The Seattle Seahawks have completed their second trade this month, sending cornerback Mike Jackson Sr. to the Carolina Panthers in exchange for rookie seventh-round linebacker Michael Barrett. While it was anticipated that Jackson might be traded due to the depth in the cornerback room, receiving a player in return was somewhat unexpected.
After taking some time to reflect on the situation, here are my thoughts on the Seahawks’ decision and overall approach.
Speculation from Seattle indicates that Darrell Taylor might be on the verge of leaving the team for Chicago Bears. The former 2nd-round pick lacks the versatility that new head coach Mike McDonald desires in his edge defenders, particularly in run defense. Consequently, McDonald might opt for a player who better suits his system, making Taylor, who has accumulated 21.5 sacks in 49 games, a likely candidate to become available.
While Taylor has good size, length, and quickness, his reputation as a weak run defender may prevent him from being an ideal starter for Bears head coach Matt Eberflus. However, he could serve as an effective situational pass rusher. The Chicago Bears like to apply pressure in waves, which requires depth—a resource they currently lack. Demarcus Walker is primarily an interior rusher, Austin Booker is a rookie, Jacob Martin has been sidelined by injury, and Dominique Robinson has struggled to translate strong practice performances into games.
Taylor would be a valuable addition to strengthen the rotation. For this to happen, Seattle must release him, and the eight teams ahead of Chicago on the waiver wire must pass on him. Although the chances are slim given the high demand for pass rushers, it’s a scenario worth keeping an eye on in the coming week.
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