Normally, when an NFL team really likes a QB prospect, they send their heavy hitters to watch them throw at their pro day. For example, the Panthers and the Steelers sent their head coaches and their general managers to watch Liberty’s Malik Willis throw today.
The Seahawks sent a lower-profile contingent to watch Willis, though. Quarterbacks coach Dave Canales and scout Todd Brunner were spotted.
#Seahawks QB Coach Dave Canales and Northeast Area Scout Todd Brunner front and center at Liberty QB Malik Willis' Pro Day. The Seattle pairing was right behind Willis' throws. pic.twitter.com/TSfcGfhSzR
— Matty F. Brown (@mattyfbrown) March 22, 2022
Canales was also present for yesterday’s pro day for Pitt’s Kenny Pickett, who’s now ranked the No. 2 QB prospect in this class by Draft Wire.
This could just be the normal subterfuge teams engage in during draft season, but the buzz (meaningless though it may be) is the Seahawks aren’t looking to use their No. 9 overall pick on a quarterback.
For what it’s worth, Willis earned great reviews for his performance today.
Malik Willis with another bomb at his Pro Day and look at him celebrating after.
Teams are going to fall in love with this guy. pic.twitter.com/nmQGFlWz94
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) March 22, 2022
Malik Willis throwing some darts today pic.twitter.com/mvkUy39smn
— JPA Football (@jpafootball) March 22, 2022
Impressive showing by Malik Willis. Completed 64 of 69 in his scripted workout. Three drops, two overthrows. And the ball was coming out of his hands hot.
— Joe Person (@josephperson) March 22, 2022
He’s throwing against air but Malik Willis looks awesome at his pro day.
— Jeff Simmons (@realjeffsimmons) March 22, 2022
72 throw script for Malik Willis today. Thought he threw the ball really well. Everyone knew that he had plenty of velocity behind his throws, but I was most impressed with his touch in all areas of the field.
— Jordan Reid (@Jordan_Reid) March 22, 2022
There’s a good chance Willis won’t be there at No. 9 overall, anyway – especially given how desperate Carolina is for a franchise QB.
A lot can happen between now and draft night, but our best guess at the moment is the Seahawks will roll with either Geno Smith or Drew Lock at quarterback and target either an offensive tackle or a boundary cornerback to replace D.J. Reed in round one.
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