"As the Seahawks' preseason kicks off in San Diego, I find myself cautiously optimistic about this season's prospects. Lots of changes have taken place this off-season as the Hawks continue to evolve with a lot of money being doled out to free agents.

One in particular, like it or not, is going to be getting the chance to prove himself tonight with all of Seattle and the better part of the Pacific Northwest watching.

Tavaris Jackson is the Seahawks' starting quarterback, for now. Pete Carroll said so in a scene akin to something out of an old western where the mayor pins a star to some poor sap's chest in front of the whole town and declares him sheriff. Meanwhile Charlie Whitehurst continues to play the down-on-his-luck gunslinger/town misfit that no one is quite sure what the real story is, but that everyone makes sure to steer clear of.

In fairness I'm not expecting magic from Tavaris his first time out given how quickly the Hawks have been assembled and with only a little over a week of camp under their belt. Nevertheless, I'm interested in seeing what he can do when given the keys to the offense tonight and over the coming weeks.

With the line improving and a decent one-two punch of Marshawn Lynch and Justin Forsett in the backfield, the Hawks should be able to grind out some yards on the ground.

Yet what will really help Jackson are his receivers and the fact he can't miss them as starters Sidney Rice, Mike Williams and Zach Miller are all at least 6'4" and with the exception of Williams have made it to the Pro Bowl. All three are skilled pass catchers and should be clutch in helping Jackson adjust by having a significant advantage over the average cover they will face. When in doubt if Jackson airs it out, his man should win with their size and strength.

Beyond the starters, how do the rest of the Hawks pass catchers who have a shot at legitimate playing time stack up?

The Old Guard

John Carlson and Ben Obomanu both possess decent size and good hands, but lack the physicality it seems that the team is looking for these days. Both should make the squad, but their playing time will depend on how well they gel with Jackson and within the new system under offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell.

If the Hawks legitimately go with a two tight end set, Carlson's value may increase significantly, but that remains to be seen. Obomanu's value can also see a bump upward if either Rice or Williams, who both proved a bit fragile last year, are unable to consistently make it on the field. "