Seahawks player review: WR TJ Houshmandzadeh

This is the first in a long series of articles reviewing the Seahawks players of 2009. Did they under perform, over perform or just be average? We kick off the series with the Seahawks biggest free agent acquisition from last off season, wide receiver TJ Houshmandzadeh.

The Seahawks rewarded the NFL's most consistent wide receiver with a five year $40 million dollar contract with $15 million guaranteed.

With the Seahawks finishing 5-11 in TJ's first season with the team, needless to say it wasn't happy times in Houshmandzadeh-ville. Houshmnadzadeh looked to some fans and reporters like a smaller in scale version of T.O. Running in with offensive coordinator Greg Knapp and questionable actions on the sideline with former head coach Jim Mora Jr.

However from a statsical stand point Houshmandzadeh did about avgerage for what he's done in his career. He didn't have a good quarterback or a great offense in general for many reasons, some of which have been fixed. The firing of offensive coordinator Greg Knapp will help fix those problems. In at offensive coordinator is Jeremy Bates who was in Denver with Jay Cutler when he lit up the NFL through the air.

TJ couldn't be more happy to have Bates as the offensive coordinator. Now for Houshmandzadeh's stats from 2009.

TJ fininshed 2009 playing in all 16 games and recording 79 receptions (team high), 911 yards receiving (team high) and three receiving touchdowns. Houshmandzadeh also had 11.5 YPC (yards per catch).

Houshmandzadeh never was really apart of the Seahawks offense, which was almost nonexistent this season. Housh, along with Nate Burleson, Deion Branch and tight end John Carlson all never became apart of what was suppose to be an explosive offense for the Seahawks.

TJ, Nate and Deion caught national headlines when Nate and Deion hosted their weakly talk radio show in Seattle on 950 KJR Seattle. The Branch and Burleson Show went from being a fun an interactive talk session with the passionate 12th man to a show that had the trio of receivers (TJ, Deion and Nate) calling out Matt Hasselbeck, Jim Mora Jr, offensive coordinator Greg Knapp as well as local TV analyst Hugh Millen, who TJ took personal exception to.

However TJ's first season in Seattle can not be taken as a bust or a desaster because he let the team in receptions and receiving yards. The letdown came on the offensive line and at quarterback and running back with the exception of Justin Forsett.

So we will list TJ Houshmanzadeh's first season in Seattle as average.

Hopefully with a new head coach in Pete Carroll and a new offensive coordinator in Jeremy Bates the Seattle Seahawks offense, including TJ Houshmanzadeh will be alive and firing on all cylinders in 2010.

You can follow Lars at Twitter http://twitter.com/larshanson

2010 NFL Mock draft: First Round (Updated 1, 18, 10)

In my first installment of my 2010 NFL Mock draft I received a lot of comments with people speaking out about two or three of my picks. Mainly Tim Tebow going sixth to the Seattle Seahawks, Gerald McCoy 12th to the Miami Dolphins and Jahvid Best 21st to the New York Jets.

So far no new big names have thrown their name into the 2010 draft pool. However I would like to point out that UW quarterback Jake Locker IS NOT going to be in the 2010 mock draft. I have seen at least five or more mock drafts in the last few days with Locker still in them.

So with that being said here is my second edition of my 2010 NFL mock draft. My mock draft order follows the offical order.

1) St Louis Rams: Ndamukong Suh, DT Nebraska

Examination: I still have the best overall player in the draft going No 1. Overall to the St Louis Rams, over Jimmy Clausen, Sam Bradford and even Eric Berry. The Rams have selected in the top two each of the last three years (Chris Long 08, Jason Smith 09 and now Ndamukong Suh 10). Chris Long has been great at defensive end racking up 83 tackles, nine sacks and one forced fumble in his two years in the NFL, however he only started five games which needs to be changed fast for him to have more of an impact on the defense. Jason Smith still looks to be their LT for the long term after getting into his second year next season. Having Chris Long along with Ndamukong Suh would go a long way in helping improve the Rams defense who allowed 436 points this season. Suh is a dominating force on defense and if the Rams do the right thing and go with Suh first overall that will allow the entire defense to become better.

2) Detroit Lions: Russell Okung, OT Oklahoma State

Examination: Yes the top two, and farther down will remain the same for the obvious reasons. The Lions selected Matt Stafford first overall in the 2009 draft, which is ok if you already have a decent, established offensive line. Problem for the Lions is they didn’t really have that offensive line. Stafford was inconsistent in his first season in the NFL, but rookies will have those problems. However Stafford didn’t play the entire season. He was sidelined by a knee injury that ended his season a little more than half way through the season. He also lost Calvin Johnson for a few games which hurt their chemistry. So with the Lions passing on a top left tackle last year there is no other choice other than to take the best offensive tackle in the draft. That tackle being Oklahoma State’s Russell Okung. Okung is an athletic monster; at left tackle at 6-8 300 lbs he’s a perfect fit in Detroit. Giving Stafford and the offense a solid offensive line anchored by Okung will go a long ways to help the Lions grow to a winning franchise

3)Tampa Bay Bucs: Eric Berry, S Tennessee

Examination: The Bucs have their quarterback in Josh Freeman and it’s way too early to reach for a play making wide receiver like Dez Bryant. So the only great pick the Bucs can make in this position is to go with Eric Berry, the talented safety from Tennessee and get some help in the secondary. People have been comparing Berry to former Bucs safety John Lynch. The Buccaneers have Tanard Jackson and Sabby Piscitelli currently starting at strong safety and free safety. Adding Eric Berry in the defensive backfield will help improve their young defense greatly.

4) Washington Redskins: Sam Bradford, QB Oklahoma

Examination: The Redskins have a new head coach and EVP in Mike Shanahan. The last time he was a head coach he got his quarterback in the form of Vandy QB Jay Cutler. Now Shanahan and new GM Bruce Allen have the task at hand of turning around the fortune of the Washington Redskins organization. With current starting quarterback Jason Campbell being a free agent this off season and not really playing as well as he could have to lock up a long term contract the most likely bet is for the Redskins to take the talented accurate quarterback from Oklahoma in Sam Bradford. Bradford is coming off right shoulder surgery but all signs have been great for his recovery and should be throwing in a month or two. Not only does the selection of Campbell fill their long term answer at quarterback but it also will bring a lot of revenue and give the Skins a face of the franchise for years to come.

5) Kansas City Chiefs: Bruce Campbell, OT Maryland

Examination: Same as my last mock draft with Russell Okung off the board and both the Chiefs and Lions having the similar situations of needing to protect their big money quarterbacks, in this case it’s Matt Cassel and his $63 million dollar contract. The Chiefs have former first round pick Brandon Albert but he’s been underperforming this season allowing 10sacks. Albert can also play at the LG position and that would allow the Chiefs to select talented offensive tackle Bruce Campbell to play LT.

6) Seattle Seahawks: Jimmy Clausen, QB Notre Dame

Examination: Ok first off let me say that you people who read my mock draft, I know there is a lot but at least the ones who comment need to read the examination first before ripping. The Tim Tebow selection was based on Jim Mora Jr. and Greg Knapp still being in charge of the offense. Now with Mora and his entire offensive coaching staff fired and Pete Carroll and Jeremy Bates now running the offense the selection of Jimmy Clausen is a perfect fit. Pete Carroll endorsed Matt Hasselbeck but the Seahawks can’t pass on their future starting quarterback two years in a row. Last year they passed on Mark Sanchez and Hasselbeck had another horrendous season this year. He was very hit and miss. I see the Seahawks quarterback situation like the Lions last year. They have an NFL veteran in Matt Hasselbeck (Daunte Culpepper, Lions) but need a long term answer at quarterback and Jimmy Clausen (Matt Stafford, Lions) would be that answer. Clausen can learn behind Hasselbeck, get into the Carroll/Bates system and then when Hasselbeck’s contract runs up at the end of the upcoming season Clausen will become the full time starter and moving forward. He could even take over this season depending on his progression into the NFL which shouldn’t be that much. The Seahawks could also look OT or S here but Berry and Okung/Campbell are both gone so QB is the next biggest need without reaching.

7) Cleveland Browns: Dez Bryant, WR Oklahoma State:

Examination: The Browns have their front office and coach’s in place now for at least one more year (Eric Mangini was allowed back but he has to perform this upcoming year to stay long term). The Browns problems were never on defense this year, it was always the offense. Josh Cribbs wants out because Mike Holmgren “offered him an insulting contract” so Cribbs doesn’t think he will be back. They do have a quarterback in Brady Quinn and a running back in Jerome Harrison but don’t have any receiving support for Quinn. Don’t tell me that Mike Holmgren, one of the best offensive minded guy to ever be in the NFL to settle for Brain Robieski and Mohamed Massaquoi as his leading wide receivers. Massaquoi led the team in receptions with 34 (tied with running back Jerome Harrison) and receiving yards with 624 your offense is never going to get anywhere. The Browns have almost all the pieces in place on offense with a QB, RB, OL and now just need a real play making wide receiver. The Browns can get that in the form of Dez Bryant with the seventh overall pick.

8) Oakland Raiders: Carlos Dunlap, DE Florida

Examination: I’m sorry but when you are trying to figure out who Al Davis is going to take you can’t. It’s simply impossible. So don’t try to examine it or think of a logical selection because there is a reason they call Oakland the black hole. So you have to think of someone who at least fits Davis’ akward draft style. Fast and for this selection the Raiders need a young defensive end. Richard Seymour is not coming back and Dunlap, although being drafted way too early still has a lot of talent to offer Al Davis.

9) Buffalo Bills: Anthony Davis, OT Rutgers

Examination: Last time I had the Bills still going with an offensive tackle. However the OT was Oklahoma’s Trent Williams. This time I’ve looked at the comparisons of both Davis and Williams and I just have a gut feeling that Davis will wind up being that guy. As the draft continues to move closer and the combine and pro days come and go then it will probably change. Keep in mind that these upcoming mock drafts are before the combine and when teams really get into the draft mind. So all are subject to change but one thing is for sure. If there is no QB on the board (Bradford or Clausen) then the Bills will take an offensive tackle. For now I have that tackle being Anthony Davis from Rutgers.

10) Jacksonville Jaguars: Tim Tebow, QB Florida

Examination: Well Jags fans can now breathe easy that the Seahawks finally wised up, fired Jim Mora Jr and replaced him with Pete Carroll who knows how to be a head coach, and run an explosive offense. So now the Jaguars can get their man, in a non football related move. Everyone who knows the NFL and the Jacksonville Jaguars knows that Tim Tebow is the only way to save their franchise and actually put people in the seats. They went with a need pick last year with Eugene Monroe. They can’t do that again this year with their fan base all but gone. Tim Tebow wearing 15 and saying in his home state of Florida.

11) Denver Broncos: Rolando McClain, LB Alabama

Examination: The Broncos off season will kick off when the playoffs end and Brandon Marshall starts to talk again. There have been rumors about a possible trade with the Seattle Seahawks, and some people think that they could get a couple of players plus a draft pick for him but I have put a stop to those rumors with my last article. So people need to put aside any Brandon Marshall trade ideas for a while. Getting back the Broncos pick. For now they still need some help at linebacker and the best linebacker in the draft who can come in right away is Rolando McClain from Alabama. McClain is the best choice here and the best player who fits a need for the Broncos.

12) Miami Dolphins: Terrance Cody, NT Alabama

Examination: The Dolphins could go with a wide out but tell me the last time Parcells took a wide receiver in the first round. Probably before I was born. They have a need at nose tackle and Terrance Cody is a monster nose tackle at 6-5, 365 lbs. So because Parcells won’t take a wide receiver I see Terrance Cody going to the Dolphins 12th overall.

13) San Francisco 49ers: Trent Williams, OT Oklahoma

Examination: The 49ers have just about everything on offense. They have a QB in Alex Smith. A running back in Frank Gore. Michael Crabtree and Vernon Davis as receiving options. All they are missing is a left/right tackle depending on where they put Joe Staley. Either way RT/LT will be the only hole the 49ers need to fix on offense and it just so happens that Williams is available at 13th overall. This would be a dream pick for the 49ers and I do think they will take him.

14) Seattle Seahawks: Charles Brown, OT USC

Examination: Well you know that Carroll won’t have any problems scouting the players from USC. It’s also obvious that Carroll, some point in the draft will take at least two or more players from USC because the Seahawks have needs at RB (McKnight), OT (Brown) and S (Mays) so this pick of offensive tackle Charles Brown will not come as a shock. The Seahawks have already selected their long term answer at quarterback with Jimmy Clausen and now they need to move to their long term answer at left tackle. Walter Jones missed the entire 2009 season because he was unable to “get started” after having off season knee surgery. Plus Jones is going to be 36 come the 2010 season and the Seahawks have seen that Sean Locklear won’t be that tackle to replace Jones long term. With Okung, Campbell, Davis and Williams all off the board at OT the Seahawks still need to take Charles Brown to solidify their long term answer at left tackle.

15) New York Giants: Gerald McCoy, DT Oklahoma

Examination: Well the Giants and Eli Manning worked wonders with Steve Smith, Mario Manningham, Dennis Dixon and Kevin Boss so they don’t have any problems at receiver but if they do want to patch up a need it would be on defensive line. They could go with Sergio Kindle from Texas, which I had them going with in my last mock draft. However if you look at how much emphasis Jerry Reese puts on the defensive line then the pick of Gerald McCoy 15th overall is a perfect selecting. Also defensive tackle is a need for the Giants.
16) Tennessee Titans: Sergio Kindle, DE/OLB Texas
Examination: The Titans and Jeff Fisher have one major need and only one need and that’s to get an aggressive, attacking and relentless defensive end this off season. They do have options to go sign a top defensive end in free agency like Julius Peppers, Richard Seymour and others but for the long term answer and overall talent for what the Titans need in a defensive end Kindle is the best of all their options. Kindle is this year’s version of Brian Orakpo, also out of Texas who went 14th overall to the Redskins last year. Kindle is very physically gifted but only had 3.5 sacks in his senior season so he might fall but I see Kindle going 16th overall to the Tennessee Titans.

17) San Francisco 49ers: Joe Haden, CB Florida

Examination: Well now that Tebow can go to Jacksonville it means that Haden will most likely fall to the 49ers who are in desperate need of an excelted cover corner back. Seattle might all snatch him before he gets to San Fran but for now I have Haden going the Niners 17th overall. Dre Bly won’t cut it and the majority of the Niners defensive backs have been injured this past season and they don’t have a talented young corner to lead the defensive backs. So with the 17th overall pick the Niners can fill their void at corner with Joe Haden from Florida.

18) Pittsburgh Steelers: Mike Iupati, OG Idaho

Examination: Well this is kind of a tough spot for the Steelers to pick because its way too early to select OG Mike Iupati but they still need some serious help on the offensive line. Watching Max Starks and Willie Colon against the Dolphins in the first round of the playoffs just made me hang my head when every time you saw a flag being thrown you knew it was holding on Colon or Starks. So with that being said the Steelers need to improve the talent at OG and they can do that by selecting Mike Iupati 18th overall from Idaho, even though it’s a little early.

19) Atlanta Falcons: Navorro Bowman, LB Penn State

Examination: Mike Smith has led the Falcons to consecutive winning seasons for the first time in…well it’s been so long I can’t remember. The point is their defense has come around but still needs some work. They selected Curtis Lofton at MLB last year and he’s done wonders for the Falcons defense. They can improve upon that with the selection of Navorro Bowman 19th overall.

20) Houston Texans: Jahvid Best, RB Cal

Examination: The Texans have two key needs that could turn into three depending on what Kevin Walter decides to do. The Texans need a top corner, a bursting running back and possibly another wide receiver. Taking those three positions and then looking at who is still on the board the best pick for the Texans is to go with home run hitting running back Jahvid Best from Cal. Best was a Heisman favorite coming into the season but due to a concussion he had to miss the last part of the season. However Jahvid Best has been touted as the closet college player to Chris Johnson. For a team like the Texans who already have a great passing game with Matt Schaub adding Jahvid Best will make them one of the best teams in the AFC.

21) Cincinnati Bengals: Arrelious Benn, WR Illinois

Examination: It was very clear to me watching the Bengals-Jets game what the Bengals need to fix via the NFL draft. That is to add another top notch wide receiver, who is explosive and electric as the old Chad Johnson. The running game and the Bengals defense is really what led them into the playoffs this year so they are going to need to have their passing attack comes back and Chad Johnson and Laveranues Coles are not going to cut it. So with the 21st pick in the 2010 NFL draft I have Illinois play making wide receiver Arrelious Benn going to the Bengals.

22) New England Patriots: CJ Spiller, RB Clemson

Examination: As usual the Pats have four picks in the first two rounds and still have a lot to improve on. This seemed to be the most interesting season for the Patriots in a long time with Bill going for it on fourth down and then losing in the first round of the playoffs to the visiting Baltimore Ravens. For the entire year the Pats never had a running game. Also their linebackers outside of Mayo underperformed so LB will be a need as well. However I don’t see a linebacker for the Pats to take and currently Spiller is the best player available so it makes perfect sense for the Pats to take him 22nd overall.

23) Green Bay Packers: Jason Fox, OT Miami

Examination: Well here we have to go with another early selection but the Packers have a serious need on the offensive line and mostly at LT. Chad Clifton and Mark Tauscher won’t make it another year and protecting Aaron Rogers is going to be curtail to their success. So I have Jason Fox going to the Packers 24th overall.

24) Philadelphia Eagles: Derrick Morgan, DE GT

Examination: Watching the Eagles get destroyed by Romo and the Cowboys offense showed me what they need to do to improve, mainly on defense. The Eagles NEED a young aggressive pass rushing defensive end to put more pressure on the likes of Eli Manning and Tony Romo. They could also improve the defensive backs and linebackers as well with this pick but seeing as they go with flash Morgan is the right pick.

25) Arizona Cardinals: Brandon Spikes, LB Florida

Examination: Well in my last mock draft I had the Cardinals taking OT Charles Brown. Well in my second mock draft he’s long gone to Seattle. With Karlos Dansby and many others wanting new contracts and Arizona not wanting to spend the money they are going to have to replace them through the draft. The number one need is offensive line but there aren’t really any offensive tackles that would be a good pick here so Spikes is the right pick to replace if they don’t bring back Dansby.

26) Baltimore Ravens: Brandon LaFell, WR LSU

Examination: Putting up three points against the Colts in the playoffs isn’t going to get you far at all and no one knows if there will be a wide receiver on the Ravens depth chart next year so no matter what they are going to have to get all the talented receivers they can. Brandon LaFell will get that started in the right direction.

27) Dallas Cowboys: Golden Tate, WR Notre Dame

Examination: The Roy Williams experiment in Dallas has gone worse than the David Beckham experiment in LA. However Beckham is at least decent and helpful in LA where as Roy Williams is a expensive paper weight in Dallas. Miles Austin will most likely stay and they still have Jason Witten but they are going to need another sure handed wide receiver to help out Romo next year. Tate is the best wide receiver available at 27th overall.

28) San Diego Chargers: Dan Williams, DT Tennessee

Examination: Jamal Williams is getting up there in age at 34 and they need a young defensive monster at DT for the long term and Dan Williams at 6-3, 327 lbs would fit the bill perfectly. They don’t need another running back because Darren Sproles is still in town so DT/NT is their next need to fill.

29) Minnesota Vikings*: Patrick Robinson, CB Florida State

Examination: It’s hard to think the Vikings defense still needs a little bit of help. However they do need to add another talented starting cornerback to the defensive backs. The Vikings can also go with Colt McCoy or defensive line help. But Robinson has the best value for the Vikings at a need position.

30) New York Jets*: Damian Williams, WR USC

Examination: The Jets have almost everything on offense except a young talented wide receiver. Braylon Edwards is full of questions and the Jets NEED a wide receiver who has real catchable hands and someone who can stretch the field for Mark Sanchez, also from USC. So this pick is an obvious one for the J-E-T-S Jets Jets Jets.

31) New Orleans Saints*: Sean Weatherspoon, LB Missouri

Examination: Well Weatherspoon is the best available player and the Saints defense is in need of a young talented strong side linebacker. So Weatherspoon would be the right pick for the Saints.

32) Indianapolis Colts*: Bryan Bulaga, OT Iowa

Examination: Well with their being only four teams remaining in the playoffs (Colts, Saints, Vikings and Jets) there is always those players you select at the backend of the draft that can always become the next star in your franchise. In this case Bryan Bulaga has that chance to be a great starting left or right tackle for the Colts.
Santonio Holmes turned out great for the Steelers.

NOTE: * means that team is in the playoff and current pick isn’t a lock (Overall wise).

Sound off

Seahawks targeting Broncos WR Brandon Marshall?

First off this is just a rumor, thought up three weeks ago by ESPN NFC West blogger Mike Sando. Sando, who is a good friend of mine, suggested that the Seahawks could package one of their top three draft selections in the 2010 NFL draft as well as Deion Branch, who has underperformed in Seattle to the Denver Broncos in exchange for the standout Brandon Marshall, who is a restricted free agent this off season.

Sando does bring up a good point about shipping Branch and one of the Seahawks first three picks off to Denver for Marshall however since the hiring of former USC head coach Pete Carroll and Jeremy Bates as the offensive coordinator the idea of Brandon Marshall in Seattle has gotten more and more attention.

However there are a lot of things that need to happen first before there is even a chance for the Seahawks to speak with the Broncos about Brandon Marshall.

First the Seahawks need to hire a general manager to officially replace Tim Ruskell who was forced to resign in December of 2009. The leading candidate is former Tennessee Titans GM Floyd Reese who has worked with Pete Carroll in the past.

Second the Denver Broncos have to tender a contract to Marshall, probably in the neighborhood of $9 million. After they have offered Marshall a contract tender then the Broncos, if they decided to want to move Marshall could then start looking for trade partners.

Third the Broncos would have to work out the right package to make a deal work because the NFL business is not Madden 2010.

The Seahawks currently hold the No. 6, No. 14 and No. 40 overall picks in the draft, one of which, the 14th overall pick belonging to the Broncos. I don't see the Seahawks trading Denver back their first round pick but the two teams could work out a draft pick swap.

There are a few interesting notes to include about this Brandon Marshall Seahawks topic.

- WR TJ Houshmandzadeh called Brandon Marshall after Pete Carroll hired offensive coordinator Jeremy Bates and when TJ asked Brandon about Jeremy Bates he said "You will love the guy". So Bates and Marshall have a connection going back a few years when Bates was the offensive coordinator in Denver.

- Marshall worked with offensive coordinator Jermey Bates and possibly Jedd Fisch as the quarterbacks coach so there is some history with some of Carroll's guys and Brandon Marshall.

Now I do need to note that there are at least obsticals the Seahakws have before anyone can mention a Brandon Marshall to Seattle rumor

One, the Seattle Seahawks NEED to select a new general manager to assist Pete Carroll and make the transactions go through for the Seahawks. Pete Carroll is not the GM, he is the executive vice president of football operations and head coach. No moves can be made involving player movement without a GM.

Two, the collective bargaining agreement needs to be situated one way or another because it will effect Brandon Marshall's status as a free agent. If there is a new CBA in place before the deadline then Marshall becomes an unrestricted free agent and unless the Broncos decide to franchise tag him the Seahawks won't have to make a trade for Marshall. If there is not a new CBA in place then Marshall becomes a restricted free agent because he has not played six years in the NFL. So then the Seahawks would have to match the tender offer and work out a trade with the Broncos IF the Seahawks decided that they want to pursue Brandon Marshall.

Three, depending on what happens after the CBA deadline the Seahawks still have to create the right package to offer the Broncos. It will not be Branch and a mid round pick for Marshall because that wouldn't even work in a fantasy league.

So there is A LOT that has to happen between now and the time the Seahawks could possibly be thinking about having Brandon Marshall dawning Seahawks blue.

So this should put a stop to the Brandon Marshall Seahawks rumors until the Seahawks have hired a new GM and the NFL collective bargening agreement has been sorted out.

You can follow Lars at Twitter http://twitter.com/larshanson

Report: Pete Carroll Resigns at USC; Set to become next Seahawks head coach

The wait is over; the Seattle Seahawks and former USC head coach Pete Carroll have come to an agreement to make Carroll the next Seahawks head coach, this according to the LA Times.

Since the Seahawks fired former head coach Jim Mora Jr, the team has been in direct contact with the Trojans head coach. When the news broke around 10 A.M Friday morning the quick names that came out were Vikings defensive coordinator Lesley Frazier (who would fill the NFL's Rooney Rule) and other notable suitors.

Then ESPN's Chris Mortenson reported that the Seahawks had been in contact with USC head coach Pete Carroll, and that the interest was mutual on both sides and that Carroll would become the next head coach of the Seattle Seahawks.

Right after the news broke about Carroll becoming the next Seahawks head coach there was massive uproar from both Trojan fans and Seahawks fans. Many people see Carroll's last stint in the NFL a complete bust, which appalls me.

However over the next 24-48 hours there had been conflicting reports about Carroll's role in Seattle and whether or not that would make or break Carroll's decision to leave Hollywood for Seattle, which has seen a few big names leave SoCal for Seattle.

Reports had come out that Carroll was going to be named the teams head coach and president. Then there were other reports saying that Paul Alan and Tod Leiweke were not going to give full control of the team to Carroll. Then there were even two or three reports saying that Carroll wanted full control and because he wasn't going to get that he was going to return to USC.

Well now there is only one report and that is that Pete Carroll has resigned as head coach at USC and will be named the head coach of the Seattle Seahawks organization as early as Monday, this according to the LA Times.

Now with the hiring of Pete Carrol has also brought along some questions and controversy.

- Why of all coaches did the Seahawks pick Pete Carroll instead of other names like Frazier, John Fox and other NFL names out there. Why did the Seahawks pick a college coach. Well I have the answer for that.

- In some people's eyes the Seahawks basically made a laughing stock of the NFL's Rooney Rule which states that an NFL team must interview a minority candidate for any coaching of font office job before making an official hire. Well the Seahawks did interview Vikings defensive coordinator Lesley Frazier, however some people thought the interview was just to fulfill the rule, not that it was to actually offer him the job.

- How much control over the franchise will Pete Carroll receive? Reports have said it's not about the money for Carroll because he made $4.4 million at USC and will now make $7 million in Seattle but it wasn't about the money it was about the control. Carroll never had control in New York or New England. In Seattle he will at least have 60/40 control, him being the 60 in all personnel decision and over the final 53 man roster.

- Will Carroll have success in Seattle and how long will it take to get that success? Carroll, while some people think is bust in the NFL, still had a 33-31 NFL record and also made it to the playoffs and had a 1-2 record in the playoffs so no matter what he is a step up from Jim Mora Jr. But the last two years the Seahawks have combined for nine wins (4 in 08 and 5 in 09) and before that they had five straight seasons of 9+ wins so they needed to go find someone who is a winner and knows how to build a winning program, something Carroll knows a lot about.

Now the timing of the Carroll to Seattle move is a very opportunistic for Pete Carroll for many reasons.

One, USC is facing, and will continue to face sanctions for the Reggie Bush, O.J Mays (Basketball) and more recently Joe McKnight incidences and Carroll obviously doesn't want to be around for it, and he has a great shot at a job that Carroll has been wanting for a long time and that it to become the head coach of the Seattle Seahawks as well as front office title. Much like Mike Shanahan in Washington. HC/EVP.

Also as Carroll is taking over the Seahawks, they are currently wanting to rebuild the franchise starting with the core and branching out. This is great for Carroll because he wants to be heavily involved in building this franchise the way he wants it and even though the Seahawks will hire a new GM as well both will have a lot of hands on work on the team. Plus with the Seahawks having three of the top 40 picks in the 2010 NFL draft this is the perfect shot for Carroll to get things going early in Seattle with a young QB, possibly Jimmy Clausen who he tried to recruit to USC but wound up losing him to Notre Dame.

Plus Carroll also has safety Taylor Mays, running back Joe McKnight, DE Everson Griffen, WR Damian Williams and OT Charles Brown entering the draft and you can bet that Brown and Mays will be high on his list because both fill needs the Seahawks have.

Not only does Carroll have his seniors(and some juniors) entering the draft but he also has former USC Trojans already on the Seahawks like MLB Lofa Tatupu, DE Lawrence Jackson and other players from the PAC-10 as well.

Any way you look at it this is the "perfect" job opportunity for Pete Carroll in the NFL. Let's run down why this is a great move for Carroll and then separately why it's great for the Seahawks.

Pete Carroll:

- Money, both from the Seahawks stand point of being able to have a now devoted owner in Paul Allen, who is the NFL's richest owner, and also a team that didn't make the playoffs by a mile so will have a easlier time being able to sign free agents.

- Power, I know the Seahawks aren't making Carroll the team president or the GM however I see him in the same role as Mike Shanahan in Washington where he is the head coach, and has 60/40 or 70/30 say in the final roster and all player movements. The Seahawks won't give him 100/0 control but they will give him a majority stake. However as I have learn over the past two days the reason why the Seahawks still want to hire a GM is to keep some form of balance in the organization.

-Division, not many people have spoken about this but I have looked over and realized that it seems harder to win the PAC-10 than it does the NFC West where ESPN's Mark Schlereth said Pete Carroll can bring this team back to a Super Bowl contender and definitely back to winning the NFC West.

-Draft position, this is probably the second best thing next to money/power for Pete Carroll because for a college coach coming into the NFL, and knowing a lot about college scouting and players in college this will be very huge. Carroll is in the position to select a QB like Jimmy Clausen who would fit will with Carroll's offense as well as a young LT like Charles Brown. Also He still has a high second round pick where he could pick up another starter for the long term. So Pete Carroll, also depending on what he does in free agency can really get things going in Seattle if he makes the right draft picks.

Seattle Seahawks:

-The Seahawks wanted a guy like Carroll: The Seahawks said that what they were looking for in a head coach was someone with experience, a great knowledge of the college ranks and someone with impeccable coaching skills. Well Carroll fit's the bill and is also a great players coach, and will sit more than well with the current and new players for the Seahawks.

- Outside the box thinking: The Seahawks hired Jim Mora Jr two years ago and in that contract included the deal that Mora would be named the head coach after Mike Holmgren retired. Well Mora got the job and lost it. Now when the Seahawks were thinking of their next head coach they wanted someone outside the box, someone who a lot of people wouldn't think would be the next Seahawks head coach. Unlike John Fox or Lesley Frazier, Carroll, who has been in the NFL before didn't come up in conversation with a lot of people to be the next Seahawks head coach but he will definitely get this ship turned around.

So with all the details worked out and all the contract finalized there is nothing standing in the way of the Seattle Seahawks naming former USC head coach Pete Carroll as the teams next head coach.

NOTES:

Jeremy Bates will follow Pete Carroll to Seattle as the teams new offensive coordinator, officially waving good bye to Greg Knapp.

Ken Norton will also follow Pete Carroll to Seattle as the teams linebacker coach.

Pete Carroll, as the title shows has officially stepped down as head coach at USC.

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Seahawks, Ryan agree on six year contract

The Seahawks off season has officially started today and no it's not because they hired a new team president and GM. They did not decided to join the coaching fire party that went on today so Mora, Knapp and Bradley all still have jobs with the Seahawks.

No today the Seahawks and Pro Bowl alternate punter Jon Ryan came to an agreement on a six year $9.1 million dollar contract with $1.9 million guaranteed and $1.6 million in signing bonus.

The Seahawks signed Ryan last year after they decided to parted ways with underachieving punter Ryan Plackemeier mid season.

Ryan racked up 4,068 yards on 88 punts with a 46 yard average per punt and 28 touchbacks.

Ryan was set to be a restricted free agent this off season but now doesn't have to worry about his future.

Now the Seahawks next move is to decide on their new team president and GM. Also they will have to decide about their coaching staff as well and mainly if Jim Mora Jr. will be back or not.

2010 NFL Mock draft: First Round

The time has come where we transition from one season into two different seasons. The playoffs and post season and the off season aka looking ahead to the 2010 NFL draft.

So far Cal running back Jahvid Best, Tennessee safetey Eric Berry, Oklahoma quarterback Sam Bradford, Notre Dame QB Jimmy Clausen and other projected first round picks have already declared for the 2010 Draft.

So with that being said my first mock draft of 2010 is here. My mock draft order follows the offical order.

1) St Louis Rams: Ndamukong Suh, DT Nebraska

Examination: Well the most dominant player in the 2010 Draft, Nebraska defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh is the first player selected in the 2010 NFL draft. With the St Louis Rams going no where but up, and acquiring talent along the way the best place to start is at defensive tackle. With new head coach and former Giants defensive coordinator Steve Spagnolo putting a lot of attention on the defensive side, it's only fitting that the electric, overpowering 6-3, 295 lbs goes to the St Louis Rams and Steve Spagnolo with the first overall pick in the 2010 draft.


2) Detroit Lions: Russell Okung, OT Oklahoma State

Examination: Well in the 2009 NFL draft the Lions got their "frachise quarterback" in Matt Stafford and it's now time to get someone to protect that $72 million dollar pick. With current LT Jeff Backus not even being able to protect the air it's time to draft their other corner stone of the franchise in Russell Okung. Okung is an athletic monster; at left tackle at 6-8 300 lbs he's a perfect fit in Detroit. Giving Stafford and the offense a solid offensive line anchored by Okung will go a long ways to help the Lions grow to a winning franchise.

3)Tampa Bay Bucs: Eric Berry, S Tennessee

Examination: With Ndamukong Suh off the board the Bucs have to go to the next best defensive player at a position of need. That player would be hard hitting safety Eric Berry from Tennessee. The Buccaneers have Tanard Jackson and Sabby Piscitelli currently starting at strong safety and free safety. Adding Eric Berry in the defensive backfield will help improve their young defense greatly.

4) Washington Redskins: Sam Bradford, QB Oklahoma

Examination: Well it won't matter if Jim Zorn is the head coach in Washington or not but the fact is the Redskins need a new start at quarterback. Last off season they went to Jay Cutler, Mark Sanchez and even Josh Freeman but wound up sticking with Jason Campbell. With Campbell becoming a free agent and not really playing well enough to deserve a return ticket to D.C the Skins will need to find their replacement. Who better than former Heisman trophy winning QB Sam Bradford? Bradford has missed the majority of the 2009 season but already declared for the draft after he announced he would have shoulder surgery. Even with the year off Bradford is the best NFL ready quarterback in this draft class with Jimmy Clausen falling, Tim Tebow finishing behind Bradford and Locker and Ryan Mallet going back to school. So with the fifth overall pick the Redskins will take Sam Bradford.

5) Kansas City Chiefs: Bruce Campbell, OT Maryland

Examination: With Russell Okung off the board and both the Chiefs and Lions having the similar situations of needing to protect their big money quarterbacks, in this case it's Matt Cassel and his $63 million dollar contract. The Chiefs have former first round pick Brandon Albert but he's been under performing this season allowing 10sacks. Albert can also play at the LG position and that would allow the Chiefs to select talented offensive tackle Bruce Campbell to play LT.

6) Seattle Seahawks: Tim Tebow, QB Florida

Examination: Yes, now before everyone starts sending me hate mail for not drafting an OT, RB, WR, DL or anything else I'm going to give you three clear cut reasons why Tim Tebow is the right pick for the Seahawks first of two first round picks. One, Tim Tebow is the best athlete in the draft. He's an inteligent QB who can throw very well and can also make the plays with his feet. Tebow is a left handed version of Jake Locker. Tebow can learn the pro style offense from Hasselbeck for a year and then take over, but can also be a QB that can bring an added piece to make the offense electric his rookie season too. Tebow needs to work on his delivery with Hasselbeck and the new OC. Two, Tebow will give it his all every single play of every single game he's in which might not be starting next season but it could be depending on his progression. But the Seahawks need a player, and especially at QB who will give it his all every game of his career and also a QB who is rarely hurt and very durable. Third and final reason is the fact that Seattle doesn't have a real QB picture long term. Seneca Wallace isn't it and neither is Mike Teel and knowing Tebow's experience in the best conference in CFB in the SEC he's definitely the man for the job in Seattle if Bradford is gone. NOTE: This selection is pending what happens in free agency, if they get a LT and or a LG then Tebow would be a great pick.

7) Cleavland Browns: Dez Bryant, WR Oklahoma State

Examination: Well big ol' Mike Holmgren is now in charge of the Browns organization and knowing the man on a personal level he's gonna make this team a winner. First off he's going to have to bring life to this wastland of an offense and how better to do that then select Oklahoma State wide out Dez Bryant with the sixth overall pick. The pick of Bryant makes sense on a few levels, mainly the fact that they have NO receivers but all around play maker in Josh Cribbs and you will need more than a guy who seems to be the only alert player on offense other than Harrison. Bryant, missing most of 2009 for NCAA violations is still the best play maker at wide receiver in the draft and will help bring water to a desert wasteland in Cleavland, and Brady Quinn will love this pick.

8) Oakland Raiders: Rolando McClain, LB Alabama

Examination: I do apologize to Rolando you have been selected to go into the black hole known as Oakland, and the ageless wonder Al Davis has called your name. Ok enough with the sarcasm and back to the pick. McClain is a blazing outside linebacker and will fit great into what they are doing in Oakland. Speed, speed and oh yea more speed. McClain I could see as the next Patrick Willis if he gets his shot in Oakland. This is a great pick and I wish Rolando McClain luck in Oakland.

9) Buffalo Bills: Trent Williams, OT Oklahoma

Examination: Well so far four players have been selected from the great state of Oklahoma and Trent Williams going to the Bills at nine overall is a steal for the Bills. They could go QB with Jimmy Clausen but he's not that worth it. They could go DT with Gerald McCoy to fit with Marcus Stroud. But going with Williams is the right choice for the Bills. They traded Jason Peters to the Eagles last year and really need to find a replacement for him. They have the rest of the offensive line but left tackle and with the selection if Williams eighth overall they can plug him right in and he'll be a starter for a long time in the NFL.

10) Jacksonville Jaguars: Joe Haden, CB Florida

Examination: Sorry to all Jags fans but your dream of Tim Tebow staying in Florida is over. The Tebow pick, if he was available is not a field move it's a money move. I know the NFL is a business but give yourself a player who you need, not just for money. He's rocking in Seattle with the best fans in the NFL the 12th man. However you do keep shutdown CB Joe Haden in the state of Florida and he fills a need at the second corner back opposite of Mathis. Haden is the best cover corner in the draft by far and he'd be a real added benefit for the Jags defense and Jack Del Rio.

11) Denver Broncos(via CHI): Terrance Cody, DT Alabama

Examination: The first half of the season the Broncos had the best defense in the NFL not allowing a single second half score. Well now they are fighting to get into the playoffs at 8-7. However this pick is thanks to the Jay Cutler trade, who by the way has thrown 25 Int's in his first year in Chicago. Anyone saying encore? Back to the Broncos pick. Mike Nolan has an electric pass rusher in Elvis Dumervil and a talented trio of linebackers. The one thing I see as a weakness is a strong NT in their 3-4 defense. With the selection of Terrance Cody he'd be a great fit in Nolan's defense right in at nose tackle. It just keeps getting better and better for Denver.

12) Miami Dolphins: Gerald McCoy, DT Oklahoma

Examination: The "Big Tuna" is large and in charge in Miami and he's done an excellent job turning around the Dolphins organization in two years but is still missing a top notch defensive/nose tackle on defense. Parcells finally will get his guy with the selection of Oklahoma defensive tackle Gerald McCoy 15th overall. McCoy is a beast at 6-3, 296 lbs with above average speed and an a tough SOB who will play through injuries giving it all he's got. That's a Parcell's guy. So with the 12th pick in the 2010 draft I have McCoy going to the Dolphins.

13) San Francisco 49ers: Bryan Bulaga, OT Iowa

Examination: The 49ers have just about everything on offense. They have a QB in Alex Smith. A running back in Frank Gore. Michael Crabtree and Vernon Davis as receiving options. All they are missing is a left/right tackle depending on where they put Joe Staley. Either way RT/LT will be the only hole the 49ers need to fix on offense and it just so happens that Bulaga is available at 13th overall. This would be a dream pick for the 49ers and I do think they will take him.

14) Seattle Seahawks(via DEN): Taylor Mays, S USC

Examination: Well with Tim Tebow already in the fold via the sixth overall pick the Seattle Seahawks can go to work on their next need, but this time on defense. That need being a young talented safety. Taylor Mays, a Seattle native, would be the next best safety behind Eric Berry and would be a great selection 14th overall. The Seahawks have some other questions at LT, LG, DE and RB but I don't see Charles Brown or Anthony Davis being worth a top 15 pick. The only other possibility would be DE Derrick Morgan from GT. But I'm going to go with safety Taylor Mays to the Seattle Seahawks 14th overall.

15) New York Giants: Sergio Kindle, DE/OLB Texas

Examination: This was one of the hardest predictions I had to make because looking at the Giants they really don't have any major glaring need. However DE Osi Umenyiora was benched this season and it could be that the Giants decide to move Umenyiora this off season. That would bring an opening at defensive end and Sergio Kindle, who reminds me a lot of last years top DE/OLB from Texas Brain Orakpo who went to the Washington Redskins and dominated in his rookie season. Kindle could bring the same presents to the Giants defense, which allowed the 3rd most point in the NFL this season.

16) Tennessee Titans: Derrick Morgan, DE Georgia Tech

Examination: In recent drafts the Tennessee Titans have been known for not drafting need but overall talent. S Michael Griffin, RB Chris Johnson and WR Kenny Britt was a need and a great talent pick. So that's why I have decided to go with Derrick Morgan 16th overall to the Titans. Also the Titans can use a talented, speedy defensive end on the defensive line with defensive coordinator Chuck Cecil.

17) San Francisco 49ers: Patrick Robinson, CB Florida State

Examination: Well their ideal corner back, Joe Haden is already off the board so at this point the 49ers need to address their corner back need with the next best CB in the draft which I believe is FSU's Patrick Robinson. Robinson is in competition with Michigan's Donovan Warren to be the next corner back drafted after Joe Haden. Robinson has top end speed and prototypical height for a No 1. corner in the NFL at 5-11, 192 lbs. The 49ers will have to hone in his skills and keep him from jumping routes too early. He's excellent at reading routes and is great at jumping routes but sometimes jumps too early. The Niners could also go QB with Jimmy Clausen but I don't think they are giving up on Alex Smith so Robinson is the right pick for the 49ers 17th overall.

18) Pittsburgh Steelers: Mike Iupati, OG Idaho

Examination: Well this is kind of a tough spot for the Steelers to pick because it's way to early to select OG Mike Iupati but they still need some serious help on the offensive line. Watching Max Starks and Willie Colon against the Dolphins this week just made me hang my head when every time you saw a flag being thrown you knew it was holding on Colon or Starks. So with that being said the Steelers need to improve the talent at OG and they can do that by selecting Mike Iupati 18th overall from Idaho, even though it's a little early.

19) Atlanta Falcons: Navorro Bowman, LB Penn State

Examination: Mike Smith has led the Falcons to consecutive winning seasons for the first time in...well it's been so long I can't remember. The point is their defense has come around but still needs some work. They selected Curtis Lofton at MLB last year and he's done wonders for the Falcons defense. They can improve apon that with the selection of Navorro Bowman 19th overall.

20) Houston Texans: Donovan Warren, CB Michigan

Examination: The Texans came close to making the playoffs for the first time in franchise history but fell just short on week 17, even though they got the win. Going into the off season they have needs at CB, S, DT and maybe another WR if Kevin Walter leaves. Since Mays and Berry are off the board and there aren't any DT's that would work for the Texas and CB is a much bigger need for them. So with the 20th pick overall to the Houston Texans I have them selecting the second best CB in the draft Donovan Warren from Michigan.

21) New York Jets*: Jahvid Best, RB Cal

Examination: Well this is more of a "what can we do to add more talent pick" for the J-E-T-S Jets Jets Jets. Thomas Jones, still a productive runner is getting up there in age and they could sure use a player like Best who has the similar game of Tennessee Titans RB Chris Johnson. Add that with Mark Sanchez and the Jets offense becomes even that much better.

22) Baltimore Ravens*: Arrelious Benn, WR Illinois

Examination: The Ravens offense is almost complete. They have an electric running game with Ray Rice, a stand out quarterback in Joe Flacco and a great offensive line. They have some questions at wide out however and Derrick Mason retires again they will need another big play WR, and Benn would be a huge upgrade over Mason no matter what. So give Joe Flacco the missing piece to the Ravens offense and select Arrelious Benn 22nd overall.

23) Arizona Cardinals*: Charles Brown, OT USC

Examination: With the Cardinals going 10-6, winning the NFC West for the second year in a row they still are a hit and miss team. They need some serious help on the offensive line with Mike Gandy and Levi Brown both playing horrible this season giving up 11.5 sacks combine and 10+ false start penalties. They did good with Chris Wells late in the draft last year. Can they make it two in a row with Charles Brown filling their hole at LT?

24) Green Bay Packers*: Jason Fox, OT Miami

Examination: Well here we have to go with another early selection but the Packers have a serious need on the offensive line and mostly at LT. Chad Clifton and Mark Tauscher won't make it another year and protecting Aaron Rogers is going to be crutial to their success. So I have Jacson Fox going to the Packers 24th overall.

25) Cincinnati Bengals*: Brandon LaFell, WR LSU

Examination: RIP Chris Henry before I say anything else. The Bengals haven't put up more than 25 points in a game more than one time this season and that's not good. In the wake of Chris Henry passing and Chad Johnson seeming to have lost a little bit of his greatness the Bengals NEED a true No 2. WR next year.

26) New England Patriots*: Corey Wootton, DE Northwestern

Examination: We all know Bill Belichick doesn't like first round picks but this time he's selecting on the back end so he's ok with it. Belichick likes players who are talented and that don't break the bank. In this case they need a new young defensive end in their 3-4 defense and Wootton would be a great selection 26th overall.

27) Philadelphia Eagles*: Jerry Hughes, DE/OLB TCU

Examination: The team that always comes out winners in the NFL draft, the Philadelphia Eagles are back at it again, this time on defense with talented DE Jerry Hughes from TCU. He would be a great replacement for Victor Abiamiri who has majorly underachieved this season.

28) Dallas Cowboys*: Golden Tate, WR Notre Dame

Examination: It all makes sense. Jerry Jones, big name player from a big name school and at a need position. I don't see Roy Williams sticking around in Dallas because of Miles Austin and the fact that Golden Tate would be a better fit for the Cowboys than Williams. Either way the Cowboys need another WR and Tate is the only remaining one with talent.

29) Minnesota Vikins*: Colt McCoy, QB Texas

Examination: Why not? Colt McCoy is the most accurate passer in the draft and fits well with the Vikings offense, but still would need to adjust into the pro style offense in Minnesota. The Vikins need a QB long term after Favre is gone so make the pick now, don't wait to see what Favre will do, because we never know when he will.

30) San Diego Chargers*: Dan Williams, DT Tennessee

Examination: Jamal Williams is getting up their in age at 34 and they need a young defensive monster at DT for the long term and Dan Williams at 6-3, 327 lbs would fit the bill perfectly.

31) New Orleans Saints*: Sean Weatherspoon, LB Missouri

Examination: Well Weatherspoon is the best available player and the Saints defense is in need of a young talented strong side linebacker. So Weatherspoon would be the right pick for the Saints.

32) Indianapolis Colts*: Anthony Davis, OT Rutgers

Examination: The Colts pretty much have everything on offense except a running game but I still believe in Addai. However they don't' have an elite left tackle to protect their man in Peyton Manning. So with the selection of Anthony Davis at 32 the Colts would get their long term man at left tackle.

NOTE: * means that team is in the playoff and current pick isn't a lock (Overall wise).

Sound off

Seahawks Draft Prospects: OT Russell Okung

As today dons a new year and more importantly a new decade in Seahawks history. However they still have one little bit of 2009 left attached to them, that being their final regular season game this Sunday at home against the Tennessee Titans and C2k Chris Johnson.

After the Tennessee game this Sunday the Seahawks will go into full on off season mode, starting with the hiring of the teams new president/GM replacing Tim Ruskell who resigned in December.

Once that new GM is in place they will have a lot of work ahead of them to add talented to this depleted roster. The Seahawks new GM will have to attack some of those needs through free agency as well as the 2010 draft where the Seahawks have two first round picks (7th and 19th currently projected).

The Seahawks will be going into the off season needing to address the following needs.

Starting left tackle to replace Walter Jones immediately.

Starting left guard to finally replace Steve Hutchinson and give the Seahawks a real strong left side once again.

A young talented running back to give the Seahawks a true presents in the running department, something they haven't had since Shaun Alexander.

An aggressive, strong defensive end to give the Seahawks a real pass rush, something they have seriously lacked the last two years.

A tall, speedy, physical corner back to match up against some of the tall NFC West WR's like Larry Fitzgerald.

A tall, explosive play maker at wide receiver to complement TJ Houshmandzadeh over the middle, and a real No. 1 target for Matt Hasselbeck.

TALENT, TALENT AND MORE TALENT.

So where do you start? Well over the next next three to four months leading up to the 2010 NFL draft I'll be profiling a lot of possible draft selections for the Seattle Seahawks at the need positions I just listed above.

So with that being said, first on the list is Oklahoma State left guard Russell Okung.

Physical stature and Skills:

6-8, 300 lbs, long arms, quick feet, 34 consecutive starts, great agility, Patient and doesn't over extend

Character/Experience :

Leader on and off the field, hark working, consistency throughout his entire college career and has started all four years at Oklahoma State.

NFL comparison:

Joe Thomas-Great footwork, experienced and hard working along with all the intangibles.

ESPN scouts Inc Todd McShay has Russell Okung as the No. 1 offensive tackle in the 2010 draft and a top seven pick. Okung might have a hard time slipping by the Kansas City Chiefs and Detroit Lions who will pick before the Seattle Seahawks, but do have a lot of other needs on their team as well.

On the Seahawks draft board Okung, with out any doubt will be the first player on their board. He could be the second behind Nebraska DT Ndamukong Suh who, baring a trade or miracle won't fall to the Seahawks between 5th and 7th overall.

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