Thursday 19 February 2009

Ruskell wants 'impact player'

ESPN's Mike Sando is at the scouting combine and doing a great job reporting on the different prospects. He's already spoken to both Andre Smith (OT, Alabama) and Eugene Monroe (OT, Virginia). Something caught my eye in one of his latest reports:

"All four NFC West teams could use upgrades for their offensive lines. The Rams (second overall) and Seahawks (fourth) could have the opportunity to select Smith or Monroe, but I could see both teams drafting for other positions. Seahawks general manager Tim Ruskell said he wants an "impact" player with the fourth pick. How many tackles fit that description?" - Mike Sando

With Walter Jones expected to return albeit from complicated micro fracture surgery, the Seahawks are unlikely to see an immediate benefit from selecting an offensive linemen with the fourth overall pick. If the team is looking for an instant 'pick me up' rather than a long term investment, they are unlikely to focus on a left tackle.

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

Normally I would be very excited to hear Ruskell say this (as it's an obvious endorsement for taking a player like Crabtree), however, in the NFL it is common knowledge that teams love to be deceptive and not tip their hand before drafts. I'm hoping since we are drafting so high, and only really two teams would realistically take Crabtree (Rams & Chiefs, Rams being more likely), that we don't have a need to be deceptive about our first round pick. Here's hoping...

Rob Staton said...

It's a good point Chris. It's so hard to fathom what's true or not when GM's and head coaches reveal little pieces of information about the direction they are going to draft. At the same time, I would be suprised if the Seahawks aren't looking for an 'impact' player with the fourth overall pick. The team has a lack of playmakers on offense. It might not necessarily be Michael Crabtree, but I would suggest there's a good chance the team will look to add a weapon in the first round of the draft.

Misfit said...

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Rob Staton said...

Thanks for the kind words Misfit, it's always great to get positive feedback.