These five Seahawks are primed for great seasons

Shaquill Griffin is number one

Yes, I named a rookie as the number one player to have a great season. No, I’m not crazy. Well, not because of this selection. Hear me out, 12s. This kid is the real deal.

We all know that the biggest stumbling block for an NFL rookie is opportunity. And where is the starting right cornerback from 2016, Deshawn Shead? On the shelf with a knee injury. Now Shead hasn’t been ruled out for the season opener. In fact, Pete Carroll said this about Shead.

"“He’s making great progress. He is one of the all-time best healers. He applies himself as well as a person can do in terms of getting back. He’s got all the grit and the perseverance about making it through this as quickly as you possibly can, so he’s doing great.”"

But let’s assume Shead won’t be back for the first few weeks. That’s the most likely scenario, after all. Does that mean the door is wide open for the rookie? Well, I’m sure Jeremy Lane would have a lot to say about that. Or more to the point, play, not say.

Here’s the thing, though. Lane has been with the Seahawks since 2012, and until last season managed just six starts. Not knocking him at all, but there are only a few guys around of the caliber of Richard Sherman.

And that’s where Shaquill Griffin comes back into the picture. Don’t get excited, I’m not saying he’s an All-Pro bonafide member of the Legion of Boom – not yet, anyway. Don’t believe me? Read what Seahawks defensive coordinator Kris Richard had to say about Griffin.

"“He’s got probably one of the best corner minds that we’ve had for a young guy around here. And that’s just regards to leverage, positioning, the understanding of our coverages and where we need tem to be. He’s picked it up fairly quickly. I just know we’re going to be really, really excited to see him strap it up and get out there and actually be able to compete for the football while it’s in the air. That’s kind of going to be the next phase, but his technique has been improving day after day. And he’s got real strength. I think that’s a positive. He has strength in his hands, you can tell he’s a powerful guy. Obviously the speed is there.”"

No, he didn’t say he was the next Richard Sherman. But he’s expected to make a significant contribution even if he doesn’t win the starting job – and he will win that gig. The only corner in the last seven years to have an impact as a rookie? You guessed it – Richard Sherman.

Besides, I cannot wait to hear Griffin during pressers. I mean, just listen to the guy. You know you want this guy to start.

I’m quite certain that at least three of my predictions won’t pan out. And that’s okay. As long as Wilson is one that does, we’ve got the depth everywhere else to still have a great season.