Seattle Seahawks Draft DT Jordan Hill In 3rd Round

November 24, 2012; University Park, PA, USA; Wisconsin Badgers quarterback Curt Phillips (10) is hit by Penn State Nittany Lions defensive tackle Jordan Hill (47) at Beaver Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports

With their second pick in the draft (round 3, #87 overall) the Seattle Seahawks have selected defensive tackle Jordan Hill from Penn State.

After the selection of Christine Michael earlier in the evening, Pete Carroll still had a couple “needs” that had to be taken care of. At 6’1″, 303 pounds, Hill meets one of those needs in the middle of the defense. After Alan Branch left to be a Buffalo Bill in free agency, the Seahawks wanted to make sure they could fill the middle with a run-stuffer who has some explosion and Hill seems to be the guy that fits.

NFL.com has Hill rated a little bit low at 64.6 but if you look at the evaluation, he has the unique skill-set that Carroll and general manager John Schneider appreciate.

"Hill doesn’t possess the ideal size for a defensive tackle, but he does use his short build to his advantage in terms of low pad level and the obtaining of leverage. Hill flashes strong and active hands (like against Penn State’s final 2012 opponent, Wisconsin, where he racked up 12 tackles and two sacks), but he is not always consistent with this effort. Hill is also not tremendously quick, and can be worn down when he sees too many snaps. For these reasons, Hill likely will have to work as a part of a rotation in the NFL."

Dane Brugler at CBS Sports says Hill is a

High-effort defender with less-than-ideal measurables. Would be best served as part of the rotation in a 4-3. Good lateral agility with quick feet to sidestep blockers. Flexible body type to make smooth movements and a quick first step. Plays low with natural leverage. Ordinary upper body strength but active and strong hands.

Jordan Hill talked to Seahawks.com about his selection.

"It’s an emotional feeling. I’ve been waiting for a phone call and I’m really excited it’s gonna be Seattle… I’m a versatile player that plays anywhere I’m asked to play. I’m a guy that plays with a high motor and I’ll get after it every play. I’m ready to compete.I can play anywhere, 3-tech or 1-tech it doesn’t matter. I played mostly the one tech, nose (tackle at Penn State).The things that went on here, I’m glad I went through it. I feel like it’s made me a better man and I’m just glad I now have the opportunity… I want to take advantage of it even more."

Go Hawks!