Welcome to Seattle, TJ Houshmandzadeh

Written by Kevin Cacabelos on .

TJ Whoseyourmama finally decided to sign with the Seahawks today to the delight of Seahawks fans looking for a solution at receiver and much to the the annoyance of people who have to type his name over and over again.The deal is being reported as 5 years, 40 million dollars with 15 million guaranteed, which is a little more than what was reported earlier.

To any other position, this would be insane, but possession wide receivers like Houshmandzadeh can last into their mid-thirties. This move effectively eliminates any chance there was that we would draft Micheal Crabtree. It also adds some stability to a receiver corps that at one point last year was missing their top four players. Houshmandzadeh has missed only 3 games since 2002, and is a good bet to be healthy in the future.

Jerseys are on sale now, but unfortunately for some they will not be available in sizes smaller than XXXL. no comments

TJ Housmanzadeh has signed with

Written by Kevin Cacabelos on .

TJ Housmanzadeh has signed with the Seahawks. Analysis to come. no comments

Hyping Up the Draft: Who will the Seahawks Pick at No. 4?

Written by Kevin Cacabelos on .

The NFL Draft is still a couple of months away, but here are the players the experts have the Seahawks currently taking with their No. 4 pick.

ESPN's Mel Kiper: Michael Crabtree, Texas Tech

(I know the guy in the video isn't Mel Kiper, but to get his analysis you have to be an "ESPN Insider". This is better anyways:




Fox Sports/Scout.com: WR Michael Crabtree, Texas Tech
Crabtree is an explosive, physical receiver who has game changing ability. He has strong hands, makes tough catches in traffic and always looks to make a positive play.

Seahawks Draft Blog: WR Michael Crabtree, Texas Tech
The Seahawks need a play maker on offense and Crabtree can help from day one. He fits the criteria GM Tim Ruskell looks for - showing consistent production (double Biletnikoff winner) and a good character.

Draft Countdown: WR Michael Crabtree, Texas Tech
The bottom line is that when it comes to wideouts the Seahawks have quantity, but what they lack is quality. Michael Crabtree is just a redshirt sophomore but he was a two-time winner of the Biletnikoff Award and will go down as one of the greatest receivers in college football history.


Draft Daddy: OT Eugene Monroe, Virginia
Walter Jones is coming off of a severe injury, Monroe could be a premium level replacement.
Michael Crabtree seems to be the most likely choice for the Seahawks at the moment. But the draft is a long time from now. Free Agency and the NFL combine will impact who the Seahawks pick greatly. Stay tuned. no comments

Offseason Roadmap: Seattle Seahawks

Written by Kevin Cacabelos on .

James posted a small blurb over at MVN's NFL Outsider. Check it out when you get a chance..to summarize, the Seahawks need to address issues at safety, defensive tackle, offensive guard..


[MVN] no comments

Seattle Sports 101: The 2005 Seahawks

Written by Michael Fletcher on .

They were tired and they were sore. They were short on breath and their bodies ached. And from their body language and attitude, you could tell that they knew they were beaten.

This is what the 2005 Seahawks running game could do to you. They pounded you into submission. They ran on first, second, and third down. With a 4.7 yards per attempt average, more often than not this worked. The offensive line was good, and the left side with Walter Jones and Steve Hutchinson was dominant.

Mack Strong had a career year, opening up huge holes in the run defense, and made it to his first pro-bowl. These blockers, combined with MVP running back Shaun Alexander, made for a very good running game. Alexander had fantastic vision which led to his great cut-back ability. He had a nose for the end-zone, scoring 27 rushing touchdowns.

Aside from the run game, the rest of the offense was also pretty good. Matt Hasselbeck and Company made just enough plays to extend drives and keep the ball in the hands of the offense. Bobby Engram established himself as a great third-down receiver, making critical plays to keep drives alive. This pass game complimented the great running game to make the #1 offense in the league.

On defense, the Hawks were small but fast. Players would fly to the ball, and as a result there were multiple hawks there to tackle the ball carrier, making up for lack of size. As a result, the Seahawks had the 5th ranked run defense in the league. They gained two great rookie linebackers, Lofa Tatupu, who made it to the pro-bowl, and LeRoy Hill. Their pass-rush was fantastic, led by Bryce Fisher and Rocky Bernard.

They were aided greatly by crowd noise, which led to a league-high 24 false start penalties at Quest Field in 2005. This also contributed to the Seahawks 10-0 record at home including the playoffs. It was a great time to be a Seahawks fan.

The Hawks concluded the regular season with a 13-3 record, and the 1st seed. They beat the Washington Redskins and the Carolina Panthers at home to head to Detroit to face the Pittsburgh Steelers in Super Bowl XL.


The Steelers were a wild card team, and the #6 seed. Bill Cowher led this team to the Super Bowl, and it was a team very similar to the Seahawks. Their greatest strength was their run game, with an efficient but not spectacular passing game, and a solid defense.

In Super Bowl XL, the Steelers capitalized on big plays for touchdowns, including a 43-yard fake reverse pass to Hines Ward. The Seahawks, meanwhile, spluttered on offense, dropping passes, missing opportunities, and falling victim to some questionable calls. Final score: Steelers 21, Seahawks 10.

Nevertheless, it was a great run for a team many consider to be the best in history, and their first super bowl appearance in the team’s 30 year history. The fans helped this team along the way. It was a great time to be a Seahawks fan.

Photo source: [ioffer] no comments

Washington Mt. Rushmore of Sports: Steve Largent

Written by Evan Shioyama on .

To kick off the new year, we will be reposting our Washington Mount Rushmore of Sports (originally published in 2009). This series of posts was inspired by an earlier feature by ESPN's Sportscenter. [Gary Payton] [Don James] [Ken Griffey Jr.]

steve-largent

Photo Credit: (Al Messerschmidt/WireImage)

Not all star athletes, aided by exceptional physical talents, rise to immediate sports fame. Some lay low, honing their skills until finally breaking out onto the national scene. Others undertake a slow, long trip to stardom. And some, like the Seahawk’s Steve Largent, must overcome cynicism and early failure, and through grit and determination, finally showcase their abilities.

Largent began his NFL career in 1976, but after four preseason games he was upon the verge of being cut by the Houston Oilers. Devastated, he was ready to find a life beyond professional sports. “I remember crying all the way home from Houston, dragging my little U-Haul trailer,” Largent said. “I was preparing to move on to the next phase of my life”.

However, Largent was given another chance by the Seattle Seahawks, who traded an eighth-round pick in order to acquire him. The move seemed inconsequential for the expansion team from Seattle. Little did they know that they would be receiving the most prolific wide receiver in Seahawks' history.

Though not especially talented, Largent was a perfect example of the importance of hard work and determination. Standing at only 5’11 and not particularly fast, Largent was physically unimpressive. However, he ran near-perfect routes and was extremely sure-handed. His concentration and competitiveness, not his physical talents, allowed him to succeed.

Largent had a prolific 14-year season for Seattle, lasting from 1976 to 1989. He had an immediate impact, leading the Seahawks and finishing third in the NFC in receptions with 54. He went on to lead the NFL in receiving yards twice, in both 1979 and 1985. Leading the AFC in 1978 with 71 receptions, Largent had 6 seasons of 70 or more receptions and 10 of 50 or more. In a ten-year period from 1978 to 1987, Largent was also selected for 7 Pro Bowls and 3 All-Pro teams.

Steve Largent retired in 1989, ending a 14-year stint with the Seattle Seahawks. He finished his career holding all three of the major receiving records. He held records for the most receptions (819), the most receiving touchdowns (100), and the most receiving yards (13,089). On top of these, Largent also had the most consecutive games with a reception (177), the most seasons of 50+ receptions (10) and the most seasons of 1,000+ receiving yards (8).

Most of these records have since been broken (his record of seasons with 50+ receptions still stands). Nevertheless, Largent has been recognized for his amazing career. His No. 80 was retired in 1992, becoming the first Seahawk to do so. He was also the first Seahawk to be inducted in the NFL Hall of Fame, entering in 1995.

New England’s Wes Welker is often compared to Largent. They are similar in many ways: both are small receivers with less physical talents than your Randy Mosses or Larry Fitzgeralds. Despite this, both have become stars through a combination of determination, toughness and focus.

Steve Largent’s path to greatness was never easy. But he was able to overcome critics of his size and speed in order to become one of the top wide receivers in the league’s history. And though he majority of his records have been broken, Steve Largent remains the greatest Seahawk of all-time.
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Breaking News: Leroy Hill Arrested

Written by Kevin Cacabelos on .

Apparently Seahawks OLB Leroy Hill got arrested today on a misdemeanor marijuana possession charge. He was arrested after being found passed out behind the wheel at an intersection in suburban Atlanta.

This could really affect the Seahawks offseason. Leroy Hill is a free agent this offseason, and Seahawks GM Tim Ruskell is known to be very sensitive to character issues. It is possible that after this, Ruskell may choose to pursue a new OLB and let Hill go. It could also theoretically mean nothing at all. Jordan Babineaux was also busted on a misdemeanor pot charge, and he was only suspended for one game. We aren't really in a position to know what this means right now, but it is newsworthy. no comments

Seahawks Free Agency Part 2: Who to Go After

Written by Kevin Cacabelos on .

Despite coming off their worst record since 1992, fans maintain hope that the Seattle Seahawks can return to the NFL playoffs. They have many holes needing to be filled, and there are some exciting names on the free agent market this year that could possible fill them.

However, I don’t believe that the Hawks should turn to free agency to address these needs. In Part 1 of my free agency segment, I listed the Seahawks that I think need to be resigned. And I believe that if we retain most of our team, the Hawks will be ready to compete with minimal free agent additions from other teams.

There are a lot of high quality players out there that would help Seattle enormously. However, the Seahawks just can’t afford these players. Even if the Hawks free up cap space, I see us at the most being able to add one big-name free agent.

If we have a good draft, though, the Hawks will be ready to return to the playoffs. So who should the Seahawks pursue? Here are the positions that need most help and the free agents the Hawks should go after.

Safety


This is one of the Hawk’s biggest concerns. Brian Russell was terrible for them last year and needs to be replaced. Possibilities include Chicago’s Mike Brown and Tampa Bay’s Jermaine Phillips. However, I think the Seahawks should go after St. Louis’ Osiomogho Atogwe.

Atogwe had 5 interceptions, 6 forced fumbles and 85 tackles for the Rams last year. He should be heavily pursued by numerous teams this off season, but I think the Hawks should spend do whatever they can to try to bring him in.

Wide Receiver

I am in favor of the Seahawks using their #4 pick in the draft to take Texas Tech wideout Michael Crabtree. But if they don’t draft him, the Seahawks could use a stud wide receiver for Hasselbeck to throw to. A name that interests me here is Cincinnati WR T.J. Houshmanzadeh.

Housh would immediately improve the Hawk’s passing attack, but at a high price. And that’s if the Bengals don’t resign him. But even if it is unlikely, the idea of Housh in Seattle is exciting…

Defensive Line

There are several Pro-Bowl defensive linemen out in the market this year that could possibly help a unit that struggled for Seattle last year. These include Baltimore’s Terrell Suggs, Carolina’s Julius Peppers, and Tennessee’s Albert Haynesworth.

But all of these players should draw huge contracts, and I don’t see Seattle’s salary cap limitations allowing the Hawks to pursue them. Hopefully Kerney can get healthy, and our D-line can improve without the need to spend the likes of 12 million a year.

Cornerback
Here is another position that I think the Seahawks can improve at without adding anyone. Josh Wilson is developing into a solid starter alongside Marcus Trufant. Even though he is sometimes picked on in single coverage due to his size, Wilson is improving and has great playmaking ability.

A name some are mentioning that would improve the Seahawk’s secondary is lockdown corner Nnamdi Asomugha. And though Nnamdi starting opposite of Trufant is enticing, the Hawks have better uses for their money.



Photo Source: USAToday
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Seahawks Mock Draft: v.1.0

Written by Kevin Cacabelos on .

This will be our first of what I think will be several Mock drafts during this off-season. As the senior bowl and the combines come and go we will have a better picture of who goes where, and who I pick now does not necessarily reflect who would be a good pick in April.

Note: For the purpose of this Mock it is assumed that we make no trades. But recent history shows that this may not be the case, If Ruskell likes a player enough.




First Round: Mark Sanchez, QB, USC


I originally chose Micheal Crabtree here because I thought Sanchez would go back to USC. When He declared I decided to change the pick, not because I don't like Crabtree, but because I think Sanchez is special and the type of player we need for the future. I personally think Sanchez is the best QB in the draft, even better than Stafford. I would be thrilled to get him.

He would be perfect for our situation: A strong armed. athletic, and smart quarterback who would improve greatly with a year or two on the sidelines, which is exactly what we would give him, with Hasselbeck still running the show. Sanchez may not go quite this high, or he could go higher, depending on the combine. For right now I feel comfortable with him at #4.


Second Round: Max Unger, C, Oregon

Unger is exactly what we need: a talented pass blocker who can play anywhere on the line and who has pro bowl potential. Unger is only down here because he didn't play Left Tackle and because of size concerns. However, he may go much higher than this, and it is unlikely we get him for this reason. Still, I see us getting an O-Lineman here.


Third Round: Derek Pegues, FS, Mississppi State


I originally chose Emmanuel Cook of South Carolina here because I thought it would be more likely to get him, but I changed my mind after seeing his gun charges. Tim Ruskell doesn't go after players with criminal records.

Pegues is better anyway. He was second team all SEC as a free safety and showed great ball skills, picking seven passes in his last two seasons. He has fantastic tools as well, running a true 4.4 40 time and returning kicks for Mississippi State. He could help take a load off Josh Wilson there while taking over SS full time.


Fourth Round: Keenan Lewis, CB, Oregon State


With the likely shift to a Tampa 2 defense, Kelly Jennings would be a disaster. That said, I see the Hawks taking a corner here. For all the people worried about the lack of size in the secondary, Lewis is the tallest corner in the draft at 6 foot 1.

He played well at Oregon State and got seven picks over the last two years for the second best defense in the Pac-10. He does lack top end speed, which matters a lot less in a Tampa 2. I see some reports having him being taken earlier than this so he's definitely a name to watch in the Senior Bowl.



Fifth Round: Nobody

We gave that pick away for Keary Colbert. Since I did tons of research for this before being reminded of this, I will just say that I think the Hawks would have drafted Jonathan Casillas, OLB, Wisconsin. Interesting player, but so much for that I guess.


Sixth Round: Myron Pryor, DT, Kentucky

Myron Pryor was a big prospect coming out of high school, but injuries have kept him from fulfilling his potential at Kentucky. This year however, he has been spectacular, getting second team all SEC honors to go along with 4.5 sacks. Pryor's a load at 310 and would help stabilize the defensive tackle rotation. The only big issue is his injury history, which has caused big problems for him before.


Seventh Round: PJ Hill, RB, Wisconsin


New OC Gregg Knapp loves his running backs, and PJ Hill is the best available. Sort of like TJ Duckett without the crazy combine times, PJ Hill had an amazing year last year for the Badgers, but was less of a focal point in his offense this year, due to injuries. He isn't at all a burner, but his good production at a major school should warrant him a look. If nothing else he's special teams material. no comments

Seahawks Free Agency Part 1: Who to Resign

Written by Kevin Cacabelos on .

After a 4-12 finish, it is obvious that the Seattle Seahawks have work to do during this offseason. Sure, their terrible record is in part due to injuries and poor play. But the Hawks still have some glaring holes that need to be addressed.

Many of these needs will be addressed in the 2009 draft, and possibly even with some trades. However, what the Seahawks do in free agency is perhaps the most important to creating another playoff-caliber team. And before Seattle can go out and sign some big-name free agents from other teams, they need to evaluate the free agents on their own team.

So here is a list of the players the Seahawks should and should not resign.


Must-Signs

Leroy Hill, LB: Hill is, without a doubt, the highest Hawk’s highest priority to resign. He finished third on the team in tackles with 84, despite missing the last four games of the year. He is an integral part of the linebacker corps that is perhaps the best in the NFL, though Tatupu and Peterson underperformed this year.

There are worries that the Seahawks will be spending too much money on an overrated linebacker unit if they re-sign Hill, who could draw a hefty contract considering his play since he started halfway through his rookie year. And starting alongside two Pro-Bowlers, it easy for critics to undervalue Hill. The Seahawks, however, should not make the same mistake. Hill must be re-signed.

Maurice Morris, RB: Morris played well for the Seahawks this past year, with 574 yards on 132 carries and 4.3 yards per carry. He also found a role in the passing game, with two touchdowns and 136 yards on 19 receptions.

His numbers were likely hurt by the lack of Matt Hasselbeck and the injuries to the offensive line. But if the O-line stays healthy and we make some additions to it this off-season, both Morris and Julius Jones’ play should improve. And if Mora is able to work out a consistent split between the two backs, the time-share will work out better.

High Priorities

Bobby Engram, WR: Engram is 36, and will not merit a big contract after his numbers dropped drastically from last year’s. Nevertheless, he was the Seahawk’s second-leading receiver, with 47 catches for 489 yards. And, as Hasselbeck’s trusted third-down receiver, Engram’s his stats should improve when Hass gets healthy. But most of all, I want to see Engram finish his career with the Hawks.

Rocky Bernard, DT: Bernard tied for first in tackles among the defensive lineman with 55. He also had 4 sacks and forced a fumble in another solid season with Seattle. A seven year starter for the Seahawks, Bernard should be pursued.

Leonard Weaver, FB: Weaver showed some improvement in his lead and pass blocking, which were major concerns when he became the starter with Mack Strong’s retirement. However, he is still below average in both these areas.

Weaver does have some strengths, though. He has tremendous upside as a rusher (130 yards and 4.3 ypc) and pass catcher (20 catches, 222 yards and 2 TDs).

Ray Willis, OL: Willis, who played both RT and RG, was a part of the makeshift offensive line that stepped up for the Seahawks at the end of the season. He started nine games for the Hawks, filling in nicely.

Others to pursue

Koren Robinson, WR: Robinson was Seattle’s third leading receiver, with 30 receptions for 400 yards in 11 games. However, most important to Robinson’s season was what he didn’t do: get into trouble with the law. He merits a short-term contract.

Howard Green, DT: The Seahawks like Green, who is a fourth-year player with upside. He deserves consideration.

C.J. Wallace: Wallace was one of the Hawk’s top special teams contributors with 14 tackles.

Floyd Womack, OL: Filled in well in the depleted o-line. Womack is old but should get a short contract.

Who NOT to go After

Will Heller, TE: Carlson is the answer at TE, and I don’t like Heller even as a backup.

Ben Obomanu, WR: He’s had his chances to play in the NFL, and has never succeeded. Its time for the Hawks to let him go.

Charlie Frye, QB: He sucks.

Other Free Agents: LS Jeff Robinson, LB Lance Laury, LB D.D. Lewis, OL Steve McKinney, CB Kevin Hobbs

Photo Sources: http://pcpsports.files.wordpress.com/2008/08/morris.jpg, ESPN no comments

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