If Seattle doesn't take Texas Tech WR Michael Crabtree at four, 'Hawks fans may have to wait quite awhile until Seattle selects a receiver.
But things aren't quite as glum as they may seem. There are plenty of options to add immediate depth through the draft, even late on the second day.
Enter "old man" Quan Cosby, who lives up to his advanced age and experience level, entering the draft as one of its most intelligent, cerebral players.
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Strengths
Cosby is just an extremely savvy player. He seems to always know what the defense is doing and can slither his way through a zone with ease. Against man coverage, he has the good quickness and sharp route-running to create separation.
Down the field, he has terrific body control and leaping ability, allowing him to go up and make the big catch despite his short stature. He routinely makes highlight reel catches.
A solid contributor all four seasons at Texas despite plenty of competition at receiver, Cosby was also effective as a kick and punt returner.
Weaknesses
Cosby would be a first-day or high second-day pick if it weren't for two things: height and age.
Starting out as a baseball prospect in the Angels organization, he was 23 years old when he began his collegiate career in 2005. As a rookie in the NFL, he will be 27.
Furthermore, his 5-foot-9 height is a couple inches shorter than his previously listed height. If it weren't for his fantastic intelligence, maturity and playmaking skills, Cosby would go undrafted.
How does he fit in Seattle?
Seattle needs depth at receiver. However, with players such as Deion Branch, Nate Burleson and Ben Obomanu returning from injury, it will be hard for any rookie to crack into the top four on the depth chart.
Cosby should be an immediate contributor, unlike most rookie receivers, and could provide a great boost off the bench should any of Seattle's receivers struggle to stay healthy again this year.
With his smarts and quickness, he is a natural fit for a West Coast offense. While he'll likely never be a star in the NFL, he should give Seattle a productive, healthy receiver.
Draft position
Despite not timing well with a 4.57 in the 40-yard dash at the combine, Cosby's stock has survived through interviews and game film.
While nobody will want to draft a 26-year-old in the middle rounds of the draft, once round five rolls around, he'll be on many teams' radar, including Seattle's.
The Seahawks met with him personally at both the Senior Bowl and the combine. With six picks in the final three rounds, they could land this prototype Ruskell pick.
Cosby ended his college career with a game-winning touchdown in the Fiesta Bowl:
Reach Jeff Richards at nextseasonsports@gmail.com
