Updated mock draft: 21st April

This is the penultimate projection this year. I’ll post my final mock on Wednesday and submit it to the Huddle Report for scoring.

Again it’s a full two-round mock with a Seahawks seven rounder to follow…

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

#33 Tampa Bay (via Sea, Cle) — Derrius Guice (RB, LSU)
#34 NY Giants — Austin Corbett (T, Nevada)
#35 Cleveland — Isaiah Oliver (CB, Colorado)
#36 Indianapolis — D.J. Moore (WR, Maryland)
#37 Indianapolis — Carlton Davis (CB, Auburn)
#38 Seattle (via TB) — Christian Kirk (WR, Texas A&M)
#39 Chicago — Tim Settle (DT, Virginia Tech)
#40 Denver — Nick Chubb (RB, Georgia)
#41 Oakland — Hayden Hurst (TE, South Carolina)
#42 Miami — Frank Ragnow (C, Arkansas)
#43 New England (via SF) — Tyrell Crosby (T, Oregon)
#44 Washington — Ronald Jones II (RB, USC)
#45 Green Bay — Josh Sweat (DE, Florida State)
#46 Cincinnati — Ronnie Harrison (S, Alabama)
#47 Arizona — Maurice Hurst (DT, Michigan)
#48 LA Chargers — Billy Price (C, Ohio State)
#49 Indianapolis — Rashaad Penny (RB, San Diego State)
#50 Dallas — Malik Jefferson (LB, Texas)
#51 Detroit — Ian Thomas (TE, Indiana)
#52 Baltimore — Dallas Goedert (TE, South Dakota State)
#53 Denver (via Buf) — Mike Hughes (CB, UCF)
#54 Kansas City — Donte Jackson (CB, LSU)
#55 Carolina — Rasheem Green (DE, USC)
#56 Buffalo (via LAR) — Harrison Phillips (DT, Stanford)
#57 Tennessee — Courtland Sutton (WR, SMU)
#58 Atlanta — Chris Williams (T, Texas)
#59 San Francisco (via NO) — Royce Freeman (RB, Oregon)
#60 Pittsburgh — Kerryon Johnson (RB, Auburn)
#61 Jacksonville — Mason Rudolph (QB, Oklahoma State)
#62 Minnesota — Lorenzo Carter (LB, Georgia)
#63 Chicago (via NE) — Geron Christian (T, Louisville)
#64 Seattle (via Cle, Phi) — Andrew Brown (DE, Virginia)

The trades

— Buffalo trades #12, #22, #53 and a 2019 pick to Denver for the #5 pick

— New England trades #23, #31 and #63 to Chicago for the #8 pick

— Cleveland trades #33, #64 and #114 to Seattle for the #18 pick

— Tampa Bay trades #38 and #102 to Seattle for the #33 pick

— Seattle trades #102 and #141 to New England for the #95 pick

Seahawks seven rounder

#38 — Christian Kirk (WR, Texas A&M)
#64 — Andrew Brown (DE, Virginia)
#95 — Kalen Ballage (RB, Arizona State)
#114 — Shaquem Griffin (LB, UCF)
#120 — Holton Hill (CB, Texas)
#146 — Tony Brown (CB, Alabama)
#156 — Natrell Jamerson (S, Wisconsin)
#168 — Will Dissly (TE, Washington)
#226 — Poona Ford (DT, Texas)
#248 — Kyle Allen (QB, Houston)

Seahawks notes

— Tony Pauline told us last week the Seahawks want to have 10 picks in this draft. The moves made here (trade down twice, trade up once) enables this to happen.

— The point of the mock was to create competition at multiple spots. The one glaring omission is an EDGE. If the Seahawks do in fact trade Earl Thomas for a second round pick, it could enable them to bring in someone like Josh Sweat or Kemoko Turay.

— Ronnie Harrison, Ronald Jones II, Dallas Goedert, Nick Chubb, Ian Thomas, Austin Corbett, Billy Price and Maurice Hurst were also considered early in round two.

— This isn’t how I’d go about fixing the run game. I’m not the one making the picks though. At this late stage in the process I’m trying to project what they’re going to do, not what I would do.

— I’ve spent a bit more time watching Holton Hill and Tony Brown in the last couple of days. Tough, long, physical, quick, confident — they genuinely look so much like Seahawks cornerbacks. Hill could compete to start at outside corner, Brown would be competing to play in the slot. Both can tackle and if nothing else, provide some special teams value.

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337 Comments

  1. CharlieTheUnicorn

    On the John Clayton show this morning, a guy from Denver said that if Allen were available at #5, Denver would run up to the podium in 15 seconds and take him.

    The SF pick would be outstanding for them at #9.

    and Michel has been linked to the Eagles for a better part of a month now, I wonder if he really lands there when the chips are down on draft night?????

    Exciting times.

    • peter

      Elway….theres no way he can stop himself from drafting a QB from the ’83 mold.

  2. sdcoug

    Aside from the initial report, have you heard anything about trading pick 18 to Cleve as being a done deal? I get why we might not go with an early-OL, but it kills me to see Wynn, Hernandez, and to a lesser extent Corbett and Price, just sitting there.

  3. Edgar

    I’m coming around on this idea of Kirk. I Thank Tyler for that. 10 draft picks sounds about right, with camp competitions all over. Lets hope Pete gets that team wide hunger back, because the CLink has a bunch of nation night time premiere games coming up next year!

    • Greg Haugsven

      I think I would be as well. Lets just get some quality players and I would be good.

      • madmark

        Its really not the most exciting draft this year is it?

        • Kenny Sloth

          There’s no Laremy Tunsil gas mask video if thats what you mean.

          We have a pretty extensive list of visits though so that’s pretty damn exciting.

          • peter

            THeres still plenty of time.

            I actually think with the right wheeling and dealing Seattle could bring in a lot of bodies to camp. And that’s exciting for me.

    • Tyler Jorgensen

      You just made me smile. Thanks for the credit. I don’t know if it would happen, but I think he’s a difference maker, and we need one.

  4. SebA

    Maybe I’m not dispassionate enough but I’d be really, really disappointed if we miss out on Shaquem Griffin. Here’s hoping we manage to get him!

    • sdcoug

      me too

      • BobbyK

        Yep.

    • NewbornAndSalted

      Apologies if this has been discussed ad nauseum, but is there any concern that his missing hand would hinder his ability to make plays? It seems like he’s the complete physical package other than that, and a great character to boot, but does his physical handicap limit his ability to make plays at an NFL level?

      • Sam Jaffe

        If he drops into coverage, every quarterback will throw to the man he’s covering on his missing hand side. Essentially zero chance of an interception. It will happen every single time he drops into coverage. Therefore he will have to rush on every play he’s on the field. That takes out misdirection for one player out of eleven on the field. In the NFL, that’s enough to change the course of games. I think he will be a great player making big plays, but his disability will cause a hole in the defensive game plan that is so glaring that he will be a liability on the field. With that being said, I also believe the following:
        -He will be a perennial all-star special teams player, which makes him worth a third round pick
        -Some general manager will disagree with me and someone will take him in the second, maybe even in the first round.
        The fact that he will be at the draft is a huge tell. They never invite anyone that won’t be taken by the fourth round, unless someone in the league office has made a big mistake. I think some team told Goodell “If he’s there in the third, we’re taking him”.

        • EBurgz

          Lol he doesn’t need to 1 handed catch balls with his left hand to play good coverage. He can absolutely be good in coverage. I’d argue that it will make getting picks and tackling a little more difficult but he seemed like a pretty sure tackler in college(pretty good catching the ball at the combine too).

          Still, I think he’s a 3rd or 4th rounder at best. Maybe his 40 time catapulted him up boards but the 2nd would be early for an undersized situational pass rusher and special teams player. His best skill at this point is rushing the qb and he’s too small to be an every down pass rusher. Maybe he could develop into an every down linebacker but that’s quite the projection. I would be so stoked if we picked him in the 4th. Don’t think his hand is a big issue.

        • SheHawk

          and that team was the Seahawks – Robs mocked him to us in 3rd:)

      • Jeremy

        It’s fair to say it could limit his ability to a point. But he’s been this way for about 17 years, he grew up this way, it’s his way of life. I honestly don’t think it’s that big of a deal for him. It’s not like JPP, where he had to relearn technique, or over emphasize his good hand. He learned how to tie his shoes before his brother, I would bet on him. You see players with a club still produce anyway.

        I would love to see the Hawks take him. I really think somebody will overdraft him though.

  5. Sean-O

    “This isn’t how I’d go about fixing the run game. I’m not the one making the picks though. At this late stage in the process I’m trying to project what they’re going to do, not what I would do.”

    From a getting back to the run type of perspective, this would be pretty disappointing. Maybe SEA feels like with adding Fluker & maybe Pocic & Ifedi making strides they’ll be ok. We’ll see.

    Do we think after the draft that SEA could explore a FA RB like Murray, CJ Anderson, Alfred Morris, etc?

    • Ed

      Good points. If they see the value of WR/DL/OL early and not RB, maybe they can add a 1 year vet. Just don’t pay $5 million

    • madmark

      Actually you are making these picks. That’s why its called a mock draft. There right or wrong you just try to get as many of the guys to make yourself feel good.

      • madmark

        no right or wrong

  6. Kenny Sloth

    Where are the pockets and cliffs of talent?

    Clearly DB in the fifth looks like a sweet spot again.
    Third round should be awesome for TE and should contain some OL options.

    Looks like DE and RB and WR drop off dramatically in the third.
    Starting LBs will be gone even earlier.

    I’d expect another shelf of talent at RB after Penny~Freeman. Ballage Scarbrough John Kelly those types will last into the fifth? Not sure.

  7. Kenny Sloth

    Another big thing in the Seahawks organization is avoiding ‘groupthink’ whatever that is…

    • Volumes12

      Like the war on Derrius Guice draft media has?

      How dare he question those dumb a** questions they ask at the combine or tell a woman to shut up. Ugh. The nerve of that guy. Let’s overlook all the good the kid has done. Saved a woman’s life, his personal story he’s overcame, has good mentors in his life.

      • Rob Staton

        Come on V12, that’s a bit glib.

        Teams do have concerns about Guice. Reporting as such doesn’t make it a ‘war’. That’s proper tin foil hat stuff.

        • Volumes12

          I just watched two guys lump him into the same category as Antonio Calloway! A credit card exam and using drugs is the same?

          • Volumes12

            * scam

          • Rob Staton

            They didn’t compare him directly to Calloway. My understanding is it was a NFL Network piece on players teams have concerns with.

            • Volumes12

              And what are the concerns too emotional? I get it. Can’t rock the boat.

              • Rob Staton

                It’s not just that V12. I’m sorry to say it but you’re sounding like Guice’s army of twitter fans, who won’t hear any criticism of their guy.

                • Kenny Sloth

                  Is this the same guy? He’s called VolumeS12, Rob.

                  • Mark Souza

                    I have more concerns about Guice than Manti Teo when he came out. Teo showed he was very gullible. He wasn’t making crap up. There nothing like throwing harassment allegations at your potential future employer during the interview.

              • Kenny Sloth

                I have major concerns about his ability to protect the shield and put his team first.

                Guice is so so me first. And Thats exactly who the seahawks are getting rid of.

      • Volumes12

        Of is it because he might need help adjusting to the NFL? ,*whispers* they all do

        • Rob Staton

          Maybe he also needs help to avoid spouting blatant lies?

          Your take on the combine question stuff is extremely flattering to Guice. To me it was weird. A proper ‘WTF?’ moment. And he’s since been forced to explain to teams why he flat out lied and created a media storm.

          • Volumes12

            As it would be illegal to ask that anyways.

            If teams have concerns about him or his immatruity than it is what it is. But this ‘dig it from the dirt’ because we found one thing wrong and the media extrapolates it happens every year.

            • Kenny Sloth

              It’s not like he’s even dropping in mocks because of it.

              He’s dropping because of a disappointing season in which he was humbled by Alabama after running his mouth, something he does far too often.

              • Volumes12

                Nor should he. Top 12 talent. Disappointing season? He faced the most stacked boxes outta any back in the country. His 2016 film is RB1 stuff.

                TBF, no one runs on ‘Bama.

                • Rob Staton

                  Especially when you stupidly suggest they’re scared of you, only to be then absolutely smacked around the field for four quarters.

                  Tony Brown didnt look very scared when he dumped Guice on his arse during a kick return.

                  • Kenny Sloth

                    Guice is a lotta talk, flashy suits, live streams.

                    Definitely not all-football and definitely not a seahawk for me.

                  • McZ

                    To be fair, Fournette did no better against Alabama. 79, 31 and 35 yd from 2014 to 2016.
                    As a combo, Guice and Williams together had the best production against Alabama in 2017.

                    • Rob Staton

                      To be fair, Fournette didn’t shake the cage before playing the best team in college football.

                      Then get his arse kicked.

                  • Kenny Sloth

                    Is that fair? To just say they had the same stats.

                    I’d argue that Fournette set the tone while Guice set them up for failure by calling out the other team and not having an impact.

                    Bama-LSU was a much different game from 16 to 17.

                    A team like Bama needs no extra motivation.

                    It takes a real moron to not realize this. How you gonna not respect the moat dominant defense from every year

                  • McZ

                    This doesn’t make sense.

                    The moron and his backup put together four times the yardage than a year earlier, accumulating mire than a quarter of all rushing yards offered by the Tide, despite shaking the cage.

                    Btw, the comment for which he got famous was half a week of said 2016 game. He described the situation correctly, as Alabama stacked up all they had (“filled the bix”) to stop Fournette.

                    So, detail and context matters.

                  • Kenny Sloth

                    Idk why you’re so quick to pat him on the back for his 3 ypc.

                    He sat there in a pink suit and said “yeah last year they were scared of us”

                    And then when they got the chance to prove him wrong they did.

                    Not the other way around.

                    He didn’t do something special.

                    He wasn’t “the best against Bama” or something.

                    He’s got loud fashion and a big mouth.

                • Pugs1

                  While I think teams have a reason to be concerned I’m not so sure any team should be taking Guice off their board or dropping Him by rounds. I’d agree 100% about teams stacking the box vs. LSU.

      • Kenny Sloth

        You know what! I’m so used to seeing us pick at 33 in mocks, I thought Rob had us taking Guice there 😂😂 I was surprised for a second.

        He definitely has some positive qualities and has done some good in life.

        But that doesn’t excuse the strange, crass, shady, and in some cases distrubing behaviour we also clearly see.

        • McZ

          Like Marshawn Lynch? Like Frank Clark? Like our top S, running to Bill O’Brien?
          I truly believe, the Hawks won’t draft Guice, but it is equally true, that if say Detroit does, they instantly will become a run game force. While we continue to fall in despair, having drafted a third string option.

          • Rob Staton

            Way to assume the worst just because the team didn’t pick your guy

            • McZ

              Not at all.
              Wasn’t it Robs RB mantra, that a feature back can almost instantly turn around a unit? For all his admitted and perceived faults, Guice is one.

              He isn’t your dish, I appreciate that. Mine neither, and as a clear R1 guy much too costly.

              I honestly cannot see what Ballage brings to the mix, he is one of those Combine wonders popping up here and there. Reminds me a lot on Prosise and Rawls (besides, a character concern on feet), and may be the ultimate hedge. Cannot say this makes me sanguine.

              Btw, on FieldGulls, there is a debate on a draft day trade of RW3 to Cleveland… The more I think about the story from last month, the more I wonder, if John Schneider leaked the incident. What’s your take?

              • Rob Staton

                It’s not even that Guice ‘isn’t my dish’. I’m just suffering from a bit of ‘Derrius fan boy fatigue’ I think.

                • McZ

                  This could proove to get a hard decade for you.

  8. Aaron

    This is likely a 2-3 year whatever you want to call it, I’ll call it a soft reboot. Since the start of this after the Rams debacle it’s been clear that the Hawks want speed and physicality back on this team. They want to get back to a run heavy offense and a fast defense. It’s not about getting everything back this year, it’s about getting the biggest things back, if that makes sense. Not the whole pie but the biggest pieces. FA has allowed the Hawks to focus on WR and RB on offense and DE, LB, and CB on defense (also S should the Earl trade happen). This is a solid draft projection but it doesn’t check every box nor fill every hole. It’s going to be hard to do that this year with our draft stock and departures. I’ll be content with coming out of next weekend with something like this plus the UDFA guys to compete too.

  9. STTBM

    I think you’ve outdone yourself this time Rob. That’s a quality projection of what Seattle might do, and your NFL mock seems bang on to me.

    Its not how I want them to fix the run either, and I like Sutton and DJ Moore’s size way more than Kirks. But I love Shaqem Griffin and the other picks sure seem like Seahawks waiting to happen.

  10. DCD2

    Is there a game that Andrew Brown stood out in? I watched the Boise St. game, and he didn’t really make a single play. I’d like to see what others are seeing in him, but am having a hard time.

    Micah Kiser looked really impressive in that game though.

    • Volumes12

      Oregon game is nice.

      • DCD2

        This one? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MvDFvX-5u3U

        Because i see him getting solo blocked by TE’s, and pushed around in general. At 7:15 he does beat the center off the snap showing some quickness. Unfortunately he misses Freeman in the backfield and it leads to an 85 yard TD run.

        Again a full game with no impact. There was maybe one pressure apart from when the Ducks just left him unblocked.

        Not seeing it with this guy. Watched the Miami game and he had a couple of “almost got there” plays, but that’s it.

        • WALL UP

          Have to agree with you. Pauline has Andrew rated with a 7th rd grade, which is a bit harsh, but a long way from a 2nd rd pick. Da’Shawn Hand, or even Jalyn Holmes could be a better value for this slot. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cL1zHq6bhuE.

          By in large you can’t disagree with Rob’s picks overall, since the Hawks have shown considerable interest in those shown in his mock. It’s always interesting to see the hidden picks that catches us off guard. So, we’ll see.

          • DCD2

            Oh wow. I just looked it up and he indeed has him as his 20th ranked DE!

            My faith in my own scouting ability is restored!

            Maybe the Hawks are showing interest in him as a late round guy

  11. Rad_man

    This draft would show they feel they’ve already fixed the run game with their coaching and personnel changes made already, that they trust Carson is legit and just had a bad break, and that the new staff can run the ball and utilize the talent they have now. And I think they’d be correct. Personally I think any RB or committee thereof drafted or on the roster now, will do much better this year. The kind of systematic failure they’ve had for years points to coaching and scheme and blocking more than inability to field a passable running back. Alex Collins may agree.

    • madmark

      One of reasons Carson was a 7th round draft pick was his health in college and to be honest the start of his professional career didn’t start of very well either.

      • Rad_man

        what was not to like about the start of his professional career? A broken bone? That isn’t an injury concern like a soft tissue injury or knee problems. Pete says he’s 100% and a second round talent.

        Carson was also leading the entire league in broken tackles per carry when he got hurt, and going at 4.2 ypc. What more do you want from a rookie behind a crap O line?

        • DCD2

          Ya, Carson looked pretty good to me when he was in there. Like you say, he was dodging guys in the backfield to get back to the LOS.

          • Rad_man

            was leading the NFL in yards after contact and broken tackles before his broken bone.

            RBs get hurt. It’s the reality. Over drafting for the position to find a guy who can carry 300 times at an efficient rate and not get hurt is foolish. The Seahawks have a good one.

            They had another one on the roster who they cut. He flourished elsewhere. The problem wasn’t talent, it was scheme and coaching, and thinking Joekel was among the best guards in the NFL. They’ve made the biggest changes the running game needs.

            Count me as one viewing it as an inefficient pick if they go RB at any point before rnd 3 in this draft. there’s too much late round talent and there’s enough talent on the team to run the ball already.

            short version: Bouncing Cable = running game fix

            • FuzzyLogic

              Don’t we all wish it was that simple.

              • peter

                I wish it was that easy.

                count me as someone uninspired by the current running back corps.

                I like all the players. But none of them provide a spark. Carson getting hurt is not his fault. But he does have a history of injury.

                Davis is a nice story. Prosise and mckissik? Two wr’s playing running back. One was explosive for two games two seasons ago. One was not explosive but ultimately produced the same yards, tds , etc and was available. It’s actually a pretty below average line up.

        • 503Hawk

          I remember a couple of years ago some were saying the same thing about Rawl’s broken bone. This is the NFreekingFL. Nothing is easy or guaranteed.

  12. Ukhawk

    Great Mock, Rob.

    It takes two in order to trade so I hope CLE or others are willing to play ball.

    Considering they are looking for ‘Types’ of players at different spots, it’d be cool to know for each one a few who would fill that need. It’s clear on the RBs but it’d be cool to know who else if not Brown, Kirk, etc in later rounds.

    I hope we eschew taking a DT too early as we have Reed, Naz and 2 decent FAs (target an inside rusher one later like maybe Nandi or Ford etc) and we try to get a earlier RB. For me, the speed of Kirk combined with Jones II would be immense. I think this could defo happen if the ET trade comes off.

    Love Griffen and to a lesser degree Hill and want to dig into Brown & Jameson. However I’d like to see a DE/Rush LB instead of 4 DBs although I get Griffen is a hybrid guy.

    • Volume12

      Tough to pass on Vea if he’s there.

      • cha

        If the Hawks end up trading ET that would give them much more flexibility, especially if a talent like Vea if he’s there at 18.

  13. JimQ

    A thought that came to mind when I see the Ballage pick……..It wouldn’t be out of the question for the Seahawks, in a “strong” RB class, to smoke-screen their interest in a different RB (perhaps, to name a few: Jones, Penney, Chubb or Johnson) to throw the rest of the league off. Every team in the league can read the stat that there was only one RB TD for the entire past season by the mighty Seahawks. The need should be obvious to all, and PERHAPS they can sell the league that Ballage is their #1 guy, maybe advantage Seahawks, they may get the guy they really want instead. To me, the whole RB issue could go a couple of ways 1. Show interest in multiple RB’s, disguising which one you want & keeping other teams from knowing who you’ll take. 2. Show Interest in 1 specific RB, to the exclusion of all others, to make the league believe he’s THE guy you must have. Could be the Seahawks are doing #2 above (for whatever reason)????

    But then again, I’m old and cranky, so what do I know?

    • peter

      I worry that in the absence of facts PC will actually be just plainly enamored with Ballage and think he’s the coach that Ballage needs.

      • DCD2

        +1

        • Rad_man

          if you don’t have a coach who believes he can maximize talent and inspire achievement, you don’t have a coach

          • peter

            I made a post about this before but I’m going to repeat this here. Pc is literally the best secondary coach in the game. all of the game from cfb to nfl. Pc has a super easy super successful scheme that when it’s humming can stop anyone in their tracks regardless of offensive style.

            PC “can” believe anything he wants about his offensive prowess but I’m going to be blunt. I don’t think Seattle has coached a single offensive player, outside of linemen, up in his tenure. It’s my firm belief that players come to Seattle basically at what ever level they are at and stay that way until their time is up.

            Wilson, lynch, baldwin were all good on arrival. Prich was already a deep threat and had a year of being a deep threat. Luke Wilson was basically the same player five years in. Vannett, who knows ?Lockett minus injury plays the way he did, at the level he did in college. Turbin, nope, Collins I guess was a nope. Christine michael all the talent but none of the quality even after a ton of chances. Kearse, same player day one as last day on the job. Graham might have regressed a bit.

            PC can believe it all he wants that he can maximize talent but strong leaders know their weakness’ and mitigate the best the can.

            • Ishmael

              It’s the biggest knock on Bevell and the coaching staff in general IMO over the last few years. Football nepotism kicking in, too many of Carroll’s friends and relatives coaching. Sure the defence has consistently been great, but no one on the offensive side has improved. Well, I guess Wilson did for a couple of years, but he’s plateaued and even regressed in some areas.

              • Mark Souza

                You can’t coach toughness. You can teach the tough how to improve their blocking and tackling, but toughness and speed are two things you can’t teach. Your players need to come to you with those things.

            • 503Hawk

              Now that was a pretty well thought out post. Hard to argue with that… However, I would say that Doug Balwin has definitely improved his craft! Whether that was coaching or his competitive spirit. It will be fun to see him go up against Sherm.

              • Thomas Wells

                It’s pretty revisionist to say Russ was good on arrival. His development over his rookie season was readily apparent. He had his struggles early. Bevell did a good job simplifying the offense while Russ developed. He then famously “took the reins off” around the Chicago and New England games as Russ improved.

                Point is that you have to give Bevell credit where credit is due for his work developing Russell Wilson. Under his tutelage Russ went from a guy every team passed on twice because he was too short to one of the best quarterbacks in the league. That doesn’t happen in a vacuum.

            • STTBM

              Golden Tate was totally unprepared for the NFL upon arrival, and left here a star waiting for a qb who could get him the ball, and a coach who would throw it to him. He got both in Detroit, and has flourished (aside from the first half of last year, where he apparently lost focus and was trying to get by on talent alone once again).

              I’d say they coached him up and turned him into a star.

              Where they blew it was in overvaluing that POS Harvin and undervaluing Tate and the WR market in general. (They once again underestimated a positional market soon after, thinking Maxwell wasnt going to get even 5 mill a year. He has said if they’d offered him 5-7, he’d have stayed. But they waited till FA, found out he was worth 8-10, then paid 7 mill guaranteed to Cary Williams…),

              To me, the big problems on offense for Seattle have been 1) Carroll meddling when he should be butting out. It was his move 100% to get Harvin, and his idea to get Graham. Both moves screwed us up. 2) Tom Cable. They gave him too much power, and he was always trying to make the Line about him. Eventually, even Carroll had to hold him to it, and fire him because it really was all about him.

  14. C-Dog

    Rob, do you see Andrew Brown as an heir apparent at 5-tech for Seattle?

    I think it was on the nfl.com profile for him that I read he has intentionally added weight because he knows that for himself to have maximum impact at the next level, he’s likely going to have to play inside, implying that he would be less successful at end.

    Personally, I have to imagine 5-tech being a fairly high priority with Bennett gone, McDowell likely gone, and Jordan never having played a full healthy season.

    Hill, Brown, and Jameson is a pretty exciting middle round haul. Great looking draft.

    • Rob Staton

      Yep I think he’s a Bennett type

      • Greg Haugsven

        Maybe its just me but I dont see Brown as a Bennett type. He weighs 295 lbs and he isnt going to beat anyone off the edge like Bennett could. He can maybe play DE but I dont see much pass rush there.

        • Rob Staton

          I think he’s tailor made for the role

        • DCD2

          I agree Greg. I have now watched 3 games of his 2016 VS UO, 2017 VS Boise St and Miami and I don’t see him doing much of anything. I can’t even get excited about his highlight reel.

          Point me in the direction of what you guys are seeing and I’ll be glad to recant.

          • peter

            *nathan shepherd*

            • DCD2

              Will take a look

              • DCD2

                Well, he looks the part. Hard to say, as he seems to be double teamed and held on most every play. He’s also playing against schools that I’ve never even heard of.

                Definitely a project, but a lot to like there.

                • peter

                  Good eye. It’s one of the things I look at is how often a dlinemen gets doubled and/or held. In limited tapes it’s almost embarasing.

                  He had a very Good combine and I think realistically his arm length is 5/8″ shorter than Seattle likes. Bluntly I’m not a fan of brown and think a guy like shepherd brings way more to the table and has a a lot base to start with a much higher ceiling to get to.

                  • Mark Souza

                    The ones you’re looking for are the ones who are constantly in the backfield despite that crap.

                  • peter

                    I liked Grady Jarrett years back because of that very thing and hes ended up quite disruptive.

                    Vea is praised for his ability to clog lanes and take up blockers but he’s never in the back field.

                    I’ll take shepherds non stop motor over almost any d tackle in this class

            • HawksGal

              I’m hoping we take, even though he doesn’t have the typical Hawk arm length, this guy is all heart, all football and a fellow Canadian. Fingers crossed.

              • Trevor

                Another Canadian here and I have been banging the drum for a while about him. I would absolutely love to see him in a Hawks uni.

        • C-Dog

          In fairness. Red Bryant wasn’t a rusher off the edge. Brown playing 5T on base downs, kicking inside to 3T in the nickel would probably be the way to use him as a rusher. With Bennett gone, they may go back to size and stout at 5T

  15. Ed

    If the draft falls this way, Den and Chi would be looking strong. I don’t see either teams doing what Rob worked out for them, all though in the end I bet they wish they followed Rob’s advice

  16. Kenny Sloth

    Christian Kirk competes with Darboh and Lockett for starts
    Andrew Brown competes with Naz Jones and Tom Johnson at 3T and 5T
    Kalen Ballage will compete with Prosise and Davis
    Quem Griffin is competing with Bark Mingo
    Holton Hill and Tony Brown II are competition for the versatile for Dontae Johnson.
    Natrell Jamerson could play several positions for me, but he’ll start on special teams.
    Will Dissly is a specialist Y
    Poona Ford is depth behind Reed and Shamar Stephens
    Kyle Allen is decent. Had a 92% completion game.

    Definitely could use a DE and a better TE for me. Lots of long guys that would fit a vertical scheme really well, if that is what we’re moving towards.

    Would Gesicki not be perfect in an Air Coryell, I mean…

    Coryell’s Chargers were built around Kellen Winslow

    • peter

      I think Kirk starts right away. His ability in a scramble makes him so useful to the Hawks.

      Agree with the rest.

      “Kalen Ballage will compete with Prosise and Davis,” is unintentionally, I assume, the funniest line.

    • C-Dog

      On Gesicki, and the Cordell, heck yes. I think that’s why they could well target TE early.

  17. astro_domine

    I’ll be disappointed if they don’t add one guard or RB early (Chubb, Wynn, Corbett, Rojo).

    This offense was abysmal at holding the ball early in games and that has to change.

  18. Volume12

    Has Seattle been one of the teams connected to Derwin James the most or not? That piece on SI is vague.

  19. madmark

    I got to ask ya rob do you really think theirs a chance Seattle gets 33, 64, and 114 when Cleveland only has 9 picks and they are definitely not in a reset but rebuild mold. In this situation after 35 they wouldn’t pick again till 150.

    • 503Hawk

      +1 I don’t see Cleveland doing that. If anybody can restore that franchise, it’s Dorsey. He’s not going to give away the farm just because the Browns need a tackle and he knows JS.

  20. Coach

    What if…

    What if we fix the running game by signing AP to a 1 year deal? He was a 100 yard rusher several times for the Cardinals late last season and I don’t see their line being much better than ours.

    Then we can focus on filling other holes in the draft?

    AP, Carson, Davis, Procise, and McKissic would be able to be a successful rb room at the nfl level, especially if they all stay healthy.

    Thoughts?

    Go Hawks!!

    • Aaron

      AP STILL has a little left in the tank but I’d prefer a long term solution at RB not a one year deal and a bunch of oft injured guys. We need a workhorse that’s got terrific durability.

    • cha

      I’d have a lot of questions about his attitude.

      Would he pout or yell at the coaches like he did in New Orleans when he’s not frequently used?

      When McKissic and Prosise come in for 3rd downs? Or if the team went with Carson or Draft Pick as a feature runner in a game plan and he only gets spot duty?

      Would he accept a contract that allows the Hawks to cut him loose without creating a financial hardship?

    • mishima

      Franco Harris.

      • Mark Souza

        I do believe Franco is available and would take the league minimum.

    • Patrick Toler

      Maybe on a vet minimum contract, but really you are just bringing in another rb with a ton of questions.

  21. Volume12

    Is Cleveland really thinking of passing on Rosen because his teammates didn’t attend his Bday?!?

    • cha

      “you pancake-eating ******-******” !

    • Hawktalker#1

      That could very possibly happen . . . After all, it is “Draft Day”.

      Good flick to watch now to get the draft day juices flowin . . .

    • Ed

      Wan’t that situation from the movie Draft Day as well?

      • cha

        He didn’t find the $100 bill taped inside the playbook

      • Volume12

        I think there was something similar now that you mention it.

        • Hawktalker#1

          Absolutely that was in there as well.

          I think Kevin Costner actually looks a little like John Schneider.

          Now he just needs to draft like him.

          And now for movie soundbite number two. We need a receiver that can : “show me the money”.

          (You had me at “Shaquem Griffin”!! LOL)

    • VancouverHawk

      They are passing on him because he is a Loser.

    • Ishmael

      The QB analysis this off-season has been at a new level of stupid. I would be beyond enraged if I was a fan of a team and they passed on Rosen because he dared to ask their OC questions.

    • Patrick Toler

      So silly. Best QB in this draft.

  22. Thy Hawk is Howling

    Finally checked out a wee bit of Christian Kirk. He reminds me of and moves like Dougie Baldwin to me, I’m down! Still want Dante what’s his last name, but Kirk would be nice.

    • Volume12

      Someone’s getting tremendous value on day 3 in WRs Dante Pettis & Anthony Miller.

      • JimQ

        Anthony Miller is currently ranked #64-overall at draftscout.com – which sounds about right to me. Miller is not the biggest/fastest receiver in the class, but may have a little “Largent” in his skill set, not that there will ever be another Largent, but this guy might come close & if the Seahawks want to go RB/WR on day one (after a trade down), they should give this kid a chance! Jones/Penney/Chubb followed (with the trade down achieved pick) by Miller. The offense would be in pretty good shape with just these 2 additions. Defensive picks could then be used on most of the rest of the draft, other than a mid round TE and a maybe a late round OL’er and RB/FB, + as UDFA’s: QB, Punter, Place Kicker & other WR’s. et. al.

      • RealRhino2

        We’ll see. I don’t think anybody is getting value on those guys on day 3 because I think both will be drafted by then. Miller, in particular. I’d actually be surprised if he’s still on the board after the middle of Round 2. This is not a great WR group, and other than some issues with drops, he’s one of the few guys that shows real promise inside and out. He’s got the traits and the production, he can beat press, he fights for the ball at the catch point on contested catches.

  23. RWIII

    If Cleveland trades two second round picks for our 18, that would be great. Seattle would be cutting a fat hog.But i think it’s highly unlikely. A team is more likely to trade a first and a third for our 1st.

    • peter

      So the problem is the points and draft value chart. Even the current version. Let’s say we trade down to Atlanta:

      We take pick 26.

      To make up value they would have to give us their 3rd (140 pts), their 4th (46 pts) and their 6th (11 points)

      I mean from Seattle’s stand point they would at least get a third and an extra fourth out of that deal. And Seattle could look to further trade down from 26 or stay at that spot.

      Aside from a trade down with Carolina for their third there aren’t many scenarios where that balances out. For me I’m about maximizing all the picks. So getting Carolina’s third and picking at 24 isn’t the worst idea, the team would still be missing on about 60 picks worth of talent from 24 through to 85.

  24. BobbyK

    Remember the PC comment a number of years ago about finding playmakers who can get the ball in the end zone? He was talking about receivers (WR mostly, but TE as well). The Seahawks have Baldwin and Lockett as the only guys they can really count on in ’18. Think about that.

    We have a little stud in Baldwin. Lockett is a little guy who is fine. Other than that, there is no other receiver on this roster who even comes close to scaring anyone.

    We currently have a 30-year old TE and a former third round pick who has underwhelmed so far at TE. This means not much receiving help is coming from the TE position.

    Basically, they lost Graham and his red zone production and P-Rich was able to get over $9M per season from Washington. Those two guys were replaced by two guys are nobody else really cares about.

    As much as we need a RB, Guard, EDGE rusher, or what – the receivers are about as underwhelming as a group as you’re going to find in the NFL.

    If Kirk is the guy, he helps the receivers immediately. And if he is the guy, they could/should be able to trade down from 18 a couple of times and still get him, which means picks can be acquired to get those other positions we really need, such as RB, EDGE, etc. Because if they stay at 18, they can only add one and with no pick until the 4th round – there will be nobody left who will make an impact in ’18.

    The more we think of this, the more it becomes clear we could go WR early in the draft since the cliff is so steep after the highest rated ones are gone.

    • Kenny Sloth

      Prich and Jimmy leaving represented a lot of air production lost. Been saying we couldn’t be comfortable with Darboh and Vannett as our only competition for receptions

      • cha

        They’ll get a lot of production back as the running game progresses to the mean.

        • Volume12

          That and the focus seems to have shifted or maybe it was always the case, to finding Bennett & Avril replacements in this draft. Or at the very least 2 guys who can fill those roles behind Jordan & Clark.

          Frank is gonna get paid and as C-Dog said, Jordan has such a small sample size.

          • Kenny Sloth

            I like that Ohio St and Stanford D

            Peter Kalambayi could be an option for us at LB. Kind of limited though

    • madmark

      I really like FA pickup from Arizona Cardinals he put up some great numbers with a crappy QB last year.

      • HawksGal

        +1

        Excellent addition!

        Bruce Arians, loved him and he’s 6′ 2″ Ground_Hawk

    • Ground_Hawk

      There’s something about Seattle’s WR1, 2, & 3 all being sub 6′ that doesn’t inspire any confidence in next year’s receiving success.

      • Ground_Hawk

        Player’s on D, who hit to destroy, will be licking their chops.

        • peter

          Can’t speak for lockett but I think Kirk will give as good as he gets. dude is very strong.

      • Patrick Toler

        Having a variety of body types at receiver is ideal, but talent is the key. Three undersized receivers is fine if they are all great players.

  25. Dave Ashton

    Is Darnold to browns a lock?
    Lot of varied opinions and smoke screens but I think he’s the guy that makes most sense.

    • Hawktalker#1

      I agree. And all that means really is they probably won’t pick him. This might be the acid test of whether or not things are really changing in Cleveland.

      • Dave Ashton

        Thanks

        Nice reply

        Good man

    • RealRhino2

      Who knows with the Browns? All I know is that as a Husky fan, I was very uncomfortable when Darnold had the ball in his hands. Same way I felt as a Seahawks fan when Elway had the ball in his hands. Didn’t matter how you almost had him, once he wiggled free and that ball left his hand and the camera started panning downfield, you just knew it was somehow going to find it’s way to a Bronco player.

  26. Icb12

    I feel like that if the draft cards fall like this…
    Russel stands a good shot of being our leading rusher. Again.

    Sigh.
    It all makes sense though. Good work Rob.
    Rosen to NE is a tad scary.

  27. Hawktalker#1

    ROB,

    I’m going to put these two requests out there for you. I know your capacity is already maxed out pulling all the content together that is already on your agenda, but since I see some heavy value in these request, I’ll list the regardless . . .

    #1 YOUR PERSONAL MOCK DRAFT. I totally understand creating a mock draft that simulates your best anticipation of what the Seahawks WILL do, but for me, your opinion of what the Seahawks SHOULD do is equally as important. Let it rip big guy.

    #2 ADD A THIRD ROUND TO THE MOCK DRAFT. Trust me, I fully understand this is a huge ask and there is a significant amount of effort that would go into mocking for all 32 teams what they would do in the third round, but given there is so much value in the second and third rounds and that is where we are going to be focusing our picks after some assumed trade downs, it seems more relevant than ever. I know you will likely decline this request for several reasons, but given the value it could have to the draft, especially this year, I needed to ask.

    Thanks for the consideration, regardless of your response.

    Go Hawks. Let’s Kill this draft!!!

  28. Lenny J

    Id switch Ballage and Griffin. Now we talking

  29. Hawktalker#1

    Here is one of my 2018 lukewarm draft takes.

    I think others may have this opinion as well so it’s not really a hot take. (And trust me, I pray this doesn’t happen – additionally disappointing to make this take since I now live in Arizona and I am kind of an ASU fan [after UW, WSU, UO and OSU, originally from Washington State and Oregon])

    “The Seattle Seahawks select Kalen Ballage (RB, Arizona State) as they’re running back selection in the 2018 NFL draft. He is a bust and eventually has an even less eventfull exit from the team than did Alex Collins.” Ouch.

    • Lewis

      If I’m not mistaken, Collins had more yards from scrimmage in Baltimore than any of our backs last year. Collins was never the problem.

      • Darth12er

        His fumbling and lack of pucker my up blocks was a huge problem though.

        • Darth12er

          *picking up blocks* 😬

        • hawkdawg

          Now THAT was hilarious!!

  30. James

    Sorta hoping they take a chance on WR’s Antonio Callaway and /or Keke Coutee in the 4th or 5th if they’re still around instead of taking Kirk so high.

    • SoCal12

      I’d be okay with taking Callaway with a low 5th/7th rounder. I think the potential reward would outweigh the (admittedly heavy) risk at the lower rounds. However, I doubt PCJS even have him on their board anymore due to how burnt they must feel from the whole McDowell fiasco.

      I really like Keke though, and would not be surprised if they used a 4th or 5th on him. Not sure if PCJS have any visible interest in him though, but from what I’ve seen he plays like a ‘Hawk,

      • Sea Mode

        I really wanted to take a shot on Callaway earlier on in the draft process because the potential reward is so high, but I was also turned off by McDowell and a few days ago Tony Pauline reported more red flags on Callaway had popped up since the combine. So I decided to drop him altogether unless in R7/UDFA.

        Next year there are two that I came across scouting this year and already like a lot:
        – Deebo Samuel, South Carolina
        – Jaylen Smith, Louisville

        Both project in R2-R4 range at this point. So there will be some good options for the Hawks next year too.

    • Kenny Sloth

      I really like Keith Kirkwood’s size and character in an even later range.

      • Sea Mode

        So do I! And did you know he has 33.75″ arms and an 81″ wingspan?

        • D-OZ

          I like Kirkwood a lot. Good story on him. Took his girlfriend’s daughter to heart who’s father died when she was very young. (6 months old I believe) Good young man, very responsible and works hard to be great.

      • Lewis

        This would be a tremendous guy to take a shot at late. Hasn’t played the sport that long. Lots of upside. Basketball background and size to box out, go up and get contested balls. Totally worth a shot given our difficulty finding that bigger receiver

  31. JimQ

    A little off topic, but did anyone watch the “Dallas 1-week to the draft” podcast that showed up at the end of Rob’s bit. A week before the draft and they seem to want Darwin or Bates at safety. Absolutely ZERO mention of Earl Thomas. Interesting.

    • Greg Haugsven

      They could get Bates but good luck with Derwin.

  32. Coleslaw

    I lied heres another mock lol. Took Rob’s and make a few tweaks here and there including an Earl trade.
    38. Christian Kirk WR
    50. Nick Chubb RB
    64. Rasheem Green DL or Andrew Brown DL
    95. Jessie Bates FS
    114. Shaquem Griffin LB
    120. Leon Jacobs LB
    146. Tony Brown CB
    156. John Kelly RB
    168. Will Dissly TE
    226. Ito Smith RB
    248. Simeon Thomas CB

    • Greg Haugsven

      I would like Green as well at 64 but in Robs mock he is gone.

      • Coleslaw

        Yeah, he seems to be more like a top 50 guy, 64 would be really good value, Brown is pretty impressive too though

        • DCD2

          Based on what? I feel like changing my name to Mugatu, cause… crazy pills

          What do you like about Brown? Have you watched him play?

          • Coleslaw

            Im not following. All I said was Green is probably too 50 and that Brown is impressive. Are you genuinely asking my opinion? What’s with the ‘Have you watched him play?’
            Of course I’ve watched him play. Apparently you’re not a fan? What’s your deal?

            • DCD2

              Sorry, I’ve been trying to get someone to explain what exactly they like about Brown for the better part of the day without much luck.

              I genuinely am asking your opinion. I’ve watched a handful of his games and have seen a guy who gets taken out by TE’s, gets generally pushed around by tackles and guards and doesn’t get to the QB often. In 3 games, I saw him make almost zero impact. WALL UP pointed out above that Pauline has a 7th round grade on him and is his 20th ranked DE.

              “Have you watched him play” is a fair question. It wasn’t meant to be condescending. A lot of people read someone else’s opinion and take it as fact. With all of that being said, which game specifically did you think he showed well in? Or what is it about him that you like? I’m happy to have my mind changed. It’s a big reason why I come here.

              • Coleslaw

                I see. No hard feelings. I can’t blame you for your stance on him, 64 probably is high, but it’sa weak class. For me, I like him for his potential. He’s got the frame and nice athleticism. I should have said he’s intriguing, although he’s definitely not a slouch on the field. I think his stock will rise maybe above what tape shows cause the potential puts him in the higher tier up DL before the talent dropoff.

                • DCD2

                  Thanks for the response.

                  He does seem to look like the part on paper. I feel like you could say that about almost every DL projected to go in the draft though. From what I saw, he’s someone that I would hope we pass on, but can appreciate if others feel differently.

                  I was just hoping someone could point to some tape and say “did you see him in that game? He made a huge impact”. It’s one of the reasons I’m so down on a guy like Ballage too. His “best” games look slightly above average and the rest of his tape is just uninspiring for a guy that we are talking about in the top half of the draft.

              • Coleslaw

                I see a guy with a high motor, who may not put up a ton on the stat sheet, but still has an impact by seemingly always being around the ball. This fits for me with Robs thinking that Brown is in the Michael Bennett mold.

    • Coleslaw

      Heres how the 53 would likely shake out with this draft.
      DL: Frank Clark, Naz Jones, Jarran Reed, Rasheem Green, Dion Jordan, Marcus Smith, Tom Johnson, Shamar Stephen 8
      LB: Bobby Wagner, KJ Wright, Barkevious Mingo, Shaquem Griffin, Leon Jacobs, DJ Alexander 6
      S: Bradley McDougald, Jessie Bates II, Maurice Alexander, Delano Hill 4
      CB: Shaquill Griffin, Justin Coleman, Byron Maxwell, Tony Brown, Neiko Thorpe, DeAndre Elliot 6
      Defense: 24

      OL: Brown, Pocic, Britt, Fluker, Fant, Ifedi, Roos, Odhiambo, Hunt 9
      WR: Doug Baldwin, Tyler Lockett, Jaron Brown, Amarah Darboh, Johnson 6
      QB: Wilson, Austin Davis 2
      RB: Nick Chubb, Chris Carson, Mike Davis, John Kelly, Ito Smith, Tre Madden 6
      TE: Ed Dickson, Nick Vannett, Will Dissly 3
      Offense: 26

      Kicker: Sebastian Janikowski
      Punter: Jon Ryan
      Long snapper: ?
      Special Teams: 3

      Total: 45

      • Coleslaw

        Shoot, left out Christian Kirk lol

    • D-OZ

      I like the draft a lot although Bates won’t last to 95… Might have to take Shaq there. Jamerson @ 114.

      • 503Hawk

        I’ll bet you Rob’s mortgage Chubb doesn’t last to 50.
        I’ve posted before how underrated Hunt’s technique is. But with Cable gone and having both Britt and Pocic the Hawks might move on from him.

        • Kenny Sloth

          Screenshotted for the Patreon 💚💙

  33. Greg Haugsven

    I would be really happy with a mock like that. One thing I noticed is none of these guys would probably be impact players in 2018 (and thats not a bad thing). Kirk at best would probably be the third option but would probably start fifth on the depth chart. Brown would be a rotation guy. Ballage might be the best option as being an impact guy in 2018 but could not be. It would probably be more of a draft for 2019 which would be fine by me.

  34. Sea Mode

    I shed a tear every time I see a mock where we don’t come away with Nick Chubb… 🙁

    I also recognize Rob is putting out his mocks without adding an Earl Trade, which makes it harder to get all the guys we would like in that R2 range. I respect that choice.

    A couple thoughts on different position groups.

    – RB: this is the draft to do it
    – WR: take one early (Kirk) or miss out and take none at all until R7/UDFA (Kirkwood)
    – DL: wait until next year’s strong draft and give our young guys and reclamation projects more snaps this season to see what we’ve really got in them. Add only a developmental guy on day 3.
    – OL: could wait and roll with the current group, unless a stud like Wynn or Price falls to us at great value.
    – S: there aren’t really any studs I see in this class. Reid is the closest to it and will probably go too early for us. Plus, eventually we have to let our young guys from last year see the field at some point. Getting Reid (or Bates III) next to McDougald seems like it would just keep Hill and Thompson on the bench forever.
    -TE: not the greatest class, but perfect for picking up a Y later on.
    -LB: plenty of athletic prospects on day 3 to choose from to backup and develop behind Bobby and KJ.

    Thoughts on Rob’s picks:

    #38 — Christian Kirk (WR, Texas A&M): Yes, please!

    #64 — Andrew Brown (DE, Virginia): I loved this guy at the Senior Bowl. Incredible get off at the snap. But where is it on the tape? Was it just him taking advantage of the zero OL cohesion present at the Senior Bowl? Do you buy the narrative then that what coaches at Virginia were asking him to do limited him from showing his full potential, or did he just not manage to put it all together? Does him showing just average explosiveness in the jumps concern you a bit for an early round pick? The 1.6 10yd split is very impressive I will say though.

    An early day 3 alternative could be RJ McIntosh. I profiled him back in January. Similar size, actually an inch taller and even longer wingspan than Brown, and production (2.5 sacks, 12.5 TFL, 7 passes batted down, 26 QB pressures this season). Seems like one of those tall DTs Seattle would like, similar to Naz. Flying totally under the radar because he had a Thyroid problem diagnosed at the combine medical checks and couldn’t work out there. Really quick off the snap shooting gaps and swimming Guards. He was named Miami’s defensive MVP for 2017. PFF’s highest graded player on the Miami team.

    His highlights are up on YouTube, but don’t miss clips of him beating Q. Nelson (something not many ever do) and of him hustling 50 yds downfield to make a tackle:
    https://twitter.com/BenFennell_NFL/status/957332075677388800

    #95 — Kalen Ballage (RB, Arizona State): would rather try to package #102, #114, and change to move up from #64 and target Chubb/RoJo. (BTW, I think you should stick to your guns on your projection for RoJo in your final mock. Hard for me to see him get past PHI at 32.)

    #114 — Shaquem Griffin (LB, UCF): perfect player to kickstart our culture transition, perfect draft spot for his value.

    #120 — Holton Hill (CB, Texas): ok if character checks out. I had my doubts about his speed on film, but he put that away with his 4.48 at the combine.

    #146 — Tony Brown (CB, Alabama): Oh, yeah. Sooo Seahawky.

    #156 — Natrell Jamerson (S, Wisconsin): athletically he’s Justin Reid’s clone, just 2″ shorter, and at much better value. CB/S experience just like Reid. 12 plays on the ball (2 INT, 10 PBU) this year vs. Reid’s 11 (5 INT, 6 PBU)

    #168 — Will Dissly (TE, Washington): you know I’m a Chris Herndon fan, but I guess I would be happy with any TE who can block. Dissly did have a really good 3 cone time (T-6 among TE, and none of the 5 above him were even close to his weight). Maybe we could still trade down again with this pick and get both TE and LB in R6.

    #226 — Poona Ford (DT, Texas): love it, such a unique build with a high motor.

    #248 — Kyle Allen (QB, Houston): sure, why not?

    Thanks for yet another well thought out mock! Can’t wait to see what your final one ends up looking like.

    • Awsi Dooger

      I invariably like the guys you spotlight and your comments about them.

      RJ McIntosh has shifted from overrated late in the regular season — when many Canes fans were touting him as a first round pick — to underrated today. His higher water mark was that Notre Dame game then he flattened out in the next few games until being mostly pushed around by Wisconsin in the Orange Bowl. Combined with the combine situation that Orange Bowl performance has removed his name from being mentioned where it should be. Throughout 2017 on some of the best draft forums like footballsfuture.com McIntosh’s playing style was being likened to Richard Seymour. I could see that. He’s an angular type who penetrates will and causes problems. Much better athlete than the other Canes defensive tackle who entered early, Kendrick Norton. He is a blue collar plugger.

      From a Seahawk perspective the only concern I would have is that McIntosh is seemingly very similar to Naz Jones, although a smoother version of Jones.

      Miami is still in the midst of fortifying its roster under Mark Richt but Al Golden did manage to find several NFL caliber athletes every year. This time Mark Walton and Chris Herndon are very good value on offense. Anyone who dismisses Mark Walton as too much of a spot player or not tough enough will be proven wrong. Brutally wrong. Chad Thomas at defensive end was a highly touted 5 star recruit who doesn’t flash the type of athleticism associated with 5 stars but he is very tough and hard trying and would be a solid rotational left end in a 4-3. Mostly a run stopper.

      • Sea Mode

        Thanks, Awsi. And I appreciate your outside perspective and inside take on the different Florida guys.

        I actually think his similarity to Naz Jones would be something that would attract the Seahawks to him. Him and Naz lined up next to each other in the middle would close off a whole lot of passing lanes when they get their hands up. Funny that while they are similar in their tall, long build, their game is quite different. Naz holds up much better at the point of attack, but doesn’t offer as much in pass rush. McIntosh has a great ability to shoot gaps, but needs to get stronger so as not to get pushed around vs. run.

        And you know Chris Herndon is my favorite TE in the draft.

  35. sdcoug

    I don’t care that he’s considered a tweener…give me Hercules “One Bad” Mata’afa. Elite game-speed off the snap. He will make his mark. And yes, my crimson love is showing.

    • D-OZ

      I have been thinking about Hercules a lot lately going to the Hawks. I hope they find a way to get it done. He is moving up the boards now. I am seeing him in the late 2nd to mid 3rd. IMO.

      • hawkdawg

        Very good college player. But if he is still around 250 lbs, and projects to a 3 technique, he’s not going in the late 2nd to mid 3rd. If they can stand him up on the outside, that could work. But that would be a real position change, and that is not the usual profile for late 2nd to mid 3rd….

  36. Sea Mode

    Just a side note that popped into my head the other day. They were after a “Golden Tate” profile last year as well. Of course, David Moore wasn’t being touted as “probably the best player in the SEC” by anyone either though…

    Tate: 5102, 199, 30 1/2 arm, 9 1/4 hand, 4.42 40yd, 10’0″ broad, 35.0 vert, 7.12 3C, 4.34 SS, 17 bench
    Kirk: 5103, 201, 30 3/8 arm, 9 7/8 hand, 4.45 40yd, 09’7″ broad, 35.5 vert, 7.09 3C, 4.45 SS, 20 bench
    D.M: 6005, 219, ???????? arm, ?????? hand, 4.43 40yd, 10’04 broad, 36.5 vert, 6.98 3C, 4.38 SS, 26 bench

    And all those numbers at 20 lbs. heavier…

    • Rik

      Moore looked very slippery in the preseason last year. Hawks added him to the 53 when another team tried to poach him off the practice squad, so it seems like PCJS see some real potential in his game/skills.

  37. Coleslaw

    Gonna post this for people to copy, pretty fun to plug guys from your mocks into the 53, here’s the roster so far if anyone wants it
    DL: Frank Clark, Naz Jones, Jarran Reed, Dion Jordan, Marcus Smith, Tom Johnson, Shamar Stephen 7
    LB: Bobby Wagner, KJ Wright, Barkevious Mingo, DJ Alexander 4
    S: McDougald, Earl Thomas, Maurice Alexander, Delano Hill 4
    CB: Griffin, Coleman, Neiko Thorpe, DeAndre Elliot, Mike Tyson 5
    Defense: 20

    OL: Brown, Pocic, Britt, Fluker, Fant, Ifedi, Roos, Odhiambo, Hunt 9
    WR: Baldwin, Lockett, Brown, Darboh, Johnson 5
    QB: Wilson, Austin Davis 2
    RB: Carson, Davis, Prosise, Madden 4
    TE: Dickson, Vannett 2
    Offense: 22

    Special Teams: 3
    Kicker: Sebastian Janikowski
    Punter: Jon Ryan
    Long snapper: ?

    Total: 45

    • DCD2

      Why is McKissick Madden 4?

      • Coleslaw

        Add whoever you want I made it clear this is a template for people to use, not a projection of anything at all lol.

        • DCD2

          I understand it now. It’s Tre Madden for a total of 4 RB’s. McKissick just isn’t in there.

          I thought JD had a nickname I didn’t know.

          Thanks for posting this.

        • Michigan 12th

          Where is David Moore at in the WR”s? I still think there is a lot of potential there with him. Big and fast, maybe this is the year he puts it together. Must be something there if the Hawks promoted him to active roster to keep him from being poached off of practice squad.

    • Kenny Sloth

      Except I think

      DL: Cliff Avril, Frank Clark, Naz Jones, Jarran Reed, Dion Jordan, Marcus Smith, Quinton Jefferson, Tom Johnson, Shamar Stephen, Garrison Smith, Christian French, Branden Jackson, Noble Nwachukwu 12

      LB: Bobby Wagner, KJ Wright, Barkevious Mingo, DJ Alexander, Josh Forrest, Paul Dawson 6

      S: Kam Chancellor, Bradley McDougald, Earl Thomas, Maurice Alexander, Delano Hill, Akeem King, Tedric Thompson 7

      CB: Shaquill Griffin, Justin Coleman, Neiko Thorpe, DeAndre Elliot, Mike Tyson, Dontae Johnson, Alex Carter 7

      Defense: 32

      OL: Duane Brown, Ethan Pocic, Justin Britt, DJ Fluker, George Fant, Germain Ifedi, Michael Roos, Rees Odhiambo, Joey Hunt, Isaiah Battle, Willie Beavers, Tyrus Thompson 12

      WR: Doug Baldwin, Tyler Lockett, Jaron Brown, Amarah Darboh, Marcus Johnson, David Moore, Cyril Grayson, Tanner McEvoy 8

      QB: Russell Wilson, Austin Davis, Stephen Morris 3

      RB: Chris Carson, Mike Davis, CJ Prosise, JD McKissic, Jalston Fowler, Tre Madden 6

      TE: Ed Dickson, Nick Vannett, Tyrone Swoopes 3

      Offense: 32

      Kicker: Sebastian Janikowski, Justin Myers
      Punter: Jon Ryan
      Long snapper: Tyler Ott

      Special Teams: 4

      Total: 68

      • Coleslaw

        If you wanna get technical lol. I just like to plug guys in after a mock to see how it fits. Just gives perspective you might not notice at first.

        • Kenny Sloth

          I have been talking abojt grading against the roster so this was helpful to me too.

          • Alex6674

            Isn’t Garrison Smith a Falcon?

            • Kenny Sloth

              Definitely is, I’ll remove him from future editions

  38. Captain Blood

    If Carlos Hyde was a RB hedge for Cleveland, and they end up with Saquon Barkley, could Hyde come to us as part of the proposed Cleveland trade of our #18 for their 33 and 64 plus ?whatever? Scenario?

    • Rob Staton

      It’d cost the Browns $2m to trade him so probably best for them to have him working next to Saquon.

      • Sean-O

        CLE really has a chance to come away with a defining draft class with four picks in the top 35.

        If you’re CLE, wouldn’t you think about drafting your QB of choice at #1, Chubb at #4 then grab one the other top RB’s at either #33 or #35? Saquon is a stud but the chance to have Chubb teaming with Myles Garrett would be huge.

        • Rob Staton

          In this mock Saquon is off the board at #2 anyway.

          If he’s there at #4 you just take him. He’s a superstar. You took Myles Garrett a year ago, get a star for your offense and win some games in 2018.

  39. James

    #114 — Shaquem Griffin (LB, UCF)
    #120 — Holton Hill (CB, Texas)
    #146 — Tony Brown (CB, Alabama)

    Would love these picks in the middle rounds. Hopefully they could come to an agreement with Maxwell to go along with those guys opposite Shaq.

    • Trevor

      That would be the perfect situation IMO. Those would be 3 great picks of guys who just seem like they should be Hawks and I think Maxis vet presence could really help this year.

  40. Ishmael

    Maybe I’m being too cynical, but I’m really not fussed by Griffin. It’s a cool story, but I don’t see him being much more than a core special teamer. There’s value in that, sure, but he’s just not a guy I can bring myself to get super excited about.

    • James

      Him and his twin bro in the same locker room seems like it’d be a special thing.

      • Hawktalker#1

        Plus an even longer a list of reasons. I believe he could be a significant piece of the new look Seahawks.
        Pretty excited about that as are many.

    • C-Dog

      If you weren’t around at the time he was playing or following the team, google Rufus Porter, and watch. I think Shaquem could be Rufus 2.0 for Seattle.

      • STTBM

        Rufe!! Porter was a master at bending the edge. I love Shaqem Griffins speed and motor. Not sure if he’s Porter II but I am sure he’s more than just a Special Teamer. He can still pick off passes and wrap up, despite only one hand. He’s got the It factor…

      • 503Hawk

        Good memories C-Dog. Wasn’t Rufus the one that forced the rule change for drawing the OL offsides with his twitch?

    • JimQ

      I think other teams will say how great the kid is to be politically correct, but have him down on their draft boards due primarily to his supposed handicap and their bias against same. IMO- Pick #120, if they keep it, is the most ideal spot for Griffin to join his brother and become a Seahawk.

  41. Ishmael

    Is Jessie Bates really a first rounder? I know this blog is generally a ‘what can he do’ place, not a ‘what can’t he do,’ but he’s an awful tackler – doesn’t want it at all. Earl might have shocking technique, but at least he wants it – Bates has neither

    • peter

      He has flashes but I get your drift. He can cover and generally plays very well but is I think being gifted slightly a ride in draft stock due to the overall down safety class.

    • Kenny Sloth

      I see him in the same range as Justin Reid; just below Ronnie Harrison

  42. Lenny J

    We passed on Ron Jones and Chubb in this scenario. Just Sayin

    • Rob Staton

      I know — it’s not my personal view on what they should do. It’s what I think they might do.

      • kevin buckland

        Hey Rob just wondering about your thoughts on this scenario. We trade back from 18 with cleveland like in your recent mock 33 64 and 114. Now say while dallas is on the clock we call and say we will give you pick 33 and earl thomas for 19 and 50 do you think in getting earl and splitting their two picks they make the trade?? That would leave us the ability to still select at 19 if there was someone there we actually like or trade back with other teams until the second round and coupe up 3rd rounders until there is someone we like and dont trust to be there if we fall back again. Could end up with 3 2nds and 2 or 3 3rds to go with the rest of our day 3.

        • Rob Staton

          Possibly. That might work

          • kevin buckland

            And I’m not really sure if it happens often but could a 3 team deal work if dallas still wanted a little more like a 3rd and 2nd with earl to give up that 1st is it possible a team like carolina who would trade us 24 and a 3rd for 19 if we were getting it from dallas so give dallas carolinas third in the trade so we walk away with 24 and 50, carolina with 19, and dallas with a 33 a 3rd rounder and earl. I believe all parties would be satisfied dallas can still get a receiver at 33 and have a 3rd rounder as well carolina gets to take Ridley or whoever they want and if we want we could select at 24 have 2 2nds and trade up into the 3rd if we needed to as you did in your mock that leaves us with 10 or if there isnt someone we like at 24 start trading back until we like someone like last year while stockpiling picks

  43. JimQ

    RB-Trenton Cannon, Virginia St., 5-102/185, 4.40/40, ranked #401-overall at draftscout.com 4/21/18

    @ Richmond pro-day (Seahawks were there), Cannon raised some eyebrows when he had a 4.40/40 with a **1.49/10-yd.** split to go along with his 17-reps, 38.5″-Vert, 10′-09″-Broad, 4.04/20-yd. shuttle, 7.02/3-cone. A pretty nice day!! He would seem to have some long speed, agility, great burst & explosive traits for a smaller RB. Might be a potential consideration for a late Seahawk small RB pick if there in Rd-7 or – maybe he could just be signed as UDFA for some fun competition?

    Doesn’t seem to have any injury history, which would be important at his size. Decent (small school) Production too.
    2017: 11-games, 212/1638/7.72-ypc/148.9-ypg, 17-TD’s.+ 21/225/10.71-ypc/3-TD’s receiving.
    Career: 32-games, 554/4035/7.28-ypc/126.09-ypg, 44-TD’s + 48/610/12.70-ypc/7-TD’s receiving.

  44. HawkfaninMT

    I really hope they signed CJA prior to this draft!

  45. Jeremy

    Rob, might be a stupid question, but: no Leon Jacobs here. Have you cooled on him, or simply showing different scenarios?

    • Rob Staton

      Different scenarios

  46. Kenny Sloth

    Seahawks roster for your use:

    DE: Cliff Avril, Frank Clark, Dion Jordan, Marcus Smith, Branden Jackson, Christian French, , Noble Nwachukwu, 7

    DT: Jarran Reed, Tom Johnson, Shamar Stephen, Naz Jones, Quinton Jefferson, Garrison Smith, 6

    LB: Bobby Wagner, KJ Wright, Barkevious Mingo, DJ Alexander, Josh Forrest, Paul Dawson, 6

    S: Kam Chancellor, Earl Thomas, Bradley McDougald, Maurice Alexander, Delano Hill, Tedric Thompson, Akeem King, 7

    CB: Shaquill Griffin, Justin Coleman, Dontae Johnson, Neiko Thorpe, DeAndre Elliot, Mike Tyson, Alex Carter, 7

    Defense: 33

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

    OG: DJ Fluker, Ethan Pocic, Rees Odhiambo, Willie Beavers 4
    OC: Justin Britt, Joey Hunt 2

    WR: Doug Baldwin, Tyler Lockett, Jaron Brown, Amarah Darboh, Marcus Johnson, David Moore, Cyril Grayson, Tanner McEvoy, 8

    QB: Russell Wilson, Austin Davis, Stephen Morris 3

    RB: Chris Carson, Mike Davis, CJ Prosise, JD McKissic, 4

    FB: Jalston Fowler, Tre Madden, 2

    TE: Ed Dickson, Nick Vannett, Tyrone Swoopes, 3

    Offense: 31

    Kicker: Sebastian Janikowski, Justin Myers

    Punter: Jon Ryan

    Long snapper: Tyler Ott

    Special Teams: 4

    Total: 68

    • Kenny Sloth

      Grading our roster in anticipation of losing Kam, Cliff, and Earl:

      QB can wait until udfa. The last QB that could compete to be our backup will likely be Luke Falk leaving the board in the third. Riley Ferguson is an option in maybe the fifth. I like the guys they’ve met with as 7th round/udfa types, but easy to ignore the position.

      RB is obviously the biggest hole on the roster without a healthy, consistent, productive back on the roster. Ballage is a good marker for Rob to point out in the third as the latest available back that could become a starter like we need. John Kelly and Bo Scarborough could provide some intrigue after he leaves the board, but they seem like specialists at best. Seattle has shown interest in some lighter RBs like Wadley and Edmonds, but I don’t see them drafting a backup running back until very late because of the strength at other positions throughout day 3.

      FB is an interesting spot as Seattle has tried a few projects at the position, but hasn’t found anyone to lock down the position like Michael Robinson had done. Funny, then, that Seattle has met with a very similar player in Khalid Hill from Michigan. He is part of a relatively exciting FB class that is headlined by combo Hback Jaylen Samuels and runner-receiver Dimitri Flowers. However, Hill and fellow Seahawks target expected to convert to FB, Ryan Nall, wouldn’t cost a premium pick and could perhaps even fall to UDFA. Not sure you need to spend a draft pick on competition for Tre Madden.

      WR has a hole where Paul Richardson and Jermaine Kearse before him once won the redline. Seattle hasn’t shown a ton of interest in WR this offseason, besides a special workout with Christian Kirk. Keith Kirkwood is the other major target we’ve spent time with. He’s another major character guy, but actually has the size that Christian Kirk plays with. Kirkwood could be had likely in the fifth round. Besides Kirkwood and some character red flag guys, the tale t at WR appears to nosedive at the start of the third round after James Washington and Keke Coutee are supposedly going to leave the board.

      TE is actually quite promising this year. There are a couple TEs that could be favorable targets for Seattle. I’m not sure if we’re more inclined to go with a Y TE or more of a Vertical-Offense-Kellen-Winslow-type. Hayden Hurst should kick off the run on TEs and Seattle visitor Dallas Goedert should be among them. He’s a good shout to compete with Ed Dickson and Nick Vannett, but if he goes too early we could look to one of Mike Gesicki, Ian Thomas, or even the slightly overrated Mark Andrews to fill in for some of Jimmy Grahams lost production into the late third. Durham Smythe and a few other less explosive players should be available in each round with draftable grades for us, but I think the Seahawks will be hoping for Tyler Conklin in the fifth. He’s physical, explosive, has the bloodlines, former basketball player and has tons of room to develop.

      OL has two distinct dropoffs; first will be when the top talent is gone in the second, probably pretty early too. Frank Ragnow and Braden Smith should be the last left, perhaps slipping to the third. Meanwhile you’ll start to see the Crosbys and Okorafors leaving the board and that shouldn’t last long either. Scott Quessenberry should be taken by the fourth and then it’ll be some incomplete depth guys like Ike Boettger until udfa.

      DE is tricky because losing Cliff is going to suck, but luckily Frank has been transitioning into more of a LEO and Marcus Smith II looked good behind him. As always if you want a pass rusher, you have to grab them early. Seattle has met with Josh Sweat a couple times and his athletic profile is pure LEO. I’ve seen him go all over the second round. Later on there’s maybe a guy like Antonio Simmons from Georgia Tech, but it’s hard to find targets for our profile depending on what we would overlook. After Josh Sweat leaves behind Landry and Carter there’s Kemoko Turay who they also met with and then not many options that are clear candidates with the speed to be relevant competition at LEO. Demone Harris is an option on day 3.

      The more interesting position is the 5tech. Replacing Mike Bennett is a daunting prospect since there hasn’t really been any viable backup outside of Frank Clark and now Dion Jordan who will be the presumed starter, unless Tom Johnson or Naz Jones is going to play the position in the Red Bryant style. We’ve met with Rasheem Green and Andrew Brown, who should both go somewhere in the second, Green probably before Brown. Maurice Hurst is talented and might be the redemption pick for Malik McDowell. I like Tyquan Lewis as an intelligent, hungry, leader on defense early as well. Not sure you have to break the bank in draft capital to get two-gapping 3-4 DE depth, at least nominally.

      DT has been given some veteran help in the offseason. Reed and Stephens should be the nose tackle platoon on early downs. Naz Jones and Tom Johnson should compete for snaps at 3tech. They can likely wait on this position as there are several shorter, space eating DTs later on, like Poona Ford in the fifth or Bilal Nichols in the sixth.

      LB is a special case because you have to draft Shaquem Griffin. Shaquill said something to the effect of the organization loves him and we’re gonna do whatever it takes to get him. Otherwise you have a steep drop-off after Malik Jefferson at LB. Then the value doesnt make sense until the late third when you can think about Uchenna Nwosu or Shaquem Griffin.

      CB could finally be a target early with the lack of talent on our roster. Isaiah Oliver and Carlton Davis could have starter potential against our current roster, but will have the same learning curve relative to other rookies in our scheme. There aren’t a ton of options that fit our profile in the third or fourth. The latest you could find a backup with starter potential would be the fifth round when players like Tony Brown II and Holton Hill are supposed to come off the board. They are both a little rough around the edges both in terms of play and character which makes their meeting with the seahawks quite appropriate, but there should be no concerns as they represent the all-football personality they are looking for. Jordan Thomas is another who could be a target later on, but there are lots of udfa types this year like Simeon Thomas or someone like that.

      S will be up in the air no matter who we draft. We can expect that Bradley McDougald will start in one of those spots, but if you want someone to compete with who is on the roster, there is a gap between the top two safeties and then the next couple guys who will go until the third round ends. Not sure how the position pans out later on. There are some guys with speed and some guys that can hit and some ballhawks throughout. The Seahawks have met with several of the second round safeties, including a visit by Ronnie Harrison. They also met with two other SEC safeties. They didn’t meet with Armani Watts but could look that way later on, but it’s an ok class throughout.

      • Trevor

        Great writeup Kenny and I agree wirh your take on almost every position group. Nice prep piece for the draft.

        • Kenny Sloth

          Any other thoughts on the cliffs I identified

          • Trevor

            I think the biggest cliffs are Edge Rusher once Sweet and Turay go in Rd#2 and at RB once the top 6-7 guys are off the board.

            How about you?

            • Sea Mode

              Throw in WRs too. After Kirk, Miller, and a couple more in R2, the cupboard is pretty bare.

              Maybe some of the guys in the middle rounds pan out and become solid contributors, but none get me very excited at all.

              • Kenny Sloth

                James Washington, Keke Coutee then nothing it seems.

                Gonna be some solid pockets of OL I think after some review.

      • Sea Mode

        Good stuff, Kenny. I have a feeling in this draft PC/JS are just going to identify and go after “their guys”. Smart, tough, reliable, fast.

      • TCHawk

        Very nice post Kenny.

        I just don’t see Ballage as a viable contender to start. To me he is just Christinne Michael 2.0. Not really aggressive, doesn’t plant his foot and go, no real shiftiness of feet, and isn’t a violent runner either. He has athletic potential, but certainly didn’t achieve “the man” reputation in college. He would seem to fit as viable depth on the Seahawks, maybe as RB3 or RB4.

        JS please just pull the trigger on Chubb!

        • D-OZ

          Balladge: I see poor vision with the ball in his hand’s. He is not sudden at all from what I have seen on tape.

      • Nick

        Great stuff. Where’d you hear Quill say that about his bro?

        • Kenny Sloth

          CanNot recall.

      • C-Dog

        Great write up, Kenny.

        I think you’re nailing it. I see the cliffs at WR and Edge coming early, and definitely think they want to find a TE for the Coryell. Also think they might want to grab a nose more reminiscent of Mebane, Nnadi is the one I’m watching for.

        Not to be a stickler, but Garrison Smith signed with Atlanta.

        • Kenny Sloth

          Stickle away. I had the thought to check on him as I remembered him moving on, but I forgot to change it.

          Even those minor differences could be the difference in selecting a Poona Ford or a Natrell Jamerson

  47. Donovan

    Rob,

    Before draft day, can you post your “top player tier” list, ala last year? I found that both really helpful and informative – and continued to cuss as the Hawks traded back and picked McDowell (who was nowhere to be found on your tiers).

    Cheers,
    Donovan

    • Rob Staton

      Yes, posting a top six at each position today and then a tier list

      • D-OZ

        LOVE YOU MAN… 😉

  48. Patrick Toler

    I continue to have a hard time seeing how Pete could watch Ballage’s tape and see a Seahawk RB. Maybe I’ve got a blind spot – I’m just not seeing it. He’s big and athletic, but runs weak, had terrible feet, and shows zero processing ability. He is the anti Marshawn.

    Maybe they met with him to try and get an angle on why his tape is so bad? Pete is certainly confident/arrogant enough to think he can unlock a talented player, but that’s a player you draft on day three. I’m not even convinced his ceiling is high, since his feet and mental processing are so poor.

    That said, maybe it happens. Great mock, Rob. I know you are not a Ballage fan either. I can’t wait for the draft!

    • TCHawk

      +1 on the Ballage perspective.

      -100 on the PC arrogance.

      • 503Hawk

        Instead of “arrogance”, maybe one of Pete’s strengths – his confidence- is becoming his weakness.

        • Madmark

          Maybe he just meet with him to get a take of what he about and like. He might have already decided that’s not his guy from that meeting.

  49. Kenny Sloth

    Reposting the over 32″ arms workout number list

    Isaiah Oliver: 33 1/2 arms — 80 5/8 wingspan 9″5/8 hands, 6′ 194 lbs. 4.5, 6.94, 35.5, 10-8,

    Carlton Davis: 32 3/4 arms — 79 3/8 wingspan, 8″7/8 hands, 6’1 204 lbs. 4.44, 7.30, 34″, 10-3, 16

    Isaac Yiadom: 32 1/4 arms — 75 3/4 wingspan, 8″7/8 hands, 6’1, 190 lbs. 4.52, 6.85, 34.5″, 10′, 8

    Holton Hill: 32 arms — 77 1/4 wingspan, 6’2, 196 lbs. 4.49, 6.83, 31″, 10′, 14

    Quenton Meeks: 31 3/4 arms — 76 1/4 wingspan, 6’1, 209 lbs. 4.23 ss 6.72 3cone, 39″, 10’08”, 11

    Tarvarus McFadden: 32 1/2 arms — 78 wingspan 6’2, 198 lbs. 4.65, 35″, 10’01

    Levi Wallace: 32 3/4 arms — 77 3/8 wingspan 6′, 183 lbs. 4.63* injured on run. 33″

    Christian Campbell: 33 1/2 arms — 79 wingspan 8 3/4hands, 6’1, 195 lbs. 4.55, 4.18, 6.77, 41″ 11″03, 14

    Arrion Springs: 31 3/4 arms — 75 7/8 wingspan 5’10, 208 lbs., 4.46, 4.51, 7.02, 9’10, 32″, 18

    D’Montre Wade: 32 3/8 arms — 76 7/8 wingspan 9″ 7/8 hands, 5’11, 206, 4.57, 4.40, 35 1/2″, 10′,

    Brandon Facyson: 32 5/8 arms — 78 1/2 wingspan 9 3/4″ 6’1, 203 lbs. 4.53, 16 reps

    Chandon Sullivan: 32 3/8 arms — 76 3/4 wingspan, 9″ hands, 5’11, 194 lbs. 4.6, 4.36 ss, 41″ 11’02, 15

    Jordan Thomas: 32 arms — 77 3/4 wingspan, 9″ 1/2 hands, 6′, 187 lbs. 4.64, 3.94, 6.28, 10’04, 34″, 04 bench

    Charvarius Ward: 32 1/4 arms — 77 1/4 wingspan 6’1, 198 lbs. 4.44, 4.56, 7.52, 11′, 37 1/2″, 12

    JaMarcus King: 32 7/8 arms — 78 3/8 wingspan 9 1/8″ hands, 6’1, 185 lbs. 4.58, 4.38, 7.2, 9’06, 32 1/2″

    Donovan Olumba: 32 7/8 arms — 77 7/8 wingspan 6’2, 192, 4.62, 4.47, 6.91, 10’06, 36″, 09

    Malik Reaves: 32 1/2 arms — 76 7/8 wingspan 5’11 201 lbs.

    Chris Jones: 32 3/4 arms — 78 1/4 wingspan 6′ 207 lbs. 4.53, 4.28, 6.96, 34 1/2″, 10’01, 14 (Nebraska)

    • Sea Mode

      Thanks. I need to take a closer look at some of these guys. Any good backstories you have seen on any of them?

  50. clbradley17

    Fantastic draft Rob! PJ Hall instead of Poona at DT if there’s a way – a 6′ 310 lb. athlete who runs 4.7 and jumps 38″ seems like a great day 3 option at DT! However, I understand this is who you think they will pick based on their criteria and who they’ve seen on private visits and workouts.

    Also listened to your great draft preview podcast last night, and thanks for the Bob McGinn tip, just exploring that site today. Here’s a link to a YouTube PFF draft preview show from Friday – at 46:49 it has a stats screen for fewest pressures allowed by guards (Will Hernandez is #1), at 54:58 has pass rush productivity stats for Shaquem Griffin, and at 59:20 interior pressures stats for Vita Vea, also stats results for Harold Landry, Maurice Hurst, Derwin James etc. throughout the 80 min. video.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sw-0494Hi0I&t=2806s

    • D-OZ

      I hope they come out of this draft with P.j. Hall and Hercules.

      • D-OZ

        Simeon Thomas also.

        • DCD2

          +1 more for PJ Hall

    • C-Dog

      PJ Hall seems to be getting lots of traction. Lots of teams are brining him in.

      • CharlieTheUnicorn

        The senior bowl youtube videos breaking down the position groups….. he stood out.
        Some of the guys looked completely lost in the drills, but he looked like he had a plan.
        A vast majority of the drills he was disruptive to the overall pocket and got to the QB a few times.

  51. Kenny Sloth

    One more resource, reposting the sorted visit list:

    Kyle Allen^, QB, Houston (WOR, PRI)
    Alex McGough, QB, Florida International (PRI)

    Derrius Guice, RB, LSU (PRO)
    Kalen Ballage, RB, Arizona State (WOR)
    Akrum Wadley, RB, Iowa (SR)
    Ito Smith, RB, Southern Mississippi (PRI)

    Khalid Hill, FB, Michigan (PRI)
    Ryan Nall, FB, Oregon State (COM)

    Christian Kirk^, WR, Texas A&M (WOR, PRI)
    Dante Pettis, WR, Washington (PRO)
    Keith Kirkwood, WR, Temple (PRI)

    Dallas Goedert^, TE, South Dakota State (WOR, PRI)
    Will Dissly, TE, Washington (COM)

    Kolton Miller, OT, UCLA (PRO)
    Austin Corbett, OT/C, Nevada (PRI)
    Billy Price, IL, Ohio State
    Cole Madison, OT, Washington State (PRI)

    Vita Vea, DT/3-4DE/NT, Washington (STM)
    Maurice Hurst, DT, Michigan (PRI)
    Andrew Brown, DT/3-4DE, Virginia (PRI)
    Poona Ford, DT, Texas (PRI)
    Derek Nnadi, DT, Florida State
    Jullian Taylor, DT, Temple (PRI)
    Abdullah Anderson, DT, Bucknell (WOR)

    Josh Sweat^, DE/3-4OLB, Florida State (PRO, PRI)
    Kemoko Turay, DE/3-4OLB, Rutgers (PRI)
    Dorance Armstrong Jr., DE/3-4OLB/OLB, Kansas (PRI)
    Jacob Martin, DE, Temple (PRI)
    Demone Harris DE Buffalo
    Tee Sims (DE, Appalachian State)

    Leighton Vander Esch, LB, Boise State (PRI)
    Shaquem Griffin, OLB, Central Florida (COM)
    Foye Oluokun, OLB, Yale (PRI)
    Jacob Pugh, 3-4OLB/OLB, Florida State (PRI)
    Zaire Franklin, LB, Syracuse
    Ed Shockley, ILB, Villanova (PRI)
    Manase Hungalu, ILB, Oregon State (WOR)

    Isaiah Oliver, CB, Colorado (PRI)
    Nick Nelson, CB, Wisconsin (PRO)
    Tony Brown, CB, Alabama (PRO, PRI)
    Holton Hill, CB, Texas (PRI)
    Simeon Thomas, CB, La.-Lafayette (PRI)
    Devron Davis CB UTSA

    Ronnie Harrison, S, Alabama (PRI)
    Justin Reid, S, Stanford (PRI)
    Jessie Bates III (S, Wake Forest)
    Natrell Jamerson, S, Wisconsin (PRO)
    Marcell Harris, S, Florida (PRI)
    J.T. Gray (S, Mississippi State)
    Chris Cooper, FS, Stony Brook (PRI)

    • peter

      You should be reposting this every day.

    • peter

      Also since you made this list and I assume have stated at it a bit who are you thinking for udfa’s?

      1. Kyle Allen
      2. Ito Smith
      3. Khalid hill….though I could go with nall as well
      4. Kirkwood? I think I’ve seen posters with a desirable grade on him but Pauline and draft scout seem to leaning to udfa/7th round
      5. Someone thomas? 7 th rounder, udfa?
      6. Chris cooper? Udfa?

      • peter

        Not “desirable,” but draftable grade on kirkwood.

        • DCD2

          Someone Thomas? That guy sounds like a truly forgettable player.

          J/K, assume you mean Simeon.

          Someone will spend a 7th on Ito and Kirkwood I would think.

          Will be interesting to see how they approach UDFA. They might think Thomas has a better grade for example than Ito, but due to current roster makeup we have a better chance of signing Simeon as a UDFA, so we spend our last pick on Ito.

          They did that in 2016 by taking Brooks as our last pick, because we’d already drafted Prosise and Alex Collins and still had Rawls, Michael, etc. Getting Brooks to sign with us was unlikely, so we spent the pick thinking that we could bring in UDFA’s at positions we were shallow at.

    • peter

      One last thing. I can’t shake the sense that sweat is the least smokescreen/due diligence pick on that list.

      Speaking to nnadi furthers cements my thoughts that they are trying to gather as much info on sweat as can be had.

      • Coleslaw

        I think you’re right, they love pass rushers and they’ll tell you. It wasn’t long ago they had to have Bruce Irvin, Is Sweat really all that different aside from the injury? He definitely seems like a guy they’ll covet, but personally I worry about his knee. If Seattles okay with it though, I could see them targeting him for sure.

        • Coleslaw

          At their combines:
          Bruce: 6’3″ 245 lbs. Arm Length: 33 3/8. 40: 4.50. 10 yd: 1.55. Vert: 33.5. Broad: 123.
          Sweat: 6’4″ 251 lbs. Arm length: 34 5/8. 40: 4.53. 10 yd: 1.55. Vert: 39.5. Broad: 124.

          • Coleslaw

            A longer, more explosive Bruce Irvin/ a lighter, faster, slightly quicker Frank Clark.
            Frank’s #s: 6’3″ 271 lbs. Arm length: 34 3/8. 40: 4.79. 10 yd: 1.58. Vert: 38.5. Broad: 118.
            I’ve said it once I’ll say it again, though. The 2019 draft is going to be full of guys like this, who don’t have blown up knees.

            • Kenny Sloth

              Can’t construct your board based on next years projections.

              Josh Sweat is the last of the elite LEOs available imo and represents a steep cliff in athletic profile and pro potential. For this draft.

              Next year’s class won’t help you if Clark is injured and all you have is Marcus Smith or vice versa. Need more guys.

              • CharlieTheUnicorn

                I think you are on to something. Each draft is unique.
                The caveat would be …. you have 2 players with the same grade.
                Who would you take……. then that is where looking at 2019 might help to break the tie.

                Seattle needs to stack depth at multiple positions, so DE Sweat, RB Chubb or any other number of guys who be nice additions to the roster. The only position that appears “set” would be QB……… but even then, they need to bring a young guy in for some camp competition (at the min).

            • STTBM

              Yes, but Clark lost weight and appears a GOOD bit faster than 4.79 40. He’s a different player. They hoped he could be a Bennett replacement, but he’s not. While he can rush from inside, he isnt at his best playing anywhere near Bennetts weight, and isnt as tough vs the run.

        • Rob Staton

          The big difference between Irvin and Sweat is Irvin was the best pass rusher in college football for two years. Sweat wasn’t.

    • Sea Mode

      Thanks. Didn’t they meet with Chris Warren at the combine as well?

      • Kenny Sloth

        That sounds about right

        I also wonder how much stock we can put into things like “all 32 teams were in attendance of the State University pro day”

        • Sea Mode

          Zero I’d say.

          • D-OZ

            Another player I like for the Hawks. Warren would be a UDFA that I think the Hawks would bring in. Just for nostalgia sake, I think he would choose the Hawks. After all his Dad was a very good player for the Hawks. Was he drafted? 8th. rounder maybe?

  52. D-OZ

    Boy, Cole Madison is sure moving up draft boards…

    • sdcoug

      Seahawks brought him in twice

  53. HawkfaninMT

    Draft/Team building strategy question/thought…

    Thinking in terms of competitiveness going forward. I know they aren’t going to tank this year , but realistically they should be more competitive next year. Is there much thought given to the idea that a position that takes longer to develop may be more valuable this year than next, and would bump it up in the draft priorities? For example, RBs tend to come in and contribute immediately assuming pass blocking is not an issue. WRs tend to take a year or two before it finally clicks. May give some more credence to the idea of Kirk over Jones or Chubb.

    • DCD2

      It’s a good point in my eyes. TE is another position that rarely makes an impact in year 1, unless they are predominately receiving te’s like Evan Engram.

      We absolutely see RB’s contributing as rookies though. Kamara, Hunt, Cook, Fournette, McCaffery last year.. Joe Mixon to an extent as well.

  54. Thomas Wells

    Thanks for all your hard work Rob and dedication, this website is amazing!

    I would be very excited with most of the picks in this mock. But I would be disappointed if the team drafted Kalen Ballage anywhere before the 4th (if he goes in the third to another team so be it). If we trade up to get him in the third I’ll throw up in my mouth a little

  55. RWIII

    I see that Rob has Quenton Nelson going to the Colts. Trust me if ever there was a perfect match made in heaven, this is it. The Colts need to start protecting their most important asset. Andrew Luck! Andrew Luck missed ALL of 2017. I don’t care if Bradley Chubb, is on the board, I don’t care If Barkley is still on the board. I know one thing. A
    Quarterback like Andrew Luck comes around once every 15-20 years. Andrew Luck is the heart and soul of this football team. If they don’t protect Andrew Luck. You can FORGET about the Colts. If the Colts don’t protect Luck then all these other players don’t mean squat.

  56. madmark

    I need some scenarios from you all. If this 3 way deal happens with Cleveland, Buffalo, and New York I’m not sure we could get the trade with Cleveland done. My thought is that The Patriots might be willing to Trade 23 and 95 for our 18th pick to get a OT. Seattle would still have to trade down again for more picks. What kindia deals do you think we could get for pick 23?

    • Sean-O

      Geez, it’s so hard to say.

      Indy has picks 36 & 37. Maybe there is someone they really covet who won’t last till then? I read something this morning that Elway really wants to draft a RB. Denver has pick #40. Maybe if if there’s a run on RB’s there could be something there.

      Like you mentioned, I do think NE could be a possibility.

      • madmark

        Its still possible to get a trade with Cleveland because if that 3 way trade happens Cleveland would not only get 1st next year but maybe a 3rd [which they don’t have and another 4 and a 5.

    • Coleslaw

      Im not finding anything. What 3 way trade?

      • madmark

        There was talk a couple days ago about a 3 way trade with Cleveland dropping to #12, NYG moving to #1, and Buffalo moving to #2.

    • Sea Mode

      If we move from pick 23 down into the top of R2, we should receive somewhere around pick #80 in return, a mid R3 pick.

  57. JimQ

    I’d recommend spending some time on the link below. Trades are very much dependent on available picks each team has to trade, with a little research on this site you can see the current picks and their point values for every team. Most teams would likely make trades (if they want to) that are close to the total points involved, often with the team proposing the trade offering more point values for picks they trade as incentives to make the trade.

    http://www.drafttek.com/NFL-Trade-Value-Chart.asp

  58. Kenny Sloth

    Predraft visits for the premium target RBs

    Kalen Ballage, RB, Arizona State
    Bills^ (PRO, PRI)
    Dolphins (SR)
    Falcons (PRO)
    Jets (PRO)
    Lions^ (SR, PRI)
    Patriots (PRI)
    Seahawks (WOR)

    Nick Chubb, RB, Georgia
    Buccaneers (PRI)
    Falcons (PRI)
    Jets (COM)
    Panthers (PRI

    Derrius Guice, RB, LSU
    Bills (COM)
    Buccaneers (WOR)
    Colts (PRO)
    Eagles^ (PRI, WOR)
    Giants (PRO)
    Lions (PRO)
    Patriots (PRI)
    Ravens (PRI)
    Redskins^ (PRO, WOR, PRI)
    Seahawks (PRO)
    Steelers^ (COM, PRO

    Kerryon Johnson, RB, Auburn
    Giants (COM)
    Lions (PRI)
    Panthers (COM)
    Patriots (PRI)
    Titans (COM

    Royce Freeman, RB, Oregon
    Eagles (COM)

    Rashaad Penny, RB, San Diego State
    Bills^ (COM, PRI)
    Broncos (PRI)
    Buccaneers (PRI)
    Dolphins (PRI)
    Eagles (PRI)
    Giants^ (COM, PRI)
    Panthers^ (PRI, PRO)
    Rams (PRI)
    Ravens (SR)
    Redskins (SR

    • Kenny Sloth

      Shaquem Griffin, OLB, Central Florida
      Buccaneers (LOC)
      Giants (COM)
      Jets (COM)
      Seahawks (COM

      Rasheem Green, DE/DT/3-4DE, USC
      49ers (COM)
      Chargers (LOC)
      Lions (PRI)
      Patriots^ (PRO, PRI)
      Seahawks (PRI)

      Dallas Goedert, TE, South Dakota State
      Bills (WOR)
      Chargers (PRI)
      Dolphins (PRI)
      Eagles (COM)
      Jaguars (PRI)
      Lions (PRI)
      Seahawks^ (WOR, PRI)
      Vikings (PRI

      Bengals (STM)
      Cowboys (PRI)
      Eagles (PRI)
      Jaguars (PRI)
      Panthers (PRI)
      Patriots^ (COM, PRI)
      Seahawks (PRI)
      Steelers (COM)
      Vikings (PRI

      • Kenny Sloth

        Holton Hill, CB, Texas
        Colts (PRI)
        Seahawks (PRI)
        Texans (WOR)
        Vikings (PRI)

  59. madmarkThere was talk of a 3 way trade couple days ago about

    With the 38 pick I have to take Billy Price. I hear everyone talking about the best athletes being on the defensive side of the ball and that the offensive line guys are lacking which seems to be true. So when a 1st round OL prospect drops into my lap in the 2nd round I have to take him. On top of that I have no faith that Rees Odhiambo can stay healthy. He’s been injured 4 years in a row. His last 2 years in college and his 2 years here he has been injured. Billy Price fits the mold for fixing the run game and maybe next year we get a Damien Harris from Alabama.

    • vrtkolman

      Billy Price and Shaquem are too of my favorite players in this draft. You draft them not only because they are good players, but the culture they bring. If you want 100% all in football guys, those two are it. Christian Kirk is another.

      • vrtkolman

        Get two of those three (or all three why not?) and I will be very comfortable with the future core of the team.

    • DCD2

      I like the new handle. A little wordy, but not likely to be duplicated 🙂

      • Kenny Sloth

        Spoken with experience lol

      • madmark

        I wasn’t paying attention when I was typing and it got screwed up.

  60. STTBM

    Seattle has often brought guys in at a position when they are actually more enamored of other guys. They take a look at others to re-affirm their rating, and to see what else is out there if they miss on their guy, and he ends up taken before they can nab him.

    I am desperately hoping they take one of Chubb, Johnson, or Jones II rather than Kalen Ballage. Im intrigued that Seattle has shown interest mostly in Christian Kirk, not so much in Calvin Ridley (who likely will be long gone) or Courtland Sutton. Sutton has much more to offer, size/speed-wise. There is also DJ Moore ranked in the same range. Its possible Seattle actually likes one of the others more than Kirk. I think it more likely Kirk is their guy–a Paul Richardson replacement–but I think they have a couple big/fast guys targeted later as well, and may not take a WR early. Rob and others have pointed out guys like Kirkwood who may offer tremendous upside, with a year or two of coaching up.

    Would be kind of wild to see them take a WR early and later.

    My feelings also wouldnt be hurt if Seattle went OL, RB, DT/DE early, and filled WR, S, CB, LB later.

    They always seem to take a few guys no one ever heard of as well, some as early as the third or fourth round. Sure hope they manage to find 3 solid starters in this draft, and at least one stud. If only they hadnt had to trade for Brown and Richardson….

  61. STTBM

    Ive also been thinking about Seattle’s past Draft habits. They seem to try to plug all their holes in each Draft–Always Compete. But that can be a huge mistake, making you miss on a real talent because youre trying to trade down and fill more holes, rather than getting the BPA.

    Look at our last five drafts, and tell me how many of those guys they just had to have, that they got by trading down, ever amounted to much? Pinkins, Pierre-Louis, etc…And they have been nearly as bad as Chuck Knox and Holmgrens regimes at finding late round players who stick–after 2012, of course.

    If they cant get a good deal trading down in the first/second, I sincerely hope they go BPA, at least at a poisition of need. That should be easy enough, since they have so many positions of need!

  62. Kenny Sloth

    Guys. If your run game was only gonna work if you drafted Guice-Chubb-RoJo, your run game wasn’t gonna work.

    Can we stop pretending that Kalen Ballage would be the end of the world? Anybody we bring in is going to be in an open competition. Do you have to spend a premium pick on RB competition and depth? We’re grading against our roster, not just for the league.

    If you can’t make it happen with a healthy Carson or Prosise with Ballage, Davis, and McKissick, you were just going to run the rookie into the ground anyway.

    Why bet against your RB corps and OL? We have starters, just need someone to push those positions and fill in if there are injuries.

    • RealRhino2

      I agree with your first sentence to some extent. No different than saying a QB is good, as long as he has a good OL and good WR and a good running game, as well as a good OC. Heck, if he’s only good with those things, he’s not good in the first place.

      But I also don’t think you can keep adding mediocre guys to a group, sprinkle some magic “competition and depth” dust on it and call it good. We could have a dozen Mike Davis’s and we’d be no better off than if we just had the one. I think you can make the running game work with just a decent back, and I think Carson could be that, but I don’t think that right now we can trust than we are going to have a good RB (i.e., better than a JAG and healthy all year) on the roster. Adding Ballage isn’t going to change that, whereas I think adding Chubb or Guice would.

      • Kenny Sloth

        There are going to be questions about every rookies ability to produce consistently.

        It’s a little disingenuous to boil our rb corps down to a dozen Mike Davis’.

        He was a guy I really liked coming out od school.

        And every one of our backs has shown some ability to carry the load.

        Now is the young guys opportunity to make their mark. I’m not sure the FO is keen on slamming that door shut with a superstar like Chubb or a flashy me-guy like Guice.

        • D-OZ

          Several others liked Davis also…

    • HawkfaninMT

      Not sure I agree…

      Sure, the Cowboys run game was going to be great with alf Morris or Zeke… But the Vikes weren’t the same without Vook, and the Jags were much softer withoit fournette in the line up. RBs certainly can make a difference. It’s a matter of how much better is Chubb/Jones than Ballage.

      • Kenny Sloth

        according to the seahawks methodology it’s a matter of how much better either is compared to Carson, Prosise, Davis.

        I gotta think Ballage compares favorably to Prosise whom they took in the third. Excellent hands and routes, explosive, physicality is there sometimes.

        That’s perfect range for a backup with starter potential and then you have a real competition at the position.

        • Dingbatman

          +1! I think they will look to draft 2 running backs and the focus on Ballage would be as special teams and 3rd down back. I can see them also looking for Carson/Davis competition. Ballage has a rare combination of skills and size/power so I could see him being picked earlier with another more classic running back in the later rounds.

        • D-OZ

          Balladge: not in the 3rd. rnd. though.

    • Madmark

      It s a matter of style I want a Barkley or Chubb that are physical that hit people before they know they are going to get tackle. So that by the 4th quarter of a game there sore and wore out. Ballege just doesn’t show me any of that. In fact the 2 I mention are the only ones that do in this draft.

      • Greg Haugsven

        i believe that the runner is a big factor if its Zeke, Gurley, Elliot or Barkley. But we arent getting Barkley. I dont care if its Ballage or Chubb or Rojo. Just give me a guy that can actually stay on the field.

        • Kenny Sloth

          +16!

      • Kenny Sloth

        I think there is plenty of footage of several other backs being physical and finishing runs

        And, for me, fans here put way too much emphasis on physicality when scouting running backs sometimes.

        I think you work with a running back whose mind you like before you take a guy just for ‘seeking out contact’.

        Ballage, Johnson, Freeman all have obvious upside in their physicality and pair that with excellent interviews. I think narratives are far too often ridden right into the draft and kind of blinds a lot of people to possibilities. None of those players are soft and all of em could lay a truck in the NFL.

        There’s definitely not just Barkley and Chubb who play the position physical.

        • D-OZ

          And so does Kelly.

    • peter

      feels like a spicy take just to do be doing one.

      ill go along however.

      grading against just the team….a one year back in college who loves a soft tissue injury oh and wasnt even that good but more like okay at notre dame. grade D.

      a small school wr who tried very hard last year. grade C-

      a previously injured running back who never carried the load ever with a broken leg. Schneider pointlessly awards himself a gold star saying he had a second round grade. the league disagrees. grade Incomplete

      an oft cut running back. thus far JAG. grade N/A

      theres the grades.

      i for one im looking for a competition to find the best of that mediocre bunch. why draft a real running back? seattles been successful thus far with plug and play backs…er….

      but in another take why draft a pass rusher? i mean avril, bennett, and clemmons may be better value than clark, irvin, and mcdowell…..just sayin’

      • Kenny Sloth

        Because there’s a different cliff of talent for DE’s that fit our profile in this draft than RB

        The LEO’s that could compete stop at Kemoko Turay and Josh Sweat imho.

        Those guys are gonna go earlier than say Freeman or Ballage.

        It’s more about context, value, and strategy than anything.

        • peter

          But less sarcastically you are advocating a competition between ballage and prosise as some way to bolster the running back corps and yet at the same talk about prosise as a third down back.

          That’s great to improve the third down back spot. It still doesn’t solve all the other downs.

          Not does it factor that there may be an outside chance that prosise was actually not a good pick in the first place and that having a battle to improve an underperforming unit is great to make it better but maybe it should have not been that way to begin with?

          Per the joke about DE I’m actually not totally joking. Just because there’s 2-3 De’s with Seattle’s profile again is a failure in the planning department. If ONLY DE’ s with Seattle’s profile were great and no one else then that would be something to ponder. But league wide that’s simply not true. Theres not a huge spectrum but there’s a spectrum on how teams get a pass rush. I get that Seattle is only going to look at two players per past type…..btw

          The thing for me is that taking ballage, ( later than a third I hope) great. Competition. But now you have a team with zero running identity and a bunch of guys who have never controlled the pace (even Carson had to be subbed out of plays due to conditioning) and hoping that someone “steps up.”. But in 1 2 games after Carson’s injury no one stepped up. Maybe they just simply can’t?

          • Kenny Sloth

            That’s just how they do it

        • Trevor

          Agree completely Kenny after Sweat and Turay there is a Mount Everest cliff with regards to guys who have the edge rush profile the Hawks want. Plus that is the premium position group in the draft after QB. They are rare.

      • Kenny Sloth

        Funny you say spicy, I’m making a hot salsa right now.

        If I could put down SDB

        • peter

          To be fair it feels like a few of us on here do takes to be doing them….

          • Kenny Sloth

            Oftentimes i think some do it to start a conversation about something else.

            Sidenote; Mother Mary that’s some unholy salsa!!!!

            My tongue split like a snakes, recoiling from the slightest taste test.

      • Madmark

        Really how successful have they been not scoring a TD in the 1st Quarter of a game since 2016. If they don’t score a TD in the 1st 3 games of the season this year it will have been a full 2 years.

        • Madmark

          disregard was suppose to go somewhere else but ended up here

    • Hawktalker#1

      Pretty sure I’ve seen Rob disagree with this general opinion in more than one previous post, basically saying we need to target a RB draft pick that would be an upgrade to our current RB stable.

  63. McZ

    On FieldGulls, there is a discussion about trading Russell Wilson and drafting a QB early.
    The most interesting question to me: has RW reached his ceiling?

    • Kenny Sloth

      WELL WHAT ARE WE DOIN HERE???

      jk

      • Greg Haugsven

        Even if he has reached his ceiling the ceiling is pretty high.

        • Kenny Sloth

          I don’t think you can say he has at all. I would still argue he hasn’t been given the right weapons. He needs an AJ Green type.

          • HawkfaninMT

            This makes me keep thinking back to the Pro Bowl his rookie year… him to vincent Jackson was unbelievable, and I don’t care that it was the Pro bowl

            • Kenny Sloth

              Ding ding ding he’s never had that. Combine Jimmy and Prich into one guy basically

          • STTBM

            He needs Carl Smith to retire, and a QB coach/OC who can teach him to throw a guy open, rather than wait too long–especially in the Red Zone. He needs coaches to teach him to throw a deep ball to hit a fast WR in stride, not hedge bets and throw a rainbow jump ball…

            • Hawktalker#1

              Some fair points there.

      • McZ

        Dunno. Found the idea ridiculous at first. But then, with an ice cold safety market and Schneider seeming determined to free cap space and start over, it occurred to make sense.

        It’s the ultimate clickbait effort, I guess.

    • Aaron

      Has Russ reached his ceiling? Hard to say. What is easier to say and pinpoint is what maximizes him as a QB. It seems fairly clear to me that a run heavy offense maximizes his skills. Not a knock on him, but an observation. What he doesn’t function in is an offense with a stagnant running game. A team that hasn’t had an effective running game in 2 1/2 seasons.

      Trade him? No, not at this time but not necessarily ever. Let’s see how this commitment back to the identity of a Pete Carroll team does for Russ in 2018. We all want the Hawks to have more draft picks for this week, but there’s a smart way to do this. Trade down a couple times and let it roll. Can’t fix this in one year and don’t have to.

    • Rob Staton

      The most interesting thing to me is — something other than that piece!

    • Hawktalker#1

      What a huge waste of time continually going back to a discussion about trading Russ. It’s hard enough to find an elite QB. Trading one and just rolling the dice on another prospect is rediculous at best. I’d much have more relevant and productive conversations.

    • D-OZ

      HA HA, 😉

  64. CharlieTheUnicorn

    I wanted to go way outside the box……

    Let’s say ET was traded to the Browns for their 2nd and 3rd round picks
    AND
    Baldwin was traded to the Cowboys for their 1st round pick (and a 5th)

    You would have 2 1sts, a 2nd, 3rd couple of 4th and a plethora of 5ths.
    Then you could move up in the 1st for Vita Vea… and also down in the first to gather additional picks in the 2nd or 3rd rounds.

    This would explain the WR Kirk interest.
    This also explains them digging into multiple RBs at various portions of the draft.
    I’m a Chubb guy, but this would explain their interest in Ballage in the 4th round or 5th round for example. They think they might have more ammo in this area, than we currently think they will have.

    At no time am I advocating this, but I think people are getting a little too focused on one trade or player to be traded… while the tea leaves are hinting at some other possible moves.

    • DCD2

      The odds of Jerry trading his 1, 2, 3, 5 in the year the draft is in Dallas are about the same as my BAC after one Bud Light.

      Trading ADB would mean we have next to no legit receiving threats to keep defenses honest as well. We would HAVE to take Kirk (or Moore/Ridley/Sutton), just to replace Doug and then still need another WR.

      Can’t remember which scout said it, but… this is the worst WR class that he can ever remember. Trading our only proven WR to be forced to rely on a rookie from a bad group of rookies, seems unwise.

      I would argue that Doug is damn near untradeable for us in our current roster makeup. There may indeed be some other shake-ups being considered, but I can’t imagine that this is one.

    • Dingbatman

      I could see Baldwin to Patriots. Edelman coming off injury and Amendola no longer on the team. Dougie would tear it up.

    • Hawktalker#1

      Wow just wow.

  65. Old but Slow

    Maybe I’m blowing smoke, but it seems that in this RB talented class, that some backs that are seen as mid round, might be seen as higher rated in a normal draft. I am thinking of big, fast athletic backs like Ballage, Freeman, Scarbrough, and Penny. Maybe even low first or high 2d.

  66. DCD2

    Anyone looking for 7 1/2 minutes to kill?

    Here’s the abridged game tape of OSU vs Indiana. WALL UP pointed out Jalyn Holmes as a alternative to Brown. Checked this tape out as it had him as well as the TE, Ian Thomas, who Rob has profiled.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FAHwkEAZJdA

    Holmes looked okay, Thomas scored twice and looked like a competent blocker. Simmie Cobbs Jr. was a guy who stood out too. At the 4:00 mark, you can watch 3 plays that sum up his scouting report. Amazing one-handed catch, butterfingers drop in the endzone, decent high-point catch for a TD.

    Haven’t heard his name tossed around much, and he had a pretty awful drop rate, but he has some things going for him. Reportedly a willing blocker though and has the size 6’4, 220. Someone else might be able to break down the rest of his combine numbers to see how he stacks up. Vert looked pretty pathetic.

    He’s looking like a 7th/UDFA to me. Someone asked about late WR’s the other day, so I thought I’d offer him up.

    • Kenny Sloth

      I’ve been a fan of Simmie Cobbs since he (we) was in high school.

      I was surprised he went to Indiana, but he’s been a dynamo there when healthy.

      Could one say a poor man’s Cordarelle Patterson?

      • DCD2

        Hmmm. just read that he’s been in trouble with the law as recently as last year. Refused a breathalyzer, resisting arrest and refused to identify himself to police.

        Not great

        • D-OZ

          Sounds like Indiana…

          • D-OZ

            The only thing going on in that town is the Indy 500, and the Brickyard…

  67. Old but Slow

    Your basic outlier is Huddle Report’s Drew Boylhart (another Brit). He put out his big board and it is way, way out there (Barkley at #18?), and it does not represent how he thinks it will actually happen. Click on names to get his comments.

    http://www.thehuddlereport.com/talentboard.shtml

    • Rob Staton

      Anyone who has Saquon Barkley at #18 on their board is trying too hard to be a contrarian.

      • Hawktalker#1

        That’s one nice way of coloring that.

        • D-OZ

          We’ll just disregard that, right???

  68. hughmungusfan

    This whole idea that Josh Rosen, the best pro-ready QB in the draft is going to fall to the PATS needs to die down. There is no way he falls that far and gets drafted past Mayfield!?!? you’ve gotta be kidding me.

    NE will have their choice of QB from Mayfield, Jackson, Rudolph, and Falk. And they wouldn’t take Mayfield because of character concerns. Just imagine Mayfield meeting with Bilicheck haha.

  69. 17Power

    Give me a combination of trades and picks that ends up with two out of three of: RoJo, Corbett or Kirk.
    As for Air Coryell I asked my Dad who played some running back for Don Coryell at SDSU who his old coach would pick. He said Bo Scarborough as a late round/UDFA guy rather than Ballage as a third rounder. But he would want a bigger back like Chuck Muncie. It will be interesting which way Pete goes. Does he want big single back or will he try to replicate Thunder & Lightning with Chris Carson and RoJo? I definitely don’t want Ballage before the fifth round.

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