Seahawks Mock Draft: Seattle Wins Big with Star-Studded Names
The Seattle Seahawks are wasting no time acquiring star power in the latest mock draft from NFL.com.
While putting focus on both sides of the ball, here's how the first round went for Seattle in this mock:
No. 5 - Will Anderson Jr., LB, Alabama
Texas Tech EDGE Tyree Wilson has continuously been projected to land with the Seahawks at the top of the draft board, but the 12s and Seattle's front office alike will be drooling if it's Anderson who is still available at No. 5.
Anderson was nothing short of a beast while at Alabama. Getting 10 sacks and returning an interception for a touchdown this past season was certainly impressive, but it was somehow forgettable considering he had 17.5 sacks in 2021. Keep in mind, this is all while playing in the best conference in college football where an elite Crimson Tide squad receives each team's best shot every week.
While, based on draft projections, it would take a significant slide for him to land with Seattle at No. 5, there's still the possibility the top four teams quickly become quarterback-happy, giving the Seahawks an increased shot at landing arguably the best defensive player in the draft. Anderson certainly fills an area of need for Seattle, but he's also the best available in this scenario. Easy pick.
No. 20 - Jaxon Smith-Njigba, WR, Ohio State
We've seen Smith-Njigba's name pop up with the Seahawks in previous mocks, and it remains and interesting thought to see him line up alongside DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett.
Already with two elite receivers, Seattle doesn't need to take this offensive-minded direction. But at pick No. 20, it may come down to taking the best player available rather than focusing on a need, and it's hard to imagine that Smith-Njigba would disappoint.
However, he only played in three games this past season to a lingering hamstring injury. Based on the repeatable nature this ailment tends to have, there's some understandable reason for concern.
But in his last fully healthy season in 2021, Smith-Njigba was putting up unreal numbers while looking like one of the best players in college football. In his last notable performance, he totaled 15 catches for 347 yards and three touchdowns against the Utah Utes in the Rose Bowl. Before that record-setting day, he had already had four straight games with at least 100 receiving yards.
You can follow Zach Dimmitt on Twitter at @ZachDimmitt7
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