By all accounts, the Seahawks logged a success 2019 NFL draft, selecting 11 young players to compete for spots on the roster.
But like most teams around the league, Seattle still has issues to resolve before the start of the season.
Here are three looming questions for the Seahawks going forward.
Has wide receiver Doug Baldwin played his last NFL game?
On the second day of the NFL draft, ESPN’s Adam Schefter first reported Seattle’s star receiver was mulling retirement due to his culmination of injuries.
Coach Pete Carroll and general manager John Schneider confirmed the reports, but were unable to provide a firm timeline as to when Baldwin would make his decision.
After battling injuries last year and undergoing three surgeries this offseason – one to his knee, shoulder, and abdomen – it’s hardly surprising the wear and tear has begun to show.
Originally signed by the Seahawks as an undrafted free agent in 2011, Baldwin has been a key piece of Seattle’s offense and a favorite target of quarterback Russell Wilson.
Will Russell Wilson prove worthy of his mega-contract extension?
Speaking of Wilson, the Seahawks now have their franchise quarterback locked and loaded through the 2023 season after agreeing to a contract extension making Wilson the highest-paid player in the NFL.
But Wilson didn’t come cheap, costing Seattle $140 million over the four years of the deal, including a $65 million signing bonus, $107 million in guaranteed money and a no-trade clause.
Extending Wilson has other roster ramifications as well, as evidenced by Seattle’s decision to trade defensive end Frank Clark to the Chiefs ahead of the draft.
Wilson was a steal as a third-round rookie selection in 2012, but his current price tag has the Seahawks scrambling to put weapons around him.
With Baldwin pondering hanging up his cleats, the Seahawks moved quickly, drafting three wide receivers this April in D.K. Metcalf, Gary Jennings Jr. and John Ursua.
Supported by a revamped offensive line and stout run game, Wilson should now have the pieces in place to earn his keep.
Can L.J. Collier replace defensive end Frank Clark?
After parting ways with Clark to net extra draft capital, Seattle selected defensive end L. J. Collier with the Chiefs’ original No. 29 overall selection in the first round.
While the rookie had an impressive season and shined at the Senior Bowl, replacing Clark – especially right out of the gates – will be no easy task. And even if Collier is able to excel his first season in the league, Seattle will also have to rely on players on the existing roster to help tow the load.
Selecting only one defensive end this year, the Seahawks will undoubtedly continue their due diligence, testing the remaining free and undrafted free agents available in search of the perfect fit.
With some of Clark’s money now off the books, Seattle could very well find a veteran to step into the role, which has now become an immediate need.
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