The Seattle Seahawks are probably looking for a good defender out there to shore up their front seven further. It's not clear if they'll take it with their first round pick in the 2012 NFL Draft because it wouldn't make much sense to draft a player they could probably get in later rounds. Linebackers and defensive ends usually don't get drafted in the first round unless they're considered sure things, and it's not likely any of these guys could be considered ready to contribute at the next level.
Tony Pauline of Sports Illustrated reports on some players that could be of use to the team.
Courtney Upshaw, DE-OLB, Alabama -- Upshaw has a lot riding on his 40 time. A performance in the low 4.7s will ease the minds of 3-4 teams around the league who project Upshaw to outside linebacker.
Vinny Curry, DE-OLB, Marshall -- The situation is much the same for Curry, one of the best pass rushers in college football the past two seasons. He possesses the quickness and movement skills to line up at outside linebacker, but many wonder if he has the speed necessary to run with tight ends in coverage. Forty times in the low 4.7s could push Curry into the late part of the first round.
Shea McClellin, LB, Boise State -- McClellin has made a steady climb up draft boards. He was a devastating pass rusher at defensive end for Boise State, then made the seamless transition to linebacker at the Senior Bowl. He's another hybrid prospect who will jump up draft boards with good postings in the 40. A time no worse than 4.72 seconds could move him into the late part of the second round.
To talk about the NFL Draft Combine with Seahawks fans, check out Field Gulls.