2022 Pacific Northwest Sports Top 10: Number 8 – Russell Wilson
Beginning of the end
Well, the Seattle Seahawks didn’t move Wilson that off-season and went into the 2021 season with high hopes. As they have most years since Wilson joined the team. But early on, Russ dislocated his middle finger on his throwing hand and had to have pins inserted. He rushed to get back, defying odds and only missing four games instead of the typical six to ten weeks.
The first two games back, though, it was clear that Russ was not himself. He was pressing and unable to make throws. So, the Seahawks finished the season with a thud and did not make the playoffs.
Now comes the off-season of 2022, and Carroll said all the right things about how the Seattle Seahawks do not want to move Russ. However, it’s hard to imagine if the coach believed what he was saying.
On the other hand, Russ was in a “him or me” mode. Once it was obvious to Russ that owner Jody Allen wasn’t going to ax the entire coaching staff and Schneider, it was time for Wilson to move on.
Here is where I take issue with RW3 and how things played out with the Seattle Seahawks. Wilson had a no-trade clause and definitely controlled where he could go. And many 12’s acted like this was Pete and John’s fault. Russ COULD have stayed in Seattle and honored his contract. Maybe even re-up and play his entire career here, BUT he didn’t.
Russ decided he had enough, which was his call. Usually, when a star wants to leave and has a decent standing with management, they work together to get the best deal for both player AND team.
SEATTLE, I Love You.
Forever Grateful.
#3.
— Russell Wilson (@DangeRussWilson) March 9, 2022
Next: Page 3 – The Trade