The first 2021 mock draft

November 21st, 2020 | Written by Rob Staton

Jaelen Phillips is enjoying an impressive season with Miami

Testing will be more important than ever this year. The highly disrupted college football season and number of opt-outs will make the combine a vital event.

It’s high time the NFL incentivised doing all the tests. The 2020 combine was a nonsense. Several big names didn’t perform. The shift to primetime led to many players skipping the agility testing because they’d have to do it at 9-10pm.

Schedule the on-field drills and agility/explosive testing for different days. Reward players financially for competing. If you want this to be a major television event, we need to see the big names in college football on the field.

There are stars available in the top-10 but then there’s a predictable drop-off. However, even at this early stage there appears to be some intriguing depth lasting into round two.

I’ve done a two-round mock draft so that the Seahawks are included.

First round

#1 New York Jets — Trevor Lawrence (QB, Clemson)
#2 Jacksonville — Justin Fields (QB, Ohio State)
#3 Washington — Penei Sewell (T, Oregon)
#4 Dallas — Shaun Wade (CB, Ohio State)
#5 LA Chargers — Ja’Marr Chase (WR, LSU)
#6 Miami (via HOU) — Micah Parsons (LB, Penn State)
#7 Cincinnati — Rasheed Walker (T, Penn State)
#8 New York Giants — Patrick Surtain II (CB, Alabama)
#9 Carolina — Zach Wilson (QB, BYU)
#10 Atlanta — Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah (LB, Notre Dame)
#11 Denver — Walker Little (T, Stanford)
#12 San Francisco — Trey Lance (QB, North Dakota State)
#13 Detroit — Dayo Odeyingbo (DE, Vanderbilt)
#14 Minnesota — Gregory Rousseau (DE, Miami)
#15 New England — Kyle Pitts (TE, Florida)
#16 Chicago — Rondale Moore (WR, Purdue)
#17 Cleveland — Kwity Paye (DE, Michigan)
#18 Tennessee — Patrick Jones (DE, Pittsburgh)
#19 Philadelphia — DeVonta Smith (WR, Alabama)
#20 Arizona — Jaycee Horn (CB, South Carolina)
#21 Miami — Travis Etienne (RB, Clemson)
#22 Indianapolis — Davis Mills (QB, Stanford)
#23 Jacksonville (via LAR) — Pat Freiermuth (TE, Penn State)
#24 Baltimore — Josh Myers (C, Ohio State)
#25 Las Vegas — Zaven Collins (LB, Tulsa)
#26 New York Jets (v/SEA) — Jaylen Waddle (WR, Alabama)
#27 Tampa Bay — Rashawn Slater (G, Northwestern)
#28 Buffalo — Jalen Mayfield (T, Michigan)
#29 Green Bay — Caleb Farley (CB, Virginia Tech)
#30 Kansas City — Azeez Ojulari (DE, Georgia)
#31 New Orleans — Dylan Moses (LB, Alabama)
#32 Pittsburgh — Alex Leatherwood (T, Alabama)

Second round

#33 New York Jets — Najee Harris (RB, Alabama)
#34 Jacksonville — Christian Darrisaw (T, Virginia Tech)
#35 Dallas — Alim McNeill (DT, NC State)
#36 LA Chargers — Wyatt Davis (G, Ohio State)
#37 Miami (v/HOU) — Terrace Marshall Jr (WR, LSU)
#38 Washington — Andre Cisco (S, Syracuse)
#39 Cincinnati — Ronnie Perkins (DE, Oklahoma)
#40 Carolina — Obinna Eze (T, Memphis)
#41 New York Giants — Seth Williams (WR, Auburn)
#42 Denver — Jordan Davis (DT, Georgia)
#43 Atlanta — Carlos Basham (DE, Wake Forest)
#44 San Francisco — Jevon Holland (S, Oregon)
#45 Jacksonville (v/MIN) — Jaylen Twyman (DT, Pittsburgh)
#46 New England — Mac Jones (QB, Alabama)
#47 Detroit — Rashod Bateman (WR, Minnesota)
#48 Chicago — Carson Strong (QB, Nevada)
#49 Tennessee — Chris Olave (WR, Ohio State)
#50 Cleveland — Aaron Banks (G, Notre Dame)
#51 Philadelphia — Aidan Hutchinson (DE, Michigan)
#52 Arizona — Jayson Oweh (DE, Penn State)
#53 Indianapolis — Dillon Radunz (T, North Dakota State)
#54 LA Rams — Nate Landman (LB, Colorado)
#55 Baltimore — Paris Ford (S, Pittsburgh)
#56 Miami — Tylan Wallace (WR, Oklahoma State)
#57 Las Vegas — Jake Ferguson (TE, Wisconsin)
#58 Tampa Bay — Jackson Carman (T, Clemson)
#59 Buffalo — Nick Bolton (LB, Missouri)
#60 Seattle — Jaelen Phillips (DE, Miami)
#62 Kansas City — Kenny Yeboah (TE, Ole Miss)
#63 New Orleans — Nico Collins (WR, Michigan)
#64 Pittsburgh — Kellen Mond (QB, Texas A&M)

Notes on Seattle’s pick

There were some attractive options still on the board in the mid-to-late second round.

I’m a big fan of Notre Dame left guard Aaron Banks. He’s a people-mover with great size. He’d be an ideal fit at left guard yet the Seahawks could be inclined to let Jordan Simmons and Phil Haynes compete for that spot in 2021. They’ve also favoured experience on the O-line in recent years, with the exception of Damien Lewis. That said, Banks and Lewis would be a fantastic guard combo for the long term future.

USC defensive tackle Jay Tufele has his admirers but given he’s opted out, it’s difficult to judge exactly where his stock is. Marvin Wilson is extremely athletic but his play on an admittedly awful Florida State team has been concerning. Levi Onwuzurike has flashed for Washington but is another player who’s opted out and would’ve really benefitted from showing what he can do this year.

I suspect they won’t draft a tight end early but Jake Ferguson has everything you want physically in a top-TE prospect. He’s added production this year and is really starting to look the part. Miami’s Brevin Jordan has exciting physical tools but has missed time with injury recently. Kenny Yeboah is having a superb season for Ole Miss and will have many admirers. He has a great ability to climb to the second level and create mismatch opportunities. He’s a modern X-factor weapon and could be a discount alternative to Kyle Pitts.

Notre Dame left tackle Liam Eichenburg is talented but has limitations and might need to shift inside to guard. There are a number of big name receivers available in Seattle’s picking range (although I’m not convinced the likes of Collins, Olave and Wallace will run in the 4.4’s).

At #60 I gave Seattle Miami’s UCLA transfer Jaelen Phillips. He’s a former 5-star recruit who was once the #3 overall prospect in High School. So far this season, his first in Miami, he has an impressive 10.5 TFL’s, five sacks and an interception. He’s well sized at 6-5 and 266lbs. He caught my eye against Virginia Tech where he showed an exciting ability to win off the edge with quickness (2.5 sacks in the game) and I’ve since watched two further games. He is a hidden gem with the profile and talent to be a top pro.

He’s getting better every week with enough size to hold the POA and control the edge but the quickness and dip to win 1v1 and pressure the quarterback.

However, there’s a reason why he could last into the late second round.

His time at UCLA was marred by a series of concussions. In fact a spokesperson for UCLA reportedly said Phillips had opted to medically retire in December 2018 due to his concussion history.

Instead he entered the transfer portal. He had to sit out the 2019 season, which was perhaps helpful. So far he’s not suffered any health setbacks.

The Seahawks have taken chances to acquire extreme physical talent in the late second round before. Frank Clark had off-field concerns. We talked a lot about D.K. Metcalf’s situation during the 2018 college football season and that he almost had to retire due to a neck injury.

If you’re looking for major upside sometimes you have to roll the dice. Pass rush remains a big need for the Seahawks and adding options to create a better rotation has to be a consideration.

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195 Responses to “The first 2021 mock draft”

  1. cha says:

    Phillips more of a 5T or LEO?

  2. Hoggs41 says:

    Will for sure be an intetesting draft in April. So many opt oyts and not much tspe to look at. One of the reasons Im guessing JS was willing to give up the two first rounders. Do we think DL and CB could be the two primary options? Depending on what Brown wants to do maybe a future LT as well.

  3. Hawks_Gui says:

    Why is Jaelen Philips ranked so low in PFN mock draft?

  4. Big Mike says:

    After the Taylor experience I would not make that pick IF he gets hurt at all this season. Otherwise, he sounds like a positive choice.
    What are the chances we keep it vs trading down if say it’s in the upper 20s?

  5. Gary says:

    I know there are no sure things when you’re picking at 60, but for once it would sure be nice if the Hawks didn’t reach, roll the dice, or fall in love with upside while overlooking character risk, medical concerns, ATV riders, or position switches. I think their recent draft history has put them in a position where they no longer have the luxury of being able to bet on upside, and they almost have to look for the closest thing they can find to “plug and play”. That kind of concussion history makes me nervous and would give me very cold feet as the GM because the future of this franchise simply cannot afford another draft bust.

    • Rob Staton says:

      I think the opposite.

      They need to go for major upside. They drafted a middling athlete in R1 in 2019 and look where it got them? They also took a chance on DK Metcalf. You’ve got to shoot for the top.

    • Jhams says:

      Playing it safe gets you Penny and Collier, taking a risk gets you Clark and Metcalf.

      • Big Mike says:

        And sadly, Malik Mc Dowell

        • Gary says:

          And Darrell Taylor. Not trying to be smarter than everyone else at the draft table but taking the no-brainer best player available (the way the Ravens do) gets you plug and play solutions to legitimate needs, like Damien Lewis.

          • Robert says:

            Best player available is different from plug and play. BPA takes into account upside as well as current status, and is indifferent to your depth chart. Plug and play guys are for a position of need – and often suggests an older player with less upside.
            Also, Aaron Curry was viewed as a plug and play guys. No guarantees on the draft.

  6. Mark says:

    Hi Rob,

    What do you see as the strength of this draft class? Does it match up with the Seahawks need? Do you think they throw more draft capital at fixing the DL? Or do they fix the secondary? I am not convinced Shaquille Griffin deserves a big contract. Also, up in the air with Carson, love it when he is in the game, but his availability is lacking. My thoughts are CB/RB maybe higher target needs? Curious on what you think.

    • Rob Staton says:

      Too early to say but it looks relatively deep at QB.

    • Mark says:

      Oh, also want to say thank you for all your excellent work!

      It’s weird but I’m looking forward to the off season more than the actual season and post season. For some odd reason the games to me where the defense is so bad its unwatchable for me. The Seahawks brand has always been tough defense, but this is so foreign to me. I will still watch the games, but it doesn’t feel to me like football when the defense is epically bad. The Thursday night game was the first game of this season where I enjoyed the game as the defense finally had a solid showing. So it definitely excites me as you start talking more about prospects and identifying if they fit to help rebuild this defense.

  7. BobbyK says:

    Damien Lewis was the least excited I was for any of the early picks the Seahawks made this past year between Brooks, Taylor, and him. The reason was because of his position. I favored using all three early picks on defense because we knew, based on how bad they did in free agency, that the defense was truly going to suck.

    That being said, taking the best football player you can is the smart thing to do – especially when you only have one pick in the first 3 rounds. If they take Aaron Banks and he turns out to be good – then I don’t care if they pass on a DB or DL. Ideally, at this very moment in time – I am hoping for a DT to be the BPA. Both Ford and Reed will be on the last year of their contracts and there needs to be some quality depth in the middle of the line. However, if D. Taylor does end up playing some later this year and demonstrates nothing but LJ Collier “potential” then I change my view on biggest need to a speedy edge rusher. Again.

    But, ultimately, they need to draft someone good – even at a position that might not be a first priority – as opposed to drafting a position for the sake of it. That’s where I’m at now, anyway.

    • Sea Mode says:

      +1 for BPA/upside. Drafting for need just creates two holes down the road.

    • AlaskaHawk says:

      I feel like the many defensive picks that haven’t worked out has taken away from drafting for the offense. That late second round is a great spot for guards and centers. There may be a good combo running back in that range too.

  8. Rob,

    So it looks like we chose guys off the injury reserve list? Damaged studs, guys who would have been picked higher but for the major breakdown.

    It is a gamble but that seems to be the trend, trying to find guys who can play through injury? Makes sense in someways because dealing with injury in the NFL is what separates the men from the boys.

    It also tells you that they have a lot of faith in their medical guys to fix almost any injury, that the combo of surgery, drugs and rehab must be able to do things they weren’t able to do in previous generations.

    • Rob Staton says:

      I don’t think that’s the case. In the two previous drafts they prioritised health grades. Metcalf ultimately got the all clear and why not take a chance on him in the late second.

      I think this year they were just desperate for pass rush so risked Darrell Taylor who admittedly looks exactly like the kind of LEO they crave in terms of body type.

      • Lewis says:

        And Taylor could end up being a great pick in the long run. It has had the feel of a bad pick because he wasn’t able to provide any immediate impact which we have desperately needed.

        I’m really grateful that they did get Dunlap in the interim. As I’d hoped, having him there seems to have really helped solidify the line play. Maybe Taylor can come into the mix and add something, but there won’t be the sense of desperation for him to become some kind of savior.

        • Rob Staton says:

          Well, maybe.

          I think he just needs to prove he can stay healthy at this stage. He’s been hurt for a year.

          • cha says:

            I have to admit, my glass half empty side is dreading the PC and fans spouting the company line “hey, he was hurt all last year, this year he’s basically a rookie and we can’t expect too much” rammed down our throat next season.

            • charlietheunicorn says:

              Cha, you need to be more of a company man. A real team player.
              *Seahawks send a check to cha’s house* 😛

            • Lewis says:

              Well, at least Collier is starting to show something here and there. If he were to take another step forward next year, along with the other young guys like Ford and Mone, and Taylor’s physical gifts translate like they seem to think, it’s possible we could be looking at a not terrible starting D-line next year.

              • Rob Staton says:

                I think a few people on the internet have got carried away with Collier.

                He had a couple of nice plays on Thursday but let’s be right, he’s a pretty mediocre player who is already well into his mid-20’s with physical limitations.

  9. DancingBuddha says:

    Call me naive, but I think this is the year they take a corner in the 2nd. Though realistically, Schneider probably does his usual trade down and then they take a corner

  10. Donovan says:

    More Crimson Tide players selected in first 2 rounds than the entire PAC 12. As a PAC 12 alumnus, that’s depressing.

  11. Paul G says:

    Rob,

    Do you see the Seahawks trading Jamal Adams in the offseason to get back into the first round of the 2021 draft?

    • charlietheunicorn says:

      Let’s entain this premise for a minute. Who would be a good fit for Adams?

      I’m thinking it would have to be a team that loves to attack in a 3/4 scheme. The team that comes to mind is the Steelers. They have multiple “attacking” players on defense and love to scheme up pressure. On their team, I see him as more a OLB than a true SS…. however, you start looking at the talent surrounding him, he could really shine around the LOS.

      I guess a dark horse team could be the Patriots, they need talent across the board. But they play more a hybrid defense than a true 4/3 or 3/4. I’m not terribly convinced he would be a good fit there.

      Need to get back a 1st round pick (or 2x 2nds) and some change for him, if you make the move. But, if they can successfully figure out how to keep him on the field and work him more and more into this defense, then they should hold onto him. He is a game wrecking in potential.

      • cha says:

        Cleveland Browns might be a fit. Cap space, scheme and might be feeling like they’re one piece away.

        • BobbyK says:

          I’d be okay with it if they got the Browns first round pick and Grant Delpit (their injured 2nd round pick from this past year). They could essentially replace Adams with either Blair or Delpit (depth would be good) and then actually draft a good player in the first round (easier said than done with these guys), whether it be DL or another DB. They could go FS if they wanted (if anyone good enough was there with that pick) and safety could be solidified for years ahead. We got spoiled with years of Kam/ET and then we saw the reality of bad DBs when they were gone. Could use a pair of good ones again, even if not HOF caliber like the LOB days.

          • I think Adams is a really bad fit in assignment bend-don’t-break defense. His decision making is really questionable. Carlos Dunlap and his pass rushing makes Adams replaceable so I am with you guys, they probably make a trade, just to see what they can get.

            Don’t know if there is anything more than a 2nd round for him and a player. We really overpaid for Adams so don’t expect much.

            • BobbyK says:

              Even if we could replace him with a Depit and acquire a 1st round pick in 2022 – I’d do it at this stage. It’s not just about getting a 1st round pick back… but the millions saved by not being forced to give him that huge contract, too. Maybe some team with cap space would bite.

        • charlietheunicorn says:

          This isn’t the old school Browns where you could swindle them however…..

          Hum, perhaps Jaguars, Colts and Patriots… all have decent amount of cap space.

          Maybe the Jaguars 2nd and a 4th for him, would be fair imo.
          Colts are pretty loaded on defense, but could use a new QB and WR on the cheap. Maybe they wouldn’t trade much for him… but have cap space.

          • Rob Staton says:

            I think it’s more likely to be a team like the Ravens.

            Maybe the Dolphins. They have two first round picks.

            It’ll need to be a good team looking to get over the top, with the right kind of scheme.

            If they wanted to trade him I’d see if Miami would do it for their later R1 (assuming they make the playoffs) and a third in 2022.

    • Pran says:

      For that we need to turn him loose like Greg Williams to showcase his talent in a few of these upcoming lowly games. I fear JS’s overbuy and undersell.

      • Pugs1 says:

        Anybody else think it’s too early to say Adams isn’t working out? He’s played what six games in a new system with a limited camp. I’m personally not ready to throw in the towel and I doubt the Seahawks are either.

        • Rob Staton says:

          That’s fine.

          But in six games time you’ll only have 12 games’ evidence and you’ve got to decide if he’s worth about $18m a year.

          • Pugs1 says:

            I just feel like they are pot committed after trading two number ones. I totally understand what you are saying but some are acting like he has been awful.

            • Rob Staton says:

              He hasn’t been good though.

              I hate to be that brutal and honest about it — but he hasn’t been good aside from the Atlanta game. Certainly not for the price paid.

              And they are not pot committed. They can trade him.

        • pdway says:

          I feel the same. He’s young. Basically considered an elite defensive player last year. The fit feels off so far, but it’s really early to make a final judgment.

  12. Denver Hawker says:

    Clowney to IR. Serious question, what contract does he play on next year?

    • Rob Staton says:

      He might not play. We saw what happened this year when he didn’t get big offers.

    • charlietheunicorn says:

      Could be the end of the road for him (?). He was fun to watch.

    • pdway says:

      He’s such a magnet for criticism for some reason. I got tired of defending him on various msg boards. Having watched him for every game of last season – I don’t really get it – plays hard, has to be accounted for on every play. One of the fastest D-lineman I’ve ever seen. And he played hurt.

  13. Sea Mode says:

    Thanks for the mock and for making it two rounds. I probably won’t get started looking at prospects until the off-season, but it’s great to start getting familiar with the names.

    I know it’s more just to look at names this early, but what’s the logic with the SF pick in this scenario? Someone to learn behind Jimmy G/Matt Ryan for a year or two? Or do you think they would trade Jimmy G and start a rookie so as to free up cap space to add a couple more weapons? Scary to think of them adding yet another top 15 pick…

    • Rob Staton says:

      Someone to challenge and potentially replace Jimmy G.

      I think Atlanta are winning too many games to warrant moving on from Matt Ryan.

      • BoiseSeahawk says:

        I think they may even use additional capital to move up for a Trey Lance or Zach Wilson if the opportunity presents itself.

  14. DriveByPoster says:

    //I suspect they won’t draft a tight end early//

    Tish & pish! Last year they were unlikely to select a linebacker. They only have 47 Tight Ends at the moment & there are 53 spots on the roster. Plenty of room for more!
    🙂

    And that’s a pretty exciting haul for the Jets that you are projecting.

  15. Easy Answers Hard Choices says:

    Rob;

    What do you think of a couple Husky opt-outs: Levi Onwuzurike and Joe Tryon? LO seems a little small to be a classic DT (6-3 ~ 290?) but appears to have great athleticism. JT looks like a classic DE (not LEO) type, but Seahawks need D-Line help. Maybe either or both would be available somewhere in round 3 if they (inevitably) trade down? Interested in your thoughts…

    Also, thanks for your hard work excellent analysis – I REALLY look forward to all things Seahawks and particularly your player analysis/mock drafts…

    • Rob Staton says:

      I saw some flashes from Levi Onwuzurike last year but it’s hard to project him. We’ve not seen enough development because he’s missing this season. So his stock will totally depend on testing.

      I’ve not studied Tryon.

      • Matt says:

        You will like Tryon. That’s absolutely a “swing for the fences” type of prospect. I think he is an ideal target in R2. He is the type of DE prospect that usually doesn’t come out of the PAC 12. Dude looks like an SEC pure bred.

  16. Gohawks5151 says:

    I love Phillips. In a way he is just getting started.

    • Gohawks5151 says:

      Sorry. Accidentally posted. His play is interesting to watch. Sometimes he is moving so effortlessly it appears like he’s not trying hard yet he makes a lot of plays this way. His interception was a wow play. So athletic. The concussions scared me but he seems to be ok this year. Finishing healthy would be great for this kids mindset. I think Seattle will trade back too but they should take a shot if he is there. What are they really gonna get trading back? Need an impact pick. Fill out your roster another way

  17. Volume12 says:

    Good stuff.

    High on Jaelen Phillips as well. Would like that pick a lot.

  18. Paul Cook says:

    The best Husky in a real thin class this year is Molden. Maybe Keith Taylor next. I don’t see Tryon or Levi as anything more than serviceable rotation players, and I’m a Husky fan. Molden, on the other hand, is one of those real committed-to-excellence guys. I’ve watched this guy not only improve dramatically as an all-purpose CB (good slot guy), but also transform his body strength-wise without losing any speed or quickness that I am so far able to detect.

    Keith Taylor is one of those guys who could be a good late round pick at CB, and *possibly* surprise.

    Thanks for the early mock. I’m so out of it in terms of what’s out there, and I’m not a deep draft guy to begin with. As someone else said, it’s just nice to start getting familiar with some of the names now.

    • Gohawks5151 says:

      The McDuffie kid looks good. Speed for days. One to keep an eye on for next year

      • Paul Cook says:

        Yeah, the Huskies got some real talent in the pipeline, and McDuffe is certainly one of them. Kirkland, Gordon, Bandes, Letuli, Turner, etc, etc… will have the Huskies back in the mix in terms of NFL prospects in the coming years.

      • Matt says:

        McDuffie is a better prospect than Byron Murphy. Bigger, stronger, faster. He’s a total stud. Teams started just avoiding him at the end of last year – as a true frosh.

        I like Tryon too. He will have success in the NFL. Absolutely an “off the bus first” guy which is very odd for a DE coming from the PAC 12.

    • Denver Hawker says:

      I’m a big husky fan- had season tickets for 20 years and couldn’t justify after a few years in Denver. I watch every game and travel to at least 3 games every year.

      I agree that Molden is the prize of the draft class for UW. He’ll be a fantastic nickel corner in the league. He’s tenacious. His size hurts him as an outside corner though.

      Levi is the next best prospect. Certainly a solid starting DT in the league, but nothing special. He’s too sporadic. Many of his TFLs were coverage related. Didn’t see the quickness off the line. But he can fill gaps, has long arms and heavy hands.

      Tryon is an enigma for me. I never thought he had quickness. Seemed to just power off the edge which is irked against some tackles and he disappeared against others. He has the right size, but just didn’t see enough to think he’s worth a pick in the top 3 rounds.

  19. Volume12 says:

    Rob, have you watched Clemson corner Derion Kendrick or OK St corner Rodarius Williams yet?

  20. Tony says:

    I think this is a prime time to draft a LB with our first pick. Nobody will see it coming!

  21. @volume12

    Few days ago you slike about FS withn no9… Who is he?

  22. Matt says:

    The guy I have my on is Garrett Wilson. Granted that’s for the 2022 draft. Find a way for that dude to become the heir apparent to Tyler Lockett.

  23. Josh says:

    Feed the trenches! How is the running back class looking? I could see trenches or running back here. Maybe even a corner like Reed? Hawks have had quite a few talented smaller DB’s, it would be cool to see them break their size profile and go smaller and quicker.

  24. charlietheunicorn says:

    I’m looking for another OG, specifically LG… that can be dropped in the OL and can solidify the interior for 4-5 years. Are there any guys who appear to be in the 2nd round that can play…. perhaps a guy like Lewis? Can they really hit 2 good OL in a row……

  25. Paul Cook says:

    On a side note, The Washington Huskies might have the most talented and the deepest group of DB’s in the country. They’re like 8 deep in real quality.

  26. Blitzy the Clown says:

    UCLA RB Demetric Felton is pretty interesting. Reminds me of a bit of Ronald Jones II and Alvin Kamara.

    Also Washington DE/OLB Zion Tupuola-Fetui is a nice looking prospect. He keeps playing like this and he’ll shoot up rankings next year.

    • CaptainJack says:

      Not sure ZTF will have the desired length and combine scores. Might be another Curtis Weaver type. Impressive sack numbers but little pro interest.

  27. Volume12 says:

    I messed around w/ 1 of those mock draft simulators earlier, PFN’s, ooohhh boy do they have guys ranked low lmaoo.

    2nd Kwity Paye, DE, Michigan
    3rd (traded ’22 4th w/ Buffalo) Derion Kendrick, CB, Clemson
    4th Aaron Banks, OL/G, ND
    5th Jake Ferguson, TE, Wisconsin
    6th Rodarius Williams (Greedy’s brother), CB, OK St.

    • Darnell says:

      Always a fun exercise, not a whole draft, but after some trade downs:

      70. Walker Little
      101. Brevin Jordan
      119. Alim McNeil

  28. CaptainJack says:

    Rob,

    No Elijah Molden first two rounds? I think he goes early round 2. Looked great tonight.

  29. Rob Staton says:

    Woke up to a load of abuse again today that needed to be moderated.

    Being a Seahawks fan willing to discuss uncomfortable but necessary topics on my own personal blog is starting to feel a lot like living in a country where you can’t criticise the dear leader.

    • Ok says:

      I’m really sorry Rob, that sucks, and is disheartening to read about, I’m certain it feels worse for you. I appreciate your efforts, very much.
      Was the logic something like ‘we won a game and had sacks so the defense was never a problem?’. I just don’t understand where these takes come from. Yes the hawks defense looked decent against an injured Jimmy G, and an injured Kyler Murray. So. That’s good, made me feel like I was watching an actual football game last week, but for me, unless Seattle wins out, and looks good doing it, I won’t feel confident about the playoff chances for advancing.
      Thanks again for writing.

    • AlaskaHawk says:

      I’m also sorry to hear it Rob. As fans we don’t always agree with each other. But we can be civil in our discussions. That is the measure of a true fan. I really enjoy your analysis and hope you keep it up.

      My advice for you next year is to take a break during the summer. It doesn’t have to be all summer, just give yourself time to refresh and rejuvenate.

    • Big Mike says:

      I know it’s easier for me to say, but screw ’em. I know you know people like that have no life whatsoever. Try to remember that they’re sad little f*%ks in mommy’s basement for the most part. I’ll argue with anyone that doesn’t share my opinion on sports, but good Lord it’s entertainment. I can easily follow said argument up by buying the a pint.

      I think Alaska’s suggestion of maybe taking a month off in the summer is also worth considering.

    • pdway says:

      well, we all know the internet is loaded with a certain type – and they’ll criticize/troll anyone who gains some prominence. I’d try to look on it as some marker of success – you’ve risen to a level that merits people taking potshots.

      I’m sure it’s annoying though. I appreciate the level of intelligent discourse on here.

    • Volume12 says:

      That’s garbage man. It’s your blog. Are they trolls, former members of the community, both?

      Can they just not disagree w/o having to take shots?

    • charlietheunicorn says:

      Welcome to modern America

      No middle ground

      Take no prisoners

      “I’m right you are wrong”

      It is really pathetic imo. I’m not sure why so many people are dumbasses. And to cause problems on a FREE site that discusses various topics surround a team we love…… yikes

  30. AlaskaHawk says:

    Regarding evaluating Dissley, I thought we got a look at him last year and he played well. He had 23 catches for 262 yards and ll.4 yards per catch. This year he is averaging 11.6 ypc. He is good enough to be a starter on the team.

    For whatever reasons, the Seahawks have never consistently passed to their tight ends. Even when Graham played, they weren’t always feeding the ball to him. So I view it as a complimentary position to Lockett, Metcalf, and Moore.

    Lets talk about Moore for a moment. I like him better when they throw to him downfield past the first down marker. These passes to him where he has to make a first down aren’t good.

  31. Perry Goll says:

    I understand you guys ripping on the Prez, but I will not make excuses for him but All Rookie Team 2017, 2nd Team All Pro 2018, 1st Tem All Pro 2019…those are not fan votes, so in this crazy year of 2020, to be fair, think you need to pump the brakes a bit on that he is just a glorified LB, let see how the final 6 games go, and hopefully next year is somewhat normal…the criticism is fair, but the tone you two are using seems a bit over blown…too early to judge the guy, plus you know he is pressing some as well…but I feel he will live up to the cost…yes, I am being a homer but I think his body of work is better than what you guys are playing it out to be.

    • Rob Staton says:

      Let’s get one thing straight.

      Nobody is ripping Jamal Adams. It’s perfectly acceptable to analyse how he is playing, given that he was acquired at massive expense of two first round picks, a third and a solid starter (McDougald).

      It’s also perfectly valid to discuss whether he suits this scheme and whether the Seahawks are right to pay him a salary that at an absolute minimum will be worth $15-18m a year.

      That question needs to be answered by March. Unfortunately, it’s a discussion to have right now because he is going to need to be paid very soon. So the Seahawks are faced with two options. Pay him and commit to him or move on.

      That’s the ‘tone’ of the discussion. It’s a mature and appropriate tone.

      I will have a long article on this topic on the blog on Monday. I would recommend reading it.

    • BobbyK says:

      I don’t care what he has done in the past. It’s an impressive resume, no doubt. But I don’t what he did with the Jets. I am a Seahawks fan and what I see of him from playing for the Seahawks is not impressive. I want that to change. Unfortunately, he doesn’t seem like a great scheme fit. He’s kind of like Troy Aikman at Oklahoma. He transferred to UCLA (J. Holieway had a big thing to do with it too).

      At the time, Seahawks fans were excited about getting Jimmy Graham. He was a stud in New Orleans. Then the Seahawks tried to force him the ball too much, Russell doesn’t throw guys open like Brees could, and they stupidly tried to expect him to be a complete TD. We all thought the Seahawks ripped the Saints off when the trade was first made, but revisionist history clearly shows the Hawks got screwed in that deal and didn’t get better because of it. That seems to be the case with Adams a little bit – he was better somewhere else because of fit. Like you, I want it to change – but I have my doubts. I’m hoping this off-season they can pull off a DeForest Buckner type trade to get an early/mid first-round pick because I think both parties may benefit from a deal like that (if Adams can go to a defense like Greg Williams). In the meantime, lets hope Adams can help them win a Super Bowl.

      • AlaskaHawk says:

        I never saw him with the Jets either, and have the distinct feeling that the Seahawks got snookered. Two first round picks and a third?? Really?? Apparently they knew he couldn’t cover receivers??

        I don’t want to bust his hump too much, he was the only guy getting to the quarterback for a few games. Why not just put him close to the line and letting him blitz? Then they will have two pass rushers on the line.

        He’s still useful, just not for pass coverage.

  32. Adog says:

    Does a good four man pass rush elevate the heckle jekyll play of jamal Adams? Yes…I think so… he’s a ball hawker from hell. Qaurterbacks in distress are like live lobsters and he’s hot water. As for the mock… although Wagner is overpaid… he’s untouchable. Yet what about trading coach Carrol back to the jets for one of our first rounders? Then trade back…pick up wr bateman and bpa left tackle.

    • Rob Staton says:

      I’ve not seen any evidence of Jamal Adams being a ball hawk.

      He’s an aggressive, blitzing, downfield attack-dog. Not a ball hawk.

      For me, this team is better suited with safeties you don’t need to blitz to justify their existence on the team. It’s a scheme better suited to rushing with four. And personally, if they’re going to invest money in this team I’d rather that come up front.

      • Bmseattle says:

        I’ve not seen evidence of a ball hawk, either.
        The guy has only 2 career interceptions… and they were both on tipped passes. He was in in position to catch the ball and he caught it, both times, but it wasn’t because of his coverage skills.

        All you need to do, to understand the value that Adams brings, is to watch the nfl.com top 100 players video for Adams. It is 99% Adams attacking the line of scrimmage and/or blitzing.

        sure, he’s good at that. But no sane person would argue that a blitzing safety is worth 2 1sts, a 3rd, a good player… and the highest contract for a safety ever.

        It’d be a different matter if he was also a great coverage safety, but he’s not. It doesn’t appear he is even average at that part of the game.
        That just can’t work in Pete’s defense.

        He needs to be traded this off season. Bite the bullet, admit the mistake, and mazimize the value you can get for him.

      • Lewis says:

        Right there with you. That seems to be Adams game, blitzing. Given we are a team that is not known for blitzing, but rushing four, it’s hard not to view the Adams signing as a desperation move to address the lack of pass rush. If he doesn’t fit the scheme (or if they aren’t capable of adjusting the scheme to highlight him in a way that the rest of the defense doesn’t implode), that’s not on the player. Unfortunately, they gave up so much to do it and might be lucky to get one of those first rounders back if they decide to move on.

        • Adog says:

          Kam chancellor would look bad trying to cover with flowers and Dunbar playing cornerback too. The secondary more than any other part of Pete’s defense needs to play off of each other. Now flowers is starting to show some juice…shaq is coming back… let’s see how Adams covers then.

          • Bmseattle says:

            @Adog

            Let’s presume that the rest of the season, Adams ups his coverage game, and he is, say, a “good” coverage safety.

            Since you bring up Kam, let’s say that Adams is a comperable player to Kam going forward. Maybe not quite the big hitter/intimidator, but a bit better at coverage.

            Do you think that is the best use of him?
            Do you think that the compensation is worth it for him if he is a “good” coverage safety?

            The whole point is that giving up those types of resources, you expect an elite player.
            Adams is not elite in any situation, unless you think his blitzing is elite.

            Either way, that’s not the way he’d be utilized in your above example… and accomodating a blitzing safety is not an ideal situation for Pete’s defense to excel.

  33. Paul Cook says:

    I’m still in limbo on the Adams trade. That we overpaid is not the issue to me personally I’m in the Jerry West camp about that when he said, to paraphrase, don’t worry about losing a trade if you get the player that you really want. If we get to the SB, Adams will be part of the reason we got there, and I would find it hard to argue with such success. The NFL is about getting to the big game.

    I’m more wondering if they got the player they really wanted? I really don’t think they pursued Adams mostly for his pass rushing prowess. They obviously paid up for a lot bigger package. If so, we haven’t seen it consistently yet, and injuries are part of the reason for that.

    But there are other reasons that are simmering beneath the surface for me. Is Adams as coachable as we’re going to need him to be? Is our coaching staff able to coach him in such a way as to bring out the most of his obvious physical gifts? Is he the kind of team player and leader we need, or does he have a little too much “diva” in him to play such a role?

    That’s where I’m at now. I still need to see more. I need to see results the rest of the way in these other areas. I’m not into making an exorbitant financial commitment to this guy if we don’t see that.

    • Sea Mode says:

      Honestly, I think they probably wanted a bit of an “unhinged” personality on the defense. Did it have to be him and at that cost? I’ll wait for Rob’s upcoming article to discuss.

  34. DC says:

    Anyone care to guess on how the Seahawks relationship with Chris Carson will evolve/dissolve in 2021? A one year ‘rehab/prove-it’ contract might make the most sense for all parties as the injuries don’t provide confidence in a long term extension & the Hawks might not want to spend one of their 3 picks on a RB. If they did draft a RB though I’m still interested in Kaylin Hill should he last into round 3 or lower.

    Prediction: Carson gets a 5 year $100M extension with Seattle 😱

    • Ben says:

      God I hope not. You cannot pay Carson if he can’t remain on the field. RB should be a focus (again) in the draft or FA of Carson won’t accept a team friendly, short term deal (I suspect he won’t)

    • Big Mike says:

      Zero chance he gets 20 APY from anyone with his injury history. Will be hard for him to get half that.

    • charlietheunicorn says:

      Carson won’t get more than 6-8M / year… max from anyone.
      I’m leaning 4-6M due to injuries / inability to be available 16 games a year throughout his career.

      As for drafting a RB, they almost have to, since they have an accumulation of young unproven guys and a couple of proven vet who are always banged up.

      I wouldn’t mind Hyde back on the team as well.

    • Sea Mode says:

      Oh, you know PC will want to keep him.

      I don’t know how it will go down, but I do know one thing: if I’m Carson, I’m taking every last penny I can get right now. RB shelf life is already short per se, and with his injury history, the wheels could fall off at any moment.

    • cha says:

      I really like the way Derrick Henry’s big contract with Tennessee is structured as a model for a potential Carson deal.

      (note: I said structure, not amount. I am not saying Carson deserves the same contract as Henry)

      It’s 4 years $50m with a $12m bonus and $25m guaranteed.

      His age 26 year (2020) has a very modest cap hit of $6m

      His age 27 year (2021) has a healthy cap hit of $13.5m

      Both those years the Titans would really have to take a bite to cut him.

      But his age 28 year (2022) and 29 year (2023) the cap hit is about $15m and they can cut him and save $9m in 2022, $12.5m in 2023.

      So Henry gets paid and the Titans get some protection against decline and serious injury.

      For Carson I could see a 4 year contract with a chunk of bonus $ that has outs after 2 seasons.

  35. Ralphy says:

    Ronnie Perkins was abusing the Pokes last night and I was thinking he is exactly what we need. Man he was fun to watch (and that’s coming from an OK State fan).

  36. Volume12 says:

    Hate to see Burrows get carted off the field

  37. Rob Staton says:

    Why…why…why…

    Didn’t they draft Nick Chubb?

    • Rob Staton says:

      Cleveland Browns are going to be 7-3.

      But running backs don’t matter, right?

    • Sea Mode says:

      That one still hurts me. Even more so than McDowell tbh. Chubb had EVERYTHING.

      • Rob Staton says:

        And everything they specifically want too. The size, the explosive traits, the running style.

        John Schneider says Rashaad Penny had one of the best health grades they’ve ever given. That seems to have played a big part in the decision to pick him instead. Yet Penny only played one full season as the lead back in college. So he never had his durability tested.

        Chubb had a serious injury at Georgia of course but came back strongly. Big missed opportunity.

        • Bmseattle says:

          If we were to build a RB from scratch, based on what we think we know that the Seahawks like/want out of a RB… he would look exactly like Chubb.

          • Sea Mode says:

            And not only physically: he is a well-raised, well-spoken, humble, put-your-head-down-and-work kind of young man but who will also punish you on the field, as we see in that highlight.

      • AlaskaHawk says:

        Tennessee offense is living off of Derrick Henry this season. Their second back Brown looked good too.

        The Seahawks need to get that position figured out. It is especially important when they can’t function without a good running game.

  38. charlietheunicorn says:

    RB Henry… wow way to finish the game.

  39. cha says:

    Sounds like the Eagles had another bad day.

    This might be a nice boost game for the Hawks’ front 7.

  40. charlietheunicorn says:

    Holy Crap

    RW has close to 3k passing and 30TD already this season.

    Metcalf close to 850 yards receiving and 9 TDs already.

    Really remarkable numbers.

  41. cha says:

    Jeff McLane
    @Jeff_McLane
    Doug Pederson on Carson Wentz starting next week: “No question about it, he’s our starter.”

    Also said he never considered benching Wentz during the game. #Eagles
    1:49 PM · Nov 22, 2020

    • charlietheunicorn says:

      No upside in changing. They are currently leading the NFClEast if I recall correctly.

      Seattle needs to go in and smash em in the mouth.

  42. Trevor says:

    Sucks for Joe Burrow today. Whenever I see a QB carted off it makes me even more amazed with Russ and how durable it he has been. Truly incredible when you think about the punishment he has taken in his career.

  43. cha says:

    I know the Hawks don’t have Indy’s OL, but man oh man. If these two meet in the playoffs.

    Chris Carson Left
    Chris Carson right

    Carlos Hyde up the middle

    W

    • cha says:

      Jonathan Taylor is eating the Packer D’s lunch.

    • Big Mike says:

      Falcons couldn’t help us today. Looking better for the Colts to do so.
      No matter how many times I watch Rivers play, his funky throwing motions never cease to surprise me when paired with the accuracy.

  44. Adam Louis Lafayette says:

    What we gave up for him was too much, but that’s not my argument. Let’s give this some time and fruitation before we give up on him. The defense needs to be molded around Adams.

    • Trevor says:

      That is a sick throw. So impressed with him.

    • McZ says:

      2,699 yds, 22 TD, 6 INTs, 72.0 QBR with one-and-a-half games less than DangeRuss.

      If the Chargers ever manage to get something like a running game going and add a capable LG, they will knock on KCs door.

      That said, Jets #32 Ashtyn Davis… 11 tackles, 2 pressures, 1 fumble recovery. Welcome to the show.

    • Paul Cook says:

      I wanted the Hawks to trade up in the first round last year to get an impact player. Brown, Simmons, one of the better OT’s, and CD Lamb were the targets of my choice. Instead, we “traded up” for Adams.

  45. Sea Mode says:

    He’s not wrong… 😂

    Albert Breer
    @AlbertBreer
    ·6m

    Cassius Marsh has been on every team.

  46. Blitzy the Clown says:

    How many rushing yards would Jonathan Taylor have today but for offensive penalties?

  47. Paul Cook says:

    Indy’s trying their best to make it interesting till the very end like the Hawks.

  48. Blitzy the Clown says:

    Colts ball!

  49. Rob Staton says:

    Big thanks to the Colts, who did their level best to mess things up but got there in the end.

  50. AlaskaHawk says:

    Go Colts and Titans. Two great overtime wins.

  51. charlietheunicorn says:

    Colts. Going to be a tough out in the playoffs.

  52. Big Mike says:

    Colts helped the Hawks now as much as it makes me ill I have to say “Go Tampa Bay” (tomorrow night).

  53. Justin Mullikin says:

    “Don’t you feel a little cheated that not only do you not get to see the crowds but also after a play like that you do not get to see Gruden’s face.”

    (I may have a butchered his quote a little bit doing it from memory)

    But yes I do.

    P.S. I do enjoy Sunday Night Football announcers very much. They are the gold standard IMO

  54. Ky Swift says:

    CEH is so good.

  55. CaptainJack says:

    Wow, ravens are 6-4.

  56. Paul Cook says:

    Mahomes is so good. The best. No doubt.

    • Rob Staton says:

      MVP looks nailed on for him

    • Big Mike says:

      Raiders appeared to throw everything at him on that last drive and he was utterly unphased. Just calmly led the winning drive. Not sure he even needed a shower after the game cuz it seemed like he never broke a sweat.

      • Rohan Raman says:

        Also helped that the Raiders defense social distanced from Kelce in the end zone.

      • AlaskaHawk says:

        I was rooting for the Raiders – but that was one great last drive by Mahomes. You can’t leave him with any time at all.

        I’m really psyched about the televised games that made it to Alaska. All the games were terrific. Two going into overtime. Lets hope for a great game tonight with Brady’s Bucs roasting the Rams for dinner.

  57. CaptainJack says:

    Pitt and KC are head over heels above everyone else.

    NFC doesn’t have a dominant team. If we win out, first seed is in play. Eagles, Giants, Jets, Football team, Rams again, Niners again. Doable. Won’t be easy, but doable.

    • AlaskaHawk says:

      AFC has so many interesting teams, to many to list. I have a soft spot for Buffalo and Tennessee. Your right about Pitt and KC being scary good.

      NFC the Saints are making a run this year. But Drew Brees is now out with a rib injury, projected to be back by game 15. It would be fun to have a Saints vs Seahawks rematch in the playoffs. Carson can recreate the Beast Quake.

    • Alex H says:

      TB is maybe the top team in the NFC this year. Their defense against GB was incredible, but they also had that game against NO (to my dismay for fantasy). When everything is turning the way it’s supposed to, TB is probably the strongest team in the NFC.

  58. Trevor says:

    The combination of Andy Reid and Mahomes might end up being the equivalent of Billichek and Brady. It is the. Perfect combination of offensive genius and the talent.

    • Rob Staton says:

      Incredible duo who could dominate the league for years.

    • Big Mike says:

      Hope Brady enjoys the title of GOAT cuz he ain’t gonna hold it for all that long. I believe Mahomes will when all is said and done.

      • Simo says:

        No doubt Mahomes is on track for a GOAT career, but the talk is premature right now. We need to wait until he wins his sixth SB (and he might) before he knocks Brady from that spot!

      • pdway says:

        pretty unprecedented start to his career.

        and going against him in fantasy is the f-ing worst….

    • Rohan Raman says:

      It will be fascinating to see how the chiefs look when they have to replace tyreek and kelce. No doubt they will, probably with funneling the offense through ceh and hardman, but it will be fascinating to watch.