12th Man Rising
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Seahawks Draft Prospect Profile, CB Eli Apple

By Dan Viens

Feb 29, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes defensive back Eli Apple runs the 40 yard dash during the 2016 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 29, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes defensive back Eli Apple runs the 40 yard dash during the 2016 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /
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With the NFL scouting combine underway in Indianapolis, we take a look at some possible Seattle Seahawks draft targets. 

The NFL Draft is fast approaching and teams all around the NFL are working furiously to put together their draft boards. For the Seattle Seahawks, this is a crucial year for GM John Schneider and head coach Pete Carroll. The last couple of drafts have produced more depth than superstars, but with their high-priced young core now causing annual salary cap constraints, they find themselves needing to hit on a couple starter-quality players this time around. 

Let’s take a look at some players who may appear to be a fit in Seattle, regardless of round. 

ELI APPLE, CB, Ohio State

After red-shirting as a freshman, Apple entrenched himself as a starter for the Buckeyes and quickly became a difference maker. Tallied 18 pass breakups and 4 interceptions in his career. Picked off Marcus Mariota’s final collegiate pass in the 2015 national championship game.

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SPECS:

  • Height – 6’1″
  • Weight – 199 lbs
  • Arms – 31 3/8″
  • 40 yard dash – 4.40

STRENGTHS: Strong, athletic, smart player who at first glance physically looks the part of a Seahawk corner back. Experienced in man coverage and willing to come up and support in the run game.

WEAKNESSES: Extremely hands-on, and will have to learn to control this in the NFL or he’ll be a walking penalty flag. Had 11 holding or pass interference calls in two seasons. Needs continued refinement of his technique. Needs to improve as a tackler.

HOW HE WOULD FIT FOR THE SEAHAWKS: Apple has been mocked to the Seahawks in a number of draft projections, but he may not be an ideal fit due to his 31 3/8″ arms. No CB has been drafted by the Pete Carroll/John Schneider regime with arms shorter than 32″. But if they feel he provides good value as a starting-caliber rookie corner, would they overlook that?

Next: Bennett, Seahawks talking new deal?

Apple is widely projected to go in the later half of round one.

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