While the Seattle Seahawks currently only have four picks in the upcoming NFL Draft, it’s very likely they will find a way to acquire more – either by trading down or moving veteran pieces.
The Seahawks have a handful of needs they are expected to address in the draft, including edge defender, defensive back and wide receiver.
And while offensive line, amazingly, isn’t a huge need for Seattle, it wouldn’t be a huge surprise to see them add some depth at that position with one of their picks.
Seattle is expected to go into 2019 with Duane Brown, Mike Iupati, Justin Britt, D.J. Fluker and Germain Ifedi as their starters; with Jamarco Jones, Jordan Simmons, Ethan Pocic, Joey Hunt and George Fant competing for backup roles.
That’s a pretty solid group, but Seattle could certainly look to bring in more talent to push the returners in training camp.
Here is an offensive lineman Seattle could target at each of their current draft spots, and what they would bring to the table if the Seahawks took them.
Round 1 (Pick 21): Jawaan Taylor, OT, Florida
The Seahawks aren’t even expected to use their first round pick at all, and if they do it doesn’t seem exceptionally likely that they’ll pick a tackle. However, Taylor has a chance to come in and immediately start on Seattle’s offensive line.
He’s a ‘throwback’ right tackle with the quickness to thrive in pass-protection and the attitude and strength to excel as a run-protector as well.
While Ifedi showed improvement last season, Taylor would come in and bolster an already solid offensive front – giving Seattle more depth and flexibility up front, as Ifedi could slide into a hybrid backup role.
Round 3 (Pick 84): Kaleb McGary, OT, Washington
Not just an inspiring story of overcoming adversity, McGary is a monstrous player who has played right tackle his entire career, but could transition to guard in the NFL where he would excel as a run blocker – much like former tackle D.J. Fluker, who has made the transition smoothly.
McGary would be rough around the edges coming in, but his mental makeup, strength and drive could make him a solid NFL starter down the line.
Considering Seattle’s offensive line is in good shape right now, McGary might make a great project pick for the future – while being a hometown hero playing just miles away from his hometown in Fife.
Round 4 (Pick 117): Beau Benzschawel, OL, Wisconsin
Benzschawel played a little guard and a little tackle in college, and his versatility could make him an attractive middle round target for Pete Carroll and Mike Solari.
Benzschawel excels as a pass rusher, but scouts are worried his strength won’t hold up against NFL players – particularly in the run game. Seattle needs more pass blocking, and like McGary Benzschawel could be a project pick who they develop in time.
His quickness as a pass blocker make him an ideal lineman to counter quick edge rushing attacks, which is becoming more popular in today’s NFL.
Round 5 (Pick 148): Connor McGovern, OL, Penn State
Versatility has always been the name of the game for Pete Carroll, and McGovern’s ability to play center and guard could make him an attractive later round target.
Of course, Seattle already has Ethan Pocic and Joey Hunt in this hybrid role, but neither appear to be long-term solutions and McGovern could be, if he improves in his pass-protection.
If Seattle does draft an offensive lineman this year, they will probably look to do it in the last few rounds. McGovern has the size, power and versatility that Carroll likes, and could be a nice pick for this team later on.
