2009 NFL Draft Team Needs: Seattle Seahawks
By Editorial Staff
Top 3 Needs:
Offensive Tackle (Offensive Line)
Defensive End (Defensive Line)
Cornerback (Defensive Backfield)
Offensive Tackle
The Seahawks need to start looking for a replacement for aging left tackle Walter Jones, and there’s a lot of potential in this year’s group of tackles. Any additional depth on an offensive line that was ravaged by injury last season would be welcomed, along with an injection of youth and talent. The Seahawks may be able to fill this need early on, as there should be a few of the top tackles on the board when they draft fourth overall.
Seattle will not reach for a player to address a need, but will jump at an opportunity to select the best available player. Players like Eugene Monroe and Jason Smith would fit nicely in the first round. There are a lot of good prospects available in the later rounds as well, and very good value past round one. If Seattle doesn’t draft an offensive tackle, they should definitely select a guard or center to help solidify an underachieving unit. Players like William Beatty, Duke Robinson, Alex Mack, or Max Unger could all be available in the second round.
Defensive End
Or more specifically, a quality pass rusher. Patrick Kerney’s durability is questionable; he may not be able to play every down or stay healthy for an entire season. Without Kerney last season, the Seahawks managed only 16 sacks over the course of nine games. Couple that with the loss of multitalented linebacker Julian Peterson, and you’re losing quite a bit of pressure off the edge. After beefing up inside through free agency, Seattle needs to acquire some more talent on the outside.
In the first round, there are several players available who could help rush the passer. Most of them may not be worthy of a top five selection, but they are definitely worth a look. Brian Orakpo is an accomplished senior from Texas who is extremely strong and possesses good speed and quickness. He should be able to wreak havoc on NFL passers, and has the work ethic, character, and determination to develop and excel at the next level. Orakpo should be available at fourth overall, and would be a great fit in Seattle.
Cornerback
Seattle has developed nice depth at the cornerback position, but they’re seriously deficient in size. Kelly Jennings had a mediocre season last year and was exposed by taller, more athletic wide receivers. Josh Wilson looks promising, but may be better suited in a nickel role or on special teams; and his lack of size is noticeable as well.
The Seahawks need a starter opposite Marcus Trufant who can bring size to the position and help shut down the opposition. Seattle may also want to consider adding a safety as well to increase their depth in the defensive backfield. With Larry Fitzgerald in the division, a lot of help will be needed. There isn’t a lot of talent worthy of the top ten this year, although Malcolm Jenkins does look promising and matches well with Seattle’s needs. With their later picks, Seattle could find value in big players like Sean Smith, Jairus Byrd, Cary Harris, or Sherrod Martin.