Future Seahawks? Which 2016 VMAC visitors stand out?
By Dan Viens
POSSIBLE DRAFTEES:
- Germaine Ifedi, OT, Texas A&M
- Rees Ohdiambo, OG/T, Boise State
- Jonathan Bullard, DT, Florida
- Kevin Dodd, DE, Clemson
- Chris Jones, DT, Mississippi State
- Vernon Butler, DT, Louisiana Tech
- Derrick Henry, RB, Alabama
- Jay Lee, WR, Baylor
This is an intriguing list. It clearly falls in line with the Seahawks biggest needs on both the offensive and defensive lines. Bullard and Ifedi have been two of the most-mocked players going to Seattle in draft projections. Ifedi comes with tremendous athletic upside but polarizing views about just how effective he could be. Bullard is a bit of a mystery, initially assumed to be a mid first round pick, he seems to be slipping in mocks. Dodd is an explosive edge rusher, something Seattle covets in this draft. I had him as their pick at #26 in my latest full first round mock.
Butler and Jones seems to be gaining traction, and both fit the mold of big, pocket-crashing interior linemen. Henry seems like an odd fit, not so much as a player but simply given the Seahawks draft position. I don’t see them taking him at #26, and he isn’t likely to last until their 2nd round selection. Given a trade down, however, Henry could come into play.
Lee is the lesser known of the two Baylor WR’s, and played in the shadow of projected 1st-rounder Corey Coleman. But Lee is bigger, has long arms, great hands, was very productive in the Bears offense, and impressed scouts at both the Senior Bowl and his pro day. He’s a late round projection.
Ohdiambo is a player the Seahawks are reported to like. Some feel he is more suited as a guard in the NFL, but others see him as a right tackle. He’s coming off an injury, and could be great value in the middle rounds.
What I find most intriguing are the names NOT on the visits list. Despite severe needs all along the offensive line, there’s no sign of any of the other more recognizable names who may be available in the 3-5th round range. It could just be that, as usual, the Seahawks are trying to hide their hand.
Next: UDFA targets and wild cards