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Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson is feeling a bit miffed, but he should not go the same route as Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson.
Wilson is reportedly frustrated with the Seahawks' inability to protect him. The seven-time Pro Bowler has been sacked at least 41 times in each of the past seven seasons, including 47 times in 2020.
But there are a couple of reasons Wilson should avoid seeking a trade. For starters, the Seahawks (obviously) have a stronger foundation than the Texans, and a more positive culture.
Secondly, and maybe more notably, the optics would be terrible for Russell Wilson. Let's dive in a little deeper and assess his future in Seattle.
Budding offensive potential
It goes without saying Wilson established quite the dynamic with second-year wide receiver D.K. Metcalf in 2020.
Metcalf had 83 receptions for 1,303 yards and 10 touchdowns this past season. He is one of the most dangerous playmakers in football given his combination of size and speed, and only figures to improve if he continues to make dents in his drop percentage.
Meanwhile, Tyler Lockett set a new career-high with 100 receptions. The 28-year-old is diminutive but is also a precise route-runner and a legitimate threat in the red zone.
Why would Russell Wilson leave an offense boasting two of the better receivers in football? Well, the offensive line looms large in this case. But there is hope in that regard.
The Seahawks' offensive line ranked 14th in football this past season, per Pro Football Focus. More importantly, they ranked 16th in pass-blocking grade, which is actually the best mark during Wilson's tenure as the quarterback.
Duane Brown has been excellent at the left tackle spot, and is the most vital building block. Yes, the Seahawks could use more depth in the trenches. Almost every team needs that. But the improvement is encouraging nonetheless. If Seattle can add some more O-lineman and find more creative ways to exploit quick-hitters and outside runs, it could benefit Wilson.
At the end of the day, the talent is too appealing to leave behind.
The optics
The other reason Wilson should not request a trade is his huge contract. His cap number is $108 million in the next three seasons, per Over The Cap.
Watson is requesting a trade shortly after signing a big extension. But again, context is important. Houston promptly traded his top wideout in DeAndre Hopkins. The Texans failed to add depth up front or address the secondary. Despite firing Bill O'Brien, the toxicity remained apparent all season.
Seattle has not taken any steps to alienate Russell Wilson, other than maybe firing former offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer. Perhaps Schneider can do a better job of finding O-line upgrades, but again, he has not been an antagonist.
Wilson is right in that he should have a voice and open line of communication going forward. The Seahawks should involve him in personnel decisions.
But demanding a trade would only harm his reputation, and there is no guarantee Wilson would end up in a better situation.
