Guarantee we get Dante Pettis.

          I hope some of you read that, I was just having a Laugh (Joking around) and sometimes I make myself chuckle out loud. I’m just having a little fun when I’m having a smoke and trying to connect with some of Y’all.

          Before I found this Site I didn’t know Shit about anybody really after the First Round National Mocks and UW players of course.

          I wish I had more to offer you hardcore American Football Draft People. I’m fairly confident I could become a good Scout however I Love other things more.

          I just enjoy watching the game and Cheering my Team’s!

          Note: This post took me two Cigs. I hope to connect with some of you tomorrow however last year I was late to the party due to work and by the time I got on SDB it was so flooded it took 45-60 minutes to update the comments and by the time it did, the party had moved and I was late again. Repeat over and over. Maybe this year I’ll just make a reply on someone’s comment. I want to play to!

    • C-Dog

      That’s a great looking draft. Oliver and Hurst would be terrific additions.

      • DCD2

        Agreed. Sign me up for this one.

    • Trevor

      Love that draft and the UDfA class! Nice work Vol.

    • Sea Mode

      Great mock, Vol. Glad to see you stuck with your guys in the end. Scout has to trust what he sees.

      Armstrong for me is just not quick or explosive enough. Would much rather slot in Shaquem or someone else at that spot.

      The rest look like just good, solid football players.

    • Brandon

      Totally agree with the Hurst pick there.
      Interior pass rush is a huge need, and what they were hoping to get with Malik.
      Even if Hurst isn’t a complete player at this point, he can be a difference maker right away.

    • Kenny Sloth

      Man Vol thats such a unique and complete class.

      Love Freeman and Armstrong.

      Really good work.

      The draft season is over, long live the draft season

  34. Rad_man

    Nice mock, Rob. I often rib and critique but I love the logic and explanation here. Well done.

    I think the run game was largely fixed predraft, and in general that a draft aimed at “fixing” a problem rather than acquiring young talent is a recipe for failure. I hope the Seahawks just try to acquire as much good young talent as possible without worrying about fixing a specific issue. It’s my belief they have the RB talent on roster already, and the issues running the ball were mostly the fault of a coach who believed drew Nowak could start at center with 2 weeks of experience and Luke Joekel was the best guard in the league. Note both those guys and a few others Cable trotted our to start in the midst of the Seahawks championship window aren’t even on a roster right now. The level of failure Cable was responsible for and the long leash given to him is difficult to properly grasp and express. The game simply passed him by -rule changes and player personalities both. Their run game got better the minute they let him go.

    Now it’s time to add talent at as many positions as possible.

    • McZ

      So, how was Cable able to do this? Did he go to PCJS “hey, guys, another great idea” when it was clear the line he presided over was worse than ape shit DESPITE getting high draft picks? The ultimate responsibility falls to PCJS.

      It was utterly clear to outsiders having no romantic connection to the Hawks, that their player development stopped working around 2015. The lost SB has led to a plethora of patches and third stringers signing to keep the core together and the championship window open. The picks were not designed to kick the old guards arse, so they didn’t.

      I’m delighted, these days are gone. Everything needs to be on the table in the next two seasons.

      • Mark Souza

        And I think it’s a bit premature to say the run game is now fixed. We brought in one lineman who was a cast-off from his last team, and a new line coach. For RBs we have Carson coming off injury, Prosise who is never healthy, McKissic who is a wide receiver who sometimes runs sweeps as a change of pace, and Mike Davis who flashed in spots when called on.

        I’ll believe the run game is fixed when I see it on the field. In reality, this has the potential to being Prosise’s swan song. That would leave us with 2 real backs. I would hope we draft two, or at least 1 with another coming via UDFA.

  35. Coach

    If Sutton SMU is there, is he better than Kirk? He looks pretty good to me!

  36. FresnoHawk

    If the Hawks acquire pick 33 I think they will trade it.

  37. Millhouse-serbia

    Here is my final draft table for 2018 with updated data’s from AH, MM , LZ and DJ.

    I have added Terrell Edmunds and Travarius Moore. MM is Mike Mayock. I have used Rob’s tiers for grading players in RS column.

  38. Dave Ashton

    Interesting u turn on drafting a corner first for your final draft. What drive this Rob?

    • Kenny Sloth

      Tony Pauline and the lack of talent on the roster.

    • Rob Staton

      Just one scenario that could happen and one we haven’t looked at it in a mock yet.

      They haven’t addressed corner properly since Sherman departed, if they trade Earl they might need a key pick in the secondary. Oliver one of only a small handful of corners who fit.

  39. DriveByPoster

    Hi Rob,

    Love the work. Hate the mock! If NE come away with Rashaad Evans AND Isiah Wynn I think I will be violently ill!
    😉

  40. Kenny Sloth

    Rob’s Post Mock roster

    DE: Cliff Avril, Frank Clark, Dion Jordan, Marcus Smith, Branden Jackson, Christian French, , Noble Nwachukwu, Dorance Armstrong Jr, 8

    DT: Jarran Reed, Tom Johnson, Shamar Stephen, Naz Jones, Quinton Jefferson, Andrew Brown, 6

    LB: Bobby Wagner, KJ Wright, Barkevious Mingo, DJ Alexander, Josh Forrest, Paul Dawson, Shaquem Griffin, Leon Jacobs, 8

    S: Kam Chancellor, Earl Thomas, Bradley McDougald, Maurice Alexander, Delano Hill, Tedric Thompson, Akeem King, Kameron Kelly, 8

    CB: Shaquill Griffin, Justin Coleman, Dontae Johnson, Neiko Thorpe, DeAndre Elliot, Mike Tyson, Alex Carter, Isaiah Oliver, Tony Brown II, 9

    Defense: 39

    OL: Duane Brown, Germain Ifedi, George Fant, Isaiah Battle, , Tyrus Thompson 5

    OG: DJ Fluker, Ethan Pocic, Rees Odhiambo, Willie Beavers 4

    OC: Justin Britt, Joey Hunt 2

    WR: Doug Baldwin, Tyler Lockett, Jaron Brown, Amarah Darboh, Marcus Johnson, David Moore, Cyril Grayson, Tanner McEvoy, Christian Kirk, Keith Kirkwood, 10

    QB: Russell Wilson, Austin Davis, Stephen Morris, Kyle Allen, 4

    RB: Chris Carson, Mike Davis, CJ Prosise, JD McKissic, Kalen Ballage, 5

    FB: Jalston Fowler, Tre Madden, 2

    TE: Ed Dickson, Nick Vannett, Tyrone Swoopes, Will Dissly, 4

    Offense: 36

    Kicker: Sebastian Janikowski, Justin Myers

    Punter: Jon Ryan

    Long snapper: Tyler Ott

    Special Teams: 4

    Total: 79

    • McZ

      Didn’t he trade ET?

      • Kenny Sloth

        😤 +78 haha

        • Bill Bobaggins

          Barkevious Mingo

          • DCD2

            He’s on there at LB.

  41. Kenny Sloth

    Hey Rob, who are your must-have undrafted free agents following your final mock??

    • Kenny Sloth

      Rob if Oliver isn’t there/goes in the first, do you take Carlton Davis, Chubb, Price, or just trade again.

      I guess I’m asking if you have a special grade on Oliver. His tape was very fine, but not so far removed from Davis’ to suggest much drop-off. More differenr in terms of personality.

      • Rob Staton

        They could possibly trade down to 38 and take Kirk there.

  42. Awsi Dooger

    This is easily the best comment I’ve seen this draft season, regarding the Eagles and their analytic exploitation everywhere:

    https://twitter.com/evansilva/status/989194275840806913?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fforums.footballsfuture.com%2Findex.php%3Fapp%3Dcore%26module%3Dsystem%26controller%3Dembed%26url%3Dhttps%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2Fevansilva%2Fstatus%2F989194275840806913

    Bravo. Subjectivity is so boring and overmatched I’m amazed anyone still relies on it. The words tape and film are the definition of regulating.

    Anyone who rejects analytics will be steadily reduced to irrelevancy. Heck, even the Olympic curling gold medalists this year were apparently decided by which teams were willing to embrace analytics and which ones were not:

    http://www.cbc.ca/sports/olympics/curling/curling-moneyball-analytics-1.4623584

    • Rob Staton

      Who’s rejecting analytics?

      • Rad_man

        What’s funny about the eagles embracing analytics is they abandoned what analytics tell them about trading up for a draft pick… to get wentz… who had great tape. Lol

  43. Kenny Sloth

    http://seahawkerspodcast.com

    Dont forget to listen to Rob on the seahawker podcast

  44. C-Dog

    Going to project the trade back with Cleveland, trading Earl Thomas to Dallas, moving up into R3 for 5 day two picks.

    R2P33 Christian Kirk, WR, Texas A&M

    Would love to see Isaiah Oliver become a Seahawk, or Rashaan Green, but that workout with PC/JS there was almost too telling. Feels like the cliff for WR is sooner than CB. If WRs start dropping early, does this force Seattle to grab their guy with their first pick?

    R2P50 Dallas Goedert, TE, South Dakota State

    Again, would love for Seatle to go defense here, but If Seattle has an opportunity to grab two pass catchers that fit the Coryell like gloves and have star potential, I think they may not resist.

    R2P64. Kemoko Turay, EDGE, Rutgers.

    Seattle goes for a raw LEO type with freaky athleticism, kind of round the say area of the draft where they took freaky and raw edge rusher Frank Clark a few years ago. Probably not going to find this guy later on in the draft, and can go inside/out rusher later.

    R3P81 Derrick Nnadi, DT, Florida State

    Not going to be the sexiest pick, but neither was the guy he comps towards. The second pick from Dallas lands them Mebane 2.0, which they might genuinely covet, and feel they’ve missed up front. This also may give them the ability to move Jarran Reed to base 3T, which could be an decent fit for him.

    R3P94 Kalen Ballage, RB, Arizona State

    Seattle deals with Minnesota to move on the RB they’ve been targeting once others start leaving the board more. Would rather see them go for Chubb earlier, but is feels like they are going to wait the position out.

    R4P120 Shaquem Griffin, LB, Central Florida

    Carroll gets his guy. He will likely be situational, but I kinda see Quem as Rufus Porter 2.0. Special teams ace and pass rushing demon.

    R5P146 Tony Brown, CB, Alabama

    If Seattle doesn’t get Oliver early, I take solace that they will know when to take corner later. Brown is Seahawky.

    R5P156

    Natrell Jamerson, S, Wisconsin

    Fast moving, hard hitting safety who might also play nickel. Could this guy be a bit of a Honey Badger?

    R7P226 Justin Pugh, LB, Florida State

    Long athlete backer to compete at SAM

    R7P248 Kyle Allen, QB, Houston

    Seattle takes late round flyer on a live armed former 5 star recruit.

    No offensive lineman taken, not inside/out rusher, and only one RB taken. Byron Maxwell could still be brought back, and they might look for another 5T via free agency.

    • Trevor

      That would be a nice group of players for sure!

    • peter

      That’s a great draft. I resolution so of those players but one and even if ballage takes over and actually plays games in the episode role? could make me turn on him and like him as a player.

      • peter

        thanks kindle!

        I was trying to say that I love most of these players and hope that ballage might take over for prosise which of he played would actually make me like Ballage so even that would be a win.

        • C-Dog

          It does kinda feel like the interest in Ballage might be signaling that they don’t have great confidence in Prosise. I’ve been wondering a bit that maybe Prosise is a guy that they are talking about when mentioning “knowing what is inside a man’s heart” in terms of some speculation out there that he pulls himself out of play and practice with injuries others would play and practice through.

    • Sea Mode

      Nice work, C-Dog!

      I’m kind of torn on Goedert. Seems like a guy the Hawks would like, just that the cost is so high for someone unproven at a higher level of competition.

      At this point, in your scenario I’d rather go RB at #50 and then hope for Ian Thomas at #94 or Chris Herndon later.

      Nnadi is just a meat and potatoes pick for sure.

      • C-Dog

        I’m probably more in your camp Sea Mode in regards to TE, but I think if they think Goedert can be, say, Gronk special, they might jump on that early. As much as I would prefer early picks to go either defense, or RB, I can’t help but feel the likelihood that they are going to replenish weapons for RW. Even the RB they are tied to is a pass catcher.

      • Lewis

        Yeah, I’d rather have Thomas instead of Goedert. Aside from that, awesome.

  45. CharlieTheUnicorn

    If Seattle takes a CB second round… that would knock my socks off.

    • Bill Bobaggins

      Whoa…slow down buddy.

  46. RWIII

    I think the Browns take Josh Allen.

    Darnold is still on the board. But the Giants grab Barkley.

    The Jets select Baker Mayfield.

    Now the Browns are on the clock. They can take Chubb or trade down. WOW! If I am Dorsey at least early in his career you build around Allen. If the Browns find an offer they like trade down . The Browns need to add a OT, running back and a tight end. There is no one worthy of a number 4 pick at those positions . So unless Barkley is there. Trade down if you can. Here is the problem. The Bills like Josh Allen. But Allen is off the board. Arizona wants to trade up. But they don’t have the pics to move up to 4. The Browns can’t find a trading partner. So they settle for Chubb.

    Denver takes Vita Vea.

    The Colts need to protect Andrew Luck. So they had better take Question Nelson.

    Tampa Bay takes Derwin James

    Da Bears need help on the offensive side of the football. Their young QB needs all kind of help. So they trade down with Arizona. Arizona then selects Sam Darnold.

    San Francisco goes linebacker. Roquan Smith.

    The Raiders re AZ check for Mike McGlinchey.

    Tremaine Edmonds goes to the Dolphins

    The Bills then take Josh Boy Rosen.

  47. CharlieTheUnicorn

    I think one thing is crystal clear

    Derrius Guice, RB

    will not be a Seahawk due to off the field concerns.

  48. RWIII

    The Raiders reach for Mike McGlinchey.

  49. Trevor

    Xmas is finally here!

    Thanks Rob for another incredibly detailed and explained mock. Hard to argue WiFi your logic and the picks.

    This an incredibly difficult year to mock with all the potential trades at the top of the draft and the Hawks clear need to trade back and get picks.

    My top 3 Hawks predictions for the Hawks

    #1 they will trade back multiple times into the early 2nd and their first pick will be Isiah Oliver or Josh Sweat.

    #2 Shaqueem Griffin will be a Seahawk

    #3 The Hawks will draft at least one Wisconsin Badger (Jamerson, Nelson or Jacobs)

    • Logan Lynch

      I like all 3 of those. Really hoping #2 is right, but I have this feeling in my gut someone else is going to scoop him up first. I’m really down with #3 as well. I would love finding a way to get 2 of the 3. Jacobs + one of the others. Particularly Jamerson if ET is traded.

  50. Kenny Sloth

    I’m not drafting a cornerback in the first, when the draft is so deep in DB talent.

    Kameron Kelly, Holton Hill, Tony Brown, Jordan Thomas.

    Definitely worth not gettin Oliver. That said, I have a good grade on the guy and he looks like a starter day one. I wouldnt be mad at the pick, but you’re Not gonna find Lorenzo Carter later on, no Billy Price, no Dallas Goedert, no Chubb, Rasheem Green after round 2.

    33 Christian Kirk replaces Paul Richardson
    50 Nick Chubb fixes the run game
    64 Ogbonnia Okoronkwo has that 3 cone we like
    90 Breeland Speeks replaces Dion Jordan who replaces Mike B
    114 Shaq Griffin adds speed on defense
    120 Dorance Armstrong Jr. replaces Frank Clark who repaces Cliff
    141 Kameron Kelly replaces Deshawn Shead
    146 Tyler Conklin replaces Luke Willson
    156 Poona Ford is that Jesse Williams type
    168 Tony Brown II can be a nickle
    226 Jordan Thomas Oklahoma
    248 Keith Kirkwood can replace Darboh

    UDFA
    Khalid Hill FB
    Dalton Sturm QB
    Matthew McCrane K

    Picking 6 times between 114-168 once every ten picks almost.

    Christian Kirk is a real leader and one of the few viable talents at WR
    Chubb is a no-nonsense runner. All football, exactly what we need.
    Okoronkwo is a bit of an anomaly, but has everything we want.
    Breeland Speeks could offer inside versatility down the line
    Shaquem Griffin is for speed and culture
    Dorance Armstrong is a leo and a leader. Countermoves and eyes.
    Kameron Kelly can hit and cover. Versatile DB
    Tyler Conklin is gonna be real good.
    Poona Ford is an aggressive talent at DT. Chippy fighter.
    Tony Brown II has a mouth like Sherman. Track athlete. Raw
    Jordan Thomas (OU DB) is confident and tested really well.
    Keith Kirkwood is a professional with a good frame.

    Grab a QB, K, FB in udfa.

    DE: Frank Clark, Dion Jordan, Marcus Smith, Branden Jackson, Christian French, , Noble Nwachukwu, Ogbonnia Okoronkwo, Dorance Armstrong Jr., Breeland Speaks, 9

    DT: Jarran Reed, Tom Johnson, Shamar Stephen, Naz Jones, Poona Ford, Quinton Jefferson, 6

    LB: Bobby Wagner, KJ Wright, Barkevious Mingo Shaquem Griffin, DJ Alexander, Josh Forrest, Paul Dawson, 7

    S: Bradley McDougald, Kameron Kelly, Maurice Alexander, Delano Hill, Tedric Thompson, Akeem King, 6

    CB: Shaquill Griffin, Justin Coleman, Dontae Johnson, Tony Brown II, Neiko Thorpe, DeAndre Elliot, Mike Tyson, Alex Carter, Jordan Thomas, 8

    Defense: 36

    OL: Duane Brown, Germain Ifedi, George Fant, Isaiah Battle, , Tyrus Thompson 5

    OG: DJ Fluker, Ethan Pocic, Rees Odhiambo, Willie Beavers 4

    OC: Justin Britt, Joey Hunt 2

    WR: Doug Baldwin, Tyler Lockett, Christian Kirk, Jaron Brown, Amarah Darboh, Marcus Johnson, David Moore, Cyril Grayson, Tanner McEvoy, Keith Kirkwood, 10

    QB: Russell Wilson, Austin Davis, Stephen Morris, Alex McGough 4

    RB: Nick Chubb, Chris Carson, Mike Davis, CJ Prosise, JD McKissic, 5

    FB: Khalid Hill, Jalston Fowler, Tre Madden, 3

    TE: Ed Dickson, Nick Vannett, Tyler Conklin, Tyrone Swoopes, 4

    Offense: 37

    Kicker: Sebastian Janikowski, Justin Myers, Matthew McCrane

    Punter: Jon Ryan

    Long snapper: Tyler Ott

    Special Teams: 5

    Total: 77

    QB: Russell Wilson, Austin Davis, 2
    HB: Nick Chubb, CJ Prosise, Chris Carson, JD McKissick, 4
    FB: Khalid Hill
    WR: Doug Baldwin, Tyler Lockett, Christian Kirk, Jaron Brown

    • Kenny Sloth

      Hit reply too soon. Premature mock lol

      QB: Russell Wilson, Austin Davis, 2
      HB: Nick Chubb, CJ Prosise, Chris Carson, JD McKissick, 4
      FB: Khalid Hill, 1
      WR: Doug Baldwin, Tyler Lockett, Christian Kirk, Jaron Brown, Amarah Darboh, 5
      TE: Ed Dickson, Nick Vannett, Tyler Conklin, 3
      OT: Duane Brown, Germain Ifedi, George Fant, 3
      OG: Ethan Pocic, DJ Fluker, Rees Odhiambo, 3
      OC: Justin Britt, Joey Hunt, 2

      Offense: 23

      DE: Frank Clark, Dion Jordan, Marcus Smith, Ogbonnia Okoronkwo, Breeland Speaks, Dorance Armstrong, Jr., 6
      DT: Jarran Reed, Tom Johnson, Shamar Stephens, Naz Jones, Poona Ford, Quinton Jefferson, 6
      LB: Bobby Wagner, KJ Wright, Barkevious Mingo, Shaquem Griffin, DJ Alexander, 5
      CB: Shaquill Griffin, Dontae Johnson, Justin Coleman, Neiko Thorpe, Deandre Elliott, Tony Brown II, 6
      S: Bradley McDougald, Maurice Alexander, Delano Hill, Kameron Kelly, 4

      Defense: 27

      P: Jon Ryan
      K: Sebastien Janikowski
      LS: Tyler Ott

      Special Teams: 3

      Your 53 man roster and depth chart

      • Kenny Sloth

        Yeah, uh, we’ll for sure carry 12 DL and 5 WR into every game

      • Kenny Sloth

        In case you wanted LEOs

        5tech: Dion Jordan, Breeland Speaks
        1tech: Jarran Reed, Shamar Stephens, Poona Ford
        3tech: Tom Johnson, Naz Jones
        Leo: Frank Clark, Marcus Smith, Ogbonnia Okoronkwo, Dorance Armstrong, Jr.
        Sam: Barkevious Mingo, Ogbonnia Okoronkwo, Shaquem Griffin
        Mike: Bobby Wagner, DJ Alexander
        Will: KJ Wright, Shaquem Griffin
        CB1: Shaquem Griffin. Deandre Elliott
        CB2: Dontae Johnson, Neiko Thorpe
        Nickle: Justin Coleman, Tony Brown II
        SS: Maurice Alexander, Kameron Kelly
        FS: Bradley McDougald, Delano Hill

        QB: Russell Wilson, Austin Davis
        RB: Nick Chubb, Chris Carson, CJ Prosise
        3DRB: CJ Prosise, JD McKissick
        WR1: Doug Baldwin, Jaron Brown
        WR2: Christian Kirk, Amarah Darboh
        WR3: Tyler Lockett
        TE: Ed Dickson, Nick Vannett, Tyler Conklin
        LT: Duane Brown, George Fant
        LG: Rees Odhiambo, Ethan Pocic
        C: Justin Britt, Joey Hunt
        RG: DJ Fluker, Ethan Pocic
        RT: Germain Ifedi, George Fant

    • Trevor

      Love Day #3 of you mock! Great character guys and role players year one with starter potential down the road. That is what you want in Day 3 IMO.

      Appreciate all the content leading up to the draft Kenny. Don’t always agree on prospects but I certainly respect your work and viewpoint.

      • Kenny Sloth

        After I did the roster, I felt worried that perhaps I made Kirk a backup while not providing adequate starter contention. Perhaps too much DL, especially with such a great class next year, but Okoronkwo has stood up before and I rwally want Shaquem to get comfortable in coverage and the ither three comfortable in space.

        Yeah I feel the same way, Trev. You’re on a lot to put in researched personal opinions amd detract from the groupthink. Also you’re up at similar times to me…… I’m actually always up. No time to sleep, right?

        • Trevor

          Sleep is definitely over rated! I think only Rob may sleep less than you.

        • Trevor

          Kenny I would pay $ to see you face if the rumors are true and the Browns take Mayfeild at #1!

          I think they would be making a huge mistake passing on Darnold but Mcloughin is on the record as loving Mayfeild before he got the job with the Browns so if he has any clout with Dorsey it really might be the pick.

          • Kenny Sloth

            Trevor, the dude is one of the best talents in the class.

            He has some bad habits, but there is so much there that you can’t ignore.

            I’m just not the GM to draft him when much more favorable characters are available.

            Baker Mayfield has off-thr-charts play action passing

        • peter

          I think it’s great haul with sound reasoning. I get The dline will be more robust next year in theory but perhaps Seattle creates a market inequity by going with a bit of that this year freeing them up to look at other positions the following year.

          Well done.

    • LLLOGOSSS

      Ah, man Kenny, you sure know how to pass out candy to strangers. I’d get in the back of that van any day. Great mock.

    • Sea Mode

      That’s a nice looking mock, Kenny!

      You already know I love the first two picks. Love.

      I’m not so sure on 3 DL/pass rush guys in a row after that though when next year looks to be so much more talented. Would prefer to take Obo and Griffin and then add some talent at other positions.

      Glad you hopped back on the Tyler Conklin train. I liked him a lot early on in the process. Strong, manly dude and probably some of the best hands in the entire draft.

    • C-Dog

      That’s a great looking draft. Love the Chubb and Speaks picks. Both guys are notable tough guys.

  51. EP

    Second draft with this blog now so I’d like to say thanks to Rob and everyone who contributes here for making it a worthwhile and enjoyable experience. Will be glad for it to be over and sadly will not be watching because I’m not sitting up into the wee hours to watch us trade back. But here’s my final mock anyway:
    Using the Cleveland trade

    33. Ronald Jones, USC
    64. B.J Hill, N.C State
    114. Dante Pettis, Washington
    120. Shaq Griffin, UCF
    141. Breeland Speeks, Ole Miss
    146. Holton Hill, Texas
    156. Natrell Jamerson, Wisconsin
    169. Will Dissly, Washington
    226. JT Barrett, Ohio State
    228. Keith Kirkwood, Temple

    Some might not last but for me this would constitute the perfect draft.

    • Trevor

      That would be a sweet draft and very realistic IMO from a value standpoint.

    • Sea Mode

      I could get behind that draft and agree with Trevor all those guys look quite realistic at those spots.

  52. Georgia Hawk

    That’s great and all Rob, well done and tons of hard work obviously went in it. The only thing I want to know is:

    Did you have Dole Whip while you were in Magic Kingdom?

    • Rob Staton

      I didn’t… but I did have a no-sugar Vanilla/Chocolate swirl thing which was an adequate alternative.

      • Georgia Hawk

        definitely something for everybody!

  53. Georgia Hawk

    Rob,

    There was a report floating around yesterday that Pete said he didnt think Ballage has the head to make it in the NFL. DId you see that, do you put any stock in it, and would it change your mock at all?

    • Trevor

      I think that is just a smoke screen. That only gets out if Pete wants it to.

      • Georgia Hawk

        Totally fair.

        • Trevor

          That being said Ballage showed little consistency so it seems like a pretty valid take.

    • Rob Staton

      Not seen it, seems a bit specific for a ‘report’.

  54. Georgia Hawk

    PFT has their Mock out with input from supposedly very reputable people in draft circles. It has Vita Vea falling down….to #19 and Dallas. Thats of course right after Hawks take Payne a spot before.

    Mocks are Mocks and opinions. but this is….just…I don’t even know anymore.

    http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2018/04/25/pfts-one-and-only-2018-mock-draft/

    • STTBM

      I saw that one–and laughed! Vea after Payne?! In a pigs eye! I guess we’ll see…

  55. Largent80

    Ballage = Blechage.

    For the love of everything sacred PLEASE get Chubb to run the ball.

    • Rob Staton

      Ballage would not be my pick either. Much better RB options.

  56. Trevor

    The 3 most over rated players in Rd #1

    Josh Allen – Bust potential is off the charts

    Minkah Fitzpatrick- Nice player but I don’t get the top 10 talk at all.

    Harold Landry – Purely a 3rd down situational speed pass rusher IMO. Plays way too soft against the run to be a 3 down player.

    3 most under rated players who should go Rd 1 earlier than projected.

    Isiah Wynn- the best LG prospect not named Quenton Nelson in the last 5 years. Someone is going to get thier version of Zach Martin at the end of round #1 and have pro bowler for the next 10 yrs.

    Ronald Jones- I see him rated in the middle to late 2nd on most draft boards and just don’t get it. Dynamic runner who will be a game changer from Day #2 and potential OROY in the right scheme.

    Carlton Davis- Long, tough and athletic covet corner who will be a starter day #1. With the lack of CB talent early in this draft I am shocked he is not getting any round #1 buzz.

    • peter

      Still wish there was a way to get one of robs earlier setups: Wynn then jones in this draft. That come to an has more chance of putting wins on the board than almost any other set up.

      I really like Kirk but kirk/hurst? While not bad I’m not sure that improves the team as much as Wynn jones ii.

      • Ishmael

        This. It’s a weird draft, I’m not feeling a whole lot of scenarios where I can see big time immediate improvement.

        • Trevor

          I tend to agree. I think because of all the Day #3 picks we have it is the type of draft we really wont be able to evaluate for a year or two.

          I think it is more about changing culture, creating competition and depth than it is about adding elite talent.

          • peter

            again i dont dislike kirk hurst. and im all for culture change…….however selfishly i other players with as strong of football mindsets who may push us a little further over the top.

  57. Trevor

    Wirh the trades likely at top of draft I have no idea who goes where but this is my mock if the top 12 picks in this draft regardless of team

    Darnold
    Chubb
    Mayfeild
    Allen
    Rosen
    Barkley
    Ward
    Vea
    Edmunds
    R Smith
    James
    L Jackson

    After those 12 the rest could go anywhere from 13 to 40 IMO.

  58. EP

    Jaguars owner purchasing Wembley stadium? London franchise? Looks like it may be the case.

    • H

      Where did you read this? Cause I doubt the English Football Association would sell Wembley. Especially not to be used as a full time NFL stadium.

      • EP

        Breaking news on Sky Sports

        • H

          Wow, fair enough. Seems dumb though.
          England would need a new stadium and an NFL team in London is just not a good idea. And I say this as an English resident.

          • UKAlex6674

            The FA would be stupid enough to rent the stadium back when needed.

          • EP

            I really don’t see it being successful. Seems like it from a marketing perspective but the reality would be different. As much as the sport is becoming more popular, just can’t see it attracting more than the casual fan. That’s the benefit of the occasional game.

    • Lewis

      No, Khan owns an FC as well. However, it would cement the Jags grip on getting to play a game there every year. The NFL would likely have to go through Khan for their London games, which puts him in a position of strength.

  59. Trevor

    Rob what is odds % wise would you give on an Earl trade?

    I for one will be just happy when it is just dealt with one way or another. My only concern is that if he is not traded will the buzz begin about will he hold out or report to camp.

    • Rob Staton

      50-50

  60. Trevor

    If the Browns take Mayfeild #1 and pass on Darnold that could end up being the biggest draft day mistake in a long time IMO.

    I like Mayfeild enough but Darnold is everything you want in a QB to be the face and leader of your organization. He is this years Deshawn Watson in that regard. Plus he is only 20 yrs old and scratching the surface of his potential. I think he will be every bit as good as Carson Wentz and Watson who the Browns also passed on by the way.

    Hope for Browns fans that the Mayfeild buzz is just a rumor.

    • Ishmael

      There’s some pretty interesting analytics stuff to suggest that Mayfield is the best prospect. The guy who wrote this particular QB model now works for the Browns… https://twitter.com/Cole_Kev/status/988442231215394817

      I agree with you though. I think they need a super stable guy who’s going to be there for a decade, who isn’t going to get rattled, and at the very least can help them return to competency.

  61. Mark Souza

    This morning a story was leaked about racially charged tweets Josh Allen made when he was in high school. The timing, the day before the draft, is dubious and makes me think a team is behind it hoping to make him fall. It’s probably something one of them found while doing their due diligence, and my guess would be Denver. Elway covets that big arm. Odds were high before the story broke that Allen wouldn’t last until pick #5, and now he might.

    • Tecmo Bowl

      Find it hard to believe that some stupid tweets from a high schooler would have more impact on Allen’s draft stock, than his glaring inaccuracy as a passer.

    • Sean-O

      Anyone read the tweets yet? Definitely not a good look but I can’t imagine it will change the minds of teams that are really interested in him.

      I’d be more worried about the 56% completion percentage & the fact he struggled versus legit college teams. Not what he tweeted years a go in high school.

      But yes, could be some team trying to get him at a discount…

      • Ishmael

        Yeah, I posted them on the last thread we had. It’s pretty stock standard casually racist stuff, gross, but that’s not exactly the sort of thing that bothers NFL teams. Now if he’d been out there protesting police brutality then he’d obviously be a dangerous lunatic and a clear locker room distraction. No idea why his agent didn’t go through his Twitter with a fine tooth comb. What are these guys getting paid for?

        • 503Hawk

          Here’s the potential problem with those tweets; at the very least it makes teams question what is in his heart (who he really is). That in turn could seriously affect his ability to lead a team made up mostly of African-Americans. Does a team want a potentially racially insensitive leader as their QB?

          • Ishmael

            I think you’re giving them too much credit to be honest. I think they’ll pretty happily shrug their shoulders and go eh, a bit dumb but he was just a kid. In the same way that Baker Mayfield runs from the police and is still likely going to go in the top 10. The NFL isn’t a meritocracy and it’s got a compliant media beating the drums for Allen. This won’t do anything to him.

            • Mark Souza

              Right now that’s how the Allen camp is handling it “He was young and dumb.” There could be a s**t storm ahead for the team that picks him, with the press not letting go, and potential for locker room backlash. Jedi mind tricks to circumvent this forthcoming. Should make for an interesting show.

              • Ishmael

                @Rapsheet: ‘Teams have been reticent to judge Allen based on tweets from high school’

                He’s untouchable

                • Mark Souza

                  In a few hours we will know.

  62. Tecmo Bowl

    33- Price
    50- Penny
    64- Miller/Chark
    90- Brown/Speaks or Yiadom

    At the top we add a major influx of talent on offense to fix the run game, and a weapon for RW. + Rob’s stellar day 3 picks focusing heavily on adding speed to the defense.

  63. Tecmo Bowl

    Rob who would your personal picks be for picks 33,50,64?

  64. Ishmael

    Thanks again for all your hard work, Rob.

    I might not be super thrilled with the direction the team seems to be going, but the only reason I’m as informed about it as I am is down to you. Here’s hoping for an exciting draft, and a new generation of Seahawks stars!

  65. 503Hawk

    Worse case scenario for Seahawks today.
    *Seattle only gets mild interest in trading down from 18 and either stays put because the offers are so bad or only gets minimal return.
    *ET is NOT traded meaning the Hawks are unable to fill the holes the have.

    I just don’t see Cleveland trading all of those picks for our 18. Also, I don’t see Dallas making the move today.

    If it works out this way, it could be a very subdued draft for us.

    • EBurgz

      Trading Earl creates a huge hole. No matter who we draft with #50. I don’t think he will be traded and I don’t think people here will stop talking about an earl trade after the draft is over.

  66. RWIII

    Josh Allen: These tweets could be a game changer. He said them in high school. But he did say them. These John Allen tweets a wildcard. They are definitely this year’s version of the Larry Tunsil ness. I had picked Josh Allen to Cleveland. Now I gave no idea what is going to happen. All bets are off.

    This could be the most unpredictable draft in a long long time.

    • STTBM

      Either the agents for a different qb are really playing dirty, or a team desperately wants Allen to fall to them. Whatever, a very bad look for Allen.

  67. LLLOGOSSS

    I can’t remember — was it reported that the Hawks were considering Kevin King if McDowell wasn’t there last year? We’ve spent a lot of time on this blog talking about how the Hawks would have to see a truly rare specimen at CB in order to draft them in the 1st, or even 2nd round. Is Oliver THAT special? It would be a revelation to break such an established trend.

    I understand that Tony Pauline is very well respected and connected, but the rationale here is something we have never broached. I guess I’m just a bit shocked.

    • STTBM

      Somewhere I read after the Draft that JS was asked about King, and he admitted King was one of a few guys they liked, but they had McDowell rated higher, so they traded down one more time with GB and passed him up.

  68. 503Hawk

    If the Browns do take Darnold at 1, makes me wonder if the Jets will swap with the Giants at 2. Otherwise I could see Denver , Miami or Buffalo making the move up to insure they get Mayfield. (IF he is their man.)
    Or, if Allen is their man… although I think their could be a tumble with him.

  69. mishima

    Big ups to Rob + community. Thanks to all for the amazing content, conversation and civility. Grateful.

    Go Hawks!

  70. STTBM

    I have been horrible at guessing Seattle’s picks since 2013 or 2014 (I used to get 2-3 right lol!), even with all the legwork Rob does for everyone. But its fun to guess, so here goes:

    I am convinced they will trade down, no matter how poor the return. But it could be with Cle, NE, or Dallas or someone else, depending on how the draft falls. I also believe they will trade Earl–and perhaps another team comes in last minute and steals him from Dallas–I hope so!

    2) DJ Moore (Christian Kirk if he’s gone)
    2) Rasheem Green
    2) Nick Chubb
    3) Shaq Griffin
    4) Derek Nnnadi
    4) Dorance Armstrong
    5) Leon Jacobs
    5) Holton Hill
    5) Natrell Jamerson
    5) Will Dissly
    7) Kyle Allen
    7) Keith Kirkwood

    I think Seattle would love to land Rasheem Green, but Carroll really does insist on prioritizing the run by landing a bell-cow stud like Chubb. They get Nnadi and Armstrong instead. They pass on RoJo because his size makes him an injury risk.

    Pretty much all these guys are folks Rob already mocked to Seattle. Yep, Im admitting it, I didnt put in the time I used to watching college prospects (for the third year in a row!), and relied heavily on Robs analysis.

    Thanks for all your hard work, Rob!

    • STTBM

      Replace Kemoko Turay in the first sentence after my mock instead of Rasheem Green lol!

      • STTBM

        And my editing sucks! I think Chubb goes before Green lol!

    • Logan Lynch

      If this draft would come to fruition, I would be so happy. Replace Hill with Yiadom and it matches my thoughts.

  71. Jeffrey Matson

    I realize today’s draft day, but why wouldn’t Chargers trade 2.16 and 3.20 for Earl ? ( they could trade down to aquire replacement rd 2/3 picks like we’ll likely do). He’s closer to home, in other conference.

  72. Sea Mode

    Looks like we might have some company/competition for moving down this year…

    Adam Schefter
    @AdamSchefter

    Could be, as usual, quite frenetic tonight.

    Teams open to moving back in first round include the Ravens, Seahawks, Lions, Titans.

    4:22 AM – 26 Apr 2018

  73. MSL

    Love it. I’d be very happy with this. Thanks for all the hard work. It’s been fun following your work as always.

  74. Kenny Sloth

    Damn… I know I said we didn’t have a Laremy Tunsil type scandal, but racist Josh Allen was not what I had in mind. Credit to the kid for not hiding from it and trying to take responsibility for something he did when he was 13.

    Only 7.5 hours left…

    • Mark Souza

      13? Geesh. I didn’t know that tidbit. I personally wouldn’t hold someone accountable for the dumbass things they say at 13.

      • Kenny Sloth

        Sorry it was more like 16. Mid high school sophomoric tweet

  75. Trevor

    SDB Poll

    What player projected in Rd 1 falls the farthest today and why?

    • Trevor

      Darius Guice for me. Way too much drama for a guy who has not even played a snap. Seems like a really weird kid and not in a good way.

    • Ishmael

      Rosen.

      Having thoughts and stuff is a dangerous business. He slips out of the top 10, maybe even down to the Cardinals at 15.

      • Ishmael

        Should say, others will probably fall further than him. But I think Rosen has the biggest fall for a player of his ability and positional need.

    • Kenny Sloth

      Lamar Jackson.

      I love that he didn’t do any predraft workouts.

      He’s so pissed off at draft media loool

  76. Sea Mode

    I don’t read FieldGulls all that much any more, but I love the annual Armchair GM challenge! Hopefully an SDB member can take the crown this year!

    https://www.fieldgulls.com/2018/4/24/17274568/the-2018-field-gulls-armchair-gm-challenge-seattle-seahawks-selections-draft-hurst-penny-ford-vea

    • Kenny Sloth

      Just put in mine. I went agressive and put Kemoko Turay at the top haha

    • DCD2

      Nice! Threw mine in as well. Went heavy with the 5th round and later prospects.

      Also put in Sweat and Ballage 🙁

  77. Sea Mode

    Ok, I’ll admit I was totally blindsided by Rob. Addresses the reported interest in Isaiah Oliver, calmly explains for the millionth time why the Seahawks are unlikely to take a CB that early, then BOOM turns around and takes him at #33!

    I posted the 4 qualifying CB names yesterday, but I didn’t have Isaiah Oliver’s numbers since they aren’t included on 3sigmaathlete.com. I found the numbers from his pro day per Pauline and wow. Wow. WOW. He is now clearly at the top of the list. Now I understand the Seahawks’ interest.

    6002, 201, 33.5 arm, 9.75 hand, 80.625 wing, 4.5 40yd, 3.94 SS, 6.85 3C, 35.5 vert, 10’6″ broad

    Whaaat?! Holy cow! Welcome to the sub 4 second Short Shuttle club, my friend.

    Fans who hated missing out on Kevin King last year, you have your new Kevin King again this year, with more length and his technique in press looks even better. Interviews are great. NFL bloodlines. Coached up by Mike MacIntyre at Colorado, where the Seahawks have already gone shopping for secondary help.

    Dang it, now what am I gonna do in my final mock…? 🙂

    • Kenny Sloth

      Yeah, can’t get Kirk, Chubb, and Oliver without trading up at least once.

      I think we will trade up at some point in this draft, though.

    • Logan Lynch

      I know the McDowell pick has been a waste so far, but King wasn’t that great for GB this year. He got burnt a few times, missed tackles, and was hurt. Oliver may be the way to go. I haven’t watched tape on him, how is he in run support? I remember that being the huge knock on Witherspoon last year.

      • Sea Mode

        He’s no Sherman from what I see, but he’s no Witherspoon either. In general, uses his length well to get off blocks and at least contain the run from breaking to the outside, though he’s usually not the first one in on a gang tackle.

    • LLLOGOSSS

      That’s not great speed, though…

      • Sea Mode

        Sherman ran a 4.53 at 6 lbs lighter. Most of the long CBs we’ve drafted run in the 4.52-4.54 range. Oliver’s 4.5 is slightly above average for a long CB. Just fine.

    • Kenny Sloth

      Who were your others?

      Jordan Thomas Oklahoma had everything I think

  78. Sea Mode

    Pete’s gone all modern on us!

    Pete Carroll
    @PeteCarroll

    #SeahawksDraftClues via GIFs today!! Will you be able to decipher??
    9:13 AM – 26 Apr 2018

    • Kenny Sloth

      Oh I’m in there this year

      • DCD2

        Anyone have a breakdown of the clues from last year or before? I haven’t followed and am wondering just how obscure they are.

        • Kenny Sloth

          The last two years were super enigmatic.

          Germain If-eddie Murphy was the only one I remember

        • Sea Mode

          This article from last year also links to previous years.

          https://www.sbnation.com/nfl/2017/4/27/15457778/pete-carroll-seahawks-draft-clues-code-2017

          But to answer your question, quite frankly they are incredibly obscure. It’s just a gag, but fun nonetheless.

          • DCD2

            Sheesh. Did he get sponsored by The Voice last year? I know who they drafted and still have no idea what those clues are supposed to mean.

            Thanks for sharing. Think I’ll opt out of this particular easter egg hunt.

  79. LLLOGOSSS

    Rob, I know we’ve discussed that the Hawks would certainly prefer to start adding talent immediately, but in the face of potentially getting nothing for Earl Thomas when he walks next year, would a 2018 2nd (50) + 2019 1st be a reasonable offer? That still seems like a lot of draft capitol, I’m not entirely sure it’s feasible. Value-wise that equates, essentially, to two 2nd-rounders this year.

    If the Cowboys were so inclined to do a deal like this, we could still trade back from 18 and pick twice in the top 50 sweet spot, with even more reloading next year.

    • Sea Mode

      I have no doubt at all the Seahawks would jump all over any chance to get an extra R1 pick next year. I would take that deal in a heartbeat, and I think JS would too.

      • LLLOGOSSS

        I’m wondering if DAL would offer that kind of package, though. I know Rob was skeptical that SEA would defer the reboot until next year and would greatly prefer to get started right away, but this deal would offer some immediate returns as well.

  80. Kenny Sloth

    Man, there are some good CBs for us this year.

    SeaMode what are our biggest needs going into round 1?

    I’m comfortable starting Dickson, McDougald, and Alexander at TE, FS, and SS respectively, but Dontae Johnson has never been very good and our RB situation is pretty scary. Not much depth at 5tech either.

    For me those are the top needs, in order;
    RB/FB starter
    CB starter
    5tech future starter
    TE future starter
    FS future starter
    SS future starter
    LEO depth
    WR depth/luxury pick
    LB depth

    Set at QB, DT

    • Logan Lynch

      I think we’re set at run stuffing DT, but could use another pass rushing DT. Then again, probably every team can say that.

      • Kenny Sloth

        I think we’ll see Jordan and Clark rush from the interior a lot

    • Sea Mode

      Honestly, I’m not sure. I know they would like to fill needs and always do, but it’s gotta line up with the talent on the board where you pick.

      I put WR a bit higher than that for sure with Richardson’s gone (hopefully Darboh can step in more) and Lockett in a contract year (that’s the big one for me).

      SS I think we already have so many options (esp. if Tedric is seen by JS as SS) that we need to wait and see if one pans out before drafting more.

      I guess I would say something like this:

      RB starter
      CB starter/future starter (roll with Maxi 1-2 yrs if need be)
      FS starter/future starter (McDougald can try if Earl leaves)
      WR starter + KR
      3 Tech DT
      TE starter (big need, but less important position per se)
      DE rotation with Clark and Jordan
      OL depth/future
      LEO (plays little, got Mingo)
      LB depth/future

      Set at QB, SS

  81. Kenny Sloth

    They tried to call me into work…

    I felt bad for about a second 👳

    • Coleslaw

      Lol luckily I get off at 2:30 so I got plenty of time for pre game

    • DCD2

      Any thoughts on a Martavis Bryant and Earl Thomas framework for a trade? Bryant’s attitude my be an issue, but it would address WR and probably still pick up some draft capital.

      Steelers are “listening to offers” for him per Dan Graziano

      • DCD2

        Whoops. How did this get here?

  82. James

    Since CB is a targeted position, who is next up if Isaiah Oliver is already taken? Josh Jackson has been summarily dismissed because his reported arm length of 31 1/8 is below the Seahawk requirement of 32. However, does anyone know more about a report that, in fact, Jackson’s arm length is 32 6/8, as re-measured at his pro day, and not 31 1/8. This would fit the eyeball test, where early scouting of Jackson indicated above-average arm length/wingspan. He also ran a reported 4.45/40 at his pro day, a full second ahead of the combine number? If this is the case, then that could change the scenario re the Seahawks, who surely know the truth. Has anyone heard the facts about this?

  83. FuzzyLogic

    I heard LVE has some kind of spinal/neck injury history. Some think he falls to late first early second round.

    • hawktalker#1

      That could actually help us if someone wants to trade up with us to get him.

  84. Kyle

    So here is my stab at robs mock scenario. I used first pick and traded my ass off to get similar draft spot picks and even nailed a few spots. If you see extra 5th rounders just ignore… it was the only way to get the top 3 rounds close.

    Please let me know your thoughts.

    Your Picks:
    Round 2 Pick 1 (CLE): Oliver, Isaiah, CB, Colorado (B)
    Round 2 Pick 17 (IND): Jones II, Ronald, RB, Southern California (A-)
    Round 2 Pick 31 (N.E.): Gesicki, Mike, TE, Penn State (A)
    Round 3 Pick 11 (OAK): Bates III, Jessie, FS, Wake Forest (B-)
    Round 4 Pick 14 (CLE): Okoronkwo, Ogbonnia, DE/OLB, Oklahoma (A+)
    Round 4 Pick 20: Ford, Poona, DT, Texas (B-)
    Round 5 Pick 4: Apke, Troy, SS, Penn State (A)
    Round 5 Pick 9: Hill, Holton, CB, Texas (A)
    Round 5 Pick 13 (CLE): Phillips, Skyler, OG, Idaho State (A+)
    Round 5 Pick 31: Coutee, Keke, WR, Texas Tech (A)
    Round 5 Pick 32: Jamerson, Natrell, FS, Wisconsin (C)
    Round 7 Pick 8: Nall, Ryan, RB/FB, Oregon State (A)
    Round 7 Pick 30: Barrett, JT, QB, Ohio State (A)

    • Kenny Sloth

      Most realistic thing I’ve seen come off a simulator

      • Mark Souza

        Don’t know about another non-blocking TE. Got pretty sick of the last one.

        • Kenny Sloth

          Hope you dont gesick of him

          • Sea Mode

            Beat me to it… 🙂

            • Kenny Sloth

              Shi-shaaa

              • Mark Souza

                Wag of head.

  85. vrtkolman

    If we grab a corner in the late 1st/early 2nd like Oliver, then you know he’s going to be special. PC/JS aren’t going to draft a corner early otherwise. With PC coaching him up, man the sky is the limit. If this is the case, I hope he keep Earl. Two long, possibly elite outisde corners with Earl over the top would be LOB 2.0.

    • BRETT TOCCO

      If that were to happen you would also have his old college teammate at SS (if JS’s interview a few weeks back where he labeled Thompson a Strong Safety plays out). Would lose some of the Boom (no one will replicate what Kam added) but the ball skills would be pretty crazy at the Safety position.

      • brett

        If that were to happen you would also have his old college teammate at SS (if JS’s interview a few weeks back where he labeled Thompson a Strong Safety plays out). Would lose some of the Boom (no one will replicate what Kam added) but the ball skills would be pretty crazy at the Safety position.

  86. Rowlandice

    Nice work as usual Rob. Can’t wait for the draft tonight as my wife has amazingly scheduled a trip this weekend leaving me all the time needed to watch the entire draft. Lucky me! Using the the first 2 rounds as you’ve mocked, my choices would be Ronald Jones and Rasheem Green.

  87. Kenny Sloth

    Adding some names to Seamode’s CB physical target list

    These are the 32″ arms sub 4.3 short shuttle and sub 7.2 3cone
    Holton Hill
    Isaac Yiadom
    Christian Campbell
    Justin Martin
    Isaiah Oliver
    Cameron Roane
    Keion Crossen
    Jordan Thomas
    Chris Jones
    Joseph Putu
    Levi Wallace

    These guys were so close they deserve a look
    Devin Butler
    Reggie Hall
    Carlton Davis
    Donovan Olumba (huge hands and frame)

  88. DCD2

    Any thoughts on a Martavis Bryant and Earl Thomas framework for a trade? Bryant’s attitude my be an issue, but it would address WR and probably still pick up some draft capital.

    Steelers are “listening to offers” for him per Dan Graziano

    • Sea Mode

      Personally, I’ll pass. He has already let his teammates down bigtime, better not have it happen to us. I’d prefer DJ Chark over Bryant for that kind of WR profile (tall, speed guy).

    • Ishmael

      He’s the sort of receiver the Hawks have needed forever, and the Steelers have needed safety help for nearly as long, but I suspect Bryant isn’t the sort of football drone PCJS seem to be after.

  89. FuzzyLogic

    My top 10 favorite players that I hope the Seahawks get. At least one of them. Which never happens, but…

    1. Rojo
    2. Taven Bryan
    3. DJ Moore
    4. Will Hernandez
    5. Lorenzo Carter
    6. Rashaad Penny
    7. Shaquem Griffin
    8. Kemoko Turay
    9. Antonio Callaway
    10.Rashaan Evans

    • DCD2

      Callaway failed his combine drug test. Safe to cross him off. Still hope for 90% though

      • FuzzyLogic

        yep I know. Still want him in the 6th-7th round. He’s too good to pass on in my opinion. First round lock to me if there were no red flags.

  90. hawktalker#1

    With renewed focus on the “re-tooling effort”, actually addressing some of their stated objectives “fix the run game”, continuing with their previous “trade-down” and no CB early behavior and getting a little more creative with other trades to get more picks in this “re-tooling” draft, here is my proposal (yeah, this is more of a “what they should do” than what they should do draft, one can only hope they become the same).

    From Rob’s prior trades:
    Cleveland trades #33, #64 and #114 to Seattle for #18 to select Kolton Miller
    Atlanta trades #26 and #90 to Dallas for the #19 pick to select Taven Bryan
    Dallas trades #50 and #90 to Seattle for Earl Thomas
    Additional trades (getting more re-tooling bodies):
    DEN trades #40, #106, #182 [598 pts] to SEA for #33, #156 [609]
    BUF trades their #56, #121 [392 pts] to SEA for #64, #90 [410pts]
    >> This trade’s to get MO

    SHOW TIME:
    R2 (40) Ronald Jones II (RB, USC) else Nick Chubb (RB, Georgia)
    >> Fixing the Run game with game changers
    R2 (50) Christian Kirk (WR, Texas A&M) else Rasheem Green (DE, USC)
    >> Kirk adding power through the air
    R2 (56) Maurice Hurst (DT, Michigan) or B.J. Hill (DT, NC State)
    >> Trade to get MO or BJ for inside D help given some DL losses
    to stop the run and allowing our pass rushers a better chance to get through
    R4 (106) Shaquem Griffin (LB, UCF)
    >> Production, speed and culture transition
    R4 (114) Dalton Schultz (TE, Stanford)
    >> Took a TE a little higher with the add’l picks
    R4 (120) Holton Hill (CB, Texas)
    R4 (121) Dorance Armstrong (DE, Kansas)
    R5 (141) Leon Jacobs (LB, Wisconsin)
    >> Badger power; and he’s a beast
    R5 (146) Phillips, Skyler (OG, Idaho State)
    >> More help/competition for the OL and add’l “fix the run game contribution”
    R5 (168) Tony Brown (CB, Alabama)
    R6 (182) Natrell Jamerson (S, Wisconsin)
    >> Can you have enough Wisconsin D guys on your team?
    R7 (226) Poona Ford (DT, Texas) or Cole Madison (OG, WSU)
    R7 (248) Keith Kirkwood (WR, Temple)
    >> Another option for success through the air as current players may not be talented enough

    >> Skipped the QB, determined to be too much of a luxury pick this year given RWs lack of injury problems, and even if he gets hurt, is any JAG backup really going to help?

  91. FuzzyLogic

    If CLE takes Mayfield #1 then there’s a good chance Barkley falls to them at #4. If they take Darnald at #1 I believe NYG take Barkley at #2.

    Who would you rather have if you were the Browns?

    1. Mayfield, Barkley
    2. Darnold, Chubb

    • hawktalker#1

      Need the QB

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