After re-signing workhorse running back Marshawn Lynch and picking up Matt Flynn in free agency to take the reins at quarterback, the Seahawks can concentrate on adding a few more pieces to an improving defense at the outset of this draft. Seattle is set at one defensive end with the often-overlooked Chris Clemons, but no other lineman produced more than three sacks last season, therefore finding a quick edge rusher likely ranks near the top of the team's to-do list. Though the linebacker corps was bolstered with the signings of veterans Anthony Hill, Barrett Ruud and Matt McCoy, the fact that all three received only one-year deals could mean Pete Carroll isn't done shopping for a long-term solution, preferably in the middle. Boston College's Luke Kuechly, the consensus top inside linebacker prospect, has been a popular prediction in mock drafts for Seattle's 12th overall pick. Among the secondary needs is a change-of-pace back that can catch the ball and spell Lynch. The Seahawks come into the draft with only six selections, having dealt away their fifth-rounder for Lynch two years back.
2011 Record: 7-9
Top Needs: DE, LB, RB
First Three Picks: No. 12, No. 43, No. 75
Number of Selections: 6 (1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7)
RECENT FIRST ROUND HISTORY: 2011 - James Carpenter (OT, Alabama); 2010 - Russell Okung (OT, Oklahoma State), Earl Thomas (S, Texas); 2009 - Aaron Curry (LB, Wake Forest); 2008 - Lawrence Jackson (DE, USC); 2007 - none; 2006 - Kelly Jennings (CB, Miami- Florida); 2005 - Chris Spencer (C, Ole Miss); 2004 - Marcus Tubbs (DT, Texas); 2003 - Marcus Trufant (CB, Washington State).
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