In the Draft we saw the Seahawks add 10 players. They achieved exactly what they needed to in picking offensive tackle Germain Ifedi. He started as a guard in college before spending his final two seasons at tackle so he has a versatile background.
He’s a strong athlete for a big guy and moves well along the line, which is an important part of the criteria for offensive line coach Tom Cable. Ifedi is said to be a bit raw and didn’t operate out of the three-point stance much in college, however many analysts think he has big upside.
General Manager John Schneider said they had two options in the first round, which was to pick either an offensive line or a defensive line, depending on how it felt. As they took an offensive lineman, they traded up in the second round to select defensive tackle Jarran Reed. With Brandon Mebane leaving via free agency, Reed has a serious chance of being able to start immediately, and even if he isn’t a day 1 starter, he’ll help restore strength as a run-stuffer, which is something the Seahawks need in their team.
Seahawks also selected running back, C.J. Prosise. Prosise only spent one year at running back so he is still learning the position but he showed some real potential. He has a knack for cutting and could provide the team with strength at running back, which is something they want.
Seahawks picked up tight end Nick Vannett who is a great route runner and blocker. The team already has Jimmy Graham and Luke Wilson so its likely Vannett will only really be used in particular scenarios that play to his strength.
Rees Odhiambo is another player selected by the Seahawks. At college he played right tackle but Seahawks intend to play him at guard. Although he is known for his power and ability, there are some concerns in that he missed several games in each season due to injury and has had surgery on both ankles. He didn’t work out at NFL Combine although he is now said to be healthy.
Adding further depth to their defensive line, Seahawks selected Quinton Jefferson who played defensive end and defensive tackle in college. We all know how the Seahawks like experimenting with young players to see where they fit so they could try Jefferson as a big, run-stuffing defensive end, similar to what they did with Red Bryant a few years ago. Or he could be chosen to play as a three-technique defensive tackle — the spot held by Rubin who turns 30 this year. Jefferson could provide strength this year while giving the team an option in the future.
Another pick for the Seahawks was running back Alex Collins. Collins has the perfect size and strength but isn’t regarded as very fast, with some referring to him as a between-the-tackles runner. He is considered to have decent hands and believes he’s confident he can produce as a receiver with the Seahawks. One to watch I think.
The Seahawks have wanted to create more competition at the Center position. The next pick, Joey Hunt is undersized for typical standards, but that’s never been an issue for the Seahawks. They like their centers to be quick and mobile. Some have even gone on to say he is arguably the best pass protector in the draft.
Next pick is wide receiver Kenny Lawler who is known for making one-handed catches. There is question around whether he can handle physical defensive backs but he looks to have the body control and skills to be a jump-ball target for Russell Wilson.
Last but not least, Seahawks drafted running back Zac Brooks who is an impressive athlete. His past as a receiver is something that intrigued Seahawks and they are hoping to see if he can fulfill a role as a third-down running back.
It’s now been three weeks since the draft took place, and the rookie mini-camp is now also complete. Pete Carroll in an interview with The Seattle Times said that the players are working hard to co-operate and fit together. He mentioned it’s hard to really understand what you have until the pads are on but that he can see their movement and that they’re learning the system – so you can get a sense.
Overall, I think Seahawks made some good picks and I look forward to seeing how things progress over the season.