Seahawks Agree To Terms With Rookie Trio

The Seattle Seahawks have agreed terms with three rookies selected in the 2009 draft.

Courtney Greene, Mike Teel and Nick Reed have all signed four year contracts.

Rutgers’ safety Greene was the first to sign, agreeing a deal worth $1.8 million with a $43,000 signing bonus.

Taken No. 245 overall, the 6’0″, 205 pound rookie was named an All Big-East selection as a senior after registering 87 total tackles, two interceptions and a sack.

He started 51 games for the Scarlet Knights, taking seven picks and played a leading role in helping his team win the Papajohns.com Bowl this year with a further interception in a 29-24 victory over North Carolina State.

Greene enters training camp hoping to secure a roster spot.

He’s unlikely to uproot current starters Deon Grant or Brian Russell, but is certainly one for the future.

 

Former Rutgers teammate Mike Teel was the next to agree terms.

Taken in the sixth round (No. 178 overall), the 6’4″ quarterback has signed a contract for an undisclosed amount.

As a three year starter, he became the teams all-time passing leader with 9,383 yards and 59 touchdowns.

Teel endured an eventful senior campaign in 2008.

After beginning the year throwing seven interceptions in his first six games, he courted controversy after appearing to punch teammate Glen Lee in a Week Three defeat to Navy.

Showing the kind of determination the Seahawks clearly admired, he kept his starting job and led the Scarlet Knights to an impressive revival, winning his last seven games with a 22-6 TD/INT ratio.

Teel enters camp challenging Jeff Rowe for the third QB slot.

The rookie should have an advantage considering the team recently spent a draft pick to acquire his services.

He’ll hope to follow in the foot steps of another former sixth round pick and make it big in the NFL—current Seahawks starter Matt Hasselbeck.

 

Nick Reed is the final rookie in this trio to sign up before camp.

Terms have not been disclosed as of yet, but Reed will receive a $41,500 signing bonus.

Drafted No. 247 overall with a compensatory seventh round pick, Reed is often described as under sized—listed at just 6’1″ and 245 pounds.

He belittled that label with some big performances in the Pac 10, totalling 25 sacks in his last two seasons.

His 29.5 total career sacks is an Oregon school record and ranks fourth in Pac 10 history.

A first team All-American in 2008, Reed was also named All-Pac 10 twice (2007, 2008) and received two further nominations for First team Academic All-America honors in 2007 and 2008.

Reed will need to impress during camp to secure a roster spot.

The Seahawks are well set at defensive end and the former Duck will hope to earn a place on special teams.

 

Seattle has four remaining unsigned rookies.

Aaron Curry (No. 4 overall), Max Unger (No. 49 overall), Deon Butler (No. 91 overall) and Cameron Morrah (No. 248 overall) are yet to agree terms.

Curry will obviously be the hardest to secure.

Darren McFadden, drafted fourth overall by Oakland in 2008, signed a six year $60 million dollar contract with $26 million guaranteed.

The former Wake Forest linebacker is expected to agree a similar deal, with negotiations likely to continue right up until training camp.

The Key to Functionality: Importance of the D-Line in Seattle

The importance of the defensive line to the Seahawks’ prospects in 2009 cannot be under estimated.

The Jim Mora led defense will rely on the defensive line to generate a pass rush and take up blocks, freeing the linebackers to make instinctive plays and taking pressure away from the previously over worked secondary.

Let’s look at how the line will function including rotation policies, individual roles and the key personnel involved.

 

Defensive Tackles

In recent years Seattle has used a rotation policy with it’s defensive tackles.

This is likely to increase in the future, so don’t expect the DT’s to feature in more than 30 snaps per game.

Last year Brandon Mebane registered 5.5 sacks in a role predominantly designed to carry blocks and draw attention.

Having signed Colin Cole (6’1″, 330lbs) in free agency and with Red Bryant (6’4″, 318lbs) returning from injury, this allows the team to be more flexible with Mebane.

He’ll likely play a bit more three technique in 2009 to take advantage of his speed from the snap and ability to shoot gaps and penetrate.

Cole and Bryant will be used predominantly as a one technique.

A key free agent signing this off season, Cole signed an eye catching $21.4m deal to move from Green Bay.

He has the bulk to occupy blockers in the interior freeing up attacks from the edge.

If Cole can draw enough attention in the middle, taking on a guard and center combination and perhaps moving off to a tackle—this forces the tight end to cover the defensive end and potentially creates opportunities for the teams linebackers to attack the backfield.

Craig Terrill will also be worked into the teams’ rotation. He recorded two sacks and returned a fumble for a touchdown in 2008.

Newly acquired Cory Redding is set to feature more as a defensive end.

However, there’s a good chance he’ll slip inside on third down in passing situations.

The rotation policy has led to some difficulties in the past.

The strictness in which it was enforced last year in particular often saw Terrill (6’2″, 295lbs) on the field in red zone defense against the run, not ideal considering his lack of size.

Whether or not we see a more clinical approach to the rotation policy—or may even more time on the field for the key figure’s (Mebane and Cole) remains to be seen.

 

Defensive Ends

Having acquired a solid stable of ends we are likely to see a comparable rotation policy at the DE position too.

Patrick Kerney has missed 16 games in the last three years and is currently rehabbing ahead of training camp.

The Seahawks will be wary of over working Kerney, clearly the teams best pass rushing end, whilst also maximising his talent to generate a pass rush.

When Kerney was placed on injured reserve after week seven in 2008, the team struggled to generate any kind of pressure on the opposition quarterback.

The trade to bring in Cory Redding should help.

Although used mainly as a defensive tackle during his career, at 6’4″ and 295lbs he’s got the frame and speed off the edge to adjust to his new task.

It’ll be interesting to see if Redding spells Kerney to consistently get that presence every snap, or if they’ll play across from each other in a tandem.

Second year DE Lawrence Jackson will be hoping for greater success in 2009.

Thrust into a starting role as a rookie, Jackson struggled to provide a legitimate pass rush but was quietly effective against the run.

Likely to be used regularly in run defense, he’s shown the ability to carry blockers which could provide plenty of opportunities for Aaron Curry to get to the ball carrier.

Darryl Tapp will also be hoping to create an impression heading into a contract year.

Benched in favor of Jackson originally, Tapp eventually featured with greater regularity in 2008 due to Kerney’s absence.

Like Jackson, Tapp is capable in run defense and will draw some attention from blockers.

He’s also shown the ability to get to the passer, registering seven sacks in 2007 and 15.5 in his three year career.

The Seahawks may also choose to retain Baraka Atkins, a 2007 fourth-round pick who picked up two sacks last year.

Expect to see different lineups at end, with Kerney spelled by Redding at left end but also featuring across from the former Lion at times.

Jackson and Tapp will likely rotate at right end depending on the situation.

On third down passing scenarios, Redding will move inside with Kerney and Tapp the likely ends. Aaron Curry will also move closer to the line of scrimmage and rush from the edge.

 

The importance of the defensive line

Under the stewardship of defensive coordinator John Marshall last year, the Seahawks failed to generate a sufficient pass rush in the absence of Patrick Kerney.

It also didn’t help that the team’s offense ranked dead last in time of possession—the Seattle defense was on the field more than any other in 2008.

To compensate for the lack of pressure, Marshall instructed the team to blitz often.

This left the secondary exposed and over worked, whilst making the team predictable and fully committed at the front.

Head coach Jim Mora will take control next year with help from new defensive coordinator Gus Bradley.

The main aim will be placing a greater reliance on the defensive line to create a pass rush, freeing the linebackers to make instinctive plays.

There will be less blitz, with a greater responsibility in coverage from the linebackers in the featured cover-two.

Of course, all of this can only work if sufficient pressure is created from the front.

If the Seahawks fail to get the required pass rush from the defensive line, this will restrict the level of freedom afforded to the like of Aaron Curry and Lofa Tatupu.

A lot has been spoken of the switch to the cover-two and much investment has been placed in the linebackers.

However, the key to functionality on defense remains with the defensive line.

Expectations and Predictions For the Seahawks’ O-Line

Who will start at right guard for the Seahawks? Will Walter Jones’ health prevent him from starting a 13th season?

There are plenty of questions that remain unanswered ahead of the 2009 season.

Here’s a breakdown for each position on the offensive line and some expectations and predictions as to what we might see in each given scenario.

 

Left tackle

Walter Jones is the obvious starter, health permitting.

Micro-fracture knee surgery has led to some concerns about Jones’ long term prospects.

At 35 years of age, Jones’ illustrious career is approaching its twilight.

The team is hopeful Jones will be ready for the new season and reports have suggested he’s on schedule for a return.

In the worst case scenario, Seattle is confident Sean Locklear can move over to the left side.

The $32 million contract signed last year by the former North Carolina State lineman suggested a future at LT, something GM Tim Ruskell has hinted towards.

Undrafted free agent Kyle Williams started two games at left tackle in 2008 and remains on the roster. He could be kept for depth purposes.

Expected starter: Walter Jones

Primary Back-up: Sean Locklear

Alternative: Kyle Williams

 

Left Guard

Mike Wahle started 10 games at left guard in 2008 and remains the early favorite to maintain that role next season.

An athletic veteran lineman with solid technique, Wahle represents a good fit for the zone blocking scheme.

Only injury is likely to prevent Wahle keeping his job.

Rob Sims endured a difficult season at LG in 2008 and is likely to be used on the right as he approaches a contract year.

Recently drafted Max Unger has been working at left guard at mini-camp, but will need to stand out in order to displace Wahle.

Indeed, the Seahawks may simply be introducing Unger to the kind of roles he may have to master for the new season as a primary backup at any position in the interior.

Expected starter: Mike Wahle

Primary back-up: Max Unger

Alternative: Rob Sims

 

Center

Starter Chris Spencer is a free agent in 2010 and approaches a make or break year.

A first round draft pick in 2005, Spencer’s time in Seattle has been hampered by injury and inconsistency.

His combination of strength and athleticism would appear to be a good match for the zone blocking scheme.

If he can stay healthy, he will undoubtedly get the chance to start in 2009.

Should he fail, it’s hard to predict which team would be prepared to give him a starting role elsewhere upon the expiration of his current contract.

The Seahawks have covered their bases by drafting Unger.

A potential replacement at center in 2010, the former Oregon Duck also provides the kind of interior flexibility Seattle lost when Floyd Womack signed for Cleveland.

If Spencer performs and earns a new contract, Unger could still feature at guard in the long term.

Steve Vallosstarted five games in Spencer’s absence last year with mixed results, but remains on the roster and offers further options to the Seahawks as a flex G/C.

Expected starter: Chris Spencer

Primary back-up: Max Unger

Alternative: Steve Vallos

 

Right Guard

Rob Sims began the 2008 season as the starting right guard but was placed on I.R. after week one with a torn pectoral muscle.

Another lineman who will be a free agent in 2010, GM Tim Ruskell has spoken favorably of Sims on many occasions.

Although not living up to expectations thus far, Sims will likely get a chance to start at RG in 2009.

There are other options.

The Seahawks re-signed Ray Willis to a two year deal this offseason and he’s previously spent time at guard and tackle.

If Walter Jones and Sean Locklear are used as starting tackles, Seattle may be tempted to use Willis at guard to get him involved.

Mansfield Wrotto is entering his third season with the team and flashed potential in four starts last year.

Expected starter: Rob Sims

Primary back-up: Ray Willis

Alternative: Mansfield Wrotto

 

Right Tackle

Sean Locklear is expected to remain the starting right tackle.

Should Walter Jones become unavailable, Locklearalmost certainly moves over to the left hand side with Ray Willis taking over the RT duties.

The heavy investment in Locklear last year seemingly makes him a lock to start.

However, Willis’ impressed sufficiently in Locklear’s absence last year leading some to question whether there should be a position battle in training camp.

Indeed Locklear has missed 11 games through injury during the last three seasons, so it wouldn’t be a surprise to see Willis feature at some stage.

In the unappealing scenario that both Locklear and Willis suffer injuries, it wouldn’t be a total shock to see Max Unger used at right tackle.

He spent some time at tackle with Oregon and has the skill set needed to start at the position in an emergency.

Expected starter: Sean Locklear

Primary back-up: Ray Willis

Alternative: Max Unger

Knapp on Seahawks: “We Want More Consistency”

For Seahawks offensive coordinator Greg Knapp, the key to success is simple.

Find greater balance.

It’s something that has troubled Seattle since its solitary visit to the Super Bowl three years ago.

Back then, a dominant running game led by MVP Shaun Alexander was complimented with a productive year from Matt Hasselbeck—not to mention healthy receivers and one of the best offensive lines in the NFL.

In 2006, Hasselbeck and Alexander missed a combined ten games through injury.

A year later, with Alexander again injured the Seahawks were forced to lean on the passing game—becoming one dimensional and struggling on the road.

Finally in 2008, it was the passing game that suffered. An injury crisis at receiver accompanied problems on the offensive line and more time missed by Hasselbeck.

It hasn’t taken Knapp long to identify the major issue the Seahawks face on offense.

“We want more consistency and the biggest issue I think with this organisation a year ago was the injury factor, from Matt’s standpoint to the O-line standpoint to the receiver standpoint.

“As much as you want to say, ‘hey, injuries, everybody gets them,’ it was a huge factor here.”

“So hopefully with our health we’ll get better consistency and production in keeping the defense off the field and scoring some more points.”

Unquestionably, the Seahawks will be hoping for greater fortune in the injury department.

Although not the only reason for an unexpected 4-12 season in 2008, the loss of key receivers allowed teams to second guess the Seahawks offense.

It was common place to witness an opposition defense blitzing with reckless abandon—the Thanksgiving Day 34-9 thumping in Dallas a good example.

Teams concentrated on shutting down the running game, almost daring the Seahawks to pass the ball with their lack of receiving talent.

Technical changes to the playbook and schemes, alongside improved health, will be the key to keeping teams honest in future.

One well publicized introduction is a greater emphasis on the zone blocking scheme.

“It (ZBS) allows for parts that change whether it’s the position player, the running back, O-line or even the coaches for that matter—yet still keep some kind of consistency in the running game.

It’s combination blocks that hit faster to the hole.”

Hitting faster to the hole is something that Julius Jones specialises in.

After a bright start to his Seattle career, including 312 yards in his first three games, the former Notre Dame running back lost his starting role to Maurice Morris.

With Morris now a Detroit Lion, Jones has another chance to prove himself in the North West.

Knapp believes the early indications are good for Jones and the new running system.

“He (Jones) really enjoyed the first 10-12 days of practise we’ve had. He feels very comfortable with what we’ve done.”

Another off season departure saw versatile full back Leonard Weaver join the Philadelphia Eagles, a move which Knapp justifies for the new look Seahawks.

“With what we’ve going to do offensively the full back isn’t used as much.

“We will use probably a little more two TE, one RB (sets) and that’s part of the zone philosophy to balance out a defense.”

Often used in FB draw plays by Mike Holmgren, Weaver was also a target out of the backfield and it wasn’t uncommon to see him used in short yardage situations.

In order to strike that balance on offense, Seattle will use different sets to keep a defense on it’s toes.

“Because the defensive schemes have gotten really complex and the defensive talent has gotten faster and stronger, the mind set of the offense has been let’s spread out the defense a little more so we can identify those blitzes when they’re coming and eliminate the blitz scenario from happening.

“If you stand in a traditional two running back offense, a defense can tend to hide their scheme and then bring a blitz from a surprise stand point.”

Knapp likes to feature his running back and tight ends in the passing game with great regularity.

The design for 2009 will keep fans and players guessing right up until the snap – avoiding the predictability witnessed in the later stages of the Holmgren era.

“We’ll use some three WR (sets) with one of our half backs in there and being balanced run/pass with that personnel group on the field.”

That doesn’t mean to say we won’t see much of the Seahawks’ full backs.

Owen Schmitt, a fifth round pick in the 2008 draft, is joined by a Knapp favorite – Justin Griffith who worked with the coordinator in both Atlanta and Oakland.

“I believe you need to have five backs—three running backs and two full backs, so it really gave us good depth by adding Justin and allowing Owen to grow a little bit in this system.”

One of the few highlights last season was the performance of rookie tight end John Carlson.

Leading the team with 627 receiving yards and five touchdowns, big things are expected for his second year in the NFL.

His production might take a hit with greater health at receiver and the addition of T.J. Houshmandzadeh, but expect to see Carlson’s importance to the team remain on par.

“John Carlson is an exciting guy to work with because he provides a good tool inside the numbers.

“He came into this level with good pass skills but he’s really worked on his lower body strength and run game skills and we’re seeing some good progress there on the field.”

The team will likely keep Carlson on the field most of the time, which adds that level of importance to act as a solid run blocker in the ZBS.

If he can achieve that, it’ll be another development as Seattle aims to keep teams guessing throughout, not knowing when the team intends to pass or run.

Expect both Carlson and Jones to have expanded roles in both pass and run scenarios—leading to potential value for fantasy addicts.

The Seahawks have the tools to become an effective offense again.

They might not recapture the glory of 2005, but Knapp has correctly identified the teams’ key areas of weakness.

The injury issue is out of his hands, he simply has to hope for better luck this year.

But the scheme changes he has installed will breathe new life into the team’s offense.

That can only be good for a franchise hoping to prove 2008 was a one off.

Quotes used in this article taken from a live radio interview with Greg Knapp conducted by John Clayton

NFL Coaches on the Hot Seat

Ten head coaches have been appointed to new jobs during the off-season.

Rest assured that next year will be no different.

As GM’s and owners chase the Super Bowl dream, the demand for instant success is higher than ever.

Here’s an early look at some of the hot-seat candidates in 2009.

Of course the beauty of the situation is these coaches have the chance to prove the doubters wrong during the season.

Last year, you’d probably expect to see John Fox on such a list.

Then he led the Panthers to the NFC South and a playoff appearance.

At the same time, who would have expected Mike Shanahan to be removed in Denver?

Anything can happen between now and January.

AFC East Shows NFC West Has Wild Potential

The NFC West hasn’t always produced the most exciting, competitive division.

Next season could be different.

The Arizona Cardinals will begin favorites as defending champions Super Bowl XLIII runners-up.

However, there’s cause for optimism amongst the other three teams hoping to hit back from a disappointing 2008.

Is it possible we could see a three way battle for division title?

Let’s use the AFC East as an example.

This time last year, like Arizona the New England Patriots had just lost the Super Bowl.

Their 16-0 regular season and domination of the AFC made them a sure-fire bet for the playoffs and another placing atop the division.

In contrast, the other three teams combined for a 12-36 record. Miami and New York picked in the draft’s top 10, whilst Buffalo picked at No. 11.

It seemed like a foregone conclusion as the 2008 season kicked off that history would repeat.

Then Tom Brady landed on injured reserve, the Bills started 4-0, Miami first introduced the ‘wildcat’, and the Jets had Brett Favre.

What was expected to be one of the most predictable division’s in the NFL proved anything but.

Inter-division play was thrilling, Miami losing to the Jets in week one before later ending the Favre era in New York by winning the division title at Meadowlands.

The Dolphins’ recovery first started when, at 0-2, they won in New England 38-13 thanks to the wildcat debut and Ronnie Brown’s five touchdowns.

Overall Miami, New England and New York all went 4-2 in division play. Only the Dolphins made the playoffs as division winners, the Patriots missed out cruelly on a tiebreaker whilst the Jets ended a season of promise at 9-7.

Buffalo, despite enjoying the best start, lost every single one of their AFC East matches—clearly the determining factor in their downfall.

The closeness of the AFC East last year and Miami’s revival from 1-15 to 11-5 showed once again how unpredictable the NFL can be.

Will the same happen in the NFC West in 2009? There are plenty of comparisons.

The NFC West contains the Super Bowl loser.

Like the Dolphins last year, the three other NFC West teams are taking in a new era.

Seattle, San Francisco and St Louis all recently appointed a new head coach.

The records are similar too:

2007 Bills 7-9, 2008 49ers 7-9

2007 Jets 4-12, 2008 Seahawks 4-12

2007 Dolphins 1-15, 2008 Rams 2-14

 

Like Miami, New York and Buffalo last year, the NFC West teams all picked within the top eleven of the 2009 draft.

Of course, most of this is purely coincidental, but the way the AFC East panned out in 2008 also proves anything could happen in the NFC West this year.

Arizona deserve their favorites tag, they won the NFC and very nearly became World Champions.

But as with Brady last year, it’d only take an unfortunate injury to Larry Fitzgerald or Kurt Warner to bring the Cardinals back down to earth with a bang.

Seattle, one year removed from four successive division titles will be hoping to hit back after an injury plagued 2008.

The 49ers made the right decision to extend Mike Singletary’s contract and will likely incorporate their head coaches attitude and discipline onto the field.

St. Louis made a steal, naming Steve Spagnuolo as the man to lead the Rams into a new era and his CV contains a Super Bowl XLII ring.

It could be a much tighter division, with as many as three teams challenging for the postseason.

Not something we’ve come to expect from the NFC West.

Inter-division records could be crucial.

Arizona went 6-0 in the NFC West last year. Lower that record and they would have been in competition with San Francisco and possibly even Seattle.

In week one of the new season, St Louis travel to Qwest Field to take on the Seahawks whilst Arizona host San Francisco on the same day.

A week later, Seattle travel to face the 49ers.

By facing two division rivals early, the Seahawks have a chance to set the tone.

Defeat for the Seahawks in both of those two games would put them at a severe disadvantage.

It could be whoever comes out with the best record in the divisional matches, will win it.

So will we see a more competitive NFC West in 2009?

Anything is possible, the AFC East proved that last year.

Why the NFC West’s No Longer the Worst

For some time now, the NFC West has affectionately been referred to as the ‘NFC Worst’.

Long considered a ‘free pass’ to the playoffs for whichever team wins the division, is it time to dump the nickname?

Arizona’s run to the Super Bowl and fresh starts for the other three teams has given cause for optimism.

Could this division surprise a few people in 2009?

Here are some reasons why the west may no longer be the worst in the NFC.

Seahawks’ Kickers Prepare For Round Two

When the Seahawks lost Josh Brown to the Rams last year, it left a rather large hole at the kicker position.

There were precious few replacement options available but they signed veteran Olindo Mare to a two-year deal and drafted Georgia’s Brandon Coutu.

A training camp competition ensued, with both fighting for the starting role.

During the 2008 preseason, there was little to split the pair. Mare impressed with the distance of his kick offs—averaging 69.7 yards and adding seven touchbacks in just 14 attempts.

Coutu trailed in this sector, he didn’t get any touchbacks in his 10 attempts but still averaged a respectable 66.5 yards.

The former Bulldog rookie fared better in field goal attempts. He scored a perfect seven-from-seven with a long of 48 yards. Mare mustered four-from-five with a long of 34.

When the decision had to be made, the veteran got the call, the extra experience and the impressive length of his kick offs sealing the starting gig.

He didn’t waste the opportunity.

It wasn’t until Week Six that Mare missed his first kick. In total, he finished with a solid 89% completion rate, scoring 24-from-27 kicks.

The highlight of the veteran’s season was surely his game-winning kick against the Rams in Week 15 to secure a 23-20 road win.

Mare hit 22 touchbacks (joint second in the NFL) and averaged 66.5 yards on kick offs, with only a 25.6 return average.

None of his kicks were taken back for six points.

Such a stat sheet would usually secure a starting role indefinitely. However, approaching training camp this year the competition has once again been opened up.

Coutu remained on the roster throughout 2008, despite never attempting a kick. It was an indication of just how highly the Seahawks rated the 24-year-old.

They didn’t want to risk losing him through waivers by putting him on the practise squad, whilst Coutu also offered insurance with Mare coming off hip surgery prior to joining the Seahawks.

“Every step of the way, it made sense.”
– GM Tim Ruskell

So what can we expect from Mare vs Coutu—round two?

Probably another very even contest. If so, we’ll have to look for potential factors that will help the team make their decision.

Mare will be 36 on June 6. Age isn’t too much of an issue for a kicker in terms of performance, but in a starting battle it could be a difference maker.

If the two remain evenly matched through camp, eventually Coutu might have the advantage as a younger model with less wear on the tyres.

As one of only two kickers drafted in 2008, Coutu became the first prospect in Georgia history to average over 80% field goal accuracy.

However, despite a career long of 58 yards, he only managed five of 11 over 50 yards in his Bulldogs career.

Mare managed three of four over 50 yards in 2008, but only has a career completion rate of 46.2 from such distance.

His overall career record shows a competent 279 from 347 kicks (80.4%).

The battle will begin in training camp and likely continue into preseason. That’s where we’ll get the first indication of who sits in the driving seat.

Could the team keep two kickers again in 2009? It’s possible.

Mare has another year left on his $3.5m contract. If they can justify keeping an inactive kicker on the roster in an injury ravaged 4-12 season, they may feel obliged to do the same again.

It would certainly be harsh to flat out cut Mare after a fairly productive 2008, whilst pinning your hopes on a relatively untested leg.

At this moment, the veteran has the upper hand but everything could change in what promises to be an interesting training camp battle.

Seattle Seahawks: Five Steps To Hit Back in 2009

The mood in Seattle is unusually high for a team that finished a disappointing 4-12 last season.

But what can we realistically expect from a team hoping to make 2008 a distant memory? What do the Seahawks need to do to bounce back?

1. Stay Healthy
2. Improved performances on the road
3. Greater balance on offense
4. Effective pressure from the defensive line
5. Master new schemes

 

1. Stay healthy

Matt Hasselbeck managed seven games in 2008, but never looked 100 percent whilst suffering from persistent back trouble. Patrick Kerney also started seven times before landing on injured reserve.

Seattle rattled through wide receivers like no tomorrow and lost every starter on the offensive line to injured reserve.

Previously ever present Lofa Tatupu even missed the first game of his career during a week nine loss to the Eagles.

It’s as simple as this: stay healthy, or stay out of contention.

If (and it remains a big ‘if’) Seattle can keep their key components on the field, there’s no reason why they cannot compete for another NFC West title.

 

2. Improved performances on the road

Since Super Bowl XL, the Seahawks have a 9-15 record on the road.

In 2008, the team won just two games on their travels—at San Francisco and St Louis.

During the more successful 10-6 campaign of 2007, the Seahawks still only managed three road wins—again at San Francisco and St Louis whilst also in Philadelphia.

It’s not just a recent problem either.

Seattle’s history in the playoffs is blighted by poor performances away from the Northwest. The Seahawks haven’t won a playoff game outside of Seattle since Dec. 31, 1983.

That’s over 25 years ago.

The east coast time zone issue is often used as an excuse, but it’s something the team will have to learn to deal with. Jim Mora and the new coaching staff have to make the Seahawks a tougher road team.

 

3. Greater balance on offense

In 2008, Seattle ranked 29th in passing, averaging just 163.6 yards per game. They gave up 36 sacks in total, scoring just 18 passing touchdowns.

It’s hard to produce an effective rushing offense when your passing game is this poor.

It allowed opposing defense to stack the box and blitz regularly. This put incredible pressure on the offensive line and virtually shut down the running game.

The signing of T.J. Houshmandzadeh provides a big boost.

One of the few teams who had a worse passing offense than Seattle in 2008 were the Cincinnati Bengals – scoring a league worst 11 touchdowns and averaging just over 150 passing yards per game.

Despite that, Houshmandzadeh still managed an impressive 92 catches, 904 yards and four touchdowns.

Alongside the returning Deion Branch and Nate Burleson, the Seahawks could turn a 2008 weakness into a relative strength.

Improved offensive performance is also important to keep the defense fresh.

Seattle ranked dead last in time of possession last season, averaging just 26:38 minutes per game.

 

4. Effective pressure from the defensive line

The Seahawks finished a creditable 10th in sacks (notching 35 in total) last season.

It’s a deceiving statistic. Seattle regularly struggled to get to the quarterback and resorted to heavy blitzing to compensate.

Reduce the eight sacks they gained in a blowout victory over a poor Rams team in Week Two and they’d be at the other end of the table.

With Jim Mora leading the defense, a greater reliance will be placed on the front four to create pressure.

Patrick Kerney will be 33 this year and has suffered two serious injuries in three seasons. Much more is needed from younger ends Lawrence Jackson and Darryl Tapp if the team cannot rely on Kerney’s health in the latter stages of his fine career.

Another recent acquisition, Cory Redding from Detroit, also needs to find form after disappointing in his two final years with the Detroit Lions.

The appointment of Dan Quinn as defensive line coach could be crucial here.

Quinn previously spent two years with the New York Jets, helping resurrect the career of Kris Jenkins and turning the Jets’ defensive line into a productive force.

For Seattle to maximize their potential and bounce back in 2009, he’ll have to work the magic again this offseason.

 

5. Master new schemes

Offensive coordinator Greg Knapp will be using a playbook not too dissimilar to the one used by Mike Holmgren, but terminology will be different.

The zone blocking scheme will take on a more prominent role on offense, with Cover-Two the defensive focus.

There will also be certain role changes.

Knapp has traditionally used the running back a lot in passing situations. Lofa Tatupu as the Mike linebacker will have different coverage looks in the Cover-Two and a greater duty to support the safeties.

Even Matt Hasselbeck will have a few extra plays to consider. Knapp likes to go downfield more than Mike Holmgren and the drafting of speedy Deon Butler suggests this could be a possibility.

With a veteran rich roster, the Seahawks might not suffer too many teething problems. They’ve also made wise additions to their coaching staff.

Mike Solari began to install ZBS ideologies when he arrived as offensive line coach in 2008 and Seattle has retained all but one of its lineman from last season. They replaced the departing Floyd Womack with versatile second-round pick Max Unger.

On defense, the appointment of Gus Bradley was inspired. Having worked alongside Monte Kiffin in Tampa Bay, Bradley has first hand experience of the Cover-Two.

Greg Knapp has talked of simplifying things initially in order for players to learn and understand the new schemes.

For the Seahawks to work as a cohesive unit in 2009, they’ll have to master these changes quickly.

Seattle Seahawks Training Camp: Making the Cut

With a roster rich in veterans, predicting who will start for the Seahawks in 2009 isn’t too much of a challenge.

The competition for roster spots remains intriguing however, with plenty to play for in training camp. Here’s a positional breakdown of the battles we’ll see heading into the new season.

 

Quarterbacks

Number kept last year: Three

Guaranteed: Matt Hasselbeck, Seneca Wallace

Camp Battle: Mike Teel vs. Jeff Rowe

The Seahawks drafted Teel in the sixth round this year. This gives him an edge over Rowe, taken from Cincinnati’s practice squad last December. Teel is likely seen as a long-term project, so teething problems in his first camp may be excused.

Prediction: Teel to take 3rd spot on depth chart.

 

Running backs

Number kept last year: Four

Guaranteed: Julius Jones, T.J. Duckett

Camp Battle: Justin Forsett vs. Devin Moore vs. Tyler Roehl

The team is likely to keep three running backs this year, and Forsett is the front runner. Moore and Roehl were signed as undrafted free agents. Special team’s value is the key here—Forsett returned kicks in 2008, but Moore’s speed could lead to an interesting face off.

Prediction: Forsett on the roster, Moore to the practise squad.

 

Full backs

Number kept last year: Two

Guaranteed: Justin Griffith

Camp Battle: Owen Schmitt vs. David Kirtman

Schmitt is the heavy favorite here. Kirtman recently re-signed as camp competition, but both players are former fifth-round picks of Seattle. Kirtman left the team in 2008 before spells with New Orleans, San Francisco, and San Diego.

Prediction: Schmitt sticks, features alongside likely starter Griffith.

 

Wide receivers

Number kept last year: Eight

Guaranteed: T.J. Houshmandzadeh, Deion Branch, Nate Burleson, Deon Butler

Camp Battle: Ben Obomanu vs. Courtney Taylor vs. Logan Payne vs. Jordan Kent vs. Michael Bumpus vs. Billy McMullen vs. Mike Hass

Any of the above could make the roster, so this provides one of the most interesting positional battles. The team usually keeps seven receivers but may look for greater depth after last year’s injury crisis. There are no clear favorites, but McMullen and Hass have the most to prove.

Prediction: Obomanu, Taylor, and Kent make it. Bumpus or Payne could beat the cut if the team keeps eight receivers.

 

Tight Ends

Number kept last year: Three

Guaranteed: John Carlson, John Owens

Camp Battle: Joe Newton vs. Cameron Morrah

Newton has been with the team two seasons but is yet to make a lasting impression. Morrah, a seventh-round pick this year, has raw potential and should win out.

Prediction: Morrah joins Carlson, Owens on the roster.

 

Offensive Lineman

Number kept last year: Eight

Guaranteed: Walter Jones, Mike Wahle, Chris Spencer, Rob Sims, Sean Locklear, Ray Willis, Max Unger

Camp Battle: Steve Vallos vs. Mansfield Wrotto vs. Kyle Williams vs. Na’Shan Goddard

The team may keep an extra lineman this year as security against injuries. Wrotto is almost certain to make the roster. Vallos has valuable flexibility, having played center and guard in his career. Williams started at tackle at the end of 2008 but has been featured at guard during mini-camps.

Prediction: Wrotto for sure, Vallos if they want an extra body.

Defensive tackles

Number kept last year: Four

Guaranteed: Brandon Mebane, Colin Cole, Red Bryant, Craig Terrill

The Seahawks are settled on their quartet at defensive tackle. Cory Redding has been listed as a defensive end in this article, but should spell at tackle in third-down situations.

 

Defensive ends

Number kept last year: Five

Guaranteed: Patrick Kerney, Cory Redding, Lawrence Jackson, Darryl Tapp

Camp Battle: Baraka Atkins vs. Nick Reed vs. Michael Bennett vs. Brandon Miller

Atkins will enter camp as the favorite, having played with some regularity in 2008. Reed is one to keep an eye on—he’s undersized but managed a school record 29.5 sacks at Oregon. Taken in the seventh round this year, he could make the team as a special teamer. Miller and Bennett are both 2009 undrafted free agent signings.

Prediction: Atkins to make the roster, Reed also a possibility on special teams.

 

Linebackers

Number kept last year: Seven

Guaranteed: Aaron Curry, Lofa Tatupu, Leroy Hill, D.D. Lewis, Will Herring, Lance Laury, David Hawthorne 

There will be no camp battle at linebacker. The starters (Curry, Tatupu, and Hill) are obvious with Lewis, Herring, and Laury providing the backup. Hawthorne adds special teams value.

 

Cornerbacks

Number kept last year: Four

Guaranteed: Marcus Trufant, Ken Lucas, Josh Wilson

Camp Battle: Kelly Jennings vs. Kevin Hobbs

Despite Jennings’ struggles, the team is unlikely to give up on the 2006 first-round pick this early. Nevertheless, this is a crossroads in his career, and he needs to impress at camp to remain in consideration.

Prediction: Jennings survives…for now.

 

Safeties

Number kept last year: Three

Guaranteed: Deon Grant, Brian Russell, Jordan Babineaux

Camp Battle: Jamar Adams vs. Courtney Greene vs. C.J. Wallace

The team has shown confidence in Jordan Babineaux’s flexibility in the secondary. If the team chooses to keep an extra safety, this could be an interesting battle. Grant and Russell will almost certainly remain starters.

Prediction: Greene could be the choice with Adams going to the practice squad.

 

Special Teams

Number kept last year: Four

Guaranteed: John Ryan

Camp Battle: Olindo Mare vs. Brandon Coutu

Round two of the Seahawks kicking competition will take place this summer. Mare won last year and had a productive season, making 88.9% of his field goals and nailing 22 touchbacks. In any other situation, he’d be a clear favorite. But the team thought highly enough of Coutu to keep him on the roster throughout 2008. Even if Mare succeeds once more, Coutu could stick around for another year of inactivity.

Prediction: Mare starts, but Coutu again makes the roster.

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