The 2010 NFL Draft turned out to be one of the most unpredictable drafts in a long time. Experts with ESPN, NFL Network and even my mock draft predicted the first three selections accurately. After that the Washington Redskins unexpectedly picked Trent Williams, Oklahoma offensive tackle. Williams’ departure off the draft board completely changed the way the draft played out.

Some teams actually benefited from this outcome as some top players waited longer than expected before being picked. Let’s take a look into two teams that made the most of the draft.

Without question the Seattle Seahawks had the best draft. As a result of Washington’s selection, the Seahawks walked away with arguably the best offensive lineman in the draft after picking Russell Okung from Oklahoma State.

Whenever a team boosts the offensive line, typically the offense improves considerably. This position has a relatively small learning curve which allows draft picks to have an immediate impact. With only their first of two first round picks, the Seahawks offense took a massive step in the right direction.

Seattle’s other first round pick came soon after as they selected Texas safety Earl Thomas. University of Texas defensive coordinator Will Muschamp does a terrific job of developing secondary and the draft history reflects that.

Oakland Raiders safety Michael Huff, New York Giants cornerback Aaron Ross and Tennessee Titans safety Michael Griffin are all former first round picks from Texas. Thomas has received great coaching from Muschamp and will be expected to make plays for the defense immediately.

In addition to Seattle’s two first-round selections, new coach Pete Carroll wanted to bring in two running backs for his offense. Through trades during the draft, Carroll brought in one of his former Southern California running backs LenDale White from Tennessee Titans and Leon Washington from the New York Jets. In his days at Southern California, Carroll liked to have two running backs that complemented each others’ styles.

One running back would have size, strength and power to run over defenders and get the short yardage needed. The other back would not have size or strength but speed and agility to make huge gains. Carroll has brought that to Seattle and in doing so makes the offense the most potent that it has been since the 2007 season.

The Tennessee Titans also succeeded in this draft, after one player fell down the board further than most people expected. Scouting sites and experts ranked Georgia Tech defensive end Derrick Morgan to be a top 10 or even top 5 player. Regardless of his ranking, Morgan waited and saw 15 players selected ahead of him.

The Titans organization also watched as one of the top players on their draft board fall past the New York Giants, giving them the opportunity to take Morgan.

Tennessee picked Morgan with the 16th overall selection, thus filling the Titans’ need for a pass rusher. The Titans got more than just the pass rusher they wanted with this pick. Not only did the team fill that need, but they got one of the top players of the draft and will only pay the price for a mid first round selection. Quite simply, Tennessee got a steal at 16.

As far as these players’ careers are concerned, fans will have to wait for the coaches and practices to take effect on the players before anything can become clear. Looking strictly at the draft though, Seattle and Tennessee filled needs and put themselves closer to getting a Super Bowl.

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