More photos » by Elaine Thompson - AP

Owen Schmitt will be chasing his job if he doesn't develop.

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There's nothing wrong with filling a position through brute numbers. Seattle needs a fullback, perhaps more so than any other team in the NFL, and though it invested a fifth round selection in Owen Schmitt, it would be wise to stack the deck in case Schmitt is ever injured or simply doesn't develop as a pass blocker.

Brannan Southerland may not have the pure run-blocking ferocity of Schmitt, but he's a more complete and polished fullback, is known for his awareness pass blocking, his soft hands and reliability as a receiver, and, perhaps most importantly to a player that could be second-string or start at first but then be benched, Southerland is known as a consummate team player. Greg Knapp needs talent and security at fullback for his offense to function, Southerland boosts both.