Seahawks will not draft a running back in the first round

Seahawks have more pressing needs than another running back

Yes, Seattle needs to pick up another back to challenge for the starting role. Whether through the draft or free agency doesn’t matter. What does matter is they have glaring holes on the offensive line. The Seahawks currently have two running backs that can get the job done. They could use an upgrade, but they desperately need to upgrade at tackle and guard.

Pro Football Focus graded left tackle Duane Brown at 77.9. It wasn’t such a  pretty picture to the right of center. Germain Ifedi graded 59th out of 81 tackles. He was 73rd in run blocking. You’ll never guess who was ranked dead last overall at tackle. Aw, darn, you got it! It was Rees Odhiambo. The Seahawks need help there. George Fant at right tackle, perhaps? That would be great.

At guard, the picture was even worse. Luke Joeckel was graded Seattle’s best at 44.5, and he’s got his bags packed. Oday Aboushi had a decent rookie year in 2014, but turned in his third straight season of mediocrity in 2017. With another year under his belt, Ethan Pocic could definitely step up. His versatility is great, but the Seahawks really need some consistency on the line.

Until the line is fixed, the running backs don’t matter

The Seahawks have critical needs on the offensive line that simply must be addressed. They could have Marshawn Lynch in the backfield, and even he’d have trouble picking up yards until the line is fixed. As a matter of fact, he did. That’s exactly why he’s in Oakland now. By the way, if you missed your chance at a Beastmode bobblehead, they’re still available. Somebody picked one up just a couple hours ago, in fact. Hmmm…maybe there’s a weird trade rumor out there. Nah. Just a fan being a fan.

Remember, Alex Collins couldn’t get anything done with the Seahawks, but was able to fulfill his potential for the Ravens. Fix the offensive line, and the talent we have now will look much better.