Seahawks’ draft picks show signs of team’s true identity

Matt Escamilla, Staff Reporter

Last year’s Seattle Seahawks identity did not match Coach Pete Carroll and General Manager John Schneider’s beliefs of what the team should’ve been. What caused this? Ever since the infamous play against New England in Super Bowl XLIX, the Seahawks’ draft picks have not fit into the role of having an offense that runs the ball well and a hit-you-in-the-mouth defense.

The Seahawks acquired Jimmy Graham in 2015 in an attempt to cure Seattle’s post Super Bowl-loss depression. If I were to have been a general manager, I would agree that getting Graham was a good trade when it happened, even though it was a controversial acquisition because Center Max Unger was involved in the trade.

Fast forward to last weekend’s draft; with the departure of Graham this offseason, the Seahawks are making an obvious attempt at getting back to the team we all know and love.

These picks below remind me of that team that everybody remembers.

 

Round 1, No. 27 Overall: RB Rashaad Penny, San Diego St.

Despite everybody thinking this was a bad pick, I disagree. The Seahawks got the guy they wanted originally. Penny is a playmaker and stays healthy, something that the Hawks need.

Round 4, No. 120 Overall: TE Will Dissly, Washington

The Seahawks may have finally gotten a guy who can block and catch as a tight end! As I’m thinking about it, Dissly has a chance to be the next Zach Miller.

Round 5, No.141 Overall: LB Shaquem Griffin, UCF

Regardless of losing his hand, Griffin is a difference-maker. His speed and ability to create turnovers is what makes him special. I wouldn’t be surprised if he ends up starting next year at one point or another.