The Seahawks made a seemingly strange move when they traded away their third round pick to jump 17 spots (from 55 to 38) and grab John Carlson. Many people had Carlson pegged to go at 56 to the Green Bay Packers. Mock drafts are certainly not a reliable source to evaluate a player or the intentions of real NFL teams, but it was a bit of a head scratcher.
What it did reveal, is that the Seahawks really felt strongly about John Carlson. And it isn't like they somehow missed Carlson's 40-time on the scouting report. It just isn't important to how the Seahawks plan to use him. Carlson is more of a classic tight end. He isn't the in-vogue vertical threat, but rather a complete tight end that can block and catch. Vernon Davis can't do either very well, but he sure can get downfield.
In Mike Holmgren's offense, the tight end doesn't need to run vertical routes. Given the struggles of the offensive line, the tight end needs to be able to block effectively, find the soft spots in zones, and catch the ball when it gets to him. Carlson is perfect for that. Jeb Putzier and Will Heller are of the same mold. Heller is a little bit taller and bigger, but the three guys have the same style of play. These guys won't be glamorous, but they will get the job done.
It really gives the Seahawks the option of going with a two tight end set with multiple options. They can run to either side with confidence in the run blocking of the tight end, they can keep both guys in to pass-block, they can send either guy out on a short pattern, or they can send both guys out and open things up for the receivers. This group of tight ends won't be making the highlight reel, but they will help the entire offense run better.
Starter: John Carlson
Locks: Jeb Putzier, Will Heller
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