Predicting the Seahawks Defensive Linemen for 2017
By Lee Vowell
The Next Men Up
Defensive Tackle/End – McDowell
McDowell will not be a backup for long. He has the size at 6’6″ and 300 pounds and athleticism that is freakish. McDowell had top five talent in the draft, but due to the perception that he does not always give 100 percent, he dropped to the second round. With Bennett and Avril being in the same building as McDowell, the rookie will be tutored by two of the best. If McDowell can maximize his potential, the pass rush will be incredible.
It should be noted that the Seahawks have worked McDowell out a lot at end this offseason. If he continues to play end, the Seahawks may miss McDowell’s potential in the middle.
Defensive End – Frank Clark
Clark had his first double-digit sack season in 2016. He has the potential to do many more. In fact, Clark should be expected to become the Seahawks full-time starter at end once Avril or Bennett either slow down or move on. Clark in Seattle is something 12s should get used to for many years to come.
Defensive Tackle – Nazair Jones
Jones is the heir apparent to Rubin. Rubin weighs 30 pounds more than Jones at this point, but Jones is taller. Jones will add weight this year and could become even bigger than Rubin. Rubin is signed through 2018, but his cap hit goes from $3.7 million to $5.3 million next offseason. There is a chance Rubin is not on the roster in 2018 and Jones is the starter.
Defensive End – Cassius Marsh
Marsh had some good games in 2016. He also had some boneheaded moments. Marsh is not expected to ever be a full-time starter in Seattle, but he does good things on special teams. This alone will keep him a member of the Seahawks.