The Seahawks surprised quite a few NFL teams by going 10-6 in 2018. If they want to improve next season, they need to hit their first round draft pick.
Prior to the beginning of the 2018 season, quite a few people were calling for the Seahawks to finally fall out of playoff contention. Thanks to Pete Carroll and Russell Wilson that didn’t happen. If Seattle wants to get back on top of the NFC West in 2019 then they’ll need to nail the draft.
The Seahawks don’t have a second round pick this year which heaps a huge amount of pressure on the franchise to nail the No. 21 overall pick. It’s always possible Seattle will trade down to try to recoup that second round selection, but they could also fall in love with a guy who falls to No. 21 and pull the trigger.
In terms of needs, safety is an obvious place for Seattle to look in the draft. The departure of Earl Thomas in free agency leaves a giant hole in the team’s secondary. It would be risky to bet on a rookie to fill Thomas’ shoes immediately, but it might be even more dangerous not to fill his shoes at all.
Carroll and his team’s front office might also look to find a quality player to add to their group of edge rushers or even an upgrade at offensive tackle. This roster is solid, but there are some clear areas that can use an upgrade. Look for the Seahawks to draft one of the five following guys if they stay put on Day One.
5. Greedy Williams
The odds favor Williams being off the board by the time Seattle gets on the clock, but if he lasts this long, Carroll may be tempted to pull the trigger. His unique combination of size and length will inevitably remind the Seahawks coach of Richard Sherman.
Williams isn’t a perfect prospect, but Seattle will love the qualities he has that simply can’t be taught. Carroll’s never been afraid to coach a guy up, and he could do wonders with the former LSU cornerback.