The Seattle Seahawks may have appeared in each of the last two Super Bowls, but that doesn't mean they didn't have need areas on the roster. The team could have used some playmakers at the wide receiver position, some depth in the secondary, a pass-rusher and some new bodies up front along the offensive line entering last week's NFL Draft. Eight picks later and head coach Pete Carroll has to be pleased with how the team made out.
In fact, ESPN NFL Draft Insider Mel Kiper Jr. gave Seattle an A- grade for their draft.
"Let's start with this question: Will there be any rookie in the NFL next year who figures to be better than Jimmy Graham?" Kiper wrote. "In a health vacuum, I'd say no. And remember, Graham is truly the centerpiece of this draft, as he came over for the price of the 31st pick and Max Unger. Every guy drafted this week has the hope of being a star; Jimmy Graham IS a star. That's a good grade on its own. I have to trust Seattle has vetted Frank Clark's off-field problems and feels comfortable bringing him in. Assuming he's OK there, the value is pretty fair, and they could use the pass-rushing help. The pick of Tyler Lockett (they moved up for him) is one of my favorites in the entire draft. The guy is just always open, and anybody who watched the Super Bowl knows how much the Seahawks need pass-catchers who can create some separation. This is your guy. From there, you seem some decent bets on offensive line help, which we know is an obvious need area. Overall, the combination of adding Graham and Lockett, plus the attempt to improve things with some new competitors to win jobs along the offensive line makes this draft a pretty good one for the Seahawks, who seem to always have a developmental plan for their picks. We often have players graded differently, but they know how to coach them up."
The Seahawks are hoping that this infusion of youth along with Jimmy Graham will allow them to make a third straight appearance in the Super Bowl. But will it be enough to deliver them their second championship in three years?
