LSU cornerback Jalen Collins jumps out as a possible Seahawks target
Seattle’s top off-season needs
#1 Receiver / tight end
The Seahawks just need more talent here. In the last twelve months they’ve lost Golden Tate, Percy Harvin and Sidney Rice. Paul Richardson might not play in 2015 and if he does, he’ll miss a whole off-season of work with Russell Wilson. How much will he realistically contribute? There’s at least some possibility Zach Miller is a cap casualty, saving $3m if he’s cut. You cannot lose that much talent in a year and not address it.
Seattle paid big money to land Rice hoping he would be the ultimate difference maker. They went even bigger to get Harvin. They previously flirted with Brandon Marshall and Vincent Jackson. They are clearly invested in finding a true match-up nightmare — a player with unique qualities. I don’t see why that would change now. Why would it? They have to keep searching.
With Russell Wilson set to become the highest paid player in the NFL (at least until Andrew Luck pens a new contract with the Colts) — more than ever he needs an injection of quality at receiver. The Seahawks are always going to be a run-first team. But you still have to throw the ball effectively. Never was that more obvious than the Super Bowl. Whether it’s a dynamic pass-catching tight end or a new go-to target at receiver — this has to be addressed.
#2 Cornerback
Byron Maxwell has played his last game for the Seahawks. That’s a safe assumption. He’s the best cornerback hitting free agency and it’s not a deep draft at the position. There are teams in the NFL crying out for help at corner — teams like Jacksonville who also have masses of unused cap space. There’s very little Seattle can do here.
The more pressing concern is there doesn’t appear to be a ready made replacement. You felt comfortable watching Walter Thurmond and then Maxwell stepping in for Brandon Browner. Tharold Simon has had his moments in what is essentially his first proper year in the NFL. Can he take the next step? I’m not totally sold. Jeremy Lane just needs to concentrate on getting healthy. This is a group that could use another player capable of competing for a start quickly.
I think the three most important things about this team are Russell Wilson, the running game (aka Marshawn Lynch) and the secondary. You secure the first two by paying Wilson and Lynch. You need to make sure the LOB remains at the top by adequately replacing Maxwell.
#3 Offensive line
A lot of people like to bag on James Carpenter and at times it’s warranted. But he’s not been a totally useless pick and he’s one of the few players who consistently worked over Justin Smith during his career. He provides genuine size on the line and the ability to move his man off the spot in the running game. If he departs he’ll need to be replaced.
The question is how do you replace him? Do you really want to go early again on the offensive line? Spending first round picks on Russell Okung and James Carpenter, a second round pick on Justin Britt and a third rounder on John Moffitt hasn’t provided an elite line. In fact Seattle’s most consistent offensive lineman over the last two years has been a converted defensive lineman taken in the 7th round.
There is one other angle of course. Okung is a free agent after 2015. How easy is it going to be to extend his contract? Do you plan ahead now by investing an early pick on a guard/tackle who can potentially man the blind side in 2016? That’s easier said than done. There’s a reason Okung went in the top ten and why the best tackles consistently go that early. Replacing Carpenter in 2015 with a guy like Ty Sambrailo and expecting him to replace Okung the year after looks like a sure-fire way to weaken an already average O-line.
#4 Defensive line
Depth is an issue here but with an asterisk. It’s OK pointing at the absence of Cliff Avril in the second half of the Super Bowl and stating it’s a reason for going big on another defensive end in the draft. Injuries happen to key players and you can’t always have a first round backup. Why not draft a first round QB to backup Wilson? Or a linebacker to backup Wagner? Spending a first round pick on a corner would be to replace a starter and fill a hole with Maxwell likely departing. Spending a first round pick on a receiver would be about adding a potential impact player. Spending a first round pick on a D-end would be going big on a #3. Isn’t that a luxury?
Of course, that’s not to say a defensive end would simply be a backup. The rotation would get them involved. Not many teams, however, carry three very talented edge rushers. I think they could use one more, but I’m not convinced it needs to be a high pick. Find someone who can contribute in the middle or later rounds. An athletic rusher who needs some refinement.
At the end of the day you’re still going to roll out Avril and Bennett as starters. I put the D-line at #4 because I don’t think they have an adequate starting corner on the roster behind Maxwell or enough talent at receiver/tight end. I also feel somewhat comfortable with the interior D-line too. Jordan Hill took a major step forward this season and will be back. It’s safe to presume Brandon Mebane will return. Tony McDaniel should return. Kevin Williams might even return — and if not, they’ve shown they can fill holes here. Hill and Mebane are the key players and both are contracted for 2015.
#5 Running back
This one’s short and sweet. If they extend Marshawn Lynch’s contract, they don’t need to draft a running back. If he departs, this could be a top-three need.
Thoughts on the likely options at #31
Fast forward to 35:15 in the audio below. It’s an interview Pete Carroll conducted on the Brock & Salk show on Tuesday:
“You’re always looking for the guy that jumps out. The player in the draft. That may or may not happen. But we’ll go about it to just get better.”
If you want to try and consider who they might take at #31 or #63 or wherever, you’re really looking for the player that jumps out. The combine is a useful tool because it can focus your attention. We know they like speed and length at certain positions (receiver, TE, corner, OL, DL). Then it’s about finding the player who stands out among the crowd. The difference maker. Bruce Irvin was a difference maker, so was Earl Thomas. Golden Tate. Even James Carpenter if you go back and watch the Mark Ingram era at Alabama. Production, to an extent, also appears to be key.
Let’s focus on the first round today:
Tight end / receiver
I would expect Amari Cooper, Devante Parker and Kevin White to be off the board. You’re left with a situation where the smaller-style receivers are more appealing at #31 compared to some of the bigger options. For example, Jaelen Strong is a nice big target who makes circus catches and contends for the ball in the air. But he struggles mightily to gain separation against even below-average college DB’s. He just isn’t very sudden and he doesn’t have great deep speed. My concern is at the next level he doesn’t maintain that knack of making the spectacular, difficult grab and what you’re left with is just a really average, slow possession receiver without difference-making size.
On the other hand, I think there are very appealing traits in Devin Smith and Phillip Dorsett. People love to bag on Smith because he was used predominantly as a deep threat at Ohio State. And? The guy is the most prolific downfield receiver in college football over the last four years. His YPC average is off the charts, he competes for the ball at the highest point and he has big-time special teams value to boot. I’m not even afraid to make the comparison to Odell Beckham Jr. He isn’t ODB — don’t get me wrong. But he has similar characteristics and athleticism.
See for yourself:
He doesn’t have the short-game Beckham Jr flashed at LSU or the massive hands. He’s very much a diluted ‘diet’ version of ODB. But that’s the difference between the #11 overall pick and potentially being around at #31. I still think you use Smith in the same way — as an all-round receiver who can make big plays down the sideline and act as a genuine playmaker despite a lack of size. He also has a bit of DeSean Jackson about his play.
Dorsett is a different player with incredible speed to get downfield, explode out of his breaks and consistently create separation. He’s a joy to watch at times. And I won’t hesitate to consider him as a top-50 pick in this draft.
You just have to ask yourself — how comfortable are you spending another high pick on another small receiver? We saw what Chris Matthews added to the offense simply through sheer height, catching radius and size. Russell Wilson is a tremendous deep-ball thrower and a couple of rangy targets with size would really open up the offense. It could also provide a major shot in the arm to the red zone production. This is also why tight end is a big need. The Seahawks are crying out for a difference maker here — with unnatural size, working the seam and scoring touchdowns.
They might be able to find a solution in free agency. If they’re able to acquire a Vincent Jackson (somehow) or bring in a Jordan Cameron, this kind of move might be more palatable. It would mean spending a third consecutive first pick on a receiver. That shouldn’t matter — a need’s a need. But we all know some people won’t be able to live with that thought.
In terms of the bigger receivers or tight ends in the draft, I still believe Dorial Green-Beckham will prove too much of a risk in the first round for any club in the post-Rice/Peterson NFL. Devin Funchess would give Seattle a seam-busting tight end with fantastic size, catching radius and big-play ability. He’s very attractive in that regard. But his tape at Michigan is so thoroughly underwhelming. He looks like a guy who needs to be constantly pushed — and that doesn’t feel like the type of player to mesh with Seattle’s bunch of self-motivators.
Sammie Coates has good size and freaky athleticism — but he’s just so inconsistent. Maxx Williams has gone from being very underrated to quite a bit overrated. He’s a very solid player who will make a fine pick for someone. But he’s not an exceptional athlete with unique size. I suspect he’ll be a very reliable albeit modest tight end at the next level. I’m willing to be proven wrong if he takes over the combine later this month.
There is some depth at receiver — so there’s no real pressure to go first round or bust. I think rounds 2-3 will offer a sweet-spot. There also may be opportunities for Seattle in free agency, depending on cost. This story is interesting:
Report: Jordan Cameron eager to leave the mess in Cleveland http://t.co/HkDhLSj0i6
— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) February 4, 2015
Cornerback
I wrote about this yesterday, but I’ve spoken to people who would know about this kind of thing and they say Seattle will only take a corner in round one if it’s a truly special prospect. That makes sense. They found Richard Sherman in round five, Brandon Browner in the CFL, Walter Thurmond in round four and Byron Maxwell in round six. They know what to look for. Yet for the first time the well appears to have run dry. They don’t want to miss a beat if they lose Maxwell as expected. And corner could provide the best value in the top-40.
There are three players to focus on at the combine I think. Trae Waynes, Marcus Peters and Jalen Collins. Waynes is grabby and will need technique work, but he’s very fast and long (6-1). Peters is 6-0 with similar length, has a real nose for the ball and plays with a physical edge. Collins is a super-fluid athlete at 6-2 who works well in run support. He oozes class.
Out of the three, I like Collins the most. He’s raw and only started ten games at LSU. But he looks like a guy they can work on. I spent a bit of time today watching all three players and I see the most upside in Collins. His frame screams Seahawks and he just ticks so many boxes — light on his feet, changes direction effortlessly, sticks in coverage and has long arms to play the ball. One play sticks out from 2014 and it’s not even a coverage play. Fast forward to 4:06 in the video below:
That’s Melvin Gordon — supreme athlete and expected to run a very fast forty time — being caught in a downfield chase by Collins. He never gives up on the play, is clearly faster than Gordon. I haven’t seen anyone chase him down like that. Nobody. That is elite speed. Throw in the length and size and hey — we’ve potentially found one of those players who jump out.
I’m not even going to hide it — Collins might be my favorite realistic option at #31. And we shouldn’t expect him to last even that long. He’s Lance Zierlein’s #25 overall prospect. Todd McShay has him at #32. I’m not sure you’ll find a better upside prospect to slot into the LOB this year. It’s just whether or not they’ve identified another 5th round sleeper who can come in with the same potential at a cheaper price.
Is Collins special enough to warrant early attention by the top dogs for DB development? I think so. Tony Pauline recently reported he was one of the few corners who could handle Odell Beckham at LSU.
Another thing worth noting — Peters might fall due to character concerns. Zierlein compares him to Aqib Talib: “Both entered the draft with off-field concerns. They show similar body language when things don’t go their way on the field and are both volatile, but their playing styles are similar, too. They both love to attack the ball and sit down on routes to try to make things happen.” If Seattle’s locker room is as volatile as suggested earlier in the season — would they be prepared to take him in the first two days?
Offensive line
This is a toughie. A lot of fans would be happy if Seattle spent every one of their first round picks on the offensive line. Personally I feel like they’ve pumped enough into that group — and any further early picks really need to enhance the level of play substantially. I don’t want any more early OL picks for the sake of it. I liked Joel Bitonio a lot last year because I believed he could really enhance the performance of the line at guard or tackle. When I look at Tony Pauline’s newly published big board for O-liners today, I’m not sure I see a similar type of player.
Pauline grades Brandon Scherff and Andrus Peat as his only two clear-cut first rounders. T.J. Clemmings gets a round 1/2 grade. Taking those grades on face value, that could put Clemmings in range. They clearly like tackles who can play guard (and vice versa) — see Carpenter, Britt, Bailey, Bowie. Clemmings has the length they love and could play right tackle, left tackle or guard. He’d be a nice pick for upside. But you have to expect — with such a big premium on long, athletic tackles — that he won’t be there at #31.
I rate Ereck Flowers much higher than Pauline (he says third round) so for the sake of this piece I’m going to rule him out for now — although he would be a nice possibility if available and a possible long-term replacement for Okung if that situation materialized. Pauline’s next three linemen (all with second round grades) are Ty Sambrailo, Cedric Ogbuehi and Daryl Williams. He previously reported Seattle interest in Sambrailo. Would they take him at #31? I think he’d fit nicely into Carpenter’s position and they have similar size. I’m just not convinced he’d take the line to the next level. It’d be a sideways step. And in round one I kind of want more than that. Pauline has Jake Fisher in round three, Corey Robinson in round four and Rob Crisp as an UDFA — all more appealing in my opinion in those rounds vs Sambrailo in the late first or early second after a move down.
I’m not a fan of Ogbuehi’s and wouldn’t have him on my board after the ACL injury. Oklahoma’s Williams I’m much more open too — another massive tackle similar to Carpenter who might be available at #63. That would be decent value.
It would have to be a special player falling to warrant a first round pick here for what amounts to an interior lineman unless you want to move Britt inside. Scherff’s run blocking will appeal, for example. Peat is a classic blind-side pass-protector. Clemmings is all about the upside. If you’re willing to accept Clemmings has as much chance to be a total disaster as a perennial all-pro — then by all means take the shot. He is the most attractive option here, but Tom Cable would need to be ready to coach him up.
There is some depth in this area and I’d be willing to play for value later on.
Defensive line
This is a pretty good class for pass rushers. But here’s the thing. Seattle has a very specific type of pass rusher they target. Length is key, so is the ten-yard split. Cliff Avril and Bruce Irvin are both long athletes running spectacular 1.50 ten-yard splits. Let’s wait for the combine to be 100% sure, but when I watch Bud Dupree, Nate Orchard, Hau’Oli Kikaha and others — I just don’t see either the speed, the length or both.
Eli Harold sticks out like a sore thumb and if he doesn’t fly up the board (for me he’s a top-15 level prospect) I’d be ready to pull the trigger. He’s long, athletic with a great burst. He converts speed to power easily. He’s been productive. He’s a gritty individual who’s faced adversity. He’s a former 5-star recruit. He’s another player who jumps out to you. I just don’t see any way he’s there at #31. See for yourself:
If I’m not getting a player like that — I’m waiting and seeing what’s available later. After all — this is a DEPTH pick. Not many teams have two pass rushers like Michael Bennett and Cliff Avril. The need for a third is not vital — it’s just about stacking the rotation. If a special player like Harold is there I’m game. But while Orchard and Kikaha have been productive in the PAC-12, I’m not convinced either is worth the big spend just to put another body behind Avril/Bennett. Vic Beasley might be another one to monitor. He’s a better fighter than he gets credit for, he’s been very productive at Clemson and he has track speed.
In the interior, I do expect Danny Shelton and Jordan Phillips to be gone. Both are unique enough to fit into the ‘jump out’ category. I’ve shifted my position on Shelton after viewing his Oregon tape. I’m a big fan of two former 5-star recruits in Eddie Goldman and Malcom Brown but expect both to be off the board, leaving the options to be pretty thin the rest of the way.
Running back
This is all about Marshawn Lynch. Will he stay or will he go? If he goes, this becomes a big need unless you fancy the idea of a Robert Turbin led running game (with Christine Michael spelling). Two players jump out to you of course — Melvin Gordon and Todd Gurley. The ACL injury doesn’t bother me with Gurley — I’ll take my chances because he’s that good. I don’t expect either player to be available at #31.
I do think they’ll find a way to keep Lynch, taking this off the list of needs.
Players who jump out at the five ‘need’ positions so far
Jalen Collins (CB, LSU)
Eli Harold (DE, Virginia)
Devin Smith (WR, Ohio State)
Melvin Gordon (RB, Wisconsin)
Todd Gurley (RB, Georgia)
T.J. Clemmings (T, Pittsburgh)
Aggressive in the run defense, good size, speed, played for a big time defense in college… I’d be on board for him at 31.
I’m sure he’ll move up the board after the combine but for sake of argument jalen Collins for me. I hope his lack of tape helps us by making people second guess themselves. His abilities to diagnose between run/pass and when to let go of his man and pursue someone else are already pretty good.
As for the others: I’ll eat a hat if Devin smith doesn’t put up a good to great combine, Meyers guys play for him to go pro its,as,simple as that, I could possibly see small bench totals but who knows Martavis threw it up last year but all the numbers that matter I expect to be near great, same with Dorsett but he’s not on your list.
One of our good friends I think will see Eli harold on their team…jax or Atlanta I mean, those guys need players to set a tone though jax could be in the Shane ray/ Gregory market. Regardless I would be stunned if Harold makes it into the twenties.
Tj clemmings and the two RBs in not sure will be near us.
I did mention Dorsett in the piece.
Sorry my man fir the confusion, I meant the final 6 names you listed trying to frame who you believe may be the 31st pick. I would love to see Dorsett as a hawk but don’t know if he makes it to 62.
No probs I see what you mean now.
what kind of contract do you think Walter Thurmond can get coming off injury? I am thinking a one year prove it contract and then he can hit free agency again next year.
I think he burned some bridges in Seattle with the suspensions.
I would be on board with Jalen Collins at #31. He is one of the few player I see that could step into a starting job on the Seahawks. Gordon and Gurley are also solid first round picks for somebody. If we have the need they would also start. Clemmings has a chance to replace Okung. If we want to move on from our LT, I would take the risk if he is there. Smith is a good player but will probably go round 2 because the WR group is pretty deep. Finally, Harold is a dynamic pass rusher in college. At 235 he cannot hold up to the run as a LEO in the NFL. Like Irvin, who was 245 coming out of college, he probably will be a OLB. There is little evidence Harold can play in space or cover receivers. Even to play OLB he is going to need to put on some weight. So there is some risk taking him this high because you don’t know what you have when he fills out. I am betting Harold falls into the second round but not to #64.
I’m not thrilled about Collins at 31 but this is a much better option here than Peters.
The big issue with 31 is all the picks seem like in a void they could go ten or more spots later, but oddly will be gone by our next spot. I’m not mr. Draft value chart but its certainly a strange spot to be picking at for this years draft.
Harold won’t play OLB — he’s a pure end. Rushing the edge.
I really wish we had tape of Collins going up against OBJ in practice.
Collins is one of the DBs I want to see at the combine – and while he doesn’t have all the games, I’d be okay with picking him in the first round.
There are a couple of other guys CBs who I’m keeping my eye on – Eric Rowe Utah and Ronald Darby FSU.
I think Matthews play to shows what is possible with a taller receiver when you can take advantage of mismatches. I love our WRs but they were owned in the SB except for Matthews. Did a TE even catch a pass? Without those long fades to Matthews – and the one miraculous catch by Kearse, our passing game was – sorry – pedestrian. At some point we need to replace Tate/Rice/Harvin.
Wilson had a lot of time in the pocket – and I haven’t seen the all 22 – but it seemed like our guys couldn’t get open. At some point we have to get a playmaker in the passing game.
To be fair, there’s also been times where Wilson just simply doesn’t see the receiver. I don’t think it’s his height that’s the problem as much as him not going through his progressions because he’s so used to scrambling. I actually liked the OL play later into the season; the pass protection was pretty damn good in my opinion in the Superbowl. But overall, we need receivers that can create separation from the DBs. I too, am tired of seeing Russ having four seconds to throw but no one to throw to. Even more frustrating when the replays show the DBs glued to the receivers with little effort.
It was painful watching Wilson get 8-10 seconds at the end of the first quarter and have to talk a run for -1 yards because nobody could get open.
So if you look at your last Mock, Devin Smith is still available. Would you stay put or move up to get T.J. Clemmings, Todd Gurley, or even White,
I meant La’el Collins not T.J. Clemmings,
I think, right now, I’d lean towards staying put. If they lose Lynch I consider getting Gurley.
I think they could let Carp walk, start Bailey at RT, move Britt to LG, and draft OL competitors late on Day 2/Day 3. I’m sure they have DLs on radar for conversion we haven’t considered, and there are always UDFA signings.
Smith would be a solid pick at 31. An instant contributor and an immediate improvement to the WR corps.
I’m liking Jesse James more and more. He’s my first choice for TE. But where to take him? Is he worth R2? Also, unless Mad Maxx blows up the combine, I think he’s R2 at best.
As much as I think Gurley will have a prolific pro career, the best option here is to extend Lynch, if for no reason other than because he’s simply that unique. But extending Lynch allows SEA to go WR/TE/DB early.
It’s really early yet, but I get the feeling SEA will look to trade back from 31. There are a number of highly talented prospects who will be available in R2. I can see them packaging the mid a lower picks to trade back up into R2 for 3 picks total in that range.
What about Owa? Do you like him early?
If they let carpenter walk I can see them putting Bailey at LG instead of Britt. i don’t know if Britt has ever played interior line I know he played LT in college but I think they’d put Bailey at LG if by chance they let carp walk.
I agree. Bailey was brutal in his brief stint at RT. He is much more natural and effective on the left side, especially LT.
I’m curious to see what they’ll do with Jean-Pierre. I believe he’s a free agent, but he could also compete for LG.
I love Owa but he can’t rush the edge. He’s all dipping inside. Amazing potential (hip injury history bothers me). I’m just not sure that’s the direction I go in R1. In my mock I had him going to GB at #30.
He reminds me of those thoroughbreds who run best with blinders to focus their attention – he’s at his best inside. He seems to lose focus when rushing the outside and allows himself to be easily run out of the pay. I think right now he’s a one-trick specialist in the way Irvin was, but as a pure pass rushing 3T in nickel/nascar package.
The good news is he’s pretty similar to Bennett in size – if anything a little stouter. With experience, he could develop into an every-snap DT.
I don’t know that he’ll ever be an edge rusher, unless you send him on cross or delay rushes.
He’s not a need per say at 31, but I think he represents tremendous value at that spot and he would be an exciting addition to the DL.
I’m kind of hoping for Devin Smith more and more, seemed explosive but the one thing we have seen is the interviews are taken seriously with Seattle so I have no idea if he has that dog mentality. All I know is explosive plays are really coveted and a way to ease a player in the lineup (Kearse, Richardson both started out this way)
I’d still love getting Jackson, I think you’ve made great points about him and the contract + situation the Hawks and Bucs are in makes a lot of sense for both parties.
If it came down to Devin Smith and Collins right now I’m totally with you that I’d prefer Devin Smith. Yes, he doesn’t have the game changing size, but at this point I’m fine with just ANY type of play making WR and at 31 he looks to be the best play maker on the board.
Interesting. Great work on Collins, Rob. Just looking at his catch up stride – he looks like Sherm. Will probably run faster as you suggest, he seems to be a similar type of athlete with his length and frame. Very Seahawky.
Very similar, Jimmy. Exciting prospect.
As much as I like Cameron I wouldn’t touch him with his injury history. He missed over a month with a head injury this year, I believe it was his 4th one. I don’t think there’s much of an option this year in FA where cost and player would be an upgrade over miller. Volume 12 mentioned m Bennett as a trade option who i would be open too way more then vjack. Other then that I don’t really see a better option then miller.
Cameron’s injury history could make him a bargain.
I understand that but one more hit and his career could be over. How often do players miss 4 to 6 games with a head injury. IMHO he needs to start thinking about life after football.
Perhaps. You’d definitely do the homework — I guess like they did with Jamichael Finley a year ago. But if you felt good about it I’d take a long hard look. He’s what they need.
I agree. I absolutely love TE Jordan Cameron. I think Seattle, like Philly, is so far ahead of the curve when it comes to injury treatments, monitoring a player’s diet, sleep patterns, brain waves, cognitive personality tests, etc., that the risk almost decreases.
He’d be a great mentor for TE Luke Wilson as well. Sometimes when a guy is so talented, you just have to roll the dice. Every single guy in this league plays injured at some point in the season, whether we know it or not.
Rob, funny you mentioned Collins chasing down gorden. I had to watch that play multiple times when I first seen it just to see who caught him. Very intriguing player and I like him more then peters, wasn’t a fan of him in round one. Gorden is my favorite player in this draft and seeing someone chase him down with Collins size was impressive. Gorden, Collins, Harold and smith would be my picks in that order. Harold’s size concerns me though and obviously gorden would depend on lynch.
I’m pretty down on Peters personally. I think the earliest I’d consider him would be late 2nd round. I’m definitely biased as a fan of UW, but he was one of those players that I would be yelling at on my TV. He doesn’t look to me like a player that ever gets completed absorbed in a game or “in the zone”. Richard Sherman and Earl Thomas are definitely “in the zone” type of players. Guys who don’t get “in the zone” are more guys like Percy Harvin.
I remember Earl Thomas having a bit of Marcus Peters to his game in college. Combustible, didn’t form tackle, but rather went for the big hit. I think there almost needs to be a certain swagger or ego in order to be a good CB. It’s a very fickle position where one minute your the ‘man’ and the next it’s your fault for this and that.
The thing I love about CB Peters is he takes good angles to the football, doesn’t waste his momentum or take unnecessary steps. He knows how sit down on routes and bait the QB. His tape from last year against Oregon St is very impressive. He consistently gave WR Brandin Cooks trouble. His competitive nature is something you have or don’t.
IMO he’s immature. But he does have a big heart and regularly goes back to Oakland along with Marshawn Lynch and helps out/gives back to the youth. There’s quite a few people who don’t like him, but I think in the right environment where you can let him be who he is, he could be very special.
Rob what do you think of deontay greenberry from Houston?
Good size and for goodness sakes he wears a hard hat not because he thinks it’s fashionable but because he wants to be the best and knows he’s got to work at it.
I like him as a mid rounder.
The more I watch of him the more I like. His game tape against Rutgers in 2013 is fantastic. He’s one that really “jumps out”, as Rob said.
Not watched him to be honest David.
ive heard good things. hes also a combine snub but he will have a pro day.
he boxes out good and hes 6’3 and around 200lbs
Give him a look when you get a chance, Rob. He has the frame of Sidney Rice with a little of ADB’s attitude. Intriguing player.
He’s got a lot of Sidney Rice to his game. This kid oozes confidence.
Rob have you look at Jesse James 6ft 7 and is on the freak list for his speed and strength could be a great red zone TE and blocking for the run game? not 1st RD but maybe 3rd or 4th. and is trading for Justin Blackmon a option
I have. Tape a bit hit and miss at times. One to watch at the combine. I’m not fussed about trading for Blackmon.
For the draftniks in the crowd, I see a,growing love for TE Jesse James which is great to see new ideas in curious though how he’s significantly different then TE Nick Boyle, whom I think could be a great get in the Fifth or so…
Just did a quick stats breakdown and it seemed that I was looking at more or less the same player, the 1 inch height difference included….which I think is probably a bit bigger of a factor going from 5’10 to 5’11 then 6’6″ on up..
Penn St TE Jesse James seems to have a ton of untapped potential and is rumored to be an athletic freak. With Delaware TE Nick Boyle, what you see is what you get. That’s not a bad thing, but you should always draft guys aren’t a finished product, because you can teach them your habits and mold them. I get the feeling that PC looks at the draft as almost a science experiment.
Size, frame and athleticism favors James.
Combine will give a clearer picture. James on tape looks like a much more competent blocker. Particularly if you look at his 2013 version of himself where he was more blocker and less pass catcher with Allen Robinson commanding the targets.
James doesn’t have the greatest hands. IMO, that separates him from the likes of Maxx Williams significantly.
For blocking, he is not dissimilar from Williams. Both mix it up pretty well. Obviously the receiving aspect drops James by quite a bit. I’d say Williams also shows much better ability to get open as well.
Then there is the level of competition aspect. Boyle didn’t really do much in his senior bowl stint to make him look special with the upgrade in talent. That’s not to say he embarrassed himself. But really he just kind of showed JAG ability which is kind of a shame. Particularly given that the Senior Bowl as a whole tended to be down talent wise this year.
Boyle seems like a 6th/7th round kind of guy. I don’t see Seattle going with JAG level talent in the late rounds. They tend to go for more athletic projects there. Think Anthony McCoy kind of athleticism. In this regard, I think James is a better likelihood if we go bust in UFA.
Thanks gents! I was curios because the ground swell of praise for made me,wonder where you draft him and how good do his combine numbers need to be? Mostly because, granted its not entirely his fault but his college career was pretty lacking.
If you compare the dangerous TE’s size wise coming out of college you obviously have gronk who had pretty damn good numbers and pedigree going 42, Fleener was statistically a bit better but they had their connection in college going on, and graham who came in and contributed right away with little to no experience….
So where do you think James goes and is,all continue on running a 4.6 with a massive very?
I say roll the dice with Dorial if he’s there. Truly special talent and our team has the leadership to align him with the program, despite the swing and miss with Harvin, character – wise. Do we really thing this team will suddenly get gun-shy?
Difference – maker. Game-changer.
I feel like the issues with Harvin and DGB aren’t the same. Harvin has been a well-documented headcase ever since high school. DGB made a few mistakes at Mizzou, and if the reports of him at Oklahoma check out ok, I think we need to pull the trigger. Keep in mind, Harvin was an established, star NFL receiver when he came to Seattle. DGB will be a rookie, with everything to prove. For all the talk about bringing Peters in and having him pushed by the LOB, I have faith that Angry Doug Baldwin won’t tolerate any bullshit from a rookie.
A few mistakes that were enough to get him kicked out of school.
Very true, but Harvin also came from Urban Meyer’s Florida team, and he’s a guy who doesn’t have the best track record when it comes to removing talented troublemakers from his program. But I’ll admit I don’t know very much about Gary Pinkel’s policies on the same matter, but it wouldn’t surprise me if he would have kicked a player like Percy off of the team.
Needless to say, I can see your point about the FO wanting to surround him with as few possible thorns as necessary, especially in light of the so called “conspiracy” surrounding the final play call of the SB. (not a believer personally)
Clearly, Seattle doesn’t strike players off their lists because they get kicked from a program (Richardson).
Obviously it’ll be a point of investigation no doubt. Every team is doing their homework on him. I do think we may well overestimate these kinds of character issues.
Potential wise, DGB could easily be the best player in the entire draft at any position. He’s also a risk to be the next Josh Gordon in terms of never seeing the field. And he could just as well be the next Charles Rogers whose career goes up in smoke — literally.
Ultimately, if he’s available at 31 — I’d have to think we’d think long and hard about him. As we’ve kind of seen, there are a lot of good looking prospects at that range (25-45), but we’re kind of scratching our heads as to which prospects could be special.
Clearly there is risk with DGB. Not simply in terms of character, which I think are overblown, but certainly the lack of sample size of his collegiate work. Both are enough to give GMs pause.
Taking him, means taking a player who has the ideal physical attributes of a big WR, who has flashed in limited fashion with limited appearances. It’s merely a sample size concern at this point. And it’s worth noting it’s a sample size of a player in his 19th and 20th year of age. Where you’d expect consistency issues.
He’s going to take a lot of work. Probably won’t be really ready to contribute in his first year. Not many teams are going to want to incur that kind of risk. The handholding cost for his entry into the league is possibly going to be high.
The meat of the matter to me, is that there really aren’t many — if any — players who look like they have special in them out of the box. With DGB, the upside is Dez Bryant kind of impact. Certainly not in numbers. But other than perhaps Gurley (if healthy), there isn’t another offensive player I see where a DC has to plan specifically for them and cheat their defense to stop them. At least not from what they’ve shown in college. That’s the nature of picking in the last moments of the round.
Whomever we take, looks like they are going to have to be developed significantly to contribute at a high level on day 1.
DGB is a risk. But even in limited action, he’s flashed the kind of talents that will make DCs cheat on him if he develops his skills and confidence and consistency. Building him up and keeping him out of trouble will be key. And a FO willing to risk throwing away a first round pick on a prospect that will be panned on draft day.
There’s no doubting his talent — but when I see people speculating about some of the issues he has… yeah. I’m a little concerned. And the thing with Richardson is — he left UCLA and went to Colorado and turned his career around. We haven’t seen DGB do that. In fact he committed to Oklahoma and then without playing a snap bombed for the NFL. We’ll see if it was the right decision.
I think Rob was right when he pointed out that if the character flags on DGB aren’t damning, then he will probably never make it to 31. Maybe if he slides and they can grab him in a later round…
Twitter speculation, but potentially big issues with DGB if true:
https://twitter.com/MikeLaChance9/status/563385520550842370
https://twitter.com/AllbrightNFL/status/563385501088882688
Yeah…that’s not good.
I’m perfectly fine saying that I definitely don’t want DGB on my team. We are a championship contending team who don’t need to take this wild shot in the dark chances on guys that have serious red flags without the green flags to balance them out.
I’ve taken him off my personal board.
Another need in my book is returner. Richardson flashed occasionally and may improve, but as you pointed out, he’s no guarantee to play much next year. I wouldn’t draft specifically for that, but if one of the smaller, speedy WR that also provides a return threat, I’d give it a long look.
As far as looking at needs, im convinced that the return games are glaring ones! Our punt returns were non existent and don’t get me started on the adventures of the kick offs this season! That brings me to a player that brings a “special” skill set of his own. Ty Montgomery is a larger WR who excels in both roles. The guy is a play maker. He is schooled in a pro style offence and showed a lot of versatility lining up in the backfield as a running option. Kinda a PERCY Harvin lite in my mind.
Yeah, Montgomery’ stock seems to be really low but I like him as a depth pick with special teams value. He’s not going to light up the combine with a 4.3 or something, so he could be a good target as a mid round pick.
I love the idea of Jalen Collins. It’s funny, when you put the Gordon highlights up a few weeks ago, I noticed Collins on that play you highlight here. I may have posted about it then but not sure.
I’m fully on board with him at 31 as long as he checks out.
You definitely mentioned it on the boards. After you mentioned it I started looking into him more.
Good article Rob, and great job identifying a guy who will be sitting there.
LSU CB Jalen Collins is a very ‘Seahawky’ type CB and we know Seattle seems to like LSU players and the style they play with.
I know he has great size and length, but I think he will be available when Seattle picks because he is so raw, however he’s loaded with potential and Seattle likes that. He’s a hard hitter, but his technique is sloppy, he’s a great man cover corner, but doesn’t sit in his zone. This is why I think he’ll be available.
Isn’t he like Kam Chancellor,with plays he made and celebration things after that?.His awareness is so good,reacts quickly,changes his direction easily and stops opponent threats.I wouldn’t be surprised if he is a fan of Kam or all of the LOB.If seahawks get him,he will fit in and play from day 1.But if we cant keep Lynch then give his money to Maxwell and pick Gurley.
Yeah, LSU CB Jalen Collins almost seems to have a LBs mindset in a CBs body. I love how he wants to chase everything down,
I kind of have to agree with you Rob, On your last post you mentioned Seattle’s draft could hypothetically look something like- RD 1 Marcus Peters or Jalen Collins RD2 Ty Sambrailo and RD 3 Tyler Lockett.
Personally I’d love:
RD1 Jalen Collins
RD2 not sure if it should be a TE or possible LG to replace Carp
RD 3 Tyler Lockett
Rob, is South Carolina OL Cory Robinson a possible LG candidate? I know he’ll never be a true LT in this league, but I’m curious because he has that freakish size that stands out. Does he have enough of a mean streak to his game or is he soft? Could you imagine a 6’7, 335 lb LG? Holy shit!
I think you could move Robinson inside, although I like him at RT.
Lots of digs on the Oline needs. I don’t think everyone is crying to use all #1 on Oline. To me, it doesn’t matter how many #1 we have used in the past, if the Oline is still our biggest weakness. Add to the fact Carpenter is gone, Britt struggled, Okung is always hurt and has 1 year left and Unger is always and has 2 years left. We have payed the D and probably will lock up Wagner and Irvin as well. That means a few positions need to be young and cheap. It looks like those 2 positions will be Oline and receivers/te.
With that, I am open to a playmaker in the 1st (TE/WR/CB/DT (penetrating).
However, I really think 2 olineman need to be picked between 2nd and 4th.
Also, I wouldn’t touch Mr. Concussion Cameron.
Of the 2, what work best for the Hawks:
Lynch or V. Jackson and M. Bennett (10 million total)
Thanks for the new piece to take mind off of SB. 11 1/2 months to go
I wouldn’t say they are digs, and certainly not exclusive to Seahawks fans. Having spent a bit of time looking at other forums and social media to gauge needs for other teams, I notice a lot of the same kind of thought — that a pick on the O-line can’t go wrong. It’s classic football rhetoric.
I’m not going to go down the same road on Okung and Unger. Okung in particular plays so many more games than people want to give him credit for. He missed some time last year and apart from that he’s no more or less banged up than a Bobby Wagner. Okung missed half a season in 2013 and the odd game elsewhere. It’s not like he’s Sam Bradford.
I’d go as far to say that OL has been one of the most volatile positions to draft in recent years. There have been a LOT of R1 picks recently who are not only bad, but are no longer with their original team. Very telling.
Rob I’m sure someone’s asked you about this player but…Christian Covington? I did my weekly pilgrimage on over to *blank* football and saw that he’s STILL mocking this guy to us kind of reminiscent of how he mocked Prich to us for months last year.
I’ve watched all the Christian Covington tape I could handle and heard all the Aaron Donald lite comparisons I could take (that honor to me goes to Grady Jarret btw…please draft gods let it be so) point is and I’m not trying to be a wise ass when I watched his tape if draft breakdown hadn’t have white boxed him before the play I literally wouldn’t have seen him making plays…am I missing something here? Thanks.
I think he’s an upside type. I know what you mean regarding the tape. I’m not as some others. But I think in the middle to later rounds that’s where they’ll look for D-line depth and I guess he’s an option there. We’ll do more on him down the line.
Thanks, appreciate it i always keep an open mind but round two seems a bit high. One more thought over at old walts site a,lot of the prospects we talk about here a markedly further down then i think a lot if us suspect they’ll be. Its interesting to see the juxtaposition, and the opposite is true with guys,being higher then we,think they’ll be, for example a guy like Danielle Hunter…being mocked to us in the third. Personally i think if the hawks were to draft him it’d be much lower. I’m all about upside but dude looks skinny and literally has the most minimal stat lines to be a third rounder. tangent, apologies!
Danielle Hunter is a pure upside pick, Teams love to draft for potential.
this is,where I disagree. I don’t see upside. I see a tall dude. Athletically in college if you have major upside you have these outlier games where you are,stronger or faster then the opposition which masks technical deficiencies and allow to have a,good stat line hunter never has those games. With Hunter I’ve not seen anything yet…could be proven wrong like Jamie Collins a few years back who destroyed the combine, to indicate upside just that he’s 6’6″ and thin which shown by Dion jordan isn’t always a great combo.
You may be right. He flashed more in 2013 than he did this past year, that’s for sure. I just think some team will roll the dice on him in the top 100.
I have to believe that at least one of the listed needs will be solved via free agency/trade. Given how important adding a big receiver is to the team, I see this as the most likely place where they get a veteran rather than a rookie. They’ve been tied to Jordan Cameron in the past and he’s available as a free agent. One has to imagine they’ll be kicking the tires pretty hard on that one.
The only other realistic option out there I see is Brandon Marshall. I can’t see him being on the Bears next year. Heck the new OC in CHI was the WR coach for Denver when Marshall was there. Now I don’t know if the Hawks would be willing to take on another “problem child” receiver, but if they were, Marshall could be had.
What I like most about solving the big receiver issue outside the draft is that it frees up the ability to go after someone like Devin Smith in RD1.
A receiving corp of:
Kearse, Baldwin, Smith, Cameron
or
Marshall, Baldwin, Smith, Wilson
looks good to me.
I think you’re right on the WR/TE angle. I’d almost be surprised if they didn’t find a solution in FA. I have no idea how they’ll do it with the cap. But I think they’ll find a way.
For me, it’s the number one problem area on the team, and it’s not close. This team wins the super bowl if the receiving core were better. The inability of the receivers to get open while Russ sat there for an eternity in the pocket. The huge drop by Kearse that would have put the Hawks in a position to go up by three scores, The atrocious execution of the final play by Kearse and Locket. Just so many missed opportunities.
There’s so much room for improvement in that group and I’m sure the FO knows it.
Totally agree. It was so blindingly obvious to me that the WRs are just not good enough. The WRs actually cause way more stress on our offense than they do opposing Defenses.
RW had so much time in the SB, and nobody could create legit separation. It’s one thing to not get separation on a timing route, it’s an entirely different thing when your QB is scrambling for 6+ seconds at a time, and you can’t shake a defender who is keeping an eye on the WR and the QB. Pretty pathetic IMO.
And lastly, Kearse is the epitome of for every great play, there are 2-4 routine ones he can’t make. That is a drive killer.
So much time because they never rushed more than 4. No blitz, no real stunts. They spied Wilson and didn’t let him roll out. Played man with CB and zone with the LB and safety. Less to do with WR then their coverage and gameplan. We started beating them deep and got up by 10, then went back in the shell and got Uber conservative. Not to say we don’t need a WR, but not necessarily the true reason being their lack of ability
You’ve got to add WR Chris Matthews to that list. While he’s probably never going to be a no 1 WR, I think they value him. He’s a total JS type of guy. Cheap, came out of nowhere, got him from Canada. He’s going to be a big part of this WR core. Personally I could care less if he’s a ‘one trick pony’ that one trick of his is highly effective and at the very least he gives RW a red zone weapon.
The thing is that one trick could absolutely be devastating if the hawks could find one scramble drill artist it would make Matthews even that much more deadly not knowing if Wilson scrambles is he going over a db to Matthews or someone who can gear up and down between dbs to create,space. Like you I’ve got a lot of time for matthews
Also have been thinking Marshall; he will be a great mentor to Matthews and DGB after we draft him!
If anyone hasn’t read it, this a good article from a former NFL agent on what Wilson’s new contract might look like. The surprising part is that he forecasts that his cap hit next year would only be around $7m next year. That’s a good deal less than I expected. If that’s the case, perhaps it frees up some money to extend Lynch and find a vet WR.
http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/eye-on-football/25005783/agents-take-what-russell-wilsons-blockbuster-deal-will-look-like
Seems reasonable, except for the possibility of using the franchise tag. If the Seahawks try that, Russell will just leave football and go play baseball. He did recently hire a baseball agent, so there’s that.
Yeah but he can’t hit a curve and there’s a pretty big gap from single A ball to the big leagues
His baseball agent that he hired just got licensed with as a football agent. He’s the same agent Russell started out with when he played professional baseball. He will not leave football. He’s a good baseball player but not great. I doubt he’d leave football where he could possibly be a hall of famer to play in the minor leagues.
Here is a thought. Dwayne Harris, WR/PR/KR from Dallas. Harris is a 27 yo free agent. He made $655K last year. He is the only free agent returner in the top 10. Of the top 10 returners, 8 are WR’s and 2 are RB’s. 8 of 10 are under 6’0″. Harris has been a productive returner on both punts and kickoffs. He averaged 25 yards on KR’s and 9.2 on PR’s. His WR production has been limited in Dallas because he is their fifth WR behind Dez Bryant, et al. Dallas may not have the salary cap space to keep him. They have higher priorities such as Bryant and DeMarco Murray to re-sign and not a lot of cap space. Schneider has a history of not going into the draft with any glaring positions of need. Therefore, I expect to see the Hawks make a play for this guy during the FA period prior to the draft.
Unfortunately for us that disagree… I do not think PC/JS view PR/KR a glaring position of need. So while I do not disagree that they may kick the tires on Harris, I do disagree that they will go into FA with the thought of “we need to find a special teams ace”
I agree, I don’t think they view it as a weakness. All PC wants is a guy who can catch the ball routinely, yards is a bonus.
I’m sure in the dream scenario, the team finds a player who contributes on offense and can be a “+” in the return game. This was another area where the loss of Tate hurt us. That dude was money on punt returns.
That said, I don’t think they’re going to go out of their way to find a special teams ace. Heck, the reason why Chris Matthews didn’t get playing time earlier is because he couldn’t contribute on special teams. Players have to be able to play a role on offense or defense and special teams. I don’t see Dwayne Harris being able to contribute to the offense.
I think that is one of the draws of Devin Smith (Gunner) and Lockette and Dorsett (returners)… They WR + ST
All three intriguing.
Living here in Dallas I’ve seen a fair amount of Harris. While he is not terrible I’m not sure he represents a huge upgrade over anyone on our current roster to justify spending FA money at a time when just keeping our core players is going to be a tall order. He has had ball security issues at times as well.
Really interested to see Jesse James put up official stats at the combine. If he’s as advertised he’d be well worth considering even early if necessary, and having his c aloe surprised by low volume could make him available.
On the other hand, if he IS legit 6’7 255 plus, runs in the low 4.6 as some project, and is fluid as a pass catcher I have no idea how he’d even make it to 31.
Another aspect of Jesse James that will appeal to the Hawks… Jesse was a very good wrestler in HS. And in Pennsylvania that is saying a lot! They love their wrestlers in Renton!
He had very limited production at Penn State and wasn’t necessarily dominant.
Having the greatest respect for Gil Brandt for the past 50 years (OMG, he and I are way too old.), I give his team’s big 3 needs list, a good look over. The positions that stick out the most on his list are CB, Pass Rusher and OT. Using CBS’s big board as a guide for the top 100 it looks to be that Jalen Collins, Eli Harold and T. J. Clemmings would likely be long gone.
Rob, I have always seen your perspective as one with the best for trying to view the draft class with as many a varied fair perspective as possible. You judge the draft from as many angles as you think we need to see it from. I utilize your views to improve my perspective. But, as much as I would like to see any of these stand out “nails” in a Seahawk uniform, I just don’t see them lasting. Maybe one of the RBs, but I think more teams will try to emulate the Beast Mode approach.
I think its a given that 1 thru 3 will be used to trade down, as much as I would love to see JS trade for future consideration more or on occasion, rare occasions but on occasion, trade up to grab that one guy that will bring excitement back to the draft process for the fans. He always seems to play his hand from the poor man’s perspective. His more choices is better approach, while mostly successful, doesn’t excite like an excellent singular pick. But a Jalen Collins, Eli Harold or a Devin Smith would be plenty exciting for the football hot stove league I think. Just watch out for the Pats to hop over us at the last minute. Thanks
Oh and what do you think of Jordan Taylor WR Rice and Darren Waller WR Georgia Tech?
Jordan Taylor — had one exceptional performance I think against Texas A&M where he’s making circus catches, high pointing the ball. I’ve seen two other games where he looked a lot less super human. I think speed will be an issue — he’s not sudden out of his breaks and really you’re going to rely on him winning contested passes vs getting open. He has size but not to the extent you just use him over and over again. I like him but more as a later round flier. I also like Waller and having now had the time to delve into him a bit more I think he’s a good red zone option, nice possession type. Great size and can box off defenders. I like him. Might even consider having him run the seam a lot. Not a high pick but wouldn’t mind in the mid-late range.
Glad you got to take a closer look at GA Tech WR Darren Waller and ended up liking him a bit more than you originally did? I think his size is so unique, and he seems to be ‘gritty’ as well. Do you like Waller or Houston WR Deontay Greenberry more (if you’ve gotten around to looking at him that is)?
The thing I really like about WRs Waller and Tyler Lockett is that they both make the most of limited opportunities. Waller is a good run blocker as well. With Lockett, the K-St offense is such a ‘find it out’ type system, I really like the fact Lockett capitalizes his targets and every one knew he was getting the ball and he still lit up the stat sheet.
Lockett is the perfect type of kid to grow and click with RW for the future.
Should say *’grind it out’ type offense.
Lockett blew me away at the Senior Bowl.
You and me both, I wasn’t a big fan of his up until that point. The more I watch and learn about him, the more I like him.
Rob, do you see Seattle re-signing OG James Carpenter?
If they do, where do you see them targeting a backup OG and backup OT?
Is San Diego St OL Terry Poole or Oklahoma OL Tyrus Thompson good value in, say the 4th round? I know it’s hard to say, but I’d love your opinion. Anyone else, please feel free to respond as well.
I’m not very high on Terry Poole, at least as a fit for the Seahawks scheme. Cable really likes guys who are pretty insane in some way (Carp super human strength, Sweezy athletic, etc). However, Poole doesn’t really check any of the “exception” boxes for me, especially his below average athleticism. He just doesn’t seem that quick, so I think you’d definitely consider him as a guard not a tackle. That lost versatility plus his lacking any amazing attribute and I think 6th round or later (to undrafted) seems like the area I’d consider a guy like that.
I like Tyrus Thompson a lot more personally. He looks like a guy who could play more spots on the line, but even though Oklahoma put him at LT, I don’t think that’s really his specialty or where he’d be in the pros even though he has pretty good size. I might be able to think of a situation where he competes for the RT spot and either him or Britt move inside to LG on who loses the comp. However, this would be assume we lose Carp because I don’t think Tyrus or Britt would be a lateral move to LG (I’d think of it as a downgrade). I think both of these guys would probably be depth picks (definitely Poole who might spend some time on the PSquad at first), but if we lose Carp then maybe they’d get a shot.
I am inclined to believe they will re-sign James. He is not a top OL free agent. He may find the offers silm because the money tends to go to the OT’s. At $2.5M his salary is about right, IMO. To replace him you probably have to use a 2nd round pick on a pure guard like Tre Jackson, Josue Matias or Laken Tomlinson. A 2nd round pick will cost $1M per year. So, I do not see a great deal of cap savings by swapping out the LG. I am inclined to leave the line alone and let the guys mature together another year. A center could probably beat out our two backup OC’s but I would only draft one middle to late rounds. I think they are happy with Bailey, Gilliam and Garrett Scott if he gets healthy.
That’s kind of where my line of thinking is it as well HLC. I think Big Carp is a really good role player and we saw how continuity really helped out this O-line late in the season.
As for Terry Poole, I’m not sure how a guy his size who played basketball isn’t athletic. Although he was 40 labs lighter, but still impressive. He’s definitely a LG and gives depth to the RT position as well. He does offer versatility though. Manned the LT position this year after playing the RT position last year.. I’d say his athleticism and personality are what is attractive to Seattle in the 1st place. This guy’s build in his lower half is eye opening. And as a former JUCO guy, he’s progressed both year’s he’s been at SD St. His hand placement need’s to improve, but there’s a lot to work with, and that’s exciting.
In 2013 he gave up only 2 QB sacks on 492 drop-backs, which equals out to 0.4%.
I think it’s touch and go. Tough to go after a veteran WR/TE for example after re-signing Carp. Might be more likely to go for a veteran target and try to draft a big tackle convert who can kick inside. Thompson would be good in that range.
Rob, snap! Great article, I had started a similar list yesterday after watching tons of tap over the last month and of course reading your blog. My list where ‘()’ means likely gone….
Premium positions/players R1-2:
Edge. Speed – Harold, (Beasley, Gregory, Ray)
3T. Speed/power – M Brown, (Williams, Fowler)
OT. Run>pass – Donovan Smith, Flowers, (Peat)
WR. Size/Speed/Big Play – DGB, Smith, Dorsett (Cooper, White, Parker)
TE. Speed/Length/Blocking – Williams, Walford, James
RB. ‘Beast’ – Gurley, Gorden, Coleman
CB. LOB-type – Peters, Collins, PJ Williams (Waynes)
I do not favour a CB nor OL in R1. Hawks line got them to the SB and was too in rushing. CB wise we always find gems later (Swain?!) and Sherman allows coverage to be tilted for the RCB.
Note: Many of these likes are on big boards and listed >#32 ranking. For example Harold is 30-40
On many big board, and while he may climb on combine results, the tape shows a high level of inconsistency (see UCLA tape).
PPS: Would like to not only get faster on offense but also get back to being more nasty generally, more of a bully per SB48 year – see Red, Clemons, Giacomini.