Expectations and Predictions For the Seahawks' O-Line

(Photo by Otto Greule Jr./Getty Images)

Right Guard

Rob Sims began the 2008 season as the starting right guard but was placed on I.R. after week one with a torn pectoral muscle.

Another lineman who will be a free agent in 2010, GM Tim Ruskell has spoken favorably of Sims on many occasions.

Although not living up to expectations thus far, Sims will likely get a chance to start at RG in 2009.

There are other options.

The Seahawks re-signed Ray Willis to a two year deal this offseason and he's previously spent time at guard and tackle.

If Walter Jones and Sean Locklear are used as starting tackles, Seattle may be tempted to use Willis at guard to get him involved.

Mansfield Wrotto is entering his third season with the team and flashed potential in four starts last year.

Expected starter: Rob Sims

Primary back-up: Ray Willis

Alternative: Mansfield Wrotto

Right Tackle

Sean Locklear is expected to remain the starting right tackle.

Should Walter Jones become unavailable, Locklearalmost certainly moves over to the left hand side with Ray Willis taking over the RT duties.

The heavy investment in Locklear last year seemingly makes him a lock to start.

However, Willis' impressed sufficiently in Locklear's absence last year leading some to question whether there should be a position battle in training camp.

Indeed Locklear has missed 11 games through injury during the last three seasons, so it wouldn't be a surprise to see Willis feature at some stage.

In the unappealing scenario that both Locklear and Willis suffer injuries, it wouldn't be a total shock to see Max Unger used at right tackle.

He spent some time at tackle with Oregon and has the skill set needed to start at the position in an emergency.

Expected starter: Sean Locklear

Primary back-up: Ray Willis

Alternative: Max Unger

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