During the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft, the Seattle Seahawks made the surprise selection of former San Diego State running back Rashaad Penny with the 27th overall pick. It was an immediate move to find an upgrade at the position that the team has been lacking since the departure of Marshawn Lynch.
With that in mind, head coach Pete Carroll stated that he believes Penny could quickly step in to become their primary running back that can be an asset as both a runner and receiver out of the backfield.
Rashaad Penny (This one was big for me) pic.twitter.com/UUd2hS3NTR
— Scott Barrett (@ScottBarrettDFB) April 30, 2018
Penny is coming off an impressive 2017 season where he finished in the Heisman Trophy after leading the nation with 2,248 rushing yards along with 23 touchdowns that also helped him secure a First-Team All-American and All-Mountain West honors. Although much of his production came in the running game, he was also a factor as a receiver with 19 receptions for 135 receiving yards and a pair of touchdown receptions.
The 22-year-old could have a chance to expand on his ability as a receiving option at the next level if he's able to secure a significant role in the offense.There is a pressing need to address the running game for the Seahawks, who ranked 23rd-best rushing attack in the league this season totaling just 1,629 rushing yards. In fact, Pro Bowl quarterback Russell Wilson leading the team with 586 yards while recording three of their four rushing touchdowns. The only other rushing touchdown came from J.D. McKissic in Week 4 against the Indianapolis Colts.
This presents a unique opportunity for Penny to compete with Mike Davis and C.J. Prosise for the starting job next season. He could quickly prove to be the most dynamic option in the group that could help bring back much-needed balance to the offense to get them back on track to being a constant in the playoff picture.
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