TCU DE LJ Collier drafted by the Seahawks in the first round of the NFL Draft

TCU’s long tradition of sending pass rushers to the NFL continued Thursday night, as L.J. Collier was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in the first round (29th overall pick)

Collier wrapped up a successful career with the Horned Frogs in 2018; the fifth year senior and TCU graduate was not a starter until his final season, though he had several big games and memorable moments off the bench for Gary Patterson’s defense. Collier’s interception against then #6 Oklahoma State, his timely sack against Stanford in the Alamo Bowl, and his eight tackle, two sack performance against Kansas State this past season chief among them.

In all, Collier played 42 games for the Horned Frogs, recording 14.5 career sacks, 82 total tackles, and 20.5 tackles for loss. An emotional and spiritual leader for TCU, Collier could be fire-y on the sidelines and after a big play. Despite the Frogs struggling in 2018, he was a first team Big 12 selection alongside Ben Banogu, putting himself on the NFL’s radar with a strong season and exceptional Senior Bowl week. Collier vaulted himself into the first round conversation after being all but off the NFL’s radar coming into his final season.

At 6’2” and 283 pounds, Collier is an imposing figure off the edge that can use his exceptional strength to bull rush offensive linemen and get to the QB. He also has surprising speed (4.91 40) to match his power, and his effort level is off the charts. He should be a great fit in Seattle under Pete Carroll, known as a player’s coach and a guy who has made a living with high-energy guys. He has also shown an affinity for TCU players, picking up Clint Gresham, Joey Hunt, and Trevone Boykin over the years.

LJ will be expected to help return the Seahawks to “Legion of Boom” status, as the team that just PAID Russell Wilson looks to stay atop an ever improving NFC West. He joins a team that went 10-6 a season ago before losing in the Wild Card round to the Dallas Cowboys. He is the first Frog since Josh Doctson to be drafted in the first round and the first of an expected three TCU defenders to hear his name called this weekend.

Congrats LJ, Seattle is lucky to have you!