Seattle Seahawks rookie grades for 2019: D.K. Metcalf earns top marks

Review of 2019 and Preview of 2020

Overall, two of Seattle’s 2019 draft picks made significant contributions on offense and defense. Metcalf became one of the offense’s top weapons and paired well with Lockett and Russell Wilson. On defense, Barton flashed during the offseason and took large steps toward joining the lineup as a regular starter late in the season.

For now, Seattle’s 2019 draft class deserves a B-. However, that grade is flexible and could change into a B+ or even an A- in the coming years. Amadi, Barton, Blair, and Collier should all see their roles increase in 2020. At least two of those four will probably start the majority of Seattle’s games.

However, based on their performances as rookies, a B- is the right grade for this class. While several players turned into consistent contributors on special teams, they also saw significantly less playing time than initially expected. Amadi, Blair, and Burr-Kirven didn’t see the field for large parts of the season, and they only appeared in short spurts.

While Metcalf delivered on his outstanding combine, Jennings and Ursua disappointed royally. Jennings not even making the team came as a surprise, and then Ursua never saw consistent playing time despite several receivers suffering injuries.

The Seahawks could lose a lot of starters and contributors in free agency this year, meaning second-year players and rookies will get their shots at more significant roles. The next two years will ultimately determine the value of Seattle’s 2019 haul.