The Seattle Seahawks have cleared up their right guard situation after dealing John Moffitt to the Cleveland Browns in exchange for versatile defensive lineman Brian Sanford.
Moffitt had been competing with second-year player J.R. Sweezy for the starting role, but Sweezy has seen more reps with the first team in practice and started both preseason games.
According to reports, the Seahawks have also been pleased with the development of late-round pick Michael Bowie and undrafted free agent Alvin Bailey. They can use those two for depth behind Sweezy, and beef up the defensive line which is dealing with some injuries.
Shoring up the offensive line was a critical aspect of Seattle's preseason heading into 2013. The NFC West is home to several ferocious defenses loaded with playmakers. At the same time, Marshawn Lynch and the running game will likely be the focal point of the offense once again despite the light speed development of quarterback Russell Wilson.
Percy Harvin, for whom Seattle traded a first-round pick and a third-round pick, needed hip surgery this preseason and is expected to be out until at least Week 12, leaving the passing game in the same straits as last year.
The top targets for Wilson are Sidney Rice, who has proven to be an effective NFL wide receiver but struggles to remain healthy, and Golden Tate, who is talented but has not proven he can be a No. 1 threat.
As for Cleveland, their offensive line needed a boost, and Moffitt will help pave running lanes for standout running back Trent Richardson. "John's a tough and versatile lineman who will be in the mix for us upfront," Browns head coach Ron Chudzinski said.
The Browns have made four trades since April 1st, making them the NFL's busiest team prior to the start of the season. Browns CEO Joe Banner addressed the high level of activity saying, "We continue to look each day of the year for any opportunity to improve our roster. We're committed to a building a team that can consistently compete in this league."
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