2019 NFL Draft: Grades for every first-round pick

29. Seattle Seahawks: L.J. Collier, DE, TCU

Grade: D

Picking 29th in the 2019 NFL Draft, the Seattle Seahawks try to fill an obvious need defensive end, taking L.J. Collier out of TCU. This pick was acquired in the Frank Clark trade with the Kansas City Chiefs earlier in the week, but the Seahawks are sorely mistaken if they think Collier can replace Clark.

Collier is a tough player who does have a bit of power on the edge, but he lacks any real burst or explosiveness to have a major impact at the next level. He is slow off of the ball, lacks the ability to change directions quickly and does not bend well around the edge. He does show solid hand usage and can create some pressure with the bull rush, but an edge rusher with limited athleticism is always going to have limited upside.

I think the Seahawks kind of outsmarted themselves here. There were good prospects available at obvious positions of need (offensive line, wide receiver and cornerback stand out), but instead, they reach for a mediocre defensive end prospect.

Collier is a capable run defender who could probably kick inside on passing downs, but his lack of movement skills is always going to be a concern. Not the worst pick of the night, but it is in contention.