April 29, 2008

The Seattle Seahawks picked former Falcon football player, Owen Schmitt, in the fifth round of the NFL draft on Sunday.

Schmitt played with the Falcons in the 2003 season when he rushed for 1,063 yards and was named to the first All-WIAC team.

He then transferred to West Virginia where he was a three-year starter in the backfield. The Mountaineers had a 33-5 record in the three years Schmitt played and were ranked No. 5 in the 2005 season-ending AP poll, No. 6 in 2007 and No. 10 in 2006.   The 6-3, 260 pound fullback rushed for 1,003 yards and scored 13 touchdowns. He also caught 32 passes for 288 yards and he scored twice.

According to the Seahawks web site, "Owen Schmitt interviewed well, films showed him a full-blast player whether it was blocking at fullback, running on short yardage and making big hits on special teams."

Media reports predict that Schmitt will have his best opportunities to make the Seahawk squad as a special teams player. He played on punt and kick off return and coverage teams at WVU and that's where he will have his best chance to garner a spot on a NFL roster.