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SEATTLE SEAHAWKS

Pro Sports Daily     Official Site     USA Today     Pro Football Weekly     Seahawks Stats     ESPN

2009 draft     2008 draft     2007 draft     2006 draft

2005 draft     2004 draft     2003 draft     2002 draft

 

2009 DRAFT PICKS
links go to NFL.com website

Rd Sel# Player Pos. School Jay's ranking Jay's draft value
1 4 Aaron Curry OLB Wake Forest #1 OLB Round 1
2 49 Max Unger OC Oregon #3 OC Round 3

Senior Bowl practice comment

Unger did well against Raji early, but this was before Raji was called out by Mike Mayock and started to dominate.

ONE ON ONE BLOCKING DRILLS SCORED BY JAY GOLDBERG

5 - 9 Raji 2-1   King 0-2   Brace 1-4   McGee 2-2
3 91 Deon Butler WR Penn State #21 WR Round 5

East West Shrine Game

Butler, another undersized receiver, showed he could get open and make catches.  One catch he made was one of the best grabs in the game.  He didn't look good during one punt return.
6 178 Mike Teel QB Rutgers NR 7th/FA
7 245 Courtney Greene SS Rutgers #4 SS Round 3

Player who will have a better NFL career than many drafted higher than him.

Coming into 2008, Greene was a player NFL teams were keeping close tabs on.  However, he regressed in 2008, in part due to a new scheme.  Greene is a head-hunting hitting machine, who has the speed to be decent in coverage but will need development in that area.  He will also need to concentrate on making the tackle as well as delivering the big blow.  Still, I can't help feeling that a NFL coaching staff will get hold of this kid and turn him into a special player.
7 247 Nick Reed DE Oregon #20 DE Round 5

East West Shrine Game

Reed was one of the few players to get any pressure on the passer.  He also made a couple of plays against the run.
7 248 Cameron Morrah TE California #10 DE Round 4
FA ---- Michael Bennett DE Hampton NR Late Round Value
FA ---- Devon Moore RB Wyoming #17 Round 5

Player who will have a better NFL career than many drafted higher than him.

Moore is a small back with good third down and return ability.  Moore is fast (4.35 forty), strong (28 bench presses) and an explosive athlete (10'9" broad jump).  He could be a very useful player as a team's number three running back.
FA ---- Dave Philistin ILB Maryland NR Late Round Value

 

B+

2009 COLLEGE DRAFT REPORT CARD

by Jay Goldberg

I was torn between a B and a B+, however, getting my top pick in the draft and signing a rookie free agent who could grow into a big-play contributor on offense swayed me to the B+.

DRAFT PICKS

Curry was my top rated player in the draft and he will be part of one of the top linebacker crews in the NFL.  Curry and Hill can both play WILL and SAM very effectively.  Curry may not be flashy, but he will make things tough on opposing offenses.

Unger is a reliable player who is a plus starter at any position on the offensive line except left tackle.  Look for him to backup initially and then become a starting guard down the line.

The Seahawks had the speedy Butler rated more highly than I did.  As a speed receiver at this spot I like Johnny Knox more.  Knox is just as fast, has top quickness and makes sharp cuts; Butler is a little more straight-line.

Teel has some skills, but is not the developmental quarterback I would have targeted in the draft.  Personally, I would have drafted running back Bernard Scott here.  With Jones, Duckett and Forsett, the Seahawks were in the ideal position to take a chance on this highly-talented, but high-risk running back (off field issues).  Then I would have made signing Nathan Brown or Brian Hoyer or Jason Boltus as a college street free agent.  I had all three rated higher than Teel.

Greene could be a steal for the Seahawks in round seven.  He was a high-profile prospect entering his senior year, when he didn't adjust well to a new defensive scheme.  However, he can hit and he can run.  Neither of the Seahawks starting safeties have great speed, and neither are feared hitters.   Greene will be a top special teams player and I wouldn't be surprised if he pushes Russell to the bench (with Grant moving to free safety) later this season.

Reed was another excellent seventh round pick.  He has good speed and exceptional quickness and will be a good special teams player and nickel rusher.

With all the name pass-catching tight ends in the draft, Morrah got overlooked.  However, he has good speed, makes sharp cuts and is strong enough to develop into a serviceable blocker.  Morrah provides insurance for Carlson and could work in two tight end sets.

COLLEGE STREET FREE AGENTS

Bennett has decent size for a 4-3 end who has not lived up to his potential.  A year on the practice squad will either make the Seahawks excited as they develop him, or he will remain inconsistent and be cut.

Moore is a player I expect to make Seattle's roster.  He is a very good return man and will develop into a Leon-Washington-type of change-of-pace back.  While short, this kid is strong and fast.  Have fun watching him in preseason games.

Philistin will push for a backup linebacker spot in camp because his combination of strength, speed and athleticism will make him a top special teams player.

For chart below: red indicates workout number in top range at position in draft
ARM-HAND relative to position, for ranges see ranking pages for 2009 draft

LAST NAME
at Combine
FIRST NAME SCHOOL HGT WGT ARM-
HAND
BENCH 40 10 20 SHORT LONG 3 CONE VERT BROAD
Curry Aaron Wake Forest 6'1.6" 254 L-M 25 4.52 1.53 2.58 4.54 11.35 6.84 37" 10'4"
Unger Max Oregon 6'4.5" 309 S-M 22 5.27 1.78 2.96 4.50 - 7.39 24.5" 7'9"
Butler Deon Penn State 5'10.3" 182 S-L 12 4.26 1.47 2.50 4.23 11.32 7.01 34.5" 9'10"
Teel Mike Rutgers 6'3" 225 - - 5.13 1.78 2.89 4.59 - 7.65 28.5" 8'8"
Greene Courtney Rutgers 6'0.2" 212 L-M 21 4.47 1.56 2.59 4.16 - 7.35 34.5" 9'11"
Reed Nick Oregon 6'1.3" 247 - 24 4.71 1.59 2.72 4.28 - 6.96 31.5" 9'0"
Morrah Cameron California 6'3.3" 244 L-L 24 4.59 1.59 2.60 4.36 - 6.99 32.5" 9'7"
Bennett Michael Texas A&M 6'3.4" 274 M-L - 4.86 1.62 2.76 - - - 36.5" 9'2"
Moore Devin Wyoming 5'9.5" 190 - 28 4.35 1.49 2.53 - - 6.92 35" 10'9"
Philistin Dave Maryland 6'1.3" 237 - 25 4.59 1.63 2.64 - - - 37" 10'2"

2009 NEEDS PRIOR TO DRAFT AND FREE AGENCY
Major need
     Need     Upgrade possible     Depth/possible need     Not a need

QB Hasselbeck needs a bounce back year.  Wallace played well when Hasselbeck was out and will be looking to move on soon.  Frye is an UFA.  Seattle needs to draft a young quarterback to groom behind Hasselbeck.
RB Morris is an UFA.  Jones had opportunities in Dallas and Seattle to grab the major share of the running game and didn't.  He may get another shot with the Seahawks, but it wouldn't surprise me if Seattle drafted a back to pair with Duckett, whose role should expand in 2009.
WR Branch is the best of the bunch but is injury-prone.  Engram and Robinson are UFAs.  Burleson and Obomanu are returning from injuries, but neither is a feared option.  Seattle needs to add a couple of receivers, one in free agency and one in the draft.
TE Carlson had a nice rookie year.  He should start for years.  Heller, a good blocker, is an UFA.  Newton showed some promise.
OL This line has some pieces and could an efficient line could be put together from those pieces.  However Womack and Willis are UFAs so a guard could be added to the mix and upgrades will be looked at all along the line except for left tackle.
DL Kerney, Tapp and Jackson are a good trio at end.  Mebane is a player on the rise at tackle.  Bernard is an UFA.  Red Bryant is a young player with mad skills who could step in.  Look for Seattle to add a pass rusher to play off the bench and a tackle.
LB Hill is an UFA as is backup Lewis.  If Hill leaves Seattle will have to find a replacement because they do not have one on their bench.  Peterson and Tatupu are very good starter.  depth is needed but will have to come from rookies if Hill is signed because of all the money Seattle will have tied up in their three starting linebackers.
DB Trufant, Wilson, Jennings and Babineaux are a solid group of corners.  However, if a starting caliber corner with size falls into their lap in the draft I could see the Seahawks pulling the trigger.  Grant and Russell are steady, aging, replaceable safeties.  Look for Seattle to look at safeties in the draft.
ST The Seahawks special teams are solid all around.

 

2008 DRAFT PICKS
links go to NFL.com website

Rd Sel# Player Pos. Ht. Wt. School Jay's ranking Jay's draft value
1 28 Lawrence Jackson DE 6'4.2" 271 USC #7 DE Round 2
2 38 John Carlson TE 6'4.7" 255 Notre Dame #4 TE Round 2/Round 3
4 121 Red Bryant DT 6'4.1" 318 Texas A&M #8 DT Round 3
5 163 Owen Schmitt FB 6'2" 247 W Virginia #2 FB Round 4/Round 5
6 189 Tyler Schmitt LS/LB 6'2" 234 San Diego St   Late Round Value
7 233 Justin Forsett RB/Ret 5'8" 194 California #18 RB Round 4/Round 5
7 235 Brandon Coutu K 5'11" 187 Georgia #2 K Late Round Value
FA   Jamar Adams SS 6'2" 212 Michigan #5 SS Round 4/Round 5
FA   William Robinson OT 6'5" 297 S Diego St   Late Round Value

 

C+

2008 COLLEGE DRAFT REPORT CARD

by Jay Goldberg

I thought the Seahawks would come away with a guard to compete with Sims, although I like Sims potential, and a receiver to add to the Taylor/Obomanu/Payne mix, although I like Taylor whom I had a third round grade on last year.  Also, I thought there was a better option at tight end than Carlson in round two.

DRAFT PICKS

Jackson was a slight reach in round one, but will form a nice rotation with Kerney and Tapp.   I do not think he will evolve into a consistent double-digit sack guy, but will be a steady player.  I stick with my initial gut reaction which was that wide receiver Devin Thomas would have been a better selection.

Carlson went into the draft as a top tight end, but had a poor workout at the Combine.  He rebounded some at his Pro Day and should be an adequate starting tight end who can catch and block.  However, I would have jumped at drafting Brad Cottam.  He is almost 6'8", runs a 4.6 forty, has very good hands, has the quickness of a wide receiver, is a good athlete and a decent blocker.  Seattle will be sorry they passed on him.

Bryant is an athletic, speedy defensive tackle who plays hard and has the potential to develop into a very good run-stuffing defensive tackle, something Seattle can use.  He will be in his second year after an ACL injury so could be even better than Seattle hoped for.  Bryant was good value in round four.

Jones and Morris will love Owen Schmitt.  He is a very good blocking fullback who can also serve as a short-yardage runner.

Tyler Schmitt was the best long snapper in the draft.  The Seahawks needed one, but wide receiver Paul Hubbard had to be tempting.

Forsett is an interesting player.  His on-field performance and workout numbers didn't mesh.  While I didn't expect great speed numbers, I thought he would have shone better quickness, and exceptional change-of-direction skills.  He did surprise with his strength lifting the bar 26 times. On the field he produce like a top pick.  I can see him falling off the map, or I can see him being the next Ahmed Bradshaw.  He will probably have to excel in the return game initially however to secure a spot in a crowded backfield.

Coutu was my #2 rated kicker behind Mehloff and with Brown's defection, Seattle needed to bring in a kicker.  Mare is not the answer.

COLLEGE STREET FREE AGENTS

Adams has good size, has good measureables, and has a good shot to win a backup job because he will be a very good special teams player .

Robinson isn't NFL-ready but is a good developmental prospect and an ideal candidate for the Seahawks' practice squad.

red indicates workout number in top range at position in draft
(blue college name indicates workout #'s include Pro Day numbers)

COMBINE
YES
FIRST NAME SCHOOL HEIGHT WEIGHT BENCH 40 10 20 SHORT LONG 3 CONE VERT BROAD
Jackson Lawrence USC 6'4.2" 271 31 4.81 1.60 2.79 4.40 NA 7.08 34.5" 9.0"
Carlson John NOTRE DAME 6'4.7" 255 20 4.67 1.67 2.74 4.28 11.59 7.12 35.5" 9'5"
Bryant Red TEXAS A&M 6'4.1" 318 20 4.90 1.66 2.79 4.64 NA 7.75 28" 9'3"
Schmitt Owen W VIRGINIA 6'2" 247 26 4.70 1.58 2.70 NA NA NA NA NA
Schmitt Tyler S DIEGO ST 6'2" 234 21 4.98 NA NA NA NA 7.03 29" 9'9"
Forsett Justin CALIFORNIA 5'8" 194 26 4.62 1.51 2.62 4.46 NA 6.96 31" 9'9"
Adams Jamar MICHIGAN 6'2" 212 NA 4.59 1.56 2.67 4.49 NA 6.90 34" 10'1"
Robinson William S DIEGO ST 6'5" 297 22 5.22 1.75 2.99 4.69 NA 7.32 26" 9'2"

2008 NEEDS PRIOR TO DRAFT AND FREE AGENCY

SEA          Major Need          Need          Upgrade         Depth Need         Not a Need

QB  Just a hunch, but I expect Holgrem to draft the Seahawks quarterback of the future this year before he retires.  Hasselbeck is solid.  Wallace is a short-term backup.  Frye is a mystery.
RB  Alexander looks like he is past his prime.  Morris is a nice back, but better suited as a backup.  Weaver is a very good fullback.  Look for the Seahawks to grab one of the talented running backs in this draft.  There is a lot of depth at the position in the draft. 
WR  Hackett is a free agent, Engram is a year older and Branch will probably start the year on the PUP.  Still the Seahawks have a solid receiving corps.  Burleson proved his worth, Obomanu has had his moments, and liked Taylor in the draft better than most, and I hear Seattle likes his potential too.  Still with the questions surrounding the top three a player or two will be added to the mix.
TE Pollard was a disappointment.  Heller is no more than a solid backup. At one time Joppru was a promising pass catching tight end, but that was many injuries ago.  This is a major need area for Seattle.
OL  The Seahawks will add a starting guard, maybe two.  Spencer will be given another year at center, but needs to show improvement.  Seattle is set at tackle, but will always be on the lookout for a young stud who could replace Jones down the line.
DL The Seahawks' line is very good.  Adding depth at end, and, possibly a big body at tackle is all that is needed.  Mebane had an impressive rookie campaign. 
LB Three top starters and experienced and capable reserves.  A terrific unit.
DB Trufant and Jennings are a nice young cornerback tandem.  Wilson should improve next year.  Babineaux is a valuable reserve.  Grant and Russell helped upgrade the safety position, but if a stud safety, either a thumper or ball-magnet can be secured, the secondary could become special.
ST Competition at punter and a long-snapper could be added this offseason.

 
2007 DRAFT PICKS

links go to NFL.com website

Rd Sel# Player Pos. Ht. Wt. School Jay's ranking Jay's Draft Value
2 55 Wilson, Josh CB 5-9 188 Maryland # 5 CB Round 2
3 85 Mebane, Brandon DT 6-1 305 California # 5 DT Round 3
4 120 Atkins, Baraka DE 6-4 278 Miami (Fla.) #18 DE Round 4
4 124 Wrotto, Mansfield G 6-3 316 Georgia Tech # 7 OG Round 3
5 161 Herring, Will OLB 6-2 229 Auburn #14 OLB Round 4
6 197 Taylor, Courtney WR 6-1 209 Auburn #12 WR Round 3
6 210 Kent, Jordan WR 6-4 209 Oregon Off My Board
7 232 Vallos, Steve G 6-3 305 Wake Forest Late Round Value
FA Fernandez, Joe WR 5-10 176 Fresno State Late Round Value
FA Ghee, Patrick SS 6-2 210 Wake Forest Late Round Value
FA Jensen, Cameron ILB 6-2 238 BYU Off My Board
FA Newton, Joe TE 6-7 257 Oregon St # 9 TE Round 4
FA Payne, Logan WR 6-2 204 Minnesota Late Round Value

 

B

2007 COLLEGE DRAFT REPORT CARD

by Jay Goldberg

For not having a first round pick, the Seahawks did an excellent job in the draft.  They got good value throughout the draft.  I particularly liked Taylor in round six and Newton in free agency.

If Wilson was six feet tall he would have been a top 15 pick in  the draft.  Wilson really impressed me during the Senior Bowl, both at practice and during the game.  He is very fast and has good cover skills.  He will help the Seahawks immediately.  The one area where he hasn't excelled to date, however, is in getting picks.  In 27 starts in college he only had 2 interceptions.  Mebane is a run-stuffing defensive tackle who makes plays against the run and occupies blockers to allow linebackers the freedom to flow to the ball.  He is a nice fit for Seattle's defense and should be part of the rotation this year.   Atkins is a bit of an enigma.  He is inconsistent and his inconsistency appears to be effort related, not talent related.  Maybe being around NFL players who have physical skills similar to, and better than him, will result in a more consistent player.  If it does, Atkins will be a steal in round four.  If not, he could be out of the league in a couple of years.  Wrotto plays better than he tests.  He played right tackle in college but will be best served as a guard in the NFL.  He looked good during the one on one blocking drills during Senior Bowl practices.  Worst case he will be a versatile, reliable sub; best case he could push Sims at left guard.  Herring will provide the Seahawks with a top special teams player.  He is fast, very quick, and athletic.  He is also a smart player who reads and reacts well.  In time he could grow into a starter at WILL, but worst case will be a valuable backup linebacker.  Taylor was a great get in the sixth round.  I had a third round grade on him but knew he would fall because of the depth at receiver in the draft and because he lacks top end speed.  However, he has good size, knows how to get open, has good hands, and with 4.5 speed is fast enough.  He could be the surprise of the Seahawks camp.  Kent, on the other hand, is more athlete than receiver and will either be cut or land on the Seahawks practice squad.  I would have jumped at drafting tight end Ben Patrick at this spot in the draft, a player I was very surprised dropped as far as he did.  Vallos is a tough kid who makes few mistakes and is a better athlete than most thought.  He may never be a starter, but is the perfect reserve.

The Seahawks signed some interesting college street free agents.  Fernandez is quick receiver with good moves who lacks long speed and will, most likely, have to make it as return man to stick because his slight build means at best he will grow into a #4 or #5 receiver and is too light for coverage units.  Ghee is a sound tackler with good speed and play recognition.  However, he lacks athleticism.  He could stick as a backup safety and special teams player.  Jensen was always around the ball in college.  It will be interesting to see if his instincts are enough to compensate for his lack of athleticism in the NFL.  Newton was an excellent college free agent signing.  I like him more than most and gave him a fourth round grade.  He has excellent size, good quickness, moves, and hands, and gets open and helps move the chains.  While not a good blocker, he has the size and strength to improve in that area.  Look for Newton to make a major run at a roster spot.  Payne is a tough kid who is the rare wide receiver who is a willing and effective blocker.  He offers an interesting option as a #5 receiver since he will be very good on special teams coverage units if he shows good enough receiving skills to be used if needed.

red indicates workout number in top range at position in draft

COMBINE
YES

 

COLLEGE

POS HGHT WGHT BENCH 40 10 20 SHORT
SHUTTLE
LONG
SHUTTLE
3
 CONE
VERTICAL
JUMP
BROAD
JUMP
WILSON JOSH MARYLAND CB 5'9.2" 192   4.39 1.46 2.50 4.26   7.07 36.5" 10'0"

PLAYER WHO COULD HAVE A BETTER NFL CAREER THAN PLAYERS SELECTED AHEAD OF HIM in the DRAFT

Wilson is an underrated prospect, mainly because of his lack of height.  I was very impressed with Wilson during both Senior Bowl practices and the Senior Bowl Game.  Wilson has good speed to go with excellent coverage skills and good athleticism.  Wilson has the skill set to start outside, or be a top nickel corner playing the slot receiver.  Wilson will be playing a significant role in the NFL while a number of players drafted higher than him rot on the bench.

COMBINE
YES

 

COLLEGE

POS HGHT WGHT BENCH 40 10 20 SHORT
SHUTTLE
LONG
SHUTTLE
3
 CONE
VERTICAL
JUMP
BROAD
JUMP
MEBANE BRANDON CAL DT 6'1.1" 309 24 5.05 1.71 2.98 4.65   7.94 24" 8'10"
Mebane is a run-stuffing tackle who can also occupy blockers to allow linebackers to make tackles.  He has the potential to develop into a solid NFL starter.

COMBINE
YES

 

COLLEGE

POS HGHT WGHT BENCH 40 10 20 SHORT
SHUTTLE
LONG
SHUTTLE
3
 CONE
VERTICAL
JUMP
BROAD
JUMP
ATKINS BARAKA MIAMI-FL DE 6'4.4" 271 22 4.69 1.56 2.77 4.67   7.02 33" 9'3"
Atkins is a good athlete who hasn't always played up to his athletic ability.  He workout numbers appear to be reflective of his inconsistency.  His short shuttle time, which should be significantly better than a forty time, is almost identical to his forty time.  I doubt that number is truly indicate of  his lack of quickness.  He will need to get it together and play hard all the time to be a contributor in the NFL.

COMBINE
YES

 

COLLEGE

POS HGHT WGHT BENCH 40 10 20 SHORT
SHUTTLE
LONG
SHUTTLE
3
 CONE
VERTICAL
JUMP
BROAD
JUMP
WROTTO MANSFIELD GEORGIA TECH OG/OT 6'3" 317 27 5.37 1.83 3.12 4.92   7.99 27" 7'8"
Wrotto had some good moments in the one on one blocking drills during Senior Bowl practices.  He looked better than many of the players with better physical attributes.  Worst case, Wrotto will be a versatile, effective reserve.

COMBINE
NO

 

COLLEGE

POS HGHT WGHT BENCH 40 10 20 SHORT
SHUTTLE
LONG
SHUTTLE
3 CONE VERTICAL
JUMP
BROAD
JUMP
HERRING WILL AUBURN OLB/SS 6'2.5" 229 18 4.57 1.55 2.62 3.99   6.56 35" 10'5"
Herring is a top athlete.  He is fast, very quick, and is a good athlete.  He also is a heady player and reads and reacts very well.  He will be a top special teams player and, in the right system, could eventually grow into a starter.

COMBINE
YES

 

COLLEGE

POS HGHT WGHT BENCH 40 10 20 SHORT
SHUTTLE
LONG
SHUTTLE
3
 CONE
VERTICAL
JUMP
BROAD
JUMP
TAYLOR COURTNEY AUBURN WR 6'1.6" 205   4.49  1.53 2.59 4.28   7.22 36" 10'7"
Taylor is an underrated prospect in a draft class with excellent depth at wide receiver.  While he lacks top end speed he knows how to get open and make plays.  He will never be a number one wideout, but can be that solid possession number two.

COMBINE
YES

 

COLLEGE

POS HGHT WGHT BENCH 40 10 20 SHORT
SHUTTLE
LONG
SHUTTLE
3
 CONE
VERTICAL
JUMP
BROAD
JUMP
KENT JORDAN OREGON WR 6'4.1" 221                  
Kent is more athlete than receiver at this time.  He has good size and decent speed, but will need time on a team's development squad before determining if he has a NFL future.

COMBINE
NO

 

COLLEGE

POS HGHT WGHT BENCH 40 10 20 SHORT
SHUTTLE
LONG
SHUTTLE
3 CONE VERTICAL
JUMP
BROAD
JUMP
VALLOS STEVE AUBURN OG/OT 6'2.7" 307 32 5.12 1.71 2.94 4.61   7.73 26" 8'10"
Vallos is a strong, tough kid who knows his assignments and makes few mistakes.  He may never be a top starter but could be a valuable reserve who can get the job done when called upon to fill in for an injured starter.

COMBINE
NO

 

COLLEGE

POS HGHT WGHT BENCH 40 10 20 SHORT
SHUTTLE
LONG
SHUTTLE
3 CONE VERTICAL
JUMP
BROAD
JUMP
FERNANDEZ JOE FRESNO ST WR/RET 5'10" 176 15 4.60 1.54 2.65 3.97   6.82 35.5" 9'7"
Fernandez is a very quick receiver who makes sharp cuts and has good hands.  He lacks long speed and is light for a NFL receiver.  To make a NFL roster he will have to stuck as a return man as well as a slot receiver. 

COMBINE
NO

 

COLLEGE

POS HGHT WGHT BENCH 40 10 20 SHORT
SHUTTLE
LONG
SHUTTLE
3 CONE VERTICAL
JUMP
BROAD
JUMP
GHEE PATRICK WAKE FOREST SS/FS 6'2.1" 210 11 4.52 1.54 2.60 4.20   6.97 30.5" 9'7"
Ghee has good speed and is a sound tackler.  He is a bit of a tweener as a safety, however, since he lacks ideal strength for a strong safety and lacks athleticism for a free safety.  Still, Ghee has enough football smarts and skills to be a backup safety and special teams player.

COMBINE
NO

 

COLLEGE

POS HGHT WGHT BENCH 40 10 20 SHORT
SHUTTLE
LONG
SHUTTLE
3 CONE VERTICAL
JUMP
BROAD
JUMP
JENSEN CAMERON BYU ILB 6'1.5" 238 26 4.82     4.43   7.31 31.5" 8'10"
Jensen was an active linebacker who was always around the ball and was a sure tackler in college.  However, he may lack the athletic ability to transfer his skills to the NFL.

COMBINE
YES

 

COLLEGE

POS HGHT WGHT BENCH 40 10 20 SHORT
SHUTTLE
LONG
SHUTTLE
3
 CONE
VERTICAL
JUMP
BROAD
JUMP
NEWTON JOE OREGON ST TE 6'6.5" 257 20 4.76 1.63 2.74 4.38   6.96 31" 9'1"
Newton is a good receiving tight end with good quickness, moves and hands.  While he is not an accomplished blocker he has the size and strength to get better.  

COMBINE
NO

 

COLLEGE

POS HGHT WGHT BENCH 40 10 20 SHORT
SHUTTLE
LONG
SHUTTLE
3 CONE VERTICAL
JUMP
BROAD
JUMP
PAYNE LOGAN MINNESOTA WR 6'1.4" 204 15 4.51 1.50 2.58 4.08   6.83 39" 10'0"
Payne has good athleticism and quickness, and is the rare receiver who likes to block (and is good at it).  If he shows anything as a receiver he could stick as a #5 because he will be a good on special teams.

 

2007 TEAM NEEDS PRIOR TO THE DRAFT and FREE AGENCY
major need     need     depth/possible need     not a significant need

QB Not a need this year unless Greene doesn't take a step forward.  An arm to compete with him in camp is it.
RB Alexander and Morris are a good tandem.  A third back to pair with Morris if Alexander goes down again would help.
WR Even with Engram an UFA, this is a deep a unit as there is in the league.
TE Stevens is an UFA.  He's been up and down anyway.
OL Womack and Gray are UFAs.  The team missed Hutchinson.
DL A bunch of good players but no dominate ones.  If addressed it should be with a difference maker.
LB May be the best starting unit in the NFL.  Depth could be added.
DB Depth at CB is needed.  Hamlin is an UFA.
ST Solid all around.

2006 DRAFT PICKS
Links go to write-ups at NFL.com

Seattle
Rd Sel# Player Pos. Ht. Wt. School Jay's ranking Jay's draft value
1 31 Jennings, Kelly CB 5-11 179 Miami (Fla.) # 5 CB Round 1
2 63 Tapp, Darryl DE 6-1 251 Virginia Tech # 4 DE Round 2
4 128 Sims, Rob G 6-3 320 Ohio State # 5 OG Round 3
5 163 Kirtman, David FB 6-0 232 Southern California Late Round Value > Round 4
7 239 Plackemeier, Ryan P 6-3 252 Wake Forest # 1 P Round 6
7 249 Obomanu, Ben WR 6-1 206 Auburn Late Round Value > Round 4
  FA Lulay, Travis QB 6-2 213 Montana State # 13 QB Round 4
  FA Ross, Pat C 6-3 301 Boston College Late Round Value > Round 4
  FA Laury, Lance ILB 6-2 233 South Carolina Late Round Value > Round 4

 

A

2006 COLLEGE DRAFT REPORT CARD

by Jay Goldberg

The Seahawks got good value throughout the draft and signed one of my favorite college street free agents.

Seattle fans be nervous, very nervous.  Analyzing drafts is a hit or miss affair.  I don't go "chalk" on my analyses, and the last few years I've hit much more often than I missed when looking at the NFL as a whole.  However, that has not been the case with Seattle.  This year I loved the Seahawk's draft.  Does that mean the draft class will tank since when I didn't love their draft things turned out okay?  Time will tell.  Kelly Jennings was a great selection in round one.  He was a very underrated prospect.  He is a corner with good size, excellent speed and quickness, and is a superb athlete.  He also has very good man coverage skills that were tested often in college, with him coming through with flying colors.  He has a legitimate chance to start opposite Trufant some time this year.  I also loved the selection of Tapp.  At one point I though Tapp could be a first round pick, but he tested below my expectations.  Still he is, plain and simple, a football player,, who goes all out all the time, can rush the passer, and can hold his own against the run despite being slightly undersized.  Tapp will be a solid rotation player this year and will develop into a reliable starter down the road.  Sims was another good grab in round four.  He was my fifth rated guard and I had a third round grade on him.  He has quick feet and good short are speed which will make him an effective pulling guard.  He also has experience at tackle which will help him in his pass blocking assignments at guard.  Sims is excellent Pork chop insurance and has the look of a player that can be a long term quality NFL starter.  Kirtman was known to be a tough kid and good blocker, then also showed top athleticism, speed, and quickness for a fullback, so he may have utility beyond a blocking fullback.  Oh yeah, he's strong as an ox also.  Kirtman is Mack Strong's eventual replacement.  Plackemeier was my top rated punter in the draft.  He has a big leg but is inconsistent at times.  Obomanu was also good value in round seven.  He is a tough kid who will go over the middle, take a hit, and hold onto the ball.  He also has great leaping ability and can make the spectacular catch.  Obomanu is more fast than quick, and will, most likely, never be a starter.

The Seahawks signed thre college street free agents of note.  The first is quarterback Travis Lulay, who I had a fourth round grade on.  Now, I am also the analyst who loved the Seahawk's pick of David Greene, so temper your enthusiasm.  However, I still like Greene's potential and I also like Lulay.  Lulay was known to have solid intangibles, a live arm, quick feet in the pocket, and nice touch to go along with good production.  Add to that the fact that he proved to be one of the most athletic QBs in the class, and one of the brightest (37 Wonderlic) and you have the makings of an intriguing prospect.  I still think Holmgren has a knack for finding quarterback talent, and I'll bet even though he is no longer in charge of personnel he still has lots of input, especially when it comes to quarterbacks.  Ross is an athletic center with toughness and smarts, but has short arms which could be a liability when playing against the monster athletes of the NFL.  Still he was a good college player and is worth a long look in camp.  Laury had knee issues at South Carolina, but was a productive player when heathly.  He could be stashed a year on injured reserve and be a nice addition if he returns to form the following year.

red indicates workout number in top range at position in draft

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Jennings, K Miami 5'11.6", 178 4.39 1.56 2.59 3.96 11.67 6.88 12 40" 10'0"  
CB
Jay Goldberg, 900FootballLinks.NET - Jennings looked good in coverage at Senior Bowl practices.
Jay Goldberg, 900FootballLinks.NET - Jennings has good size, speed, quickness, and athleticism.  He is currently an overlooked prospect, but has excellent man coverage skills, is confident in his abilities, and has been tested by some of the best in college and has come through very well.  While not my top rated cornerback, it wouldn't surprise me if he ends up as good as any that comes out of this draft. 
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Tapp Virginia Tech 6'1.3", 256 4.79 1.66 2.85 4.48   7.32 27 33" 9'1"  

PLAYER WHO WILL PERFORM BETTER IN NFL THAN MANY DRAFTED BEFORE HIM

Tapp is a better player than how he tests.  He will be a workman-like defensive end who gets 8 sacks and plays the run well.  He will not be Pro Bowl level, but will be a good third end initially, and a solid, dependable starter long term.
DE
Jay Goldberg, 900FootballLinks.NET - Tapp looked very quick off the ball during the Senior Bowl, showing terrific pass rush skills.  He was the best defensive player in the game.
Jay Goldberg, 900FootballLinks.NET - Tapp is a terrific pass rusher.  He is very strong, and very fast.  He could be a steal if his value doesn't rise tremendously after his workouts.
Jay Goldberg, 900FootballLinks.NET - I was a little disappointed in Tapp's speed at the Combine.  He will have to stay at defensive end.
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Sims Ohio State 6'2.6", 307   1.75 2.87 4.79   7.52 27 30" 8'10"  
OG
Jay Goldberg, 900FootballLinks.NET - Sims has excellent short area speed and quick feet.  He is also strong and has excellent athleticism for his position.  He played both tackle and guard in college but is a better fit for guard in the NFL.  Sims will be a good starting guard at the next level.
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Kirtman USC 5'11.4", 233 4.65 1.63 2.78 4.09   6.85 26 34.5" 8'10"  
FB
Jay Goldberg, 900FootballLinks.NET - Kirtman is a tough kid and a good blocking fullback.
PLAYER COLLEGE POS WORKOUT NUMBERS
Plackemeier Wake Forest P  
Jay Goldberg, 900FootballLinks.NET - Plackemeier punted great at the East West Shrine Game.  He is my top rated punter in the draft.
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Obomano Auburn 6'0.5", 205 4.44 1.64 2.70 4.23   6.98   41" 10'1"  
WR
Jay Goldberg, 900FootballLinks.NET - Obomano was more up than down during Senior Bowl practices so he looked good at times, but also had a drop or two.
Jay Goldberg, 900FootballLinks.NET - Obanamo is more fast than quick, but is a tough kid who will go over the middle and make catches in traffic.  He also has great leaping ability and can make the spectacular grab. 
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Lulay Montana St 6'2.1", 213 4.69 1.57 2.56 4.07   6.82   37.5" 9'7" 37

PLAYER WHO WILL PERFORM BETTER IN NFL THAN MANY DRAFTED BEFORE HIM

Lulay was known to have solid intangibles, a live arm, quick feet in the pocket, and nice touch to go along with good production.  Add to that the fact that he proved to be one of the most athletic QBs in the class, and one of the brightest (37 Wonderlic) and you have the makings of an intriguing day two prospect who could be a pleasant surprise in the NFL.  Lulay, however, is another quarterback in need of work on his technique.
Jay Goldberg, 900FootballLinks.NET - Lulay is a good athlete with raw tools that can be developed.  Lulay's college passing stats were good and also ran for 611 yards his senior year.
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Ross Boston Coll 6'3.1", 301 4.96 1.72 2.90 4.50     25 27" 8'7"  
C
Jay Goldberg, 900FootballLinks.NET - Ross is an athletic center with short arms.  However, he is a tough smart kid who could find a home on a NFL roster.
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Laury South Car 6'1.5", 233 4.69     4.22   7.25 23 35.5" 9'7"  
ILB/OLB
Jay Goldberg, 900FootballLinks.NET - Laury had knee issues so lost playing time at South Carolina.  When healthy he was a very productive linebacker.

 

2006 TEAM NEEDS
prior to free agency

SEA
QB Hasselebck, Wallace, and Greene are a very good tandem.  I especially like Greene who will be a quality starter in the league, most likely for a team other than Seattle after he plays out his Seahawk contract.
RB Alexander and Morris are both UFAs.  If they don't sign either Alexander or Hutchinson before the free agency period begins, look for the franchise tag to be placed on Hutchinson, not Alexander.  This situation needs to be tracked closely in the offseason.
WR Jackson, and the aging Engram are signed, but Jurevicius and Warrick are UFAs.  If Jurevisius leaves, Hackett could get a bigger role.  Look for the Seahawks to add a receiver for depth and as a future replacement for Engram.
TE Despite his Super Bowl drops, Stevens took a big step this past year and should be a reliable target for Hasselbeck for years.  Hannam is an UFA so Mili may get back into the picture next year as a reserve.  If Hannam bolts, another tight end will be brought in for depth.
OL The green rating will be blue if Hutchinson leaves as an UFA.  I can't see Seattle letting that happen.  The Seahwaks line is the best football.  And eith Hunter (RFA), Womack and Spencer, they have quality depth.
DL The defensive line is talented and deep.  Bernard and Tafoya are UFAs.  Bernard would be a big loss.  The Seahawks only need is for players to challenge for reserve roles.
LB Four excellent players for three starting spots.  The rookie Hill replaced the injured Sharper and will be hard to take off the field.  Tatupu was another stud rookie.  Lewis played well, but was hurt.  There is further depth on this team at linebacker making it fairly well set going into next year.
DB The Seahawks go four deep at corner with Trufant, Dyson, Herndon, and Babineaux.  Safety is a different story.  Boulware is set, but a player to challenge Pruitt as his primary backup will be brought on board.  At free safety, Manuel played well, but is an UFA, and there is no guarantee that Hamlin will come back.  If Manuel leaves, a free safety will need to be drafted or signed in free agency.
ST Brown and Rouen are set.  However, the Seahawks will need to upgrade their return men.

 

2005 COLLEGE DRAFT

Seattle  - links below go to NFL.com reports Jaybird Jaybird
Rd Sel# Player Pos. Ht. Wt. School Ranking Value Board
1 26 Spencer, Chris C 6-3 309 Mississippi # 1 C Round 2
2 45 Tatupu, Lofa ILB 5-11 226 Southern California # 11 ILB Round 4
3 85 Greene, David QB 6-3 231 Georgia # 5 QB Round 2
3 98 Hill, Leroy OLB 6-1 224 Clemson Late Round Value > Round 4
4 105 Willis, Ray OT 6-6 327 Florida State