Hawks fans, in continuation of the Mocking the Draft SBNation writers mock draft, I selected DT Drake Nevis out of LSU with our #57 pick. Ultimately it came down to picking a guard, corner, or defensive tackle and I had to make the decision to take a upper tier pass rushing talent in Nevis. Guards can still be found in the mid rounds and I decided that after going offense with Ryan Mallett in round one, that I'd concentrate on the defense in round two.
Here was my explanation:
"The Seahawks need a penetrating three-tech player on their defensive line. Coach Pete Carroll has stated that "the three technique player should be your premier interior pass rusher," and Drake Nevis could come in and be that player for the Seahawks. In 2010, the Seahawks' defensive three-tech position produced only one sack, and opposing quarterbacks had way too much time to sit in the pocket and pick apart the defense, something they'll be looking to remedy in 2011.
Nevis was one of the most disruptive defensive tackles in the SEC in 2010, leading LSU with 56 tackles, 13 for a loss, six sacks, three forced fumbles, four QB hurries, and an interception in 13 games. He's extremely strong - he squats 535 and benches 475 - and combined with his quick initial burst and ability to disengage blocks, he'll make an immediate impact for the Hawks. With Colin Cole or Brandon Mebane playing next to him at one-tech and Red Bryant returning to the five-tech DE position, he'll draw a lot of one-on-one matchups. His quickness, lateral agility, and hand strength will be put to good use, and he'll be effective in putting pressure on the opposing QB.
He'll add depth to a thin defensive line that was decimated by injuries in 2010, and depending on whether Brandon Mebane is re-signed and continues at the three-tech or not, Nevis could come in and start in Week 1. If Mebane returns, Nevis will be an excellent part of the rotation on the defensive line and will excel in Pete Carroll's 'always compete' philosophy, where he'll have to play full tilt to earn playing time."
Check out Dan Kadar's reaction to my pick and make sure you vote and give any commentary on the pick. Take a look at some of the players available and let me know who you think I should have chosen. It was a very tough choice but ultimately decided to go with a talented 3-tech.