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WR Ben Obomanu, Seattle Seahawks

HT: 6-1, WT: 198, Born: 10-30-1983, College: Auburn, Drafted: Round 7

2008 Projections

Best Case

If Nate Burleson struggles greatly or Ben Obomanu develops rapport with Hasselbeck, Obomanu could actually start for the Seahawks this year. Bobby Engram is best working out of the slot, so Obomanu could find himself lined up wide in three-receiver sets. When given the chance to play in 2007, Obomanu displayed good downfield speed and big play ability. After Deion Branch was injured in the playoffs, Obomanu caught four balls on five targets for 63 yards against a good Green Bay secondary. Granted, the game was more or less out of reach and he was not faced with bump and run coverage. But, Obomanu displayed a high YPC in a prime time game.

Worst Case

In the worst case, Obomanu fails to develop as expected and is relegated to spot duty. That could happen if any of these situations play out: Branch returns healthy, Burleson plays well, Engram remains the team's top target, the running game improves dramatically, rookie John Carlson develops into the receiving threat the team expects, or the other young receivers on the team outplay him.

Outlook

Don't expect starting fantasy numbers from Obomanu, but keep an eye on him as the preseason progresses. Training camp reports will be key. He is likely to be available very late in most drafts, yet he could have tremendous upside. Even if Branch returns to the field in September, Obomanu holds decent value while Branch gets back in form. If Branch does not return, Obomanu's upside is tremendous. As a dynasty prospect, Obomanu deserves close inspection.

Relevant Articles

2008 Schedule

2007 Game Summaries

Week 5 - Obomanu was the main beneficiary of Branch's injury. Pittsburgh's excellent coverage of Burleson and Engram made Obomanu a slightly more open target, and Hasselbeck tried to take advantage. He got two end zone looks in the first half as well as a 30 yard catch (Seattle's longest of the day), but was too inconsistent to make an impact -- not that he did anything wrong, but when he had the opportunity to make things happen, he was unable to come through with the tough catch. He also returned kickoffs.

Week 6 - Obomanu had a breakout game, earning a first half touchdown and finishing second on the team in receiving yards. Hasselbeck frequently targeted him on deep routes, but many of them were off target although Obomanu had a few drops as well.

Week 7 - Obomanu did not have a catch in the game, but was targeted twice in the end zone.

Week 10 - Obomanu's only catch of the game came on a third down play in the second quarter that extended the drive.

Week 14 - Obomanu caught the only ball thrown his way, an 18 yard catch. The catch resulted in a first down.

Week 15 - Obomanu was thrown to once and caught the pass for a gain of 18 yards. The completion came late in the fourth quarter.

Week 16 - Obamanu's only target came at the beginning of the second half.

Week 17 - Obomanu played sparingly, and in the second half only.