SEATTLE SEAHAWKS

Brock Huard’s observations from Seahawks’ OTA: Russell Wilson in command

May 25, 2016, 12:59 PM | Updated: 12:59 pm

Seahawks QB Russell Wilson looks "fine" and "normal" following the bye week, according to Pete Carr...

Seahawks QB Russell Wilson looks "fine" and "normal" following the bye week, according to Pete Carroll. (AP)

(AP)

LISTEN: How are the Seahawks looking in OTAs?

The Seahawks held their second of nine Organized Team Activities on Tuesday, and while the practice was closed to the media at-large, Brock Huard was able to attend. Here are some of the observations he shared during “Brock and Salk” on Wednesday:

Wilson’s command. Huard recalled when, as a backup for the Colts, he watched in awe as Peyton Manning flawlessly worked through an offseason practice. He said Wilson was similarly in command on Tuesday as he didn’t miss a single throw during the 90-minute session. “In warmups, not a throw on the ground. Routes vs. air, not a throw on the ground. Seven-on-seven, not a throw on the ground. One-on-ones – he just did not miss one throw. Not even one.” Huard said Wilson’s command of the offense as he enters his fifth season is akin to a baseball player knowing what pitch is coming. He also mentioned the improved rapport Wilson has with second-year receiver Tyler Lockett. “They run this combination, and the whole thing is happening right in front of me. A year ago, Tyler Lockett doesn’t break the route off. He just runs it and then Russell and him have a conversation afterwards. Before Tyler could even run his route, he senses the space, he sees the coverage, so does Russell, the ball is out, it’s on his chest before you can even blink.”

Browner’s energy. Huard described the energy of the team as “off the charts” and said it was particularly evident in cornerback Brandon Browner. Huard said Browner seems invigorated now that he’s back in Seattle after spending two seasons in less favorable working environments. “The game of football can possess certain people, and it does for Brandon Browner.” With Browner expected to play more safety and nickelback, Huard said he’s most interested to see how Browner adjusts to the different angles of pursuit and tackling. “My bet is if he stays completely healthy – which is always a challenge at his age, I think (with) that frame – if he stays healthy, he makes this team.”

Related: Huard says OTAs are crucial for Brandon Browner

Rookie DTs are ‘grown men.’ Huard was impressed with the physical maturity of rookie defensive tackles Jarran Reed (6-3, 311) and Quinton Jefferson (6-4, 291). He contrasted that pair with defensive linemen Seattle has drafted in years past like Jordan Hill, Cassius Marsh, Jesse Williams and Frank Clark, who all had some proverbial baby fat when they entered the league.

Lawler’s skills. Huard pointed to Kenny Lawler’s catching radius, spatial awareness and route-running ability as examples of how the spread system in college can be a benefit to wide receivers entering the NFL. The Seahawks believed Lawler, a seventh-round pick, had the best hands of any receiver in the draft. “Kenny Lawler’s caught a gazillion balls in his life. No matter where it is, he’s going to catch it. … He’s going to push Paul Richardson, he’s going to push Kevin Smith, he’s going to push Kasen (Williams). It’s going to be a great competition at the bottom of that receiver roster.”

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