FanPost

Barret Ruud redux

Prior to the 2012 draft, the Seahawks secured the services of injured-but-recovering free agent Barrett Ruud to Spackle over the hole kicked into the defense at the MLB spot. Ruud's services proved superfluous after drafting DROY contender Bobby Wagner, but it was a sound decision at the time in case the draft didn't fall our way.

The team faces a similar situation this off-season with the likely departure of Leroy Hill from the LB ranks. Comparative depth throughout the draft suggests investment in that position early, but like last year, provisions should be made.

I suggest kicking the tires on looming Jacksonville FA Daryl Smith.

Like Ruud was, he's coming back from an injury, one that cost him the majority of last season. He's also going to be on the wrong side of 30. There are still good reasons for bringing him in for coffee and a danish to see how he feels about the Pacific Northwest.

In a full 2011, Smith hauled in from his WILL spot 73 tackles, 3.5 sacks, forced 2 fumbles and defensed 8 passes. He also returned an INT 25 yards. That year he was Pro Football Focus' second-ranked 4-3 OLB, turning in two of the years Top 5 performances

Daryl Smith is awesome

Specific times Daryl Smith was especially awesome

Smith would be a pretty good insurance policy should Schneider not pull another Wagner out of a WAC.