Seattle Seahawks 2011 Overview, Possible Draft Selections

When we look at the NFL today, it is difficult to look at it tomorrow. Usually we would be looking at draft selections and trades and the like. However, with the owners and the players in so much disagreement, it is difficult to determine what will happen. Still, it is better to try, is it not? One of the most difficult teams to evaluate will be the Seattle Seahawks.

My reference article is posted at the Seattle Seahawks' website titled "And the Seahawks Will Select..."

2010 Overview:

The Seahawks are ranked lower than six other teams who posted worse records than they did in the 2010 season. They are ranked lower than 13 teams who did not make the postseason, and four other teams who did not win their division.

During the postseason, the Seahawks defeated the defending world champion New Orleans Saints and appeared in the NFL's equivalent of the elite eight. How can this team be listed as the eighth worst team in the league? Consider this. In 2010, the Seahawks' average loss was by three touchdowns, and twice they were beaten by 30 or more points. Their point differential against opponents who finished the season with a winning record was -62 (neither of their 30-point defeats were against opponents with winning records). In a nutshell, they were a 4-12 worthy team masquerading as a playoff contender, due in large part to their weak division.

The Good:

The Seahawks have very little to offer entering 2011. Many of their best players are aging, and their young talent is not particularly good, despite their 2010 draft class, which features safety Earl Thomas. They have a solid, dependable running back in Marshawn Lynch, whose dash in the playoffs against New Orleans may be the most dominant run I've ever seen in postseason football play.

The Bad:

The Seahawks face a wave of potential free agent losses in 2011, an aging quarterback, and a serious issue at offensive line. Also, they need additions at nearly every other defensive position, as well as upgrades at receiver. Above all, however, the Seahawks have a lousy pass defense.

Draft Outlook:

And, here's the news: With the 25^th overall pick, the Seahawks could go several ways. There is always the quarterback route, perhaps taking Jake Locker from Washington to replace an aging Matt Hasselbeck. I believe cornerback will be their first pick. Aaron Williams out of Texas might be a good pick. He can play cornerback or safety, although it is unlikely since his safety position is free safety and that isn't what Seattle is looking for. Pete Carroll will try to grab CB Jimmy Smith from Colorado.

Whatever the direction Seattle goes in the draft, at whatever point the NFL goes back to work, I think that their success will go down.

Reference:

Seattle Seahawk Website, "And the Seahawks Will Select..."