The Path to Playing Time for Offensive Pokes in NFL

Oklahoma State had two former players selected in last week’s NFL Draft and several more sign as undrafted free agents. Let’s take a quick look at each offensive player and what type of competition he’ll be facing when he arrives at training camp.

Chris Carson – Seattle Seahawks

Carson rode into Stillwater on somewhat unrealistic expectations. By the time he started adjusting to the D-I game, he got dinged up and was relegated to part of a running back by committee while OSU’s line tried to catch up. As a senior, he hit the ground running but experienced another injury — this time a broken thumb — that kept him out for four games. Once he got his chance, he made the most of it and finished his career running strong.

Who’s ahead of him?

Here’s where it gets a bit dicey. Carson has an uphill battle to playing time that would have to be paved over a slew of other tailbacks already ahead of him on the roster. Behind Thomas Rawls and Eddie Lacy, you have a half dozen or so NFL journeymen who want a spot just as bad as Carson. To stick in Seattle, he’ll have to show out in all facets of the game — and do it early.

Projection

Head coach Pete Carroll seems to like Carson’s running style and almost seems to view him as a pet project. If Carson can make a splash early, his best case scenario is a path similar to Thomas Rawls, who Carroll likened him to on Draft day. If not, that sentimental feeling will run out pretty quick.

Blake Jarwin – Dallas Cowboys

Jarwin went from a walk-on from Tuttle to an All-Big 12 selection and poster child for Mike Gundy’s hybrid “cowboy back” position. He has the size and the hands to have a shot as a next level tight end.

Who’s ahead of him?

Dallas has been looking for a replacement-in-waiting for future Hall-of Famer Jason Witten for some time. They have not had much luck, as of yet. Geoff Swaim tried to fill that role last year but has struggled to stay healthy and just underwent offseason foot surgery. Behind him is Rico Gathers — a college basketball player. It seems like the opportunity may be open for the former Tuttle Tiger.

Projection

If Jarwin can improve his blocking technique and strength, he will have a shot to a sticking in Dallas. At some point, is Jerry going to have incorporate some orange into his team’s alternate unis?

Jhajuan Seales – Chicago Bears

Seales was a consistent playmaker throughout his time in Stillwater. His limited touches had more to do with who else was on the roster than anything Seales did or didn’t do. He has the size, skill and physical tools to play for several teams. The question will be that of fit and opportunity.

Who’s ahead of him?

The Bears have plenty of playmakers at receiver starting with Eddie Royal, Markus Wheaton and former All-Big 12 receiver Kevin White.  It comes down to Seales making plays when the time is right. He should be able to make up some ground on special teams, especially with his physicality and blocking ability.

Projection

I don’t know if it will be in Chicago but I have a feeling Seales makes it onto an NFL roster. His freak athleticism got his foot in the door, he’ll need to show he has the whole package (which he does) to find his way.

Ben Grogan – New Orleans Saints

Oklahoma State’s all-time leading scorer and one-upper of kicking icon Dan Bailey was reportedly offered an invite to training camp with the New Orleans Saints.

Who’s ahead of him?

Wil Lutz, a rookie last season, was ranked 21st among place kickers at 82.4 percent on field goal attempts. If Grogan can put on a good foot forward during training camp, he’s got a shot to earn a spot. Lutz is currently the only place kicker listed on the Saints’ roster.

Projection

I think Grogan will get shot in the bayou. He showed plenty of growth during his career at OSU, turning into a cold-blooded game-winner. Will he follow his predecessor, Dan Bailey, into the record books? That remains to be seen.