The Seahawks may have shocked a few pundits when they selected Illinois CB Devon Witherspoon at No. 5 overall in the 2023 NFL draft.
Here’s a look at his pre-draft scouting report from NFL.com.
“Witherspoon is a fun watch but requires evaluators to carefully consider his strengths and weaknesses relative to scheme,” analyst Lance Zierlein writes. “He plays with anticipation, route feel and a consistent sense of urgency to prevent catches, as displayed by his high number of pass breakups. He plays with ballhawking eyes and good balance from zone coverage and is very aggressive tackling both after the catch and in run support.”
Many had projected the Seahawks to go defense at the No. 5 spot, but the Witherspoon selection marks the first time Seattle has selected a cornerback in the first round since 2006.
“There are snaps where he gets behind and stays behind due to a lack of premium speed and closing burst, so he might require help over the top or a more zone-oriented scheme to help him shine,” Zierlein continues. “The playmaking mentality and traits give him a solid chance to become a CB2 in the league.”
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