Seattle Seahawks: D’Wayne Eskridge can produce in year one
The Seattle Seahawks came into the 2021 NFL Draft with just three selections (mostly due to trades, including the Jamal Adams one), and with a roster that isn’t top tier in the NFC, they needed to make the most of those selections.
There has been a lot of discourse this offseason regarding how the Seahawks have dealt with their offensive line, some of it coming from quarterback Russell Wilson. Instead of addressing that position early with their second-round selection, Seattle went ahead and added another weapon in the passing game in Western Michigan’s D’Wayne Eskridge.
Despite D.K. Metcalf and Tyler Lockett being there, Eskridge can still produce in year one with the Seattle Seahawks.
Under Brian Schottenheimer in 2020, the Seahawks used 11 personnel (three wide receivers) on 66 percent of their plays. This could change a little under new coordinator Shane Waldron, but the Seahawks are going to be the most dangerous when in 11.
This is in part because of Eskridge. His track speed and ability to win deep down the field will fit right in with Wilson, who likes to take shots downfield, has the elite accuracy there, and has been doing it with Metcalf the last couple of seasons.
Eskridge has a chance to be the Z/flanker player in that offense, where he can beat press coverage with his hands, release package, and excellent route-running skills. He will be able to take advantage of off coverage in the slot and has the run after catch ability to turn any short pass into a big gain. He has a big catch radius as well for his size and will be able to contort his body and adjust to make plays. The versatility to play both the slot and outside will be crucial for him.
What separates Eskridge is that while Seattle will likely run the ball a fair amount, his edge and willingness as a blocker will be welcomed with open arms. So while there could be a shift to some more 12 personnel, Eskridge’s willingness to block could keep him out there.
So, with Metcalf and Lockett, will Eskridge produce in year one? Absolutely! He isn’t going to post 1,000 yards, but in an offense that is friendly to deep threats, and the chance that Seattle gets into shootouts, a 500-yard, five-touchdown season is well within reach.
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It isn’t just because of the scheme, but because of the skill set Eskridge brings to the Seattle Seahawks. It’s going to be fun to watch how he’s used and if his role expands throughout the season.