For those of you who perservered through that opening line, let's look at the decision and how it impacts the team.
Herndon started all 16 regular season games last year opposite of Marcus Trufant, while rookie Kelly Jennings played nickel back. From watching games I grew a great dislike of Mr. Herndon mostly due to the fact the he sucks. It appeared that he continually got beat by second or third receivers on crucial plays right in front of him such as crossing or out patterns. While Trufant sometimes got beat deep by top flight receivers, Herndon got abused by second or third options.
Although according to FieldGulls and Football Outsiders, the Seahawks were #2 against runs to the right side of the defense last year. FieldGulls credits Herndon's sure tackling as a big part of this. Jennings apparently needs to work on this aspect of his game in becoming stronger and improving technique.
This also pushes rookie Josh Wilson to the nickel right away. He could be fine there even at 5'9" since most nickel receivers are smaller, quicker types. Jennings and Wilson should get more help from the safeties this year as well with the additions of Deon Grant and Brian Russell. Early reports from the local newspapers and talk radio indicate that Russell communicates very well and everyone has benefited from it.
If the combination of Patrick Kerney, Bryce Fisher, Julian Peterson, Darryl Tapp, and Baraka Atkins can provide an outside pash rush, then the corners will be even more effective obviously. Fortunately the Hawks open with Tampa Bay, whose passing game shouldn't put too much pressure on Wilson and Jennings. Unfortunately the next few weeks include Arizona, Cincinnati, New Orleans, and St. Louis.
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