Sleeper Watch

The Seattle Seahawks are enjoying a fantastic season, but in the midst of all this success, the Seahawks’ pass defense has been merely pedestrian, allowing nearly 213 yards per game to rank 20th in the NFL. Likewise, the members of Seattle’s secondary haven’t been anything to write home about in IDP leagues. Cornerbacks Kelly Herndon and Marcus Trufant are worth roster spots in deep leagues, but don’t quite make the cut in the most common league formats. Michael Boulware hasn’t yet lived up to his potential with just 36 tackles and two sacks so far this season. His partner in the safety tandem, Ken Hamlin, only recorded 22 tackles in six games before landing on the injured reserve list after being assaulted outside a nightclub. All this has left IDP owners looking elsewhere for productive defensive backs, but it may be time to turn our attention back to Seattle.

Since Hamlin had limited fantasy value, few took note of the player who replaced him: Marquand Manuel. A sixth-round pick out of Florida by the Bengals in 2002, Manuel’s career high in solo stops prior to this season was a mere 35, dating back to his rookie campaign with Cincinnati. Yet for the past three games, Manuel has been rock solid, picking up nine tackles and three assists against Arizona in week 9, eight stops against St. Louis a week later, and six tackles in San Francisco this Sunday. Hamlin, by comparison, didn’t notch more than five solo tackles in any of his six games.

There is no reason why Manuel shouldn’t be able to keep producing at his current rate. In tackle-heavy scoring formats, he’s well worth a pickup for the stretch drive if you could use an extra linebacker.

Manuel’s keeper value remains uncertain for the time being, however. Hamlin (whom we wish well) is on the road to recovery and might be able to return to the team next season, which might send Manuel back to the bench. If you’re considering holding on to Manuel in a dynasty format, keep a close eye on this situation.

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