Draft Reaction
I waited to start writing this review because I didn’t want to jump on the bandwagon of applying grades to the draft. We all know we won’t be able to evaluate this draft as a success or failure for at least two years. I also wanted time to let all the reactions settle and to filter all the information available on blogs and Twitter and news services. I’ve heard the interviews and the rebuttals wherein the general manager (Hi JS!) says it was the best draft ever and the media says “They always have to say that and it’s not an indicator of a quality draft!”
So pushing all that aside, here’s my gut reaction:
- I think PCJS did a better than average job of evaluating talent and drafting players with the exact abilities they were looking for. They didn’t let the media “best player available” buzz dictate their choices.
- I think PCJS did an excellent job of drafting for their system and needs. As an example, while the media and some fans thing Russell Wilson is too short is for a successful NFL QB, Seahawks picked him anyway. And the buzz on Twitter is that the players like his skills. It does speak to the front office’s belief that he has the skills needed for their system. It’s also set up and intriguing scenario going into training camp where there’s 4 QBs on the roster and only 3 slots.
- I was wrong about the Hawks not drafting a QB. (I hate admitting that. I was so sure I was right!)
- PCJS did a great job drafting players with multiple capabilities. Moving some of those big bodies they drafted in later rounds around to meet our needs shows they put a lot of thought into the process.
I have to admit, the player I’m most excited about is not Bruce Irvin, although I’m beyond elated at the thought of a consistent pass rush. The player I’m most excited about is Robert Turbin. Yes, the word on the street is that NFL games are won on the arms of the QB throwing for big chunks of earth. But I don’t believe any team can win without a two prong offense; running and passing. Having the defense believe you’ll throw at every down is just ludicrous. Therefore a running game is essential… or at least the threat of a running game. I really like Turbin’s strong, physical running style and I’m looking forward to a shared workload between Lynch and Turbin. Unfortunately, even though he’s such a standup guy, Forsett (Who I’ve always liked) wasn’t effective last year and I fear he may be too small to be successful. So having two aggressive runners on our team really makes my day!
What’s your reaction to the draft?