The Seattle Seahawks have just four picks in this year’s NFL draft – one in the first, third, fourth and fifth rounds – and must use each selection wisely. That is, if they don’t trade back to stash more capital for the later rounds, which is a distinct possibility with the No. 21 overall selection.
Most draft analysts have updated their boards after the first couple of weeks of free agency, and Matt Miller of Bleacher Report is no different. In his most recent mock, he has the Seahawks adding a familiar face in the first round.
Barring any trades, Miller projects Seattle snags former University of Washington safety Taylor Rapp.
“Earl Thomas leaves and Taylor Rapp arrives,” Miller writes. “Seahawks fans should be good with this one. Rapp is a versatile defender in the mold of Minkah Fitzpatrick or a bigger Tyrann Mathieu. He’s able to play either safety spot, is a huge hitter and can even match up in slot coverage when needed. His versatility is impressive, and much-needed in the Seattle secondary.”
With Thomas now in Baltimore and Chancellor’s playing career likely over, Seattle will need to restock at safety. Rapp could fill a hole early if the Seahawks should find him available.
“This does ignore needs for a speedy stretch receiver and another edge-rusher, but looking at the best talent on the board and the Seahawks’ needs, this is the right pick,” Miller concludes.
