2011 NFL Draft: How Do the Seahawks Follow Up Day 1 Selection of James Carpenter

Several things became quite clear with the Seahawks pick of James Carpenter in the first round:

• They really did put a priority on offensive line given the other talent that was on the board.
• They may not see as big a need at CB with Trufant, Thurmond and Browner on the roster
• Draft Day trades can be difficult; they were obvious working angles, but it also looks as though they didn't want to risk losing Carpenter (the Steelers had shown an interest in him).
• Never underestimate Pete Carroll, and don't expect him to take the easy way out.  Ever.

Seattle had two easy to explain options on the board in Jimmy Smith and Gabe Carimi.  They also had two huge risk/reward options with Da'Quan Bowers and Mark Ingram, both of whom have concerns with knee health.

Carroll skipped them both, instead opting for the blocker that busted open holes for Ingram and make Greg McElroy look like a much better QB.  Many Seahawk fans were shocked; I was only slightly surprised.

I liked what I had seen of Carpenter, albeit limited.  He doesn't have extensive highlight reels on Youtube, and the last time I showed up to ESPN asking for game footage I didn't get the reception I'd hoped for.  

I also liked him well enough to tell Cardinals fans that their team would be much better, particularly if they draft Carpenter with the fifth pick on day two (an editor removed that comment last night after the Seahawks' selection).

So what should Seahawk fans expect on day two?  More of the same...anything.  Seattle could still target Rodney Hudson (G, Florida State) if he is on the board, but Carpenter's ability to play guard diminish the likelihood of another OL taken in round two.

If Ras-I Dowling manages to fall to Seattle, that would be a logical choice.  The same can be said of Marvn Austin, DT North Carolina.

But at this point, the best thing to expect from the Seahawks is anything.  After all, they beat the defending world champions in the playoffs after a 7-9 season.  "Suspect Anything" should be the new motto of the Seahawks.