Seahawks.com has updated the depth chart with a few surprises on there.
Before we start, keep in mind these are only for the mini camps and certainly have no bearing on who will start and where once the season begins or even by the time the pre-season starts.
Offense
The big surprise is Nate Burleson's spot in the starting lineup over incumbent Deion Branch. Burleson did put up better numbers two years ago, the last time either player got significant playtime. But this most likely comes down to current health, Burleson is practicing while Branch isn't.
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Last season's starting lineup along the offensive line is intact with rookie Max Unger listed as the third-string center. He practiced at guard for the mini camps, but if he's still listed as a third stringer after June training camp, then there's cause for concern.
At fullback, Owen Schmitt gets the starting nod over Justin Griffith. That may or may not be due to his experience in the system over a newcomer. Both are billed as big-time blockers, but Schmitt has the edge in size (17 more pounds) and nastiness. Griffith seems to be the backup plan and may not make the team if Schmitt takes the job outright.
Taking a look at the rookies, Deon Butler seems to be cemented in the top four, while QB Mike Teel may be losing the battle for a roster spot with Jeff Rowe. TE Cameron Morrah is listed ahead of Joe Newton, who has great size but may not have the upside of Morrah. RB Devin Moore is unsurprisingly fourth at running back.
Defense
The secondary and linebacking positions all should come as no surprise. HC Jim Mora already said Ken Lucas would get the start at cornerback, and that's the only position possibly up for grabs. Don't discount Josh Wilson competing for that spot though. He has better speed and playmaking ability with the ball in the air, and he's strong for his size.
At defensive end, Lawrence Jackson gets the start despite a shaky rookie season. He came into camp inspired to play better, and it's a good sign for 'Hawks fans if he can live up to his first-round billing. Darryl Tapp has always been a liability against the run and is best coming off the bench as a pass rush specialist.
Cory Redding, who came over for LB Julian Peterson, is listed as the backup defensive tackle. If he doesn't start at either defensive end or tackle, then that trade may be looked back on unfavorably. Still, he is Seattle's most versatile defensive lineman and should be a valuable member of the rotation. It will be interesting to see if he gets a real shot at starting.
The most disappointing placement is Red Bryant at third string. If Redding does indeed spend much of his time at tackle, then that leaves little room in the rotation for the accomplished run stuffer, who may rival only Colin Cole in that regard.
Rookie DE Nick Reed is third on depth chart but could sneak into the rotation as a pass rush specialist if he impresses enough in training camp. Otherwise, he likely won't top Baraka Atkins, who has size and run-stopping ability.
Reach Jeff Richards at nextseasonsports@gmail.com
