Five players the Seahawks should target in 2016 draft
By Dan Viens
The Seahawks have a number of significant holes they need to fill this offseason. Here’s a look at five players who could step right in and play a pivotal role in their rookie year.
The first three drafts under Pete Carroll and John Schneider in Seattle yielded seven Pro Bowl players. The next three have produced just one, WR Tyler Lockett who made the squad this year as a kick returner.
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If Seattle is going to take a step forward this offseason and return to Super Bowl contention in 2016, they need to find a couple starters in this draft. Immediate starters. Opportunities exist on the offensive line, cornerback, outside linebacker and possibly running back for new roster additions to make an immediate impact. Some of those holes might be filled through free agency, but you can bet the Seahawks would prefer to plug in younger, cheaper rookies whenever possible.
With that in mind, here’s an all-too-early look at five players the Seahawks should target in the 2016 draft.
WILLIAM JACKSON III, CB, Houston
Projected round: 1st or 2nd
The Seahawks need a corner back to establish himself as a capable starter opposite Richard Sherman. The Cary Williams Experiment failed miserably last season, so look for the team to look to the draft in search of another star CB. DeShawn Shead and Jeremy Lane are both free agents, and while the team would love to re sign both, Shead may not have what it takes to be a full time starter and Lane may fit better as the nickel corner.
Finding an immediate starter in the draft would be an enticing possiblity, and Jackson may just fit the bill. At 6′ 1″ and 195 lbs he has the length the Hawks covet. Reports suggest he’s just as comfortable playing press coverage as he is in off man, but just needs a little coaching to clean up some techniques. He’s known as an aggressive player who’s comfortable in run support, while also possessing great ball skills. Some mock drafts have him as a first round possibility, but most projections place him in the second round.
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