Draft Recap: Transactions

Analysis: An absolute steal. I was surprised that Seattle traded away the 37th overall pick; I was shocked to see what Denver gave up for it. The way things are looking, the first-round selection obtained from Denver (their natural pick, not the pick obtained in the Jay Cutler deal) could potentially be a top ten choice next year. In a draft somewhat deprived of depth and overall talent, trading away a two this year for a one next year is a no-brainer. Alphonso Smith is an undersized, talented player, but Seattle obviously wins this transaction (for now, anyways). The pick obtained by Seattle could turn out to be a player like Gerald McCoy, Taylor Mays, the next franchise quarterback, or maybe a different impact player – a lot can change in one year.

Winner: Seattle, by a lot

Analysis: Seattle was able to trade back into the second round, and acquired a player they would’ve felt comfortable selecting with their original spot (37th overall). Max Unger offered great value late in the second round, and fits the mold of a Ruskell pick. He has great work ethic, passion for the game, and character. Combine that with his versatility (plays all five positions on the offensive line) and experience (four-year starter at Oregon), and Unger looks like he’ll develop into a very good player at the next level.

Chicago didn’t come away from this deal empty-handed, however. They were able to obtain picks in the third- and fourth-rounds, and both players selected offer great athleticism at the defensive end position. Both Melton and Gilbert could develop into good players in the future.

Winner: Seattle, barely

Analysis: After a run on wide receivers in the third round of the draft, Seattle made the move to trade back up and selected Deon Butler. The Seahawks obviously had their eyes on Butler, who truly resembles a Ruskell selection: great work ethic, character, and experience. Butler also offers speed, demonstrated by his 4.38 40-yard dash at the Combine. He should be able to immediately contribute as a returner on special teams, and could develop into a nice slot receiver in the future.

Philadelphia obtained great value by trading their third-round selection to Seattle. They only received fifth- and seventh-round choices in this year’s draft, but they’ll also receive Seattle’s 2010 third-round pick. The 2010 draft should be loaded with talent, and should present a lot more depth than the 2009 class. Seattle appeared somewhat desperate to move up to acquire Deon Butler, and Philadelphia definitely got good value in return – not to mention the fifth-round choice was the first pick of the round.

Winner: Philadelphia, barely