The Seattle Seahawks focused heavily on the defensive side of the ball in the 2019 NFL draft. As the Seahawks attempt to restock the new-look Legion of Boom, they made some interesting selections by drafting a pair of linebackers.
The Seahawks traded up for linebacker Cody Barton with the No. 88 overall pick, and then selected UW standout linebacker Ben Burr-Kirven at pick No. 142. These moves have certainly piqued the curiosity of many, especially when considering the Seahawks are pretty stocked at linebacker with Bobby Wagner, K.J. Wright, Mychal Kendricks, Shaquem Griffin and Austin Calitro already on the roster.
Looking at the depth chart, Bobby Wagner is already an unquestioned given. When healthy, K.J. Wright and Mychal Kendricks are starters as well. Every additional spot appears to be fluid. With two linebackers picked in this draft, is it time to wonder about Shaquem Griffin and Austin Calitro’s job security?
Griffin was the biggest story of the 2018 NFL draft as he was able to overcome a significant disability – not having a left hand. However, Griffin struggled to see significant playing time with the defense. He started Week 1 at Denver and had several blown assignments, including surrendering a touchdown. He finished his rookie year with only 11 tackles.
Calitro was more productive, finishing with 45 total tackles, a pass deflection and half a sack. Although, Calitro was never much more than a backup and reserve player.
One of coach Pete Carroll’s biggest philosophies is an extreme emphasis on competition. Whether or not Burr-Kirven and Barton are true replacements or not, Griffin and Calitro are going to have to compete to keep a spot in a suddenly crowded linebacking corps.
