Seahawks Post-Draft Analysis: Offseason Acquisition Grades at Wide Receiver

Oct 17, 2013; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Seattle Seahawks wide receiver

(18) during the game against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports

Priority Free Agents Re-signed to Roster

• WR Sidney Rice – Re-signed on one year deal

At the time of Rice’s return to the roster, this move had a much higher grade on it. Assuming Rice gets healthy in time to get back on track, it’s still nice to bring his size and experience back to the group. He’s not a super-route runner, but he should be able to be effective where he’s always been, when the play breaks down. This may well be his last year in Seattle, but I have a feeling it will still be productive. With all the other acquisitions Rice won’t have to be on the field as much as in the past, a good way to stay healthy. Of course, there is always a chance he could be cut in training camp if our next receiver addition comes in and tears it up.

Retention Grade: B

Free Agent Additions

• WR Chris Matthews – Signed from Canadian League

Matthews had a sneaky chance of making the roster and making a serious impact on this team before last weekend. I actually had his grade where I ended up putting Rice, but now it’s lucky not to be quite a bit lower than what I even gave it. Originally out of Kentucky, Chris brings size and a good amount of potential and will likely be fighting to earn a roster spot elsewhere after training camp. However we know that the Seahawks are not afraid to take a young player that out-performs a veteran if it’s warranted, so there’s no reason for anyone to think he won’t get more than a fair shot to be receiver number six or make the practice squad. We all remember what happened with the last big Canadian-League player Carroll found. Could Matthews be the next Brandon Browner?

Addition Grade: C

• WR Taylor Price – Free agent signing

Like Matthews, journeyman receiver Taylor Price was brought in because the Seahawks wanted to add depth and some competition to a previously thin group. The draft took care of that and Price will be hard-pressed to make it to training camp now, at least in my opinion.

Addition Grade: D-