I remember somebody in the know saying that teams are always looking ahead to future drafts even as they make current draft plans. I have little doubt that JS already has a good feel for the strengths and weaknesses of the 2017 and 2018 draft classes. I remember when he passed on some good WRs in 2013 (including Alshon Jeffery and albeit indirectly, DeAndre Hopkins) despite a BIG need at the position. I thought he was insane, but he made remarks afterward that basically said he didn't like the WR class. Turns out, the very next WR class that came in 2014 was historically good. Schneider knew it and factored it into his draft plans.
This is a good draft for run stuffers but a pretty terrible one for pass rushers. I think it's totally fair to look back on previous drafts to guage value and then decide whether or not a player is a good value historically at the pick you take him at. Not only look back, but look ahead to 2017 and 2018 which John Schneider can easily do with his scouting resources.
The #26 pick is five times more valuable than the pick Seattle used on Jordan Hill, and seven times more valuable than the pick they used on Jaye Howard.. Bullard is the best prospect of the three but for me it is pretty close. And I'd rank Bullard well behind Frank Clark, who Seattle got with a late 2nd rounder (albeit under unique circumstances).
Seattle could use pass rush help and I do think Seattle drafts a pass rusher this year. I just don't love the value of Bullard at #26. I think in a better pass rush draft he'd be a round two or round three guy.
FWIW these are my feelings personally but I think PC/JS feel very differently with regards to Bullard. He just seems like the exact kind of player they would love and I think Bullard has to be considered a heavy favorite at #26 right now.
titan3131":44ukkwb6 said:
Im down with Andrew billings if he is available. Otherwise I dont think there is a better option then bullard.
He's a good player. In a draft full of hype job DL he's one of the few that has substance. That said I just don't feel great about selecting a run stuffer in round one when you can find elite level run stuffers in FA every year for $4m APY.
Javon Hargrave is currently projected as a late 3rd round pick. He's not as good as Billings, but he really stands out to me as the best DT value in the draft.