Seattle Seahawks NFL Team Column
By Joshua Sattler 2008 NFL Draft Analysis
| 7 May 2008 |
Reviewing Past Drafts Under the Tim Ruskell Regime
The Seahawks philosophy when it comes to player personnel has undergone a complete overhaul with the introduction of GM Tim Ruskell in 2004. The emphasis has gone from being solely about talent to more about character, determination and drive since Ruskell took the reigns. Picks like Jerramy Stevens, Darrel Jackson, Ken Hamlin and Koren Robinson would not be made by Tim Ruskell. Head cases like Stevens have been replaced by character selections like Lofa Tatupu and Josh Wilson. The Seahawks’ selections in the 2008 draft were based on these same principles. Listening to Lawrence Jackson speak showed why he was drafted more than his ability to rush the quarterback did. John Carlson is a complete football player who was assembling legos with his 4 year old nephew when his name was called on draft day. So far, Ruskell’s strategy and philosophies have paid off. There haven’t been many black eyes on Ruskell’s tenure except for the mishandling of the Steve Hutchinson situation or possibly judging Ken Hamlin as a bad egg because he was assaulted outside a Seattle nightclub and should have known to not put himself in that situation. Nevertheless, here is a look and evaluation of Tim Ruskell’s draft history with the Seahawks, picks rated on a scale of 1-10.
2007
Round 2 - #55 CB Josh Wilson, Maryland. 8 - Ruskell found first round talent in the second round in Wilson and address the team’s biggest need at CB, Wilson’s ability as a kick returner is still an untapped resource for the future.
Round 3 - #85 DT Brandon Mebane, California. 9 - Mebane ended up playing in all 16 games for Seattle at DT after starter Marcus Tubbs went down in the pre-season with an injury. To find this kind of talent in the third round was a gem.
Round 4 - #120 DE Baraka Atkins, Miami. 6 - Atkins recorded no sacks in 12 games, but the team uses Julian Peterson off the edge and DE Patrick Kearney was the defensive player of the year. Other DE starter Darryl Tapp was cemented in and Atkins mainly saw mop up duty.
Round 4 - #124 G Mansfield Wrotto, Georgia Tech. Incomplete - Wrotto played in no games for Seattle in 2007, but Ruskell gets marks for drafting a player for the future possibly at a position of need.
Round 5 - # 161 LB Will Herring, Auburn. 7 - Herring played mostly on special teams in 2007, but proved to have the kind of work ethic that Ruskell looks for. Herring could be a valuable back up linebacker in 2008.
Round 6 - #197 WR Courtney Taylor, Auburn. 7 – Taylor played during the injury plagued weeks for Seattle when both Branch and Hackett were out and showed talent for a WR in the complicated Mike Holmgren offense.
Round 6 - #210 WR Jordan Kent, Oregon. Incomplete – Kent is a project player and spent the season on the practice squad. His talent is there, but Kent was a two sport athlete in college and he will have to work hard to make it in the NFL.
Round 7 - #232 T Steve Vallos, Wake Forest. N/A - No longer with team.
2006
Round 1 - #31 CB Kelly Jennings, Miami. 9 – Jennings was the starting corner for Seattle in 2007 alongside pro-bowler Marcus Trufant. Jennings has overcome size issues to be a starting NFL corner for Seattle.
Round 2 - #63 DE Darryl Tapp, Virginia Tech. 9 – Tapp started at DE for Seattle in 2007 and was one of Ruskell’s true gems in the draft. Tapp has the work ethic and motor that has become the philosophy when evaluating talent in Seattle.
Round 4 - #128 G Rob Sims, Ohio State. 8 – Sims started at guard for most of the 2007 season for Seattle and was a true value pick in the 4th round. Sims may develop into a great pro as he has great size for a guard.
Round 5 - #163 FB David Kirtman, USC. Incomplete – Kirtman has spent his career on the practice squad but might find his way onto the roster in 2008 because of the retirement of Mack Strong and uncertain future of Leonard Weaver.
Round 7 - #239 P Ryan Plackemeier, Wake Forest. 8 – Plackemeier has been the starting punter for Seattle since his rookie year and has been impressive at times while taking some undue criticism due to his youth and inexperience.
Round 7 - #249 WR Ben Obomanu, Auburn. 8 – Obomanu was a 7th round selection, yet he found his way into 12 games last year with 12 catches for 180 yards and a TD. Obomanu may prove to be in the rotation at WR this season if some injuries don’t go Seattle’s way and if no WRs are selected in the draft.
2005
Round 1 - #26 C Chris Spencer, Mississippi. 9 – Seattle took a real chance by spending a first round pick on a center. Other than snapping in the shotgun, Spencer hasn’t missed a beat filing in at guard as a rookie and starting every game last season at center.
Round 2 - #45 LB Lofa Tatupu, USC. 10 – Tatupu is the signature pick of the Ruskell era. Tatupu’s size and strength were questioned coming out of USC and Seattle took him way above his projected slot in the 2005 draft. Tatupu made the pro-bowl in each of his three seasons in addition to leading the team in tackles each year. Tatupu has become the face of the Seahawks defense.
Round 3 - #85 QB David Greene, Georgia. 5 – Green is really the only true bust of the Ruskell regime, though much of the blame for this could be placed on Mike Holmgren for not developing Greene. Greene was cut to make room when Seattle traded for QB Charlie Frye last season and took snaps away from the development of back-up Seneca Wallace.
Round 3 - #98 LB Leroy Hill, Clemson. 10 – Hill may be the most underrated player in the NFL. He plays on the same defense as Tatupu, Peterson, Kearney and Trufant and does all of the dirty work for the Seattle defense.
Round 4 - #105 T Ray Willis, Florida State. 7 – Willis has provided depth along the Seahawks line the last 3 seasons, his grade is lower because he hasn’t developed much at this point in his career.
Round 5 - #159 DE Jeb Huckeba, Arkansas. N/A
Round 6 - #196 RB Tony Jackson, Iowa. N/A
Round 7 - #235 LB Cornelius Wortham, Alabama. N/A
Round 7 - #254 G Doug Nienhuis, Oregon State. N/A
Overall grade = 8 - Ruskell’s draft history has been near flawless when you factor in the fact that Seattle has been a playoff team during his entire tenure and has never had a pick higher than #26. This is just taking a brief look at Ruskell’s history in the draft, Ruskell’s facelift of the Seahawks has been larger in the free agent market with the open wallet of Paul Allen and then with the coaching staff, by keeping Mike Holmgren happy and finding his replacement a year early in Jim Mora Jr. Seattle is in good hands when it comes to NFL draft weekend, because of their GM’s ability to find talented players with character.
| 27 April 2008 |
Seattle Seahawks: 2008 draft review and analysis
Round 1: #28 DE Lawrence Jackson USC. The Seahawks moved back in the 2008 draft and added some later picks as compensation from the Cowboys and selected Jackson. The Seahawks were in a good position because they could take the best player available. It was hard to watch as 3 great first round backs flew off the board right before Seattle picked. Rashard Mendenhall, Felix Jones and Chris Johnson all were selected right before Seattle’s choice and it was maybe at that time that Seattle decided they could fall back and still get their man. Jackson provides depth along the defensive line as they already have Patrick Kearney cemented into one DE position. Darryl Tapp was relieved by second year player Baracka Atkins on the other side and the selection of Jackson may sign Seattle’s displeasure with the lack of development out of Tapp. Jackson has great size and comes from a dominant program, but I question the pick because Tapp has been very productive for Seattle and Jackson played on the same line as DT Sedrick Ellis who was selected at #7. I would have preferred to see Seattle go with Phillip Merling if they were set on the DE position, but you can’t doublethink GM Tim Ruskell’s decisions lately in the draft. I hope he struck gold here again. My grade is B-.
Round 2: #38 TE John Carlson Notre Dame. I literally jumped off my couch with excitement and started searching Seattle’s roster for what number he can wear so I can purchase my jersey. Seattle traded up to get their TE as no TE was really graded as a first round pick in this draft. Carlson has pure hands, great size, blocks well and is a high character player that can come in and contribute right away. Carlson could be the TE Seattle has been looking for to finally be a piece of the puzzle in the Seahawks’ offense. Carlson was worth trading up for as he would have been long off the board by Seattle’s regular second round choice. Carlson is a player who would have been a 1st round pick if he had entered the draft last year, but after a terrible Notre Dame team left him out to dry his stock plummeted. Carlson was also hampered by a stomach bug that caused him to loose 20 pounds around the Senior Bowl and then ran poorly at the NFL combine. Carlson’s stock shot back up again after Notre Dame’s pro day where his 40 yard dash time improved, but his value is not found in numbers. Carlson will be a great pro, my grade is a resounding A+.
Round 4: #121 DT Red Bryant Texas A&M. This was a very high value pick in the 4th round for Seattle. Bryant was graded as a second round pick before the combines and examination of the long football offseason began. Bryant was labeled with a weight problem and critiqued for taking plays off, but his football skills are much better than a 4th round pick. At 6’4” 315, Bryant is more of a hard nosed run stuffing tackle but that is exactly what Seattle needs. Bryant will provide depth along Seattle’s defensive line with Rocky Bernard possibly in legal troubles and former first round pick Marcus Tubbs trying to come back from another knee injury. Bryant will see some serious snaps in 2008. My grade is a solid A for getting this type of talent in the 4th round.
Round 5: #163 FB Owen Schmitt West Virginia. This pick had me scratching my head a little as Seattle just locked up FB Leonard Weaver and has been impressed by David Kirtman on the practice field. Schmitt is a true FB who loves a great block in the mouth as much as he does running in a touchdown, but I think Seattle reached a little here as there was quite a bit of talent still on the board when they made this selection. Schmitt has the size, skill and attitude necessary to play FB in the NFL and would be a fan favorite if he ever gets on the field. I think Seattle reached a little here, my grade is a C+.
Round 6: #189 LS Tyler Schmitt San Diego State. When you see a long snapper selected in the NFL draft you know the kid must be able to perform. Schmitt snapped all 4 years for the Aztecs and his presence will be felt in the special teams if he makes the team. Long snapping is a much valued and underappreciated talent in the NFL and hopefully Seattle found a gem. I grade out Schmitt at a B- because the need for a good long snapper is very large in Seattle and he has decent enough size to play in special teams.
Round 7: #233 RB Justin Forsett California. Forsett was a nice pick for a 7th round selection, my friend Rob compares him to a poor man’s Steve Slaton. Forsett is an undersized quick back that won’t ever carry the groceries for an NFL team, but can definitely develop into a 3rd down back that catches the ball well out of the backfield. Forsett was a first team Pac-10 selection and led the conference in rushing touchdowns; this was a nice pick for so late in the draft. B+
Round 7: #235 K Brandon Coutu Georgia. Coutu was graded by ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. as the #1 kicker in this year’s draft and the most NFL ready to handle the load at the next level. Coutu’s range peaks around 58 yards and he will give free agent K Olindo Mare a run for his contract in training camp. It was a little surprising Seattle spent a pick on a kicker after signing Mare. Many people thought Seattle would invite the best undrafted kicker to compete in camp and not have to spend a pick. Coutu was worth spending a selection on. My only concern with Coutu is that he kicked in a dome for his career and played in the warm weather friendly SEC. I really wanted to see Seattle replace Josh Brown with a young kicker they could groom and I think Mare’s leg isn’t strong enough to kick in the weather in Seattle. I think this was a great pick and give it an A.
| 22 April 2008 |
Seattle Seahawks: Evaluating the other mock drafts
It would be impossible to evaluate another person’s mock draft right? How can you comment on someone’s guess of who a team will pick at #25 in the 2008 NFL draft? So I decided to do just that. I have taken a look at a collection of mock draft choices for the Seahawks and I will evaluate and critique the likelihood, probability and chances the Seahawks will draft this player in the first round.
DT Kentwan Balmer, UNC. In fact, my first Seahawks’ team mock had Kentwan Balmer as the pick.
Balmer is by far the consensus pick according to mock draft prognosticators. His level of talent is slated to be a pick in the 22-28 range and the Seahawks have a pressing need at DT. Balmer’s size and skill are is not in question as he would be a solid late first round pick for Seattle. However, rumors about Balmer’s work ethic and desire do make this pick questionable. In the Tim Ruskell era for Seattle, the Seahawks have often times passed on the more talented player to get a player with desire, character and work ethic. Players like Lofa Tatupu, Kelly Jennings, Josh Wilson and Daryl Tapp were drafted first on character and second on talent. A player like Balmer is the type of pick that Seattle hasn’t made recently and it puts doubt in my mind whether or not Seattle would select him in the first round.
TE Dustin Keller, Purdue. As picked in mock drafts by ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr, draftace.com, Saturdays2sundays.com and nfl.com’s Vic Carucci.
Keller fills the biggest need for the Seahawks by far. The Seahawks thought they found a fixture at TE when they drafted Jerramy Stevens in the first round 6 years ago but they were wrong. The TE position was a fixture in Mike Holmgren’s offense in Green Bay but has been nonexistent during his tenure in Seattle. The main problem with Keller is that he simply can’t block. Keller is more of a WR trapped in a TE’s body. The spread offense that Keller played in at Purdue was not big on run blocking and that is an area of emphasis for the 2008 Seahawks and the beginning of the Jim Mora Jr era in Seattle. With Mora Jr. taking the helm, Seattle will place a larger emphasis on running the ball in 2008 and beyond. To spend a first round pick on a TE that can’t block just doesn’t make sense. I think Seattle can find their future TE in the second round, either by trading up or standing pat. I just don’t see Keller as that much better than Fred Davis out of USC, Martellus Bennett out of Texas A&M or John Carlson from Notre Dame who will all be picked in the second round or later.
DT Glenn Dorsey, LSU. As picked in a mock draft by nfldraftdog.com’s Daryl Breault. Simply said, Dorsey will not be there when Seattle picks at #25. Dorsey is still a top 5 talent in this draft in spite of injury questions and I will buy Daryl a steak if he drops out of the top 10.
OT Sam Baker, USC. As picked in a mock draft by nfldraftdog.com’s John L. Clarke. Baker is a very sound pick for Seattle as he is talented enough to be selected in the first round and would be a nice young building block for the future of Seattle’s offensive line. Walter Jones is in his last couple of seasons and Baker would provide much needed depth along the line for Seattle as the focus turns to improving the running game in 2008 and beyond. This would be a very solid pick for Seattle; I wonder if Baker would be the most talented OT left on the board when Seattle picks. My most recent mock draft had Seattle selecting OT Jeff Otah from Pittsburgh, but it would be a toss up as to who Seattle has rated higher on their big board.
WR Devin Thomas, Michigan State. As picked in a mock draft by walterfootball.com. This is quite the intriguing pick. While most mock drafts have Thomas going off the board in the 10-15 region as the #1 WR taken, WR has become a need position for them overnight. The Seahawks traded last year’s #1 pick to New England for WR Deion Branch, who has been a fan favorite but not quite the productive WR they were looking for. Branch currently has a knee injury and may be out into training camp. WR DJ Hackett defected to Carolina in the offseason after an injury riddled 2007 campaign. WRs Bobby Engram and Nate Burleson had good seasons, but Burleson earns his money in the return game and Engram’s home is the slot. Thomas, or a WR pick could be a sleeper pick for the Hawks here if the right guy is available. WR Malcolm Kelly, Oklahoma, as picked by Chris Steuber on scout.com is in the same boat as Thomas, but it is unlikely either is available when Seattle picks.
LB Dan Connor, Penn State. As picked in a mock draft on nfldaily.com. Frankly, this pick makes zero sense. I have my doubts about Connor being a first round talent and even if he was, the Seahawks will not go LB in any of the first 3 rounds. LBs Lofa Tatupu, Julian Peterson and Leroy Hill are cemented in this lineup and another LB would be a waste of a pick.
DE Calais Campbell, Miami. As picked be Seattle PI writer Claire Farnsworth during the NFL network’s live draft. Campbell might be a stretch for Seattle as he is a little bit of a project player and the Seahawks are invested in DEs Patrick Kearney, Darryl Tapp and Baraka Atkins. I don’t see Seattle taking a chance on a guy like Campbell with their first round pick when there will be sure things left on the board to choose from.
Overall, I see the Seahawks taking the best player available to them. I don’t see the Seahawks reaching or going outside their philisophy by selecting Dustin Keller or Kentwan Balmer. I see Seattle in the market for an offensive tackle like Sam Baker or Jeff Otah or possibly taking a WR if the right talent like Devin Thomas, Malcolm Kelly or even Mario Manningham slip past their projected slots.
| 4 April 2008 |
Tatupu and Trufant secured for the future
The Seahawks continued their perfection in personnel decision making when they locked up LB Lofa Tatupu and CB Marcus Trufant to long term deals. This signifies an investment in both players as the Seahawks are showing they would like both players to wear Seahawk uniforms for their entire careers. The Tatupu decision was brilliant; with Seattle negotiating before his deal was up and he could test the free agent waters. They have secured their defensive captain and leader; in fact Tatupu was one of the first true gems GM Tim Ruskell found when he arrived in Seattle. The Trufant decision was a little different. Trufant was coming off a career year in which he was selected as a starter in the Pro Bowl. The team was unable or unwilling to negotiate with Trufant until his contract was up and they had to handcuff him with the franchise tag to keep him around. In the end, the dollars made Trufant’s deal a no brainer. While the NFL free agent market has seen Nate Clements signed for 8 years 80 million, Asante Samuel signed for 6 years 57 million and DeAngelo Hall signed for 7 years 70 million, the Seahawks brought in Trufant for 6 years 50 million. Naysayers will cite Trufant’s size and state he is more of a #2 corner stuck being a #1 in Seattle, but his numbers last year were no surprise to Coaches and teammates.
These moves come on the heels of the Seahawks barrage of running back signings and limited movement in free agency. With the NFL draft just 4 weeks away the Seahawks roster seems to be as complete as it is going to be besides the pending Shaun Alexander question. It seems Alexander will be cut in June and unless the Seahawks sign any players cut from other teams at that point, any new roster additions will come via the draft. The Seahawks draft needs still hold at defensive tackle, tight end, safety, running back and possibly kicker. The Seahawks signed Olindo Mare, but I am skeptical about his ability to kick in the weather he will face for 8 games next year in Seattle. Josh Brown wasn’t necessarily the best kicker in the NFL but he was cool in the clutch and the blustery wind and rain of Seattle never seemed to bother him.
| 17 March 2008 |
Seattle Seahawks: Shaun Alexander’s days are numbered
The Seahawks continued their streak of surprising moves by signing free agent running back Julius Jones formally with the Dallas Cowboys. I have heard many people in Dallas say no big deal, including our own Robert Bryant from NFL Draft Dog, but I disagree. This move actually makes sense to me. I am a little biased though; I loved Jones’ running style at Notre Dame and watched him carve up the Seahawks on several occasions. Jones has always seemed to be a step away from greatness in the NFL. It seemed in his early days, that Dallas’ head coach Bill Parcells, was hell bent on Jones not doing too well or getting into the end zone too much. Parcells would take Jones out, inside the red zone and he suddenly got a reputation for running style that wasn’t tough enough for short yardage. I believe you reward your running back for taking you 80 yards down the field, but with the pairing in Seattle with TJ Duckett, Jones will continue to be a frustrating pick for fantasy owners. Jones is still in his prime and gives the Seahawks a true threat who can catch the ball out of the backfield, something that hasn’t been present in Seattle since Ricky Watters.
So, the signing of Jones and Duckett lead us to a couple questions, namely Shaun Alexander, Mo Morris and Leonard Weaver. My personal feeling is the Seahawks were only hanging on to Alexander as insurance, in case they were unable to secure the running back of their choice in the upcoming NFL draft. While there are several options at RB in the first three rounds of the draft, the Seahawks have become known for their kind of players. If the right guy is not available when the Seahawks pick, they might feel great going into the season with Alexander, Jones and Duckett fighting for carries. Alexander hasn’t had to fight for a starting role since his rookie year and a little bit of competition might just scare him back into MVP form.
I see Seattle getting their man at RB in the second round and Alexander finds himself out of work in June. According to the Seattle Times’ Danny O’Neil, “if the Seahawks waived Alexander now, they would not be responsible for his salary, but he would count $6.9 million against this year's salary cap. If he was designated a post-June 1 release, he would count $2.3 million against the cap this year, $4.6 million next season.” There are also grumblings out of Alexander’s camp that they want Seattle to make their intentions for him known now so he can move on, which might foil Seattle’s best laid plans. Either way, it seems more likely than not that Alexander has seen his last days as a Seahawk.
Mo Morris will also become a casualty of this logic. Why Seattle would carry a combination of Jones, Alexander, Duckett and Morris is beyond me. Also, Jones, Duckett, a rookie and Morris doesn’t make sense. I see the Seahawks trading Morris for a late round pick on draft day because he still has value to teams with his current price tag. Also in question is fullback Leonard Weaver, who is a restricted free agent. There has been little room on this front in the offseason so far, some have speculated about Duckett moving to fullback, but I don’t give that much attention. The only other option would be Mike Holmgren’s neighbor, former USC Trojan and current practice squad member David Kirtman. It is plausible that Kirtman could be ready to take over for the mixed reviewed campaign of Leonard Weaver at fullback, but this can’t be much of a money issue if it doesn’t get done. The Seahawks have loved Weaver’s bruising style of running, but they also have Duckett for that now. Maybe more of a system style fullback like Kirtman, who has been learning the blocking schemes and offense for two years, is ready to step in. Above all this speculation one thing is for certain; the signing of Jones makes the Seahawks draft options wide open.
| 6 March 2008 |
Seattle Seahawks: Week 1 of free agency has fans scratching their heads
Goodbye Josh Brown and hello TJ Duckett? These two stories and other non moves dominated the first week of free agency in Seattle. Alge Crumpler signs a 2 year deal in Tennessee for 5-6 million? Other members of the Seahawks from last season such as DJ Hackett, Ellis Wyms and Chuck Darby haven’t been mentioned at all recently and oh by the way we need to replace our kicker. But don’t worry Hawks fans, we just signed TJ Duckett! Don’t even talk to me about the rumors about Shaun Alexander being traded either, why would you trade for a guy and his contract when you can negotiate with him for a reduced contract after he gets cut either this year or next.
Now, maybe there are teams with their eyes on Mo Morris, but why Duckett is all of a sudden a starting or even back-up running back in this league has me scratching my head. Duckett does address one glaring need for the Seahawks lately and that is their inability to gain short yardage. Duckett and an improved offensive line should help the Hawks improve their dismal percentages converting on 3rd and short. In the interim, we are left to wonder the future of a roster with Duckett, Alexander, Morris and restricted free agent Leonard Weaver on it.
When Alge Crumpler first hit the free agent market I figured his status of being the number 1 free agent tight end on the market would drive his asking price out of Seattle’s league. Upon hearing about his two year deal that could net 6 million with incentives had me really confused. Alge has publically said he enjoyed Tennessee and so did his wife, so I am thinking his boss made the final call. You can’t fault a player for taking the same or less money in a better situation for him and his family. Tennessee has a decent squad and Crumpler could be very productive as Vince Young’s #1 target. I just can’t imagine that this was a case of Seattle not opening the checkbook for Crumpler.
On the other hand, Josh Brown is the biggest liar to come out of Seattle since Alex Rodriguez. After inking his deal with the rival St. Louis Rams, Brown was quoted as saying this was a decision about winning. This was a decision about winning? I know kickers aren’t exactly Rhodes scholars, but did Josh pick up a newspaper last year to see the Rams record of 3-13? I will be the first one to admit that the Rams were and are much better than that record, but to leave Seattle for St. Louis being an issue of wanting to win is comical, about as comical as a kicker who wears heaters in his pants. I think this was more of an issue of kicking in a dome instead of the rain and wind in Seattle. The contract Seattle offered was rumored to be around $200,000 less, and Brown cut off negotiations with the Hawks after hitting the open market.
Personally, I wouldn’t give a kicker who has never made the pro bowl the richest contract at his position in the NFL. Going into the 2008 season with either a free agent such as Jason Elam or taking some chances on a rookie, such as Alexis Serna from Oregon State sounds just fine to me. The 12th man is definitely going to remind Brown about his decision in his yearly visit to Seattle and Nationally the Rams have taken some heat for spending so much money on a kicker when their defense can’t stop anyone. I for one still reserve the right to change my mind if Seattle misses out on home field advantage or looses a playoff game due to a kicker folding under the pressure. Say what you will about Brown’s decision to sign with the Rams and laughable excuse about winning, but the guy was a great kicker in Seattle, won the Hawks a number of close games and was never rattled in bad weather. Josh Brown will be missed.
| 23 February 2008 |
Seattle Seahawks Draft Needs – and Mock Draft
Many roster decisions may be falling into place in the coming weeks before the NFL draft. CB Marcus Trufant has already had the team’s franchise tag wisely placed on him and the rumors of RB Shaun Alexander’s departure are increasing. Free agent TE Alge Crumpler is still on the market, though it seems he is more driven by the need to stay in division and stick it to his old team than he is to come be the missing piece in Seattle’s quest to return to the superbowl. With some roster questions still lingering, the Seahawks position needs in the draft are tight end, offensive guard, running back, offensive tackle, defensive tackle and safety.
Tight End: It is amazing to realize that Coach Mike Holmgren has been in Seattle for this long and has never had an impact tight end. First round bust Jerramy Stevens showed glimmers of hope in stretches of play, but this team has needed a quality tight end for years. Marcus Pollard’s best days are in his rear view mirror and is a free agent, his injury issues last year make it not likely that he will be resigned. Is this position worth a first round pick with this year’s crop? I don’t think so, I think Seattle could still find quality at TE late in the second round.
Offensive Guard: Seattle snatched up G Mike Wahle from Carolina and signed him to a 5 year deal, but he will be paired with Rob Sims on the other side, who many think has the upside to be a strong starting guard in the league, but grabbing some extra bodies to boost competition for the spot seems smart. Plus, last years back up Pork-Chop Womack is a free agent and building for the future would be ideal for Seattle picking up a guard in the 4th or 5th round is to be expected.
Running Back: Rumor has former MVP Shaun Alexander on his way out of town, even if he escapes being a casualty this year he is definitely gone after the season so the time is now to start searching for his replacement. Back up Maurice Morris has been just that, a quality back up. Nobody in Seattle is convinced Mo can carry the load in Seattle, but he can share time grooming a rookie. I think Seattle looks really hard at running back in the first round if their man is still there, if not – this year is heavy on running back talent in the second round. My projection would be that Oregon RB Jonathan Stewart is gone by the time Seattle picks in the first round, so they either trade up in the second to grab someone, or hope the right player falls to the end of the second round.
Offensive Tackle: The Seahawks just locked OT Sean Locklear to a new deal, but on the other side Walter Jones is past his prime. Walt has enough in the tank for one more superbowl push, but Seattle needs to find a replacement for their franchise tackle now and build for the future, or hope to get lucky in free agency next year. I could even see Seattle spending their first round selection at tackle this year because they truly don’t have any glaring needs beside TE.
Defensive Tackle: Seattle has just plain had trouble keeping their DTs healthy. Rookie Brandon Mebane was impressive last year and Rocky Bernard was as well, but there is no depth at this position. This is another area you could even see the Seahawks go in the first round because the better this position is, the better defensive ends Patrick Kearney and Darryl Tapp look.
Safety: Safeties Brian Russell and Deon Grant were exactly what this team needed in 2007, and they are still quality enough players to be just as good in 2008, plus Jordan Babineaux has proved to be an adequate back up or nickel back. This is a spot where the team could look for depth and the future, a mid round pick at safety wouldn’t be a shock at all.
One thing to remember in this years draft is that under the current Tim Ruskell regime, the Seahawks don’t take chances on players with questionable character. More than 40 yard dash time and weight lifting, the Seahawks analyze determination and character on their big board. This process has led them to find gems such as Darryl Tapp, Leroy Hill and Lofa Tatupu. Last year I didn’t see one draft website that had Seattle taking CB Josh Wilson. It is clear that GM Tim Ruskell isn’t up watching Mel Kiper Jr’s analysis on ESPN, nor does he peruse sites such as this when evaluating talent, it is impossible to predict the Seahawks moves of late, but you cant fault their methods. With that being said, here is my 2008 Seahawks only mock draft:
Round 1 (#25) – DT Kentwan Balmer 6’5” 295 – University of North Carolina. Balmer could start for the Seahawks in 2008, his stock has soared lately and he could easily play DT or DE in multiple looks for Seattle. DE Darryl Tapp had an inconsistent first year as a starter and DT is a hole for the Seahawks. This is just one of many avenues the Seahawks could go down, I think they are in a place this year to just take the best player available and Balmer would be that at pick #25.
Round 2 (#55) – TE John Carlson 6’6” 255 – Notre Dame. I can just see Seahawks management loving this guy. He is a gamer, he catches everything in sight and would be an impact player in the running game. This senior leader could be an instant starter for the Seahawks, and with Notre Dame having a terrible year in 2007 plus Carlson catching a stomach virus and loosing weight around the senior bowl, his stock has fallen from a first round lock to a second round steal for the Seahawks. I would love this pick, Carlson could be a 10 year solid pro.
Round 3 (#86) – RB Steve Slaton 5’10” 198 – West Virginia. Seattle finds another late round gem in Slaton who would finally be the pass catching game changing back they have been looking for. Pair Slaton with Morris in Seattle’s backfield and they would be electric. Slaton has one of the larges upsides in the entire NFL draft, had he stayed for his senior year he could be a first round pick in 2009. He disappeared late in West Virginia’s season, but his talent is so high Seattle would be lucky to find their new running back here.
Round 4 (#117) – OT John Greco 6’5” 320 – Toledo. Greco could be an excellent addition for depth and the future of the Seattle Seahawks. Greco could be a late round steal that could be an outstanding starting tackle in 2 years, right about the same time OT Walter Jones might be done. This would be a great building block for the future.
Round 5 (#150) – S Jamar Adams 6’2” 212 – Michigan. Adams is what you call a “Ruskell” guy, he was a 4 year honor role member in high school, the guy was even in the chess club. He is tough and comes from a proven program. Adams could be the type of guy that has defined Ruskell’s run as GM in Seattle, a high character and self motivated football player. His size and strength make him a prototype NFL safety and another nice piece for the future.
Round 6 – No selection
Round 7 (#212) – WR Dorien Bryant 5’10 174 – Purdue. Seattle takes a late round flyer on Bryant as an eventual replacement for slot receiver Bobby Engram. Bryant is a speedy, sure handed receiver that comes from a program that airs it out just like Seattle. With Seattle’s WR corps in question for the next couple years, Bryant is the type of guy that can work his way into the system and could also help boost the return game.
| 15 February 2008 |
Seattle Seahawks say goodbye to Zorn and introduce Mora Jr.
The decision to appoint Jim Mora Jr as the Seahawks successor to Coach Mike Holmgren came as no surprise to anyone in Seattle. The history of Mora with the area as a former University of Washington linebacker and his working relationship with GM Tim Ruskell seemed to be a fit from the time he was hired as the Hawks secondary coach in 2007. Seattle has secured a former hot young coach in Mora who many in football believe didn’t get a fair shake as head coach of the Atlanta Falcons, others would say he escaped an already sinking ship with the aftermath of Mike Vick and then Coach Bobby Petrino after Mora's departure. Mora might have sealed his own fate after appearing on a local sports radio talk show, KJR AM 950 with host Dave Softy Mahler and former college buddy and Husky QB Hugh Millen where Mora said he would drop whatever he was doing, even leave the Falcons in a playoff run to coach his alma matter the University of Washington.
The only hitch to Mora coaching the Seahawks seems to be a lingering sense from locals that the post Mora truly desires is across the way at Husky Stadium. With Tyrone Willingham in constant limbo at UW, the idea that their coaching search will begin again and possibly sneak in and lure Mora has some Seahawk fans feeling uneasy about the hire. GM Tim Ruskell also said publicly recently that Mora was "locked" into the Seahawks as their head coach, which leaves many to ponder some sort of buyout clause in his contract or some sort of monetary penalty prohibiting Mora from leaving for the University of Washington?
Count me as one of the people completely perplexed by the Redskins hiring of former Seahawks QB and QB Coach Jim Zorn as their head coach. In fact, many were pretty caught off guard when he was named their offensive coordinator. With the news of 2008 being Mike Holmgren's last year pending and then appointment of Jim Mora Jr as his successor waiting in the wings it was announced that Zorn would be leaving for Washington to be their offensive coordinator before a head coach was named. Many names were rumored for the spot including former defensive coordinator Gregg Williams and former Giants head coach Jim Fassel. My first thought was why would Zorn leave the team he has spent his entire professional career with when it is very likely that current Seahawks offensive coordinator Gil Haskell will most likely ride off into the sunset with Holmgren?
The smart money would then be on Mora bumping up Zorn to coordinator and then my first impression with absolutely no factual basis would be naming former University of Washington quarterback Hugh Millen as his new quarterbacks coach. Mora and Millen are great friends off the field and are former college roommates from their playing days at the University of Washington. So then back to Zorn, why leave when you are the heir apparent? Maybe Zorn knew he wouldn’t be in Mora's plans, the Seahawks pass happy offense isn’t exactly what Mora was known for in Atlanta where they led the league in rushing several seasons during his tenure. Maybe Mora would play the hand he was dealt and keep the same offensive philosophy at hand, or maybe you will see the Seahawks address their aging running game in the 2008 draft to make Seattle a more balanced attack? In any case, Zorn felt the Washington move was good for him for whatever reason and then sat as their offensive coordinator waiting for his new boss to be named. Then comes the phone call from maverick Redskins owner Dan Snyder, hey Jim - how about a 5 year deal to be the head coach? Zorn looked about as comfortable as Rosie O'Donnell in a thong at the news conference naming him as the successor to NFL hall of fame Coach Joe Gibbs as the new coach of the Redskins. I ask, on a staff including the likes of Mike Holmgren, Jim Mora Jr, Gil Haskell, Keith Gilbertson and John Marshall exactly how much coaching and day to day operations do you think Zorn was actually involved in?
Some of those names are regarded as the best in the business, how much defense do you think Zorn was involved in as QB Coach? Or even, how much offense do you think Zorn was involved in, play calling, game planning, scheduling, evaluating talent and working on free agent acquisitions? Now this guy is going to be the head coach of the Washington Redskins? Zorn is going to work for an owner with deep pockets and a mantra of win now? Even the immortal Gibbs only went 30-34 in the regular season during his latest stint with the Redskins including the 2007 miracle season riding the memory of the fallen Sean Taylor to the playoffs. In my opinion, Zorn doesn’t even see the end of year two of that contract. I have had people tell me, well Snyder will buy Zorn the best coordinators money can buy, but who? The Redskins let Gregg Williams walk to Jacksonville and delayed their head coaching hire so long that they have missed the boat on the best other talented coaches out on the market to either their own teams for 2008 or other head coaching spots. Who will this brain trust consist of to help Zorn?
This question and many others will be answered by the Redskins in 2008, the only bright spot for Zorn is that Coaches contracts are guaranteed in the NFL, at least he will get paid to look like he is lost.
| 06 February 2008 |
2008 Position Overview: Quarterbacks
Starter: Matt Hasselbeck, 6’4” 225 – 9 year pro from Boston College
2007 Analysis: Hasselbeck put up franchise record numbers in 2007 earning him another trip to the Pro-Bowl. Hasselbeck has replaced Shaun Alexander as the marquee face of the Seattle Seahawks and is their most valuable player for 2008. Hasselbeck threw for 3,966 yards and 28 touchdowns leading his Seahawks to the second round of the playoffs, virtually carrying his team all season long after the ineffectiveness of Seattle’s running game.
2008 Outlook: Hasselbeck will again be the leader of the Seahawks in 2008, at the age of 32 it is a little too early to be thinking about the future without him and he has at least 3-4 more years of Pro-Bowl caliber productivity. As with the last two seasons, Hasselbeck’s production and ability to stay healthy will dictate how much success Seattle has.
Back-up: Seneca Wallace, 5’11” 205 – 5 year pro from Iowa State
2007 Analysis: Wallace proved to be a valuable back up NFL quarterback in 2007 filing in for Matt Hasselbeck in spots and playing at a decent level. Wallace continues to see spot action as a novelty receiver mainly as a decoy and for trick plays only. Wallace only caught 2 passes for 47 yards, but as the team’s number two quarterback the Seahawks didn’t want to take the chance of injury. The development of thirdstringer Charlie Frye will dictate how much Wallace can be used as a receiver or return man in 2008. It is hard to stomach for Seahawk fans that a player as explosive as Wallace coming out of college has been sitting on the bench primarily for the prime of his athletic career, coach Mike Holmgren must really see something in Wallace to watch him develop as a quarterback this long.
2008 Outlook: Plain and simple if you see Seneca Wallace on the field at quarterback in 2008 it will mean Seattle isn’t a playoff team. If former Cleveland Brown Charlie Frye can catch onto Seattle’s system it may mean that Wallace can be used more as a receiver and see his explosive abilities on the field, if not then you should hope to see Wallace with a clipboard in his hand in 2008 if you are a Seahawks fan.
Third Stringer: Charlie Frye, 6’4” 218 – 3 year pro from Akron
2007 Analysis: Frye was named the Browns opening day starter in 2007 only to see himself yanked from action and then subsequently traded after week 1. Frye didn’t see the field in a Seahawks uniform in 2007 but with the franchise in good hands under Matt Hasselbeck there is nothing but speculation as to how Frye caught onto Seattle’s system in practice.
2008 Outlook: It is hard to believe that a player with only 3 years under his belt as a pro is a lost cause at quarterback. Frye has all the tools to succeed as an NFL starter or at least high caliber back up. Possibly with a full offseason and mini-camp with the Seahawks, Frye can regain the form that led Cleveland to spend a 3rd round draft choice on him in 2005 and name him as the starter over pro-bowler Derek Anderson in 2007. Best case scenario for Frye is he can replace Wallace as the back up and free time to use him at receiver, worst case is he is outright cut during camp and Seattle is left to scour the free agent market or 2008 draft class for a project quarterback.
2008 Positional Outlook: Hasselbeck is the face of this franchise, Wallace is an explosive player with nothing but potential to ride on and Charlie Frye is a nice project. The only real question here for 2008 is the development of Charlie Frye. If Frye can succeed as a back up in Seattle it may mean Wallace’s days are over as a project, as it has been Mike Holmgren who is convinced he can be an NFL quarterback. If Seattle spends a 2008 draft pick on a quarterback, even in the late rounds, it may be the writing on the wall that Frye will never see the field as a Seattle Seahawk.
Potential 2008 draft pick?: I severely doubt that Seattle will spend a draft pick at quarterback, but they may be looking for a project player in the post Mike Holmgren era in Seattle or they may be looking to get rid of Seneca Wallace or Charlie Frye. The only potential for a draft pick here would be a 6th or 7th round selection. Possible names would be Brandon Cox 6’2” 207 QB out of Auburn or if a player such as Sam Keller 6’3” 235 QB from Nebraska would slip past his late round projection and be too good for Seattle to pass on.
| 29 January 2008 |
Holmgren is back for 2008, now what?
The first piece in the 2008 Seahawks puzzle is now in place, Mike Holmgren will return for one final run with the Hawks and he and the team have decided to not work on an extension. His possible replacement, secondary and assistant head coach Jim Mora Jr. had his cup of tea with Redskins owner Dan Snyder, but took his hat out of the ring after one interview. In a surprising move, Quarterbacks coach and Seahawks ring of honor member Jim Zorn took the offensive coordinator job in Washington. This move baffled many, as much like last year when the Cowboys hired Jason Garrett before a head coach was in place, the head coach has yet to be named in Washington. Also, Zorn could have been a possible front runner for offensive coordinator with his beloved Seahawks in the Mora Jr. regime next year. It is possible that Zorn saw the writing on the wall that he and Mora were not on the same page or possibly didn’t want to turn down a sure thing in Washington for a chance to have the same position in Seattle after next season.
Another uncertain situation will be how this team is shaped for the 2008 run. Will Holmgren and GM Tim Ruskell go all out for the upcoming season, or will Ruskell plan more for the future with the teams moves and not go for it all? The shape of the roster for next season will tell the story of what Seattle will be trying to do. Will the Seahawks add pricey veterans at key positions such as guard, defensive tackle and tight end? Or, will the Hawks build for the future in the draft, possibly taking the running back of the future instead of a player who can make an impact next season?
The most intriguing questions will be for personnel, starting with Shaun Alexander. Alexander has seen his numbers decline since his MVP season and has passed the magic number of 30 for NFL running backs. Back-up Maurice Morris has shown flashes of starting potential when Alexander has been injured in the past two seasons, but he isn’t a franchise running back. Do the Seahawks draft their potential successor in the 2008 draft, or do they address a team need such as a starting guard, defensive tackle or tight end?
The Seahawks number one priority now that the Holmgren question has been answered is CB Marcus Trufant. Early indications show that the Washington State product will not be giving the Seahawks a hometown discount and clearly wants to dangle his feet in the free agent waters. Trufant finally emerged as the pro-bowl corner that everyone thought Seattle was drafting 5 years ago last season, so a max contract such as the one given to Nate Clements by San Francisco may be too high of a ceiling for Seattle to go for. In a market where Asante Samuel is also hitting the market, the asking price on the open market for corners will be escalated to a place where Seattle may not venture to. The franchise tag seems to make the most sense for Trufant while we see if he can replicate the success of 2007 and earn a nice 5 year deal. This of course would mean Trufant misses training camp and it may derail negotiations for the future. Seahawks fans should note New England’s troubles with Samuel last year, to the point where New England had to guarantee not to use the franchise tag again just to get Samuel on the field. Hopefully it doesn’t come to that.