Jordan Reid at ESPN has released a complete seven-round mock for the 2023 NFL draft. We can’t speak for any of the 31 other teams. However, when it comes to the Seattle Seahawks and their needs going into the draft, Reid hit all the right notes. Heavy on defensive linemen, Reid’s mock gives Seattle major upgrades at all of the key positions where they need it most up front as well as some added depth at wide receiver and running back. It’s a rare thing, but we have exactly zero notes.
Here is who Reid mocked to the Seahawks with all 10 picks.
Pick No. 5: Georgia DL Jalen Carter
“Carter’s stock has dropped over the past two months because of off-field issues, including misdemeanor charges of reckless driving and racing for his alleged role in a Jan. 15 car wreck. Still, speaking to scouts after Georgia’s recent pro day — where Carter struggled — each mentioned they expect Carter to be a top-10 pick. His game film shows he’s arguably the top prospect in the entire class, although teams have continued to do their homework on him. Carter could land in an ideal situation in Seattle, which lacks talent along the defensive line. He has the potential to be the centerpiece as a 3-technique in the Seahawks’ defensive front.”
Pick No. 20: Iowa EDGE Lukas Van Ness
“They have to improve in the trenches. That’s why I’m projecting them to take defensive tackle Jalen Carter at No. 5 overall, and that’s why I’m giving them raw power rusher Van Ness, who fits the prototype of previous Seattle draft picks. Van Ness is still in the early stages of his development — he played in 27 games for the Hawkeyes but never started a game. The Seahawks relied too much on 35-year-old Bruce Irvin last season and must find younger options to generate pressure. Van Ness would bring that type of potential.”
Pick No. 37: Minnesota C John Michael Schmitz
“Schmitz is the exact type of center the Seahawks need. They have been struggling to find consistency at the position, but he’s a plug-and-play center with the upside to be a high-level starter. Seattle should continue its model of putting resources into the trenches.”
Pick No. 52: Iowa LB Jack Campbell
“Despite the return of veteran Bobby Wagner on a one-year deal, Campbell would provide a succession plan for the Seattle defense. His instincts, aggression as a run defender and feel in coverage would make for a promising young option behind the Seahawks legend.”
Pick No. 83: Stanford CB Kyu Blu Kelly
“The emergence of rookies Tariq Woolen and Coby Bryant propelled the Seahawks’ defense to exciting heights last season. Kelly, who started 34 games for the Cardinal, could compete for the CB3 spot with Mike Jackson and Tre Brown.”
Pick No. 123: Penn State WR Parker Washington
Pick No. 151: Stanford QB Tanner McKee
Pick No. 154: Auburn DL Colby Wooden
Pick No. 198: Marshall RB Khalan Laborn
Pick No. 237: Florida A&M EDGE Isaiah Land
