Seahawks should trade for defensive end Takkarist McKinley

The Seahawks biggest need remains to be on the defensive line. The Falcons appear uncertain on Takkarist McKinley’s long-term fit. The Seahawks should swoop in and make a trade.

In the pre-draft process, Takkarist McKinley was often mocked to the Seahawks. This was due to his schematic fit, non-stop motor, straight-line speed, arm length, and explosive traits. On paper, he appeared to be an idealistic fit. There was an obvious connection.

Takkarist McKinley, DE
Age: 24 years old
Size: 6’2”
Weight: 250lbs
Arm Length: 34.75 inches (87th percentile)
40-yard: 4.59 s (95th percentile)
Broad Jump: 122” (85th percentile)

Unfortunately, the Seahawks did what they always do. They traded back and missed out on the talented defensive end. They ended up selecting Malik McDowell, which turned out to be a disaster. McDowell never played a single snap in the NFL and probably set the team back several years as they wasted a 2nd round choice.

Looking back at the 2017 draft, it was stacked with just unbelievable talent. If the Seahawks hadn’t traded back, they could have selected players like Tre’Davious White, TJ Watt, Ryan Ramczyk, Budda Baker or Dalvin Cook. Each of which is amongst the best at their respective positions.

The Seahawks are no stranger to dipping back into drafts they perceive to hold a lot of value (an example would be the 2013 draft), whether that works out long-term or not is another story. However, the Seahawks should call the Atlanta Falcons to see if a deal could be made for Takkarist McKinley.