2008 Seattle Seahawks NFL Draft Needs

Seahawks president Tim Ruskell is a huge proponent of building through the draft. He learned how it was done while working under Jerry Angelo and Rich McKay in Tampa Bay. Ruskell has made major improvements to the defense since arriving in 2005, using six of the team's eight first day picks on defensive players. Now, it is the offense that needs a boost through the draft. The Seahawks need help at tailback, tight end, and the offensive line. Find out where they will look to add talent first in this 2008 Seattle Seahawks NFL Draft needs preview.

#1 Running Back

Since Shaun Alexander's 2005 MVP season, he has been injury riddled and it is apparent that his days as a professional running back are now numbered. Seattle would love to add Oregon's Jonathan Stewart, a local boy, but it may have to settle for Illinois' Rashard Mendenhall if Stewart goes before Seattle goes on the clock at pick number 25.

#2 Tight End

Holmgren uses the tight end better than just about anybody to stretch the field in the passing game. This is what makes Holgren's version on the West Coast attack so effective. The Sea Birds need to address this spot with a first day pick. Notre Dame's John Carlson and Texas' Jermichael Finley are both talented receiving tight ends that would fit in nicely.

#3 Offensive Guard

This has been a weak spot on the offensive line since the Seahawks parted with All-Pro left guard Steve Hutchinson two season's ago. Arkansas' Robert Felton in a strong run blocker but needs to improve in the passing game. Virginia's Branden Albert has size and intelligence. Both players would be solid developmental prospects.

#4 Defensive Tackle

Marcus Tubbs hasn't seen much time on the field the past two seasons and that has to have the Seahawks worried enough to add depth here. He is the beefiest player on an otherwise undersized defensive front so when he had been out, it has been tough for the Seahawks to compete in the trenches. Texas A&M's Red Bryant is 6'5'' and 326 lbs. He would provide that big body the Seahawks are looking for.

#5 Wide Receiver

A West Coast offense needs plenty of receiving options and that is an area where the Seahawks are lacking. With Deion Branch looking at a lengthy rehab following knee surgery and with Bobby Engram now in his mid thirties, the Seahawks need to get deeper and better. Vandy's Earl Bennett and Cal's Lavelle Hawkins are plausible options with where Seattle is drafting.

Make sure you check out all of Jimmy Boyd's 2008 NFL Draft previews to see what direction your favorite NFL team might be headed in. Also check out our 2008 NFL Mock Draft to see how Jimmy sees the first round shaping up.

April 6th, 2008