Seahawks Mock Draft: Defense & Offense in 1st Round?
The Seattle Seahawks are reaping the rewards of trading away Russell Wilson as the franchise has two first-round picks in this year's NFL Draft. With the No. 5 and the No. 20 picks in their pocket, the Seahawks are in a superb position.
After Geno Smith led the Seahawks to the playoffs last year, and despite the defense being beefed up with the additions of linebackers in Devin Bush and Bobby Wagner, along with Dre'Mont Jones, many feel that defense will be where general manager John Schneider and head coach Pete Carroll go in the first round.
In NFL.com's latest mock draft, Seattle is projected to add to both sides of the ball in the first round, but also has the team trading back to No. 27 in a swap with the Buffalo Bills.
No. 5 - Tyree Wilson, EDGE, Texas Tech
With Georgia Bulldogs defensive tackle Jalen Carter widely expected to be taken with Seattle's first pick, NFL.com thinks Wilson will instead get the call.
Wilson's length, athleticism and versatility give him a chance to excel in a Seahawks defense that transitioned to a multiple-front scheme last year, Reuter writes.
The explosive edge rusher produced at a high level in the last two seasons as he totaled 14 sacks and 27.5 tackles for loss for Texas Tech. The term "game-wrecker" applies to Wilson, and that type of player could prove to be very useful for the Seahawks'defense.
No. 27 - Cody Mauch, OG, North Dakota State
Then we get to pick No. 27, where North Dakota State guard Cody Mauch is selected. A brute in the run game, Mauch will be a valuable addition to the Seahawks offensive line, as his ability to play all along the line could be what takes Seattle's interest.
Mauch's ability to play all five positions up front will be valued by the Seahawks. He could line up initially at guard, where his athleticism, intelligence and nasty attitude as a blocker will stand out, Reuter writes.
The Seahawks can knock the draft out of the park with two first-round picks. Adding a star on defense and a capable starter along the offensive line could prove to be good additions.
With the Seahawks looking to build on a surprising season last year, the draft is a place where they can rubber-stamp their free agency work with two quality selections.
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