NFL Nation reporter Terry Blount assesses which rookies on the Seahawks could contribute early this season.

Tyler Lockett should give the Seahawks the game-breaker at returner that they were missing last season. Peter G. Aiken/Getty Images

Why Tyler Lockett could contribute: Lockett gives the Seahawks a legitimate punt and kickoff returner, something they didn’t have last season. Lockett can make a dramatic difference in the production of the offense because another 5 yards to start each possession will likely lead to additional scoring chances, especially with tight end Jimmy Graham on the field. Lockett can provide that edge, as he did at Kansas State. He has excellent speed, and he isn't apt to make mistakes typically seen from rookies in this role. Lockett was widely viewed as the best returner in the draft, but he also is a skilled slot receiver. He comes from a family of receivers. His father, Kevin, and his uncle Aaron played in the NFL. Tyler is small at 5-foot-10, but he is fundamentally sound and has great hands. He also is a far better route runner than most rookies. He is a high-character man and a hard worker, similar to Seahawks QB Russell Wilson in that regard. It wouldn't be a big surprise to see Lockett as the third receiver in three-wide formations early in the season. He will dramatically improve the special teams this year with his ability to make big plays on returns. It will be a surprise if he doesn’t return a couple for touchdowns this season.

Why Frank Clark could contribute: If the talented defensive end doesn’t contribute early, this will look like a terrible decision by the Seahawks, who made him their first draft pick (second round, No. 63 overall -- Seattle had no first-round pick). Clark was kicked off the team at Michigan in November after his arrest on domestic violence and assault charges that allegedly involved his then-girlfriend. He later pleaded guilty to disorderly conduct, but the Seahawks weathered a great deal of criticism for drafting Clark. Clark is a talented edge rusher who also can play inside and fill an obvious need for the team. The Seahawks believe he can line up at several spots and be an inside rusher in nickel packages. He should add quality depth behind Michael Bennett and Cliff Avril, helping keep both fresh late in games. Clark will compete with 2014 rookie Cassius Marsh as an edge rusher, but if both play up to their potential, it can give the Seahawks the quality DE depth they had in 2013 ,when Red Bryant and Chris Clemons were here.

Why Mark Glowinski could contribute: Knowing they needed help on the offensive line, the Seahawks drafted three players to come in to compete for playing time -- Glowinski of West Virginia, Terry Poole of San Diego State and Kristjan Sokoli, who played nose tackle at Buffalo but is switching to center. Glowinski is the closest to being ready to step in and take snaps up front. He also has a bit of a mean streak, which offensive line coach Tom Cable loves. Alvin Bailey, who has lost 30 pounds since last season, is the heir apparent to James Carpenter at left guard. Glowinski has worked mostly at right guard, as J.R. Sweezy’s backup, while Poole has worked at left guard. But if Bailey falters in the preseason or there's an injury to either starting guard, Glowinski likely would be the first choice to step in and contribute because he is the most fundamentally sound linemen of the rookies.