The Seattle Seahawks and the 12th Man are certainly keeping their eyes on the draft this more more than others. Having two first round picks – one of which being the No. 5 overall selection – has a way of capturing everyone’s attention. With this attention comes endless mock drafts.
The 2023 NFL Draft only days away, more and more mock drafts are sure to keep coming until the biggest weekend of the spring for the league happens. The football analytics company, Pro Football Focus (PFF) recently did a mock draft for the first round and here is who they have the Seahawks taking:
Pick No. 5 – Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia
Of all the prospects in this year’s draft, no one suffered worse press than Georgia defensive lineman Jalen Carter. Despite being arguably the best defensive player in the draft, Carter has given plenty of reason for pause. However in the NFL, pure talent and potential gives you a lot of leeway. The general consensus seems to have Carter going to the Seahawks. He recently visited with Seattle as well. Carter may have his warts, but it’s undeniable the impact he could have on the defensive line.
Pick No. 20 – Jordan Addison, WR, USC
This is an intriguing pick. Other drafts have mocked Ohio State’s Jaxon Smith-Njigba to Seattle, but the pattern is clear: Seattle needs a legitimate third receiver and pick No. 20 might be the place to get it. Addison hauled in 29 total touchdowns during his collegiate career, spanning two years at Pitt and one at USC. Addison’s route running is well regarded and seems like a natural fit behind DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett.
Plus, it’s hard to ignore the USC connection with Pete Carroll.