NFL Mock Draft 2012: Seahawks Choose LB Mychal Kendricks In 2nd Round in SB Nation Writers' Mock

The SB Nation Writers' Mock continues on over at Mocking the Draft and SBNation.com this week, and with overall pick number 43, 11th of the 2nd round, Rob Staton and Kip Earlywine from over at Seahawks Draft Blog chose Cal LB Mychal Kendricks. With Miami RB Lamar Miller still on the board, it turned out to be a tough choice for Staton and Earlywine (plus, their pick was in before Leroy Hill and Matt McCoy were re-signed last night), but ultimately they went with a versatile and athletic playmaker in Kendricks. I like the pick a lot.

Here's Rob's explanation:

"Having addressed the team's greatest need by getting a pass rusher in round one, there's likely two be two other target areas in rounds 2-3. The Seahawks need to draft at least one linebacker, either to fill the MIKE or WILL. With Upshaw filling in as a hybrid DE/SLB, KJ Wright would likely be moved to fill one of the other spots. Malcolm Smith is also highly regarded and Barrett Ruud was added in free agency. Pete Carroll wants to add speed to the front seven, so finding an athletic linebacker with coverage potential is crucial."

"The other important need is running back. Seattle's offense is built around the run and when Marshawn Lynch missed time in 2011, the team's offense collapsed. Although Lynch recently signed a big extension, it won't stop the Seahawks looking to draft for the position early. They need a prospect who can take some of the heavy work load away from their offensive MVP and match Lynch's impact if he picks up injuries."

"Zach Brown and Doug Martin would've been ideal options but both are off the board at the start of round two. Seattle could turn attentions to Mychal Kendricks and Lamar Miller who both fit the criteria in this range. I've gone for Kendricks due to Pete Carroll's knowledge - and appreciation - for the Pac-12. The California linebacker was named Pac-12 defensive MVP last year. He has the speed Carroll craves plus experience playing both outside and inside linebacker. The Seahawks would then be expected to address running back in rounds three or four."

-- Head over to MtD to see Dan Kadar's response and give your grade of the selection.