The Seattle Seahawks had high hopes for their 2019 NFL Draft, but the absence of L.J. Collier, their first-round selection, has cast a shadow of uncertainty over the team’s plans. Collier, a defensive end from TCU, was expected to be a key contributor to the Seahawks’ defense this season, but he has been sidelined with an ankle injury since the start of training camp.
The injury has forced the Seahawks to adjust their plans for the draft. Without Collier in the lineup, the team has had to look for other options to fill the void at defensive end. The Seahawks have already used two of their picks in the draft on defensive linemen, selecting Poona Ford in the fifth round and Cody Barton in the third round.
The Seahawks are hoping that Ford and Barton can help fill the void left by Collier’s absence. Both players have the potential to be solid contributors on the defensive line, but they don’t have the same level of experience as Collier. It remains to be seen whether they will be able to make up for his absence.
The Seahawks also had to adjust their plans for the draft in other areas due to Collier’s injury. Without him in the lineup, the team had to focus more on finding players who could contribute immediately, rather than looking for long-term projects. This could mean that some of the team’s picks may not have as much upside as they would have had with Collier in the lineup.
The Seahawks are still optimistic that Collier will be able to return to the field this season and make an impact. However, his absence has certainly had an impact on the team’s plans for the 2019 NFL Draft. The team has had to adjust their strategy and focus more on finding players who can contribute right away. Only time will tell if this strategy pays off for the Seahawks.
