Assessing the Seahawks' Need at Fullback

Fullback

Strengths: Run blocking

Weaknesses: Pass blocking, depth, experience

In Brief: Of course, inexperience isn't a weakness in of itself, but in Owen Schmitt's case, it's indicative of a host of weaknesses. Schmitt might never make much of a receiver. He's stiff-hipped, and though he was effective in college, he could hit a wall in the pros. Until I see him effectively redirect, I do not believe his receiving skills will translate. Schmitt has yet to learn how to pass block from the fullback spot. He doesn't identify the free man and doesn't meet him with any force. Schmitt might not make much of a rusher. He moves one direction hard and may effectively tackle himself by running into the pile. Schmitt does not execute plays well.

Hopefully he will be another beneficiary of Seattle's zone system. What Schmitt does do, for sure does do, is create havoc with his run blocks. He's a highlight reel run blocker that cascades defenders with his hits. The simpler the system and freer Schmitt is to pick a target and attack, the better he will play.

The problem is, that's just one part of playing fullback. Seattle is desperate for depth at the position, and having yet to sign Justin Griffith, is clearly looking to the draft to acquire it. Brannan Southerland and Quinn Johnson likely top Seattle's list, but the team might simply see who falls. It's not drafting a starting fullback, but a potential starting fullback, and though fullback is a major player in Greg Knapp's offense, the league-wide demand is small, and Seattle shouldn't have to stretch to get their guy.