2019 NFL Mock Draft: Jets have edge, Browns get defensive in two-round projection

21. Seattle Seahawks: Deionte Thompson, S, Alabama

The Earl Thomas saga has been highly publicized and it all came to a head as he left the field in a Week 4 game when he was carted off with a broken leg. Thomas had a long battle with the team in regards to his contract and even had some flirting with the Dallas Cowboys — a team that attempted to trade for him according to reports.

That never came through, so Thomas had to keep playing in Seattle up until the injury sent him to the IR. As he was being carted off, he flipped off his sideline as he appeared to let the team know he was unappreciative that his season ended without the security he wanted.

Now with the six-time Pro Bowl selection hitting the open market, there’s little chance he will return. That means the ‘Hawks will be looking to replace him, and Kam Chancellor in back-to-back seasons. Their attempt this offseason leads them to selecting Alabama safety Deionte Thompson, who had a great season in 2018 for the Crimson Tide, which also happened to be his first year as a full-time starter.

Thompson showed the ability to play in coverage but also had no reluctance to deliver hits when tackling. He surely won’t replace Thomas outright, but it’s a step in the right direction.