Five rookie classes that can shape 2023 NFL season

Pete Carroll and John Schneider might need struck gold in back-to-back drafts. Final 12 months’s loaded haul, headlined by 1,000-yard rusher Kenneth Walker III and Professional Bowler Tariq Woolen, helped Seattle make a shocking playoff look. And this previous April’s spectacular assortment of expertise might additional push the crew to true contender standing.

First-round WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba and second-round RB Zach Charbonnet are primed for key roles on offense. JSN completely enhances DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett as a productive slot receiver with electrical catch-and-run abilities. He’ll terrorize opponents along with his excellent route-running abilities, as Geno Smith rapidly makes the Ohio State product one in all his favourite targets in important moments. In the meantime, Charbonnet is an ideal sidekick for Walker, as a downhill runner with explosive power and energy. The 2 younger backs give Seattle a lethal 1-2 punch, enabling Carroll to impose his will on opponents on the bottom.

No. 5 total decide Devon Witherspoon and second-rounder Derick Corridor add extra sizzle to a protection that’s trying to get again to its 2010s enjoying fashion. As a flexible “lockdown” nook with excellent instincts and protection abilities, Witherspoon might ultimately flourish on the island reverse Woolen, although the Illinois product is presently coping with a sore hamstring and will miss Week 1. Corridor additionally may want slightly seasoning earlier than leaping into the rotation, however his athleticism and explosiveness add one other instrument to the toolbox for defensive coordinator Clint Hurtt.