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2019 NFL Draft: 5 players Seahawks could take in Round 1

By Rucker Haringey

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - FEBRUARY 27: Pete Carroll head coach of the Seattle Seahawks is seen at the 2019 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on February 28, 2019 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - FEBRUARY 27: Pete Carroll head coach of the Seattle Seahawks is seen at the 2019 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on February 28, 2019 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images) /
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PISCATAWAY, NJ – SEPTEMBER 01: Washington Huskies defensive back Byron Murphy (1) runas after making an interception during the NCAA Football game between the Rutgers Scarlet Knights and the Washington Huskies on September 1, 2017, at High Point Solutions Stadium in Piscataway, NJ. (Photo by Rich Graessle/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
PISCATAWAY, NJ – SEPTEMBER 01: Washington Huskies defensive back Byron Murphy (1) runas after making an interception during the NCAA Football game between the Rutgers Scarlet Knights and the Washington Huskies on September 1, 2017, at High Point Solutions Stadium in Piscataway, NJ. (Photo by Rich Graessle/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

3. Byron Murphy

Murphy doesn’t have the prototypical size for a Seahawks cornerback, but Carroll will be impressed by his nose for the football. In a league that’s increasingly dependent on forcing turnovers, drafting an athletic corner who racked up seven interceptions last season seems like a solid plan.

Seattle definitely has a need at corner. Shaquill Griffin is a good option on one side, but Tre Boston can be a liability on the other side of the field. Even if the coaching staff wants to keep Boston on the outside, Murphy could provide the team with a ton of value in the slot.

Don’t underestimate the importance of Seattle’s proximity to the University of Washington when it comes to their evaluation of Murphy. Their scouts have gotten a chance to see him play in person more than any other NFL team. That gives them the best chance to fall in love with him as both a prospect and person.

It is possible that Murphy goes a little higher than this, but if he’s still on the board at No. 21 he’ll really tempt Carroll and the front office. Coming away with an instant starter with this pick should be a requirement for Seattle and Murphy can make that sort of immediate impact.

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