The 2025 Draft has concluded, and I think the Seahawks had a very solid draft. They addressed positions of need, and I think this team will be very competitive this season. I'm going to go over each draft pick, my brief thoughts, and give a letter grade, and finish with some final thoughts. I am going to be a bit on the harsher side with my grading, so be forewarned.
Afterwards, I'll predict a rough idea of the 54-man roster. Likely going to be very wrong in some spots, but I'll do my best.
Round 1 Pick 18: Grey Zabel, OL, North Dakota State
Very solid pick. It's not particularly exciting nor flashy, but it's what we needed. We can only hope he adjuts to the NFL and doesn't rack up a ton of penalties. We need to run the ball more, and Grey will help with that. I think Grey was projected more as a late first-rounder, so we could've maybe traded down and gotten something from it.
Grade: B-
Round 2 Pick 35: Nick Emmanwori, S, South Carolina
My favorite pick of the draft. He was often mocked as a late first-rounder, so this was a steal. Smart of John to trade up to snag him here while he was still available. I can't wait to see the backside defense of Love and Emmanwori.
Grade: A
Round 2 Pick 50: Elijah Arroyo, TE, Miami
The first real headscratcher for me. We already have two very solid tight ends in Fant and Barner. Perhaps Fant will be a cap casualty in training camp since he is paid over $10 million a season. I didn't think we particularly needed tight end help, but we'll see. I've heard decent things, but we already have an emerging stud in Barner. Perhaps we can have what the Patriots had in the early 2010s with Gronk and Hernandez.
Grade: C
Round 3 Pick 92: Jalen Milroe, QB, Alabama
It will remain to be seen how good this pick is. I think it would be foolish of us to think Jalen will match what Russ did in his career, our last QB drafted this high. Let's hope he can grow and learn from the sidelines and not get pressed into action too early. I think that's why we got Lock as well. I'm ok with this pick, but I think the odds are more likely that Jalen doesn't have success with the Hawks than he does.
Grade: C-
Round 5 Pick 142: Rylie Mills, DT, Notre Dame
Don't know too much about him, but I know we always need nose tackle depth. We'll be hoping Byron Murphy takes a big step in his second year, but Mills is good insurance.
Grade: C+
Round 5 Pick 166: Tory Horton, WR, Colorado State
One of the two WRs of this draft is going to be a hit and shine in training camp, and I bet it'll be Horton. WR was definitely a position of need, at least where we needed depth.
Grade: B
Round 5 Pick 175: Robbie Ouzts, FB/TE, Alabama
Are we going back to old school I formation football? Perhaps for some plays. If so, I'm down. He could also play special teams, so this is a very solid pick. But the thing is, we already had Brady Russell, who is switching to FB as well. I think only one can make the roster.
Grade: B-
Round 6 Pick 192: Bryce Cabeldue, G, Kansas
Yes! More midwestern O-Linemen! Hey, he might be a steal. Likely won't outplay Grey, but imagine if they both end up starting. I will never hate an O-Line pick unless we have too many of them, which will never happen.
Grade: B+
Round 7 Pick 223: Damien Martinez, RB, Miami
This reminds me of another late-round running back, ALSO out of the University of Miami. That being Travis Homer. He was a very good special-teams player for a while. But I think Martinez will be more of a third-string/third-down back. We'll see. Can't hate a late running back selection.
Grade: B
Round 7 Pick 234: Mason Richman, OL, Iowa
Our THIRD midwestern offensive lineman! Love it. Odds are only one of Cabledue or Richman make the team, unless they maybe push Bradford out (honestly, kinda hope they do).
Grade: B
Round 7 Pick 238: Ricky White III, WR, UNLV
Like I mentioned with Horton, one of these guys is going to make a splash in training camp, I bet. It might not be Ricky White, but you never know.
Grade: B+
Overall Grade/GPA: 2.81 (B- average)
Overall, very solid draft for John Schneider and company. I didn't hate a single pick. In all likelihood, maybe 7 or so (out of 11) of them make the team this season, with perhaps 3 or 4 playing multiple significant seasons with the team. But it's how significant those seasons end up being that will determine how successful this draft truly is.
Just for funsies, I'll also predict the 54-man roster and possible practice squad:
QB (3): Darnold, Lock, Milroe
RB/FB (6): Walker, Charbonnet, Martinez, McIntosh, Holani, Ouzts
TE (3): Barner, Arroyo, Saubert
WR (5): Kupp, Smith-Njigba, Valdez-Scantling, Horton, Bobo
OL (10): Oluwatimi, Sundell, Cabledue, Richman, Haynes, Laumea, Zabel, Cross, Lucas, Jerrell
26
DL (7): Lawrence, Mills, Williams, Murphy, Reed, Morris, Pili
LB/Edge (7): Hall, Jones, Knight, Mafe, Nwosu, Smith, Sheriff
CB (5): Witherspoon, Woolen, Pritchett, Jobe, Jean-Charles
S (5): Bryant, Love, Emmanwori, Reed, Finley/Bell
24
ST (3): Myers, Dickson, Stoll
Notable cuts: Noah Fant, Dareke Young, Anthony Bradford
Practice Squad candidates:
Ricky White, WR
Cody White, WR
Hall, CB
Bohanna, DT
Aumavae-Laulu, G
O'Connell, LB
Thomas, LB
I'm probably way off with the numbers regarding positions, but it should be fun for me to see how close I get! Training camp is still three months away... sigh. But it should be hear before we know it! :D
Showing posts with label Draft. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Draft. Show all posts
Wednesday, April 30, 2025
My Thoughts and Grades on the Seahawks 2025 Draft Class and 54-Man Roster Prediction
Monday, April 3, 2023
My Preferred 2023 Seahawks Draft (And review of the actual draft)
I did this last year, and I correctly had us selecting Tariq Woolen. I did not, however, realize he would turn into a star in his first year. Well anyway, I thought I'd do a mock Seahawks draft again. I'm using a combination of two things: Walterfootball.com and a document a Seahawks fan put together, measuring draft prospects against guys we typically take. I'm also going to do this assuming no trades. It's silly, as the Hawks very likely will trade down at some point, but to guess where and how far would just be a crapshoot.
In BOLD, I say where the player listed ended up getting drafted. Some of these I was quite far off on. Oops.
Round 1, Pick 5: Tyree Wilson, Edge, Texas Tech
I think the Cardinals take Will Anderson to help their pass rush (or someone trades up to get him). I also think Jalen Carter falls a bit in this draft, and I actually believe we pass on him. Tyree Wilson is a bit of a reach at 5, but that's nothing new to the Hawks. Charles Cross was a slight reach at 9 as well last year. Let's just hope whoever we take here does better than the last defensive player we took at least this high, Aaron Curry in 2009.
Tyree ended up going #7 to the Raiders. We ended up taking Devon Witherspoon. It'll be interesting to see who has the better career. I'll say this: Witherspoon is going to the better organization than Wilson.
Round 1, Pick 20: Siaki Ika, NT, Baylor
The Seahawks pass on Jalen Carter, hoping he maybe falls to 20, but he does not. So instead, they take Siaki Ika from Baylor. He's heavier than the DT's they usually draft, but he's about the same size as other DT's the Hawks have had over the years, like Bryan Mone and Al Woods. The Hawks definitely need a nose tackle to replace Al Woods, who was cut, so they likely spend one of their earlier picks on one.
Oh boy. I was off. Siaki ended up going pick 98 in round 3 to the Browns. I saw he could've been first round talent, and we know the Hawks have reached in the past. The Hawks ended up taking Jaxson Smith-Njigba, who I'll definitely look forward to all the misspellings of his names by Seahawks fans on Reddit, Facebook, etc. I prefer the Hawk's actual pick (actually), and I think JSN will have a better career than Ika.
Round 2, Pick 37: John Michael Schmitz, C, Minnesota
Yes, even with the signing of Evan Brown, the Seahawks could use another center. And I expect them to take one with one of their 2nd round picks, if not their 20th overall pick. Better to not wait, so I have them spending the first of their two second-round picks on the highest-graded center, John Michael Schmitz from Minnesota. Carroll and Schneider still long for the days of Max Unger, so they know they need a good stalwart at center. They badly missed out on Creed Humphrey, selecting D'Wayne Eskridge instead (Ouch). They won't make the same mistake (I hope).
The Hawks instead took Derick Hall, defensive end. I wish we had taken JMS, who ended up going to the Giants at pick 57. If he becomes an all-pro like Creed Humphrey, I might lose it. I'm not particularly excited about Hall, seeing as we've yet to really develop an edge rusher... ever. Ok, Frank Clark is one, but there's an exception to every rule.
Round 2, Pick 52: Daiyan Henley, LB, Washington State
This is where I could see the Hawks trading down, especially if they've addressed their immediate needs (DL, interior OL/C). I know Carroll loves his speedy linebackers, and why not take a local kid in Daiyan Henley from WSU? I know we signed Devin Bush and Bobby Wagner, but I guarantee Bush will have competition. We'll need depth there, anyway, with Bush's injury history and with Brooks missing the start of the season.
The Hawks instead took Zach Charbonnet, running back. I wish we had grabbed the local kid in Henley. The Hawks in fact did not take any pure linebacker in the draft (if you don't count Hall or Morris as one). Henley went #85 to the Chargers. So we could've had him, just like Schmitz.
Round 3, Pick 83: Jonathan Mingo, WR, Ole Miss
Hmmmm... drafting a bigger wide receiver from Ole Miss on Day 2? Well, it worked out for the Seahawks once before with DK Metcalf, so why not try again? I'm sure DK would love to work with Mingo and mentor him. The Hawks have been looking for a legit #3 for years, and I think they'll try to find it in the draft.
We did draft a receiver (JSN), but all the way up at #20. The Hawks traded down to 108 and took Anthony Bradford, guard. Mingo went #39 to the Panthers, so we wouldn't have had a shot to get him, at least not here.
Round 4, Pick 123: J.L. Skinner, S, Boise State
Maybe PC/JS are trying to rebuild the Legion of Boom. They already have their Richard Sherman clone in Woolen. What about a Kam Chancellor clone? Granted, Skinner is a bit on the skinny side, but he could bulk up, I bet. I just bet Carroll would love his 6'4" frame. We do have Adams and Love, but Adams is injury prone. And Love is a newcomer, so it's yet to be seen how he'll fit in. If they are able to get Skinner to bulk up enough, he could move to linebacker.
Instead the Hawks drafted Cameron Young, defensive tackle. I felt like they should've taken one sooner, but what do I know? Skinner went all the way at 183 to the Broncos. So I was off again.
Round 5, Pick 151: Roschon Johnson, RB, Texas
Roschon's vertical isn't particularly ideal, but I think PC/JS might take a running back mid-late in the draft who is larger and can withstand some hits. Roschon is 6'0" 219 lbs, so he'd be a nice contrast to the smaller Kenneth Walker.
Roschon went at 115 to the Bears, so earlier than I thought. Instead of us drafting a mid-round RB, we drafted an early one (#52, Charbonnet) and a late one (#237, McIntosh). Here we drafted Mike Morris, defensive end.
Round 5, Pick 154: Yaya Diaby, Edge, Louisville
You think PC/JS would be happy with just Tyree Wilson? Maybe... but I could also see them taking someone else as a project, such as Yaya Diaby. One, I like his name. And two, he seems to have all the measurables. He also just seems like a PC/JS kind of guy based on his name and personality.
Unfortunately, we didn't get Diaby, who I would've love saying the name of. He went #82 to the Buccaneers, so I was way off. Instead, we drafted Olusegun Oluwatimi, whose name I'm going to have to learn how to spell correctly without looking up... someday. I'm totally fine with that change. Rumor is that the Hawks were thinking about taking Diaby at #83, but the Bucs sniped him away from us, so the Hawks traded down.
Round 6, Pick 198: Tre Tucker, WR, Cincinnati
The Hawks may draft two receivers (almost a guarantee to draft at least one), and I could see Tre Tucker coming to us. He's got decent speed, so he could compete with Dee Eskridge for a spot on the roster. The Hawks could use an underneath speedy guy to emerge.
We did not draft a second WR, but we did draft a safety like I thought. Just a bit later than I thought. Tucker ended up going #100 to the Raiders, so again I was way off. The Hawks went with Jerrick Reed, safety, instead. I'm okay with that.
Round 7, Pick 237: Cameron Mitchell, CB, Northwestern
The Hawks may take a corner to see if they can one day be our nickel. Mitchell has the speed and measurables that line up. This could be any position here, but I decided to go with something the Hawks hadn't taken yet.
Funny how the Browns and Raiders took a combined four players that I liked. Mitchell went at 142 to the Browns, so again just so far off. We took Kenny McIntosh, who I love and I think has a good chance of making the roster.
I didn't get any players that the Hawks ended up taking (damn). But I'll say this: I think I prefer the Seahawks draft over the one I had them take. It's close. I would've loved John Michael Schmitz, but if Oluwatimi ends up being as good (or better) than JMS, this draft was an absolute win.
Well, there you have it! I'd be stoked with this draft. Here's what a 53-man roster would look like with this draft:
QB (2) - Geno Smith, Drew Lock
RB (5) - Kenneth Walker III, Deejay Dallas, Roschon Johnson, FA (Undrafted?), Nick Bellore
WR (6) - Tyler Lockett, DK Metcalf, Jonathan Mingo, Dareke Young, 2 of the 3 of D'Wayne Eskridge/Cade Johnson/Tre Tucker
TE (3) - Noah Fant, Will Dissly, Colby Parkinson
OL (9) - Charles Cross, Abraham Lucas, Jake Curhan, Stone Forsythe, Phil Haynes, Damien Lewis, Evan Brown, John Michael Schmitz, Joey Hunt
DL (5) - Dre'Mont Jones, Bryan Mone, Siaki Ika, Jarran Reed, Myles Adams
Edge (4) - Tyree Wilson, Boye Mafe, Uchenna Nwosu, Darrell Taylor/Yaya Diaby
LB (6) - Bobby Wagner, Devin Bush, Daiyan Henley, Alton Robinson, Tyreke Smith, Vi Jones
CB (5) - Tariq Woolen, Mike Jackson, Coby Bryant, Tre Brown, Cameron Mitchell/Artie Burns
S (5) - Quandre Diggs, Jamal Adams, Julian Love, J.L. Skinner, Joey Blount
ST (3): Jason Myers (K), Michael Dickson (P), Ott/Tinker (LS)
And unlike last year, I'm going to give a quick comment on each position and how they shape up.
QB: Two QB's under contract. Might bring in someone for pre-season, but they likely get cut.
RB: Hawks almost guaranteed to draft one, they'll need someone to replace Penny/Homer. Might have a surprise UFA make the team here.
WR: A draft pick, possibly two make the team.
In BOLD, I say where the player listed ended up getting drafted. Some of these I was quite far off on. Oops.
Round 1, Pick 5: Tyree Wilson, Edge, Texas Tech
I think the Cardinals take Will Anderson to help their pass rush (or someone trades up to get him). I also think Jalen Carter falls a bit in this draft, and I actually believe we pass on him. Tyree Wilson is a bit of a reach at 5, but that's nothing new to the Hawks. Charles Cross was a slight reach at 9 as well last year. Let's just hope whoever we take here does better than the last defensive player we took at least this high, Aaron Curry in 2009.
Tyree ended up going #7 to the Raiders. We ended up taking Devon Witherspoon. It'll be interesting to see who has the better career. I'll say this: Witherspoon is going to the better organization than Wilson.
Round 1, Pick 20: Siaki Ika, NT, Baylor
The Seahawks pass on Jalen Carter, hoping he maybe falls to 20, but he does not. So instead, they take Siaki Ika from Baylor. He's heavier than the DT's they usually draft, but he's about the same size as other DT's the Hawks have had over the years, like Bryan Mone and Al Woods. The Hawks definitely need a nose tackle to replace Al Woods, who was cut, so they likely spend one of their earlier picks on one.
Oh boy. I was off. Siaki ended up going pick 98 in round 3 to the Browns. I saw he could've been first round talent, and we know the Hawks have reached in the past. The Hawks ended up taking Jaxson Smith-Njigba, who I'll definitely look forward to all the misspellings of his names by Seahawks fans on Reddit, Facebook, etc. I prefer the Hawk's actual pick (actually), and I think JSN will have a better career than Ika.
Round 2, Pick 37: John Michael Schmitz, C, Minnesota
Yes, even with the signing of Evan Brown, the Seahawks could use another center. And I expect them to take one with one of their 2nd round picks, if not their 20th overall pick. Better to not wait, so I have them spending the first of their two second-round picks on the highest-graded center, John Michael Schmitz from Minnesota. Carroll and Schneider still long for the days of Max Unger, so they know they need a good stalwart at center. They badly missed out on Creed Humphrey, selecting D'Wayne Eskridge instead (Ouch). They won't make the same mistake (I hope).
The Hawks instead took Derick Hall, defensive end. I wish we had taken JMS, who ended up going to the Giants at pick 57. If he becomes an all-pro like Creed Humphrey, I might lose it. I'm not particularly excited about Hall, seeing as we've yet to really develop an edge rusher... ever. Ok, Frank Clark is one, but there's an exception to every rule.
Round 2, Pick 52: Daiyan Henley, LB, Washington State
This is where I could see the Hawks trading down, especially if they've addressed their immediate needs (DL, interior OL/C). I know Carroll loves his speedy linebackers, and why not take a local kid in Daiyan Henley from WSU? I know we signed Devin Bush and Bobby Wagner, but I guarantee Bush will have competition. We'll need depth there, anyway, with Bush's injury history and with Brooks missing the start of the season.
The Hawks instead took Zach Charbonnet, running back. I wish we had grabbed the local kid in Henley. The Hawks in fact did not take any pure linebacker in the draft (if you don't count Hall or Morris as one). Henley went #85 to the Chargers. So we could've had him, just like Schmitz.
Round 3, Pick 83: Jonathan Mingo, WR, Ole Miss
Hmmmm... drafting a bigger wide receiver from Ole Miss on Day 2? Well, it worked out for the Seahawks once before with DK Metcalf, so why not try again? I'm sure DK would love to work with Mingo and mentor him. The Hawks have been looking for a legit #3 for years, and I think they'll try to find it in the draft.
We did draft a receiver (JSN), but all the way up at #20. The Hawks traded down to 108 and took Anthony Bradford, guard. Mingo went #39 to the Panthers, so we wouldn't have had a shot to get him, at least not here.
Round 4, Pick 123: J.L. Skinner, S, Boise State
Maybe PC/JS are trying to rebuild the Legion of Boom. They already have their Richard Sherman clone in Woolen. What about a Kam Chancellor clone? Granted, Skinner is a bit on the skinny side, but he could bulk up, I bet. I just bet Carroll would love his 6'4" frame. We do have Adams and Love, but Adams is injury prone. And Love is a newcomer, so it's yet to be seen how he'll fit in. If they are able to get Skinner to bulk up enough, he could move to linebacker.
Instead the Hawks drafted Cameron Young, defensive tackle. I felt like they should've taken one sooner, but what do I know? Skinner went all the way at 183 to the Broncos. So I was off again.
Round 5, Pick 151: Roschon Johnson, RB, Texas
Roschon's vertical isn't particularly ideal, but I think PC/JS might take a running back mid-late in the draft who is larger and can withstand some hits. Roschon is 6'0" 219 lbs, so he'd be a nice contrast to the smaller Kenneth Walker.
Roschon went at 115 to the Bears, so earlier than I thought. Instead of us drafting a mid-round RB, we drafted an early one (#52, Charbonnet) and a late one (#237, McIntosh). Here we drafted Mike Morris, defensive end.
Round 5, Pick 154: Yaya Diaby, Edge, Louisville
You think PC/JS would be happy with just Tyree Wilson? Maybe... but I could also see them taking someone else as a project, such as Yaya Diaby. One, I like his name. And two, he seems to have all the measurables. He also just seems like a PC/JS kind of guy based on his name and personality.
Unfortunately, we didn't get Diaby, who I would've love saying the name of. He went #82 to the Buccaneers, so I was way off. Instead, we drafted Olusegun Oluwatimi, whose name I'm going to have to learn how to spell correctly without looking up... someday. I'm totally fine with that change. Rumor is that the Hawks were thinking about taking Diaby at #83, but the Bucs sniped him away from us, so the Hawks traded down.
Round 6, Pick 198: Tre Tucker, WR, Cincinnati
The Hawks may draft two receivers (almost a guarantee to draft at least one), and I could see Tre Tucker coming to us. He's got decent speed, so he could compete with Dee Eskridge for a spot on the roster. The Hawks could use an underneath speedy guy to emerge.
We did not draft a second WR, but we did draft a safety like I thought. Just a bit later than I thought. Tucker ended up going #100 to the Raiders, so again I was way off. The Hawks went with Jerrick Reed, safety, instead. I'm okay with that.
Round 7, Pick 237: Cameron Mitchell, CB, Northwestern
The Hawks may take a corner to see if they can one day be our nickel. Mitchell has the speed and measurables that line up. This could be any position here, but I decided to go with something the Hawks hadn't taken yet.
Funny how the Browns and Raiders took a combined four players that I liked. Mitchell went at 142 to the Browns, so again just so far off. We took Kenny McIntosh, who I love and I think has a good chance of making the roster.
I didn't get any players that the Hawks ended up taking (damn). But I'll say this: I think I prefer the Seahawks draft over the one I had them take. It's close. I would've loved John Michael Schmitz, but if Oluwatimi ends up being as good (or better) than JMS, this draft was an absolute win.
Well, there you have it! I'd be stoked with this draft. Here's what a 53-man roster would look like with this draft:
QB (2) - Geno Smith, Drew Lock
RB (5) - Kenneth Walker III, Deejay Dallas, Roschon Johnson, FA (Undrafted?), Nick Bellore
WR (6) - Tyler Lockett, DK Metcalf, Jonathan Mingo, Dareke Young, 2 of the 3 of D'Wayne Eskridge/Cade Johnson/Tre Tucker
TE (3) - Noah Fant, Will Dissly, Colby Parkinson
OL (9) - Charles Cross, Abraham Lucas, Jake Curhan, Stone Forsythe, Phil Haynes, Damien Lewis, Evan Brown, John Michael Schmitz, Joey Hunt
DL (5) - Dre'Mont Jones, Bryan Mone, Siaki Ika, Jarran Reed, Myles Adams
Edge (4) - Tyree Wilson, Boye Mafe, Uchenna Nwosu, Darrell Taylor/Yaya Diaby
LB (6) - Bobby Wagner, Devin Bush, Daiyan Henley, Alton Robinson, Tyreke Smith, Vi Jones
CB (5) - Tariq Woolen, Mike Jackson, Coby Bryant, Tre Brown, Cameron Mitchell/Artie Burns
S (5) - Quandre Diggs, Jamal Adams, Julian Love, J.L. Skinner, Joey Blount
ST (3): Jason Myers (K), Michael Dickson (P), Ott/Tinker (LS)
And unlike last year, I'm going to give a quick comment on each position and how they shape up.
QB: Two QB's under contract. Might bring in someone for pre-season, but they likely get cut.
RB: Hawks almost guaranteed to draft one, they'll need someone to replace Penny/Homer. Might have a surprise UFA make the team here.
WR: A draft pick, possibly two make the team.
TE: Same three as last year.
OL: Starting five would be Cross, Lewis, Schmitz, Haynes, and Lucas.
DL: Ika and Mone are the more traditional nose tackles/run stuffers. The rest are used in pass situations.
Edge: Three of four likely are first or second round picks (this year or in year's past), plus a big FA last year in Nwosu.
LB: Brooks will be on the shelf early on, so I expect the starting 'backers to be a combo of Bush, Wagner, and a draft pick (Henley?).
CB: Honestly, they'll probably draft a CB higher than what I said, but it is what it is.
S: With Neal seemingly on his way out, we will need a safety, especially if we adopt 3 safety sets like it is rumored.
ST: Same as last year.
So, there you have it! It'll be interesting to see if we end up taking any of the guys above. I'll come back after the draft and mention who we took instead and who ended up taking the guy I wanted.
OL: Starting five would be Cross, Lewis, Schmitz, Haynes, and Lucas.
DL: Ika and Mone are the more traditional nose tackles/run stuffers. The rest are used in pass situations.
Edge: Three of four likely are first or second round picks (this year or in year's past), plus a big FA last year in Nwosu.
LB: Brooks will be on the shelf early on, so I expect the starting 'backers to be a combo of Bush, Wagner, and a draft pick (Henley?).
CB: Honestly, they'll probably draft a CB higher than what I said, but it is what it is.
S: With Neal seemingly on his way out, we will need a safety, especially if we adopt 3 safety sets like it is rumored.
ST: Same as last year.
So, there you have it! It'll be interesting to see if we end up taking any of the guys above. I'll come back after the draft and mention who we took instead and who ended up taking the guy I wanted.
Tuesday, April 5, 2022
My Ideal 2022 Seahawks Draft
With the trade of Russell Wilson (😢), the Seahawks acquired some draft capital this year and beyond. I thought I'd put together my own mock draft for the Hawks. This is assuming there will be no trades, which, knowing general manager John Schneider, is nowhere near realistic, but I am not going to try to predict any draft trades, either.
Here's a list of guys I would take with the draft picks the Hawks have based on their needs, assuming each guy will be available. I'll try to be realistic as to when each player will be available (for example, I won't have the Hawks take a guy in the 3rd round that is expected to be a 1st round pick). I'll be stoked if the Hawks take just one of these guys. It'll be interesting to see if any of these guys I select end up being diamonds in the rough.
Rd 1 Pick 9 overall: Trevor Penning, OT, Northern Iowa
I'm not sure if he'll go this high, but if not, the Hawks could trade down a bit, acquire another pick, and take Penning later than #9. He's a stud, and I'll bet he'll be a Pro Bowler someday.
The Seahawks actually took Charles Cross, who was a higher-graded tackle. Penning ended up being drafted at #19 to the Saints. I'd call this a win. We'll see how each of their careers pan out.
Rd 2 Pick 40 overall: Logan Hall, DE, Houston
I was torn between Hall and Arnold Ebiketie, but I went with Hall because he's more like the Michael Bennett type D-lineman that can line up at end for running downs or at d-tackle for passing downs, whereas Ebiketie is lighter and is more like Darrell Taylor, who we already have of course. I'd be happy with Logan Hall, who could learn from Shelby Harris and fill in for him.
Logan Hall went #33 Tampa Bay, so the Hawks had no shot. They ended up taking Boye Mafe at #40, so again I picked the right position, but not the right player. We'll have to compare their careers and see who came out on top.
Rd 2 Pick 41 overall: Desmond Ridder, QB, Cincinnati
I do not expect the Hawks to take a QB in the first round. I think they'll want to try to find another diamond in the rough, and I think it could be Desmond Ridder. I like what I've seen from him. Draft him, have him compete with Locke just like Russ competed with Matt Flynn. The Hawks will likely draft a quarterback, and I'd put money on it being in the 2nd, maybe the 3rd round.
Well the entire media and I were thinking the Hawks would want to add another QB, but they did not. Instead, they drafted Kenneth Walker, which shows they want to be a run-first offense. If Walker has a solid career and guys like Ridder and Malik Willis don't pan out, I'd call this a win. Ridder went to the Falcons at pick 74.
Rd 3 Pick 72 overall: Luke Goedeke, G, Central Michigan
Luke Goedeke has got good measurables and some scouts even like him better than his teammate who is likely a first round pick. He's played tackle and guard, so he's versatile, and the Hawks could plug him anywhere.
Again, the Hawks went with an offensive lineman when I predicted them to, but instead of a guard, they snared another tackle in Abraham Lucas. I like that pick. Again, we'll have to compare Lucas to Goedeke. Goedeke went #57 to Tampa (hey did the Tampa GM see this?), so the Hawks had no shot at him.
Rd 4 Pick 109 overall: Tariq Woolen, CB, Texas-San Antonio
This is a bit wishful thinking, but he's got the size (6'3") that Carroll likes, and he's athletic for his size, too. The reason he's not graded higher is because he has some background and medical concerns, but I think Carroll and Schneider can work past that with him.
The Seahawks took CB Coby Bryant here, but the craziest thing is, they did end up taking Tariq Woolen, but later at pick 153. He's the only pick I called; I just knew Carroll would love his size and speed.
Rd 5 Pick 145 overall: Jesse Luketa, ILB, Penn State
The Hawks will very likely draft a linebacker who could play the mike position. With Brooks and Barton stepping up after Wagner's departure, that means the Hawks will need to fill in the backup spots. Jesse Luketa has great size but isn't outstanding athletically, but could definitely learn and develop in the Hawks' system.
The Seahawks traded this pick down and ended up taking DE Tyreke Smith. Luketa went at #256 to Arizona. Yikes. At least I was right about taking a defensive player.
Rd 5 Pick 153 overall: Marquan McCall, DT, Kentucky
It wouldn't hurt the Hawks to get some depth at defensive tackle, because honestly, I can't remember anyone after Poona Ford and Al Woods. McCall is a beast, almost 350 pounds.
This is where the Hawks drafted Woolen, and hopefully it will be a steal. Marquan McCall went undrafted but signed with Carolina.
Rd 7 Pick 229 overall: Jordan Mason, RB, Georgia Tech
I got to this pick and realized that I didn't have the Hawks taking any offensive skill players; that would be so unlike them. I could perhaps see a late pick on a running back, as I'm not sure what Chris Carson's future is. Jordan Mason was overshadowed in college (wasn't a starter), so the Hawks may take a chance on him.
The Hawks did take a RB, but in the 2nd round. They did, however, take an offensive skill position player here in WR Bo Melton. Jordan Mason went undrafted but signed with San Francisco.
I think this is a fairly realistic draft for the Hawks. The front of it is slightly stacked towards the offense, but the Hawks need offensive linemen and a quarterback they could develop. I don't have the Hawks taking any offensive skill players until their final pick because they really shouldn't be wasting a pick on those positions. Remember Dee Eskridge? Sure could've used Creed Humphrey instead. Let's hope Pete and John draft well this coming draft and hey, maybe they'll take one of my guys. We'll see.
And just for the heck of it, why not take a look at what the roster might look like?
QB: Drew Lock, Desmond Ridder
RB: Chris Carson, Rashaad Penny, Deejay Dallas, Jordan Mason, Travis Homer
WR: DK Metcalf, Tyler Lockett, D'Wayne Eskridge, Penny Hart, Freddie Swain
TE: Noah Fant, Will Dissly, Colby Parkinson
T: Trevor Penning, Jake Curhan, Stone Forsythe
G: Luke Goedeke, Gabe Jackson, Damien Lewis
C: Austin Blythe, Kyle Fuller
DE: LJ Collier, Logan Hall, Shelby Harris, Alton Robinson, Darrell Taylor
DT: Poona Ford, Quinton Jefferson, Al Woods, Marquan McCall/Bryan Mone
OLB: Jordyn Brooks, Uchenna Nwosu, Ben Burr-Kirven/Jon Rhattigan
ILB: Cody Barton, Jesse Luketa, Joel Iyiegbuniwe
CB: Tre Brown, Sidney Jones, John Reid, Justin Coleman, Artie Burns
FS: Quandre Diggs, Ugo Amadi
SS: Jamal Adams, Ryan Neal/Marquise Blair
And we know who the special teamers are. Honestly, that's not a bad roster, and one I could see winning at least 6 games.
Thursday, December 26, 2019
Rating the Seahawks Drafts, 2013-2018
The Seahawks have drafted fairly well in the Pete Carroll/John Schneider era, but
that’s mostly counting the early part of this decade. But how have they been since then? I’m going to look at the six drafts from
2013-2018 and see how they have done. It’s
too soon on 2019, but I can go over the previous six drafts. I’ll give each a letter grade, and a forewarning,
I am not going to be easy on them.
2013: Something you’ll be hearing quite often: The Seahawks traded their first-round pick. This time, it was for Percy Harvin. I don’t think he was worth a first-round pick, especially since with that pick the Vikings selected future Pro Bowl cornerback Xavier Rhodes. Yikes. The Seahawks first selection, Christine Michael, was expected to succeed Marshawn Lynch but never could. Guys like Jordan Hill, Chris Harper, Jesse Williams, and Tharold Simon are no longer in the league. Luke Willson and Spencer Ware were drafted, but Ware has had most of his success with the Chiefs. This was not a particularly good draft to follow 2012.
Grade: D+
2014: Again, the first-round pick was traded, this time for more picks. The notable names taken in this class were Paul Richardson, Justin Britt, Cassius Marsh, and Kevin Pierre-Louis. A very meh draft if there ever was one. Britt is the only one still on the team. He has developed into a borderline Pro Bowl center, so there is that. But the rest have not really lived up to expectations, although KPL is doing well… in Chicago.
Grade: C-
2015: Yet again the first-round pick was traded, this time it was included in the Unger/Graham deal. I’d say that trade was not a particularly good one. The Saints took Stephone Anthony with the pick, and he’s bounced around the league a bit and he’s back with the Saints. Meanwhile, the Hawks took Frank Clark and Tyler Lockett with their first two picks, and also Mark Glowinski in the 4th round. Everyone else is out of the league or on another team. Glowinski has had more success in Indianapolis than he did here. Good first two picks, but the trade hurt the Hawks and no one else contributed.
Grade: C+
2016: Hey the Hawks used a first-round pick! On… Germain Ifedi. He sure took a long time to develop, but he’s finally starting to limit the penalties and missed blocks. He’s about average for a right tackle right now, I’d say. But the Hawks also took Jarran Reed, CJ Prosise, Quinton Jefferson, and Joey Hunt, all who are still with the team. Alex Collins did well… with Baltimore. Rees Odhiambo struggled. Not a bad draft, but the only real legit player taken was Reed.
Grade: C
2017: Ah yes, the Malik McDowell draft. He wasn’t a first round-pick, but he was the Hawks’ first pick. The Hawks traded their first-round pick for more picks. The first pick still on the team is Ethan Pocic, who has been a backup offensive lineman only. Shaquill Griffin and Tedric Thompson were taken, two guys who have been fairly decent starters in the secondary. David Moore was also taken in the seventh round, and he’s been a fairly decent contributor. And who could forget Chris Carson, who has now put together two separate 1,000-yard seasons? The Carson pick was a steal, but no one else can really be considered a great pick. The Carson pick basically cancels out the McDowell pick.
Grade: C
2018: A very mixed bag in this draft. The first pick, Penny, has been a decent backup to Carson, but was a stretch as the first-round pick. Rasheem Green, Shaquem Griffin, and Tre Flowers have been decent but unspectacular contributors on defense. Will Dissly has been a nice find, if he could only stay healthy. And Michael Dickson was actually a great pick as a fifth rounder as he could be the Hawks’ punter for many years. Yet again a draft where there doesn’t seem to be any Pro Bowl caliber players.
Grade: C-
GPA: 1.83 (C-)
As you can tell, the Hawks haven’t drafted horribly because I didn’t give them an F grade, but they certainly haven’t drafted particularly well, either, because I didn’t even give out any B or A grades. Pete and John draft a lot of just okay players. They don’t seem to be able to find diamonds in the rough anymore. When Pete first came to the Hawks in 2010, he was able to draft a lot of the guys he recruited and scouted while head coach at USC. He knew their strengths and weaknesses better than perhaps anyone, and he knew who would fit into his system with the Hawks. Now having been out of the college ranks for almost a decade, Pete is no longer quite as in touch with the college players and it’s a bit more of a guessing game for him. And he and John aren’t guessing particularly well.
Here’s something that ought to stand out. From 2010 to 2012, Pete and John drafted eight players who have made a Pro Bowl. From 2013 to 2018, in twice as many years, Pete and John drafted just two players who have made a Pro Bowl (Lockett and Dickson). And each of those guys only made it once. If you count Pro Bowl appearances, the numbers are TWENTY-EIGHT Pro Bowl appearances to just two. Clearly, the drafts since then did not go quite as well. They are relying on Wilson and Wagner to carry the team, but they are failing to support them with other Pro Bowl caliber players. And that is why the Hawks will not get to another Super Bowl under Carroll and Schneider, unless they start drafting better.
2013: Something you’ll be hearing quite often: The Seahawks traded their first-round pick. This time, it was for Percy Harvin. I don’t think he was worth a first-round pick, especially since with that pick the Vikings selected future Pro Bowl cornerback Xavier Rhodes. Yikes. The Seahawks first selection, Christine Michael, was expected to succeed Marshawn Lynch but never could. Guys like Jordan Hill, Chris Harper, Jesse Williams, and Tharold Simon are no longer in the league. Luke Willson and Spencer Ware were drafted, but Ware has had most of his success with the Chiefs. This was not a particularly good draft to follow 2012.
Grade: D+
2014: Again, the first-round pick was traded, this time for more picks. The notable names taken in this class were Paul Richardson, Justin Britt, Cassius Marsh, and Kevin Pierre-Louis. A very meh draft if there ever was one. Britt is the only one still on the team. He has developed into a borderline Pro Bowl center, so there is that. But the rest have not really lived up to expectations, although KPL is doing well… in Chicago.
Grade: C-
2015: Yet again the first-round pick was traded, this time it was included in the Unger/Graham deal. I’d say that trade was not a particularly good one. The Saints took Stephone Anthony with the pick, and he’s bounced around the league a bit and he’s back with the Saints. Meanwhile, the Hawks took Frank Clark and Tyler Lockett with their first two picks, and also Mark Glowinski in the 4th round. Everyone else is out of the league or on another team. Glowinski has had more success in Indianapolis than he did here. Good first two picks, but the trade hurt the Hawks and no one else contributed.
Grade: C+
2016: Hey the Hawks used a first-round pick! On… Germain Ifedi. He sure took a long time to develop, but he’s finally starting to limit the penalties and missed blocks. He’s about average for a right tackle right now, I’d say. But the Hawks also took Jarran Reed, CJ Prosise, Quinton Jefferson, and Joey Hunt, all who are still with the team. Alex Collins did well… with Baltimore. Rees Odhiambo struggled. Not a bad draft, but the only real legit player taken was Reed.
Grade: C
2017: Ah yes, the Malik McDowell draft. He wasn’t a first round-pick, but he was the Hawks’ first pick. The Hawks traded their first-round pick for more picks. The first pick still on the team is Ethan Pocic, who has been a backup offensive lineman only. Shaquill Griffin and Tedric Thompson were taken, two guys who have been fairly decent starters in the secondary. David Moore was also taken in the seventh round, and he’s been a fairly decent contributor. And who could forget Chris Carson, who has now put together two separate 1,000-yard seasons? The Carson pick was a steal, but no one else can really be considered a great pick. The Carson pick basically cancels out the McDowell pick.
Grade: C
2018: A very mixed bag in this draft. The first pick, Penny, has been a decent backup to Carson, but was a stretch as the first-round pick. Rasheem Green, Shaquem Griffin, and Tre Flowers have been decent but unspectacular contributors on defense. Will Dissly has been a nice find, if he could only stay healthy. And Michael Dickson was actually a great pick as a fifth rounder as he could be the Hawks’ punter for many years. Yet again a draft where there doesn’t seem to be any Pro Bowl caliber players.
Grade: C-
GPA: 1.83 (C-)
As you can tell, the Hawks haven’t drafted horribly because I didn’t give them an F grade, but they certainly haven’t drafted particularly well, either, because I didn’t even give out any B or A grades. Pete and John draft a lot of just okay players. They don’t seem to be able to find diamonds in the rough anymore. When Pete first came to the Hawks in 2010, he was able to draft a lot of the guys he recruited and scouted while head coach at USC. He knew their strengths and weaknesses better than perhaps anyone, and he knew who would fit into his system with the Hawks. Now having been out of the college ranks for almost a decade, Pete is no longer quite as in touch with the college players and it’s a bit more of a guessing game for him. And he and John aren’t guessing particularly well.
Here’s something that ought to stand out. From 2010 to 2012, Pete and John drafted eight players who have made a Pro Bowl. From 2013 to 2018, in twice as many years, Pete and John drafted just two players who have made a Pro Bowl (Lockett and Dickson). And each of those guys only made it once. If you count Pro Bowl appearances, the numbers are TWENTY-EIGHT Pro Bowl appearances to just two. Clearly, the drafts since then did not go quite as well. They are relying on Wilson and Wagner to carry the team, but they are failing to support them with other Pro Bowl caliber players. And that is why the Hawks will not get to another Super Bowl under Carroll and Schneider, unless they start drafting better.
Saturday, April 27, 2019
My Thoughts on the Seahawks 2019 Draft
I haven't done one of these in a while: A review and recap of the Seahawks draft. The reason I'm doing it is because I'm pretty stoked about this draft class. I'll go through each of the picks and give them a letter grade. The letter grade will be based on when the Seahawks selected the player, and how well I think he fits our team. Let's go!
Round 1: LJ Collier, DE, TCU
Grade: C
The reason the grade is a C is because he was yet another first round reach for the Hawks. He could've been taken in the 2nd or maybe even 3rd round. Nevertheless, he's been described as a Michael Bennett-type D-lineman, able to move along the D-line wherever, depending on the down and distance. Bruce Irvin was also a first round reach and he didn't turn out half bad. If LJ is anywhere near Michael Bennett's capability, I'll call this a win. But for now, I stand pat with a C grade.
Round 2: Marquise Blair, S, Utah
Grade: C+
This was also called a reach. But Marquise has some upside, many see him as a Kam Chancellor-lite. He'll probably end up backing up McDougald for the time being and playing special teams. Hopefully he'll blossom and become a starter for years to come.
Round 2: D.K. Metcalf, WR, Ole Miss
Grade: B+
The first draft pick the Hawks made that I was legitimately excited for. He's a big-bodied and strong receiver like a Terrell Owens or Josh Gordon, but has speed that beats both of them. He has the potential to be an elite #1 receiver. However, he has injury concerns (who doesn't?) and he ran slower cone drills at the combine than Tom Brady. I kid you not. So he's not an agile receiver. But if the Hawks can use him effectively and he stays healthy, he's going to be an elite receiver.
Round 3: Cody Barton, LB, Utah
Grade: B
The Hawks drafted two defensive players from Utah in their first four picks, so Blair and Barton should be able to help each other out and pull for each other in training camp. Barton will be an excellent special teamer, but could he possibly start if need be? Time will tell.
Round 4: Gary Jennings Jr., WR, West Virginia
Grade: A-
I just found out Gary Jennings Jr. has known Russell Wilson since childhood as Russ coached him at the YMCA he went to. That's awesome. Russ will instantly have a rapport with this guy. Not only that, but Gary has very few if any glaring weaknesses and has less bust potential than Metcalf. If I had to pick who has the longer and more consistent career right now (between Metcalf and Jennings), I'd say Jennings.
Round 4: Phil Haynes, G, Wake Forest
Grade: B+
Solid pick who will most likely be groomed to play guard. With Iupati and Fluker as the current starters, it works out perfectly to have Haynes sit behind them and learn and take over in case of an injury. Keep in mind we still have Roos, Simmons, and Pocic. This is the first time in a while I can say I am happy with our O-Line depth.
Round 4: Ugo Amadi, S, Oregon
Grade: C+
He's a bit undersized, but will be used on special teams and in some nickel packages. Also... he's a Duck... Nevertheless, he's a decent mid-round selection, but my gut says I don't think we'll see him on the team in 3 years.
Round 5: Ben Burr-Kirven, LB, Washington
Grade: B-
Don't think we really needed to draft two middle linebackers, but it certainly doesn't hurt. And it's a local kid from UW! I'm excited to see who will do better between Barton and Burr-Kirven, both were Pac-12 middle linebackers. Good to have depth in case something happens to Bobby *knock on wood*.
Round 6: Travis Homer, RB, Miami
Grade: B+
This kid has the fight and tenacity that Schneider and Carroll love. He's an-all around back, too, can block, catch passes, can even play special teams. I would like to see him in the preseason get a bunch of carries to see how he does there. Could be a dark horse pick that gets some carries in the regular season (Think Phillip Lindsay of Denver last year).
Round 6: DeMarcus Christmas, DT, Florida State
Grade: C+
It's Christmas in Seattle! Literally. I'm going to be honest, it could be fairly tough for him to make the roster, but with Shamar Stephen gone there's a chance. He's like Poona Ford a bit, not quite as short though. I could see him backing up Ford and Reed when they need a breather on rushing downs.
Round 7: John Ursua, WR, Hawaii
Grade: C+
Good-looking kid, but he'll find it tough making the roster, even if Doug isn't able to play. Ahead of him are Lockett, Brown, Moore, and the two other Wide Receivers we drafted in Metcalf and Jennings. If he's able to excel on special teams, he could make the roster, but as a fairly-undersized wide receiver that'll be tough to do.
Overall GPA: 2.77 (+.5) = 3.27 or B+
I gave John and Pete an extra .5 because they started with only four picks (before trading Frank Clark) and ended up with 11. Wow. Just the way they were able to trade down and not lose much value was impressive. So I give their draft a B+ as a whole. They did well for the most part, but time will tell how well they did based on the careers of these young men. Hopefully this'll be a draft class like 2011 or 2012 where we can look back on it and say they hit it out of the park.
Round 1: LJ Collier, DE, TCU
Grade: C
The reason the grade is a C is because he was yet another first round reach for the Hawks. He could've been taken in the 2nd or maybe even 3rd round. Nevertheless, he's been described as a Michael Bennett-type D-lineman, able to move along the D-line wherever, depending on the down and distance. Bruce Irvin was also a first round reach and he didn't turn out half bad. If LJ is anywhere near Michael Bennett's capability, I'll call this a win. But for now, I stand pat with a C grade.
Round 2: Marquise Blair, S, Utah
Grade: C+
This was also called a reach. But Marquise has some upside, many see him as a Kam Chancellor-lite. He'll probably end up backing up McDougald for the time being and playing special teams. Hopefully he'll blossom and become a starter for years to come.
Round 2: D.K. Metcalf, WR, Ole Miss
Grade: B+
The first draft pick the Hawks made that I was legitimately excited for. He's a big-bodied and strong receiver like a Terrell Owens or Josh Gordon, but has speed that beats both of them. He has the potential to be an elite #1 receiver. However, he has injury concerns (who doesn't?) and he ran slower cone drills at the combine than Tom Brady. I kid you not. So he's not an agile receiver. But if the Hawks can use him effectively and he stays healthy, he's going to be an elite receiver.
Round 3: Cody Barton, LB, Utah
Grade: B
The Hawks drafted two defensive players from Utah in their first four picks, so Blair and Barton should be able to help each other out and pull for each other in training camp. Barton will be an excellent special teamer, but could he possibly start if need be? Time will tell.
Round 4: Gary Jennings Jr., WR, West Virginia
Grade: A-
I just found out Gary Jennings Jr. has known Russell Wilson since childhood as Russ coached him at the YMCA he went to. That's awesome. Russ will instantly have a rapport with this guy. Not only that, but Gary has very few if any glaring weaknesses and has less bust potential than Metcalf. If I had to pick who has the longer and more consistent career right now (between Metcalf and Jennings), I'd say Jennings.
Round 4: Phil Haynes, G, Wake Forest
Grade: B+
Solid pick who will most likely be groomed to play guard. With Iupati and Fluker as the current starters, it works out perfectly to have Haynes sit behind them and learn and take over in case of an injury. Keep in mind we still have Roos, Simmons, and Pocic. This is the first time in a while I can say I am happy with our O-Line depth.
Round 4: Ugo Amadi, S, Oregon
Grade: C+
He's a bit undersized, but will be used on special teams and in some nickel packages. Also... he's a Duck... Nevertheless, he's a decent mid-round selection, but my gut says I don't think we'll see him on the team in 3 years.
Round 5: Ben Burr-Kirven, LB, Washington
Grade: B-
Don't think we really needed to draft two middle linebackers, but it certainly doesn't hurt. And it's a local kid from UW! I'm excited to see who will do better between Barton and Burr-Kirven, both were Pac-12 middle linebackers. Good to have depth in case something happens to Bobby *knock on wood*.
Round 6: Travis Homer, RB, Miami
Grade: B+
This kid has the fight and tenacity that Schneider and Carroll love. He's an-all around back, too, can block, catch passes, can even play special teams. I would like to see him in the preseason get a bunch of carries to see how he does there. Could be a dark horse pick that gets some carries in the regular season (Think Phillip Lindsay of Denver last year).
Round 6: DeMarcus Christmas, DT, Florida State
Grade: C+
It's Christmas in Seattle! Literally. I'm going to be honest, it could be fairly tough for him to make the roster, but with Shamar Stephen gone there's a chance. He's like Poona Ford a bit, not quite as short though. I could see him backing up Ford and Reed when they need a breather on rushing downs.
Round 7: John Ursua, WR, Hawaii
Grade: C+
Good-looking kid, but he'll find it tough making the roster, even if Doug isn't able to play. Ahead of him are Lockett, Brown, Moore, and the two other Wide Receivers we drafted in Metcalf and Jennings. If he's able to excel on special teams, he could make the roster, but as a fairly-undersized wide receiver that'll be tough to do.
Overall GPA: 2.77 (+.5) = 3.27 or B+
I gave John and Pete an extra .5 because they started with only four picks (before trading Frank Clark) and ended up with 11. Wow. Just the way they were able to trade down and not lose much value was impressive. So I give their draft a B+ as a whole. They did well for the most part, but time will tell how well they did based on the careers of these young men. Hopefully this'll be a draft class like 2011 or 2012 where we can look back on it and say they hit it out of the park.
Wednesday, May 6, 2015
EARLY Predictions for Seahawks 53 Man Roster
Well, with the draft completed the Seahawks roster for the 2015 season is
coming into clearer focus and I think now would be a good time to predict the
Seahawks 53 man roster. Obviously, there
are going to be injuries and probably more signings, but let's see how close I
can get.
QB (2): Russell Wilson, B.J. Daniels
With T-Jack probably gone, Daniels gets promoted to backup and might even be used on special teams a bit. With that in mind, the Hawks might have a young QB on the practice squad.
RB/FB (5): Marshawn Lynch, Christine Michael, Demitris Bronson, Derrick Coleman, Will Tukuafu
No Robert Turbin? Well, I just think the Hawks might just decide he's not going to blossom into a full-time RB in this league, so they might have to cut ties with him. Or maybe he gets hurt, who knows. Coleman will earn his starting FB job back and Tukuafu makes the team because of his versatility.
WR (5): Doug Baldwin, Jermaine Kearse, Paul Richardson, Tyler Lockett, Ricardo Lockette
No Kevin Norwood or Chris Matthews, I know... I just don't see much production coming from either of them. Maybe Norwood can be on the practice squad. Ricardo Lockette is too good of a special teamer to leave off the team.
TE (3): Jimmy Graham, Luke Willson, Cooper Helfet
A lot are expecting Anthony McCoy to make a comeback, but I don't. He's too injury-prone.
Offensive Line (9): Russell Okung, Alvin Bailey, Kristjan Sokoli, J.R. Sweezy, Justin Britt, Lemuel Jeanpierre, Mark Glowinski, Terry Poole, Garry Gilliam
In the first five, you have my predicted starters on the OL from left tackle to right tackle. Sokoli will start at center, I'm predicting. Patrick Lewis might make it over Jeanpierre... it's a close call. Also I wouldn't be surprised to see any of the OL draft picks (Sokoli, Poole, Glowinski) be put on the practice squad.
Defensive Tackles (4): Brandon Mebane, Jordan Hill, Ahtyba Rubin, Tony McDaniel
I only see four here because the Hawks have Defensive Ends (Bennett, Scruggs) that can play interior as well as Tukuafu. I wouldn't be shocked to see McDaniel cut due to his age, but we'll see.
Defensive Ends (5): Michael Bennett, Cliff Avril, Cassius Marsh, Frank Clark, Greg Scruggs
Scruggs is a long shot but I like him for his versatility. Marsh should be a force if he can stay healthy. Clark, despite his legal problems, should have a good rookie season. Bennett should just stop whining about his contract situation and play. I have Obum Gwacham on the practice squad.
Linebackers (7): K.J. Wright, Bobby Wagner, Kevin Pierre-Louis, Brock Coyle, Mike Morgan, Mister Alexander, Alex Singleton
What? No Bruce Irvin? He's just too much of a problem now. I think KPL is good enough to start. I love the name of Mister Alexander, haha.
Cornerbacks (5): Richard Sherman, Cary Williams, Marcus Burley, Will Blackmon, Tye Smith
Simon and Lane will start out on the PUP or injured list, I'm assuming. I think the Hawks can get away with 5 CB's especially if they keep an extra safety that can move back and forth, like I'm predicting.
Safeties (5): Earl Thomas, Kam Chancellor, Deshaun Shead, Keenan Lambert, Ryan Murphy
Shead can play safety and corner, plus he has experience so he has a good shot. Lambert is the half-brother (I think) of Kam Chancellor so that certainly helps. Murphy might only make the practice squad, but we'll see.
Special Teams (3): Steven Hauschka (K), Jon Ryan (P), Nate Boyer (LS)
I'm pulling for the former Green Beret. Sorry, Clint Gresham.
Well, that's 53 players. I'm sure I'm totally wrong on some but we'll see how close I get.
QB (2): Russell Wilson, B.J. Daniels
With T-Jack probably gone, Daniels gets promoted to backup and might even be used on special teams a bit. With that in mind, the Hawks might have a young QB on the practice squad.
RB/FB (5): Marshawn Lynch, Christine Michael, Demitris Bronson, Derrick Coleman, Will Tukuafu
No Robert Turbin? Well, I just think the Hawks might just decide he's not going to blossom into a full-time RB in this league, so they might have to cut ties with him. Or maybe he gets hurt, who knows. Coleman will earn his starting FB job back and Tukuafu makes the team because of his versatility.
WR (5): Doug Baldwin, Jermaine Kearse, Paul Richardson, Tyler Lockett, Ricardo Lockette
No Kevin Norwood or Chris Matthews, I know... I just don't see much production coming from either of them. Maybe Norwood can be on the practice squad. Ricardo Lockette is too good of a special teamer to leave off the team.
TE (3): Jimmy Graham, Luke Willson, Cooper Helfet
A lot are expecting Anthony McCoy to make a comeback, but I don't. He's too injury-prone.
Offensive Line (9): Russell Okung, Alvin Bailey, Kristjan Sokoli, J.R. Sweezy, Justin Britt, Lemuel Jeanpierre, Mark Glowinski, Terry Poole, Garry Gilliam
In the first five, you have my predicted starters on the OL from left tackle to right tackle. Sokoli will start at center, I'm predicting. Patrick Lewis might make it over Jeanpierre... it's a close call. Also I wouldn't be surprised to see any of the OL draft picks (Sokoli, Poole, Glowinski) be put on the practice squad.
Defensive Tackles (4): Brandon Mebane, Jordan Hill, Ahtyba Rubin, Tony McDaniel
I only see four here because the Hawks have Defensive Ends (Bennett, Scruggs) that can play interior as well as Tukuafu. I wouldn't be shocked to see McDaniel cut due to his age, but we'll see.
Defensive Ends (5): Michael Bennett, Cliff Avril, Cassius Marsh, Frank Clark, Greg Scruggs
Scruggs is a long shot but I like him for his versatility. Marsh should be a force if he can stay healthy. Clark, despite his legal problems, should have a good rookie season. Bennett should just stop whining about his contract situation and play. I have Obum Gwacham on the practice squad.
Linebackers (7): K.J. Wright, Bobby Wagner, Kevin Pierre-Louis, Brock Coyle, Mike Morgan, Mister Alexander, Alex Singleton
What? No Bruce Irvin? He's just too much of a problem now. I think KPL is good enough to start. I love the name of Mister Alexander, haha.
Cornerbacks (5): Richard Sherman, Cary Williams, Marcus Burley, Will Blackmon, Tye Smith
Simon and Lane will start out on the PUP or injured list, I'm assuming. I think the Hawks can get away with 5 CB's especially if they keep an extra safety that can move back and forth, like I'm predicting.
Safeties (5): Earl Thomas, Kam Chancellor, Deshaun Shead, Keenan Lambert, Ryan Murphy
Shead can play safety and corner, plus he has experience so he has a good shot. Lambert is the half-brother (I think) of Kam Chancellor so that certainly helps. Murphy might only make the practice squad, but we'll see.
Special Teams (3): Steven Hauschka (K), Jon Ryan (P), Nate Boyer (LS)
I'm pulling for the former Green Beret. Sorry, Clint Gresham.
Well, that's 53 players. I'm sure I'm totally wrong on some but we'll see how close I get.
Wednesday, April 29, 2015
Seahawks Needs at Each Position for the Draft
With the draft just a few days away, I thought it'd be fun to look at each
position for the Hawks and pick a player who might fit in well, if needed. This'll be fun to look back on to see if I
get any right and see how well I do in picking which positions are picked. The Hawks have 11 picks, so it'll be
interesting to see how they use them.
Here's what I predict:
Post Draft Review in RED.
Seahawks traded a few picks away, ended up with 8 picks instead of 11. Oh well.
Quarterback: Not a huge area of concern, but T-Jack's return being in question might make the Seahawks want to take a QB in the late rounds, if need be. They already have BJ Daniels, so perhaps they won't use a draft pick in just bring in someone as an undrafted free agent.
Will they draft for this position: No
If they were to, who would they pick: Sean Mannion, Oregon State (Big guy with big arm would be an interesting complement to RW. )
Mannion went to the Rams... might end up seeing him against the Hawks. But I was right in predicting the Hawks would NOT take a QB.
Running Back/Full Back: Again, not a huge area of concern, but depth COULD be added. Full back is set with both Coleman AND Tukuafu. Lynch will be back as well, and Turbin and Michael remain his understudies. I don't see a big risk on a running back, yet.
Will they draft for this position: No
If they were to, who would they pick: Michael Dyer, Louisville (Off the field issues but a tank on the field)
Again correct in saying no one was taken for this position. Michael Dyer went undrafted, so he might be brought in to camp to compete for a backup RB spot.
Wide Receiver: The Hawks focused heavily on this position in last year's draft, but that doesn't mean they won't try to find a stud in this one. I think they'll pick one to add to the competition.
Will they draft for this position: Yes
If they were to, who would they pick: Vince Mayle, WSU (Going with local kid, 6'2 so decent size)
Correct in saying the Hawks would take one, wrong choice though. Tyler Lockett was the choice. Vince Mayle went to the Browns.
Tight End: This position was fortified with Jimmy Graham. Also remains Luke Willson, Cooper Helfet, and Anthony McCoy. Don't see a draft pick here.
Will they draft for this position: No
If they were to, who would they pick: Randall Telfer, USC (Team needs a blocking tight end, and picking one from Pete's alma matter would be appropriate)
Again correct in saying there wouldn't be a pick. Telfer went to the Browns, so unless he's cut he won't be a Hawk.
Tackle: Hawks need more help on interior of line than outside, but could use someone to give Justin Britt competition. Also wouldn't hurt to have depth in case Russell "Glass Ankles" Okung gets hurt.
Will they draft for this position: Yes
If they were to, who would they pick: Ali Marpet, Hobart (Can play center, and has good speed for an OL)
Again correct in that they'd pick one tackle, but it was Terry Poole. Marpet went to the Bucs.
Guard/Center: I group these together because a player can go back and forth between them. This is one of the biggest needs, if not the biggest need, for the Seahawks. Don't be surprised if two interior linemen are drafted.
Will they draft for this position: Yes, two players
If they were to, who would they pick: Arie Kouandijo, Alabama and Andy Gallik, Boston College (Kouandijo is a future pro bowler IMO and Gallik is small but is gritty, smart, and well-developed.)
Technically the Hawks took two interior linemen. Glowinski will definitely play guard or center and they drafted Kristjan Sokoli, who played DT in college but the Hawks say will play guard. Well, it worked with J.R. Sweezy, so they think it'll work again.
Defensive Tackle: This position is currently held by Mebane and Williams, both can be injury prone and are aging. Their successors are needed, and I'd be shocked if the Hawks didn't draft somebody.
Will they draft for this position: Yes
If they were to, who would they pick: Michael Bennett, Ohio State (Imagine if we had two guys named Michael Bennett on the defensive line, how confusing that'd be. Someone would have to go by Mike Bennett.)
Again, technically correct. Sokoli was a DT that they drafted, but probably won't play there. Bennett went to the Jags, unfortunately.
Defensive End: The Hawks have Bennett and Avril, but both are nearing the end of their primes. Marsh should be in the mix as well, but some depth will probably be added.
Will they draft for this position: Yes
If they were to, who would they pick: Tavaris Barnes (Seattle had him for a workout and he's a rotational defensive end so he'd fit in VERY well here.)
The Hawks actually drafted TWO D-linemen, but Barnes was neither of them. The picks were Frank Clark and Obum Gwacham. The Hawks are now stacked there with depth. Barnes went undrafted and still could be brought in for training camp.
Linebacker: The Hawks starting trio is set with Wagner, Irvin, and Wright, with Pierre-Louis being a capable backup. The loss of Malcolm Smith means for sure there will be a linebacker drafted. I'll go with two, actually.
Will they draft for this position: Yes, two players
If they were to, who would they pick: Hau'Oli Kikaha, Washington, and Lynden Trail, Norfolk State (It'd be nice to get Shaq Thompson, but Kikaha is more likely. Trail is 6'7" so he'd be nice to have to knock down passes.)
Oops. Kikaha went to the Saints, Trail went undrafted (but signed with the Texans). Hawks did not pick a single linebacker, so their depth at that position will be thin, unless Gwacham or Clark moves to OLB.
Safety: The Hawks boast the best pair of safeties in the league, but could use depth with Jeron Johnson gone. Don't expect a high pick, but expect a pick nonetheless.
Will they draft for this position: Yes
If they were to, who would they pick: Tevin McDonald, Eastern Washington (Gotta pick another local kid. He could learn LOADS under Kam Chancellor and Earl Thomas. Well, anyone could.)
Hawks got a safety, but again didn't pick the right one. They picked Ryan Murphy from Oregon State. McDonald went undrafted.
Cornerback: With losing Maxwell, this position will need to be addressed. Jeremy Lane won't be ready for training camp. Who is starting outside of Sherman? Simon? I'm not too impressed with Simon so far.
Will they draft for this position: Yes, two players
If they were to, who would they pick: Alex Carter, Stanford, and Senquez Golson, Ole Miss (Imagine having two corners from Stanford starting... and Golson has excellent ball skills, something Pete covets.)
Hawks drafted just one CB (Tye Smith). I had forgotten about the signing of Cary Williams. Oops. Carter went to the Lions and Golson to the (sigh) Steelers.
Kicker/Punter: This position is set with Hauschka and Ryan. I don't see the Hawks using a pick on one, unless they can't think of anyone else to draft.
Will they draft for this position: No
If they were to, who would they pick: Darragh O'Neill, Colorado (College teammate of Paul Richardson)
It'd have been a shock, for sure. O'Neill went undrafted.
So there you have it. With the Hawks 11 picks, I have them taking a wide receiver, a tackle, two guards/centers, a defensive tackle, a defensive end, two linebackers, a safety, and two cornerbacks. We'll see how close I get!
Post Draft Review in RED.
Seahawks traded a few picks away, ended up with 8 picks instead of 11. Oh well.
Quarterback: Not a huge area of concern, but T-Jack's return being in question might make the Seahawks want to take a QB in the late rounds, if need be. They already have BJ Daniels, so perhaps they won't use a draft pick in just bring in someone as an undrafted free agent.
Will they draft for this position: No
If they were to, who would they pick: Sean Mannion, Oregon State (Big guy with big arm would be an interesting complement to RW. )
Mannion went to the Rams... might end up seeing him against the Hawks. But I was right in predicting the Hawks would NOT take a QB.
Running Back/Full Back: Again, not a huge area of concern, but depth COULD be added. Full back is set with both Coleman AND Tukuafu. Lynch will be back as well, and Turbin and Michael remain his understudies. I don't see a big risk on a running back, yet.
Will they draft for this position: No
If they were to, who would they pick: Michael Dyer, Louisville (Off the field issues but a tank on the field)
Again correct in saying no one was taken for this position. Michael Dyer went undrafted, so he might be brought in to camp to compete for a backup RB spot.
Wide Receiver: The Hawks focused heavily on this position in last year's draft, but that doesn't mean they won't try to find a stud in this one. I think they'll pick one to add to the competition.
Will they draft for this position: Yes
If they were to, who would they pick: Vince Mayle, WSU (Going with local kid, 6'2 so decent size)
Correct in saying the Hawks would take one, wrong choice though. Tyler Lockett was the choice. Vince Mayle went to the Browns.
Tight End: This position was fortified with Jimmy Graham. Also remains Luke Willson, Cooper Helfet, and Anthony McCoy. Don't see a draft pick here.
Will they draft for this position: No
If they were to, who would they pick: Randall Telfer, USC (Team needs a blocking tight end, and picking one from Pete's alma matter would be appropriate)
Again correct in saying there wouldn't be a pick. Telfer went to the Browns, so unless he's cut he won't be a Hawk.
Tackle: Hawks need more help on interior of line than outside, but could use someone to give Justin Britt competition. Also wouldn't hurt to have depth in case Russell "Glass Ankles" Okung gets hurt.
Will they draft for this position: Yes
If they were to, who would they pick: Ali Marpet, Hobart (Can play center, and has good speed for an OL)
Again correct in that they'd pick one tackle, but it was Terry Poole. Marpet went to the Bucs.
Guard/Center: I group these together because a player can go back and forth between them. This is one of the biggest needs, if not the biggest need, for the Seahawks. Don't be surprised if two interior linemen are drafted.
Will they draft for this position: Yes, two players
If they were to, who would they pick: Arie Kouandijo, Alabama and Andy Gallik, Boston College (Kouandijo is a future pro bowler IMO and Gallik is small but is gritty, smart, and well-developed.)
Technically the Hawks took two interior linemen. Glowinski will definitely play guard or center and they drafted Kristjan Sokoli, who played DT in college but the Hawks say will play guard. Well, it worked with J.R. Sweezy, so they think it'll work again.
Defensive Tackle: This position is currently held by Mebane and Williams, both can be injury prone and are aging. Their successors are needed, and I'd be shocked if the Hawks didn't draft somebody.
Will they draft for this position: Yes
If they were to, who would they pick: Michael Bennett, Ohio State (Imagine if we had two guys named Michael Bennett on the defensive line, how confusing that'd be. Someone would have to go by Mike Bennett.)
Again, technically correct. Sokoli was a DT that they drafted, but probably won't play there. Bennett went to the Jags, unfortunately.
Defensive End: The Hawks have Bennett and Avril, but both are nearing the end of their primes. Marsh should be in the mix as well, but some depth will probably be added.
Will they draft for this position: Yes
If they were to, who would they pick: Tavaris Barnes (Seattle had him for a workout and he's a rotational defensive end so he'd fit in VERY well here.)
The Hawks actually drafted TWO D-linemen, but Barnes was neither of them. The picks were Frank Clark and Obum Gwacham. The Hawks are now stacked there with depth. Barnes went undrafted and still could be brought in for training camp.
Linebacker: The Hawks starting trio is set with Wagner, Irvin, and Wright, with Pierre-Louis being a capable backup. The loss of Malcolm Smith means for sure there will be a linebacker drafted. I'll go with two, actually.
Will they draft for this position: Yes, two players
If they were to, who would they pick: Hau'Oli Kikaha, Washington, and Lynden Trail, Norfolk State (It'd be nice to get Shaq Thompson, but Kikaha is more likely. Trail is 6'7" so he'd be nice to have to knock down passes.)
Oops. Kikaha went to the Saints, Trail went undrafted (but signed with the Texans). Hawks did not pick a single linebacker, so their depth at that position will be thin, unless Gwacham or Clark moves to OLB.
Safety: The Hawks boast the best pair of safeties in the league, but could use depth with Jeron Johnson gone. Don't expect a high pick, but expect a pick nonetheless.
Will they draft for this position: Yes
If they were to, who would they pick: Tevin McDonald, Eastern Washington (Gotta pick another local kid. He could learn LOADS under Kam Chancellor and Earl Thomas. Well, anyone could.)
Hawks got a safety, but again didn't pick the right one. They picked Ryan Murphy from Oregon State. McDonald went undrafted.
Cornerback: With losing Maxwell, this position will need to be addressed. Jeremy Lane won't be ready for training camp. Who is starting outside of Sherman? Simon? I'm not too impressed with Simon so far.
Will they draft for this position: Yes, two players
If they were to, who would they pick: Alex Carter, Stanford, and Senquez Golson, Ole Miss (Imagine having two corners from Stanford starting... and Golson has excellent ball skills, something Pete covets.)
Hawks drafted just one CB (Tye Smith). I had forgotten about the signing of Cary Williams. Oops. Carter went to the Lions and Golson to the (sigh) Steelers.
Kicker/Punter: This position is set with Hauschka and Ryan. I don't see the Hawks using a pick on one, unless they can't think of anyone else to draft.
Will they draft for this position: No
If they were to, who would they pick: Darragh O'Neill, Colorado (College teammate of Paul Richardson)
It'd have been a shock, for sure. O'Neill went undrafted.
So there you have it. With the Hawks 11 picks, I have them taking a wide receiver, a tackle, two guards/centers, a defensive tackle, a defensive end, two linebackers, a safety, and two cornerbacks. We'll see how close I get!
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