Projecting The Seattle Seahawks’ 2015 Draft Class As Rookies

Dec 28, 2013; Tempe, AZ, USA; Michigan Wolverines defensive end

against the Kansas State Wildcats during the Buffalo Wild Wings Bowl at Sun Devil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Seattle Seahawks Rookie Projections: Frank Clark

Frank Clark is making more headlines for actions off the field than on it right now. But that’s a debate for another time. Right now, we are talking about how he can contribute to the Seattle Seahawks’ defense come September.

He won’t have a spot in the starting lineup, barring any injuries, but Clark will most likely become a prominent member of the DE rotation from day one. He is a similar style player to Michael Bennett, and will rotate in at the LDE spot, as well as playing inside in passing situations. Clark may be a defensive end, but make no mistake, he is a power rusher.

His main competition for playing time will come from Greg Scruggs and Demarcus Dobbs. Neither of those players have the natural ability that Clark has. If Clark wins the backup spot behind Bennett, the Seahawks would be wise to give Clark a lot of playing time.

In 2014, Bennett had 7.0 sacks in 828 snaps played. In 2013, he only played 600 snaps, but had 8.5 sacks. The depth Seattle had on the D-line with Chris Clemons and Red Bryant kept Bennett fresh and he was much more effective. And the same goes for Cliff Avril. From 2013 to 2014, his total snaps played went up from 556 to 765, but his sack total went down from 8.0 to 5.0. Clark will provide the depth that the Seahawks sorely lacked in 2014 and keep Bennett and Avril from wearing out.

Projection: 400 snaps, 24 tackles, 4.0 sacks, five tackles for loss, three passes deflected, two fumbles forced, and one fumble recovered.

Next: Tyler Lockett 2015 Projections