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2016 NFL Free Agency Profile: Russell Wilson

By Erik Lambert

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Feb 1, 2015; Glendale, AZ, USA; Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson (3) against the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XLIX at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

This figures to become one of the more interesting situations that will develop heading towards 2016 NFL free agency.  What will the Seattle Seahawks do about Russell Wilson?

  • Age:  26
  • 3,475 yards passing
  • 849 yards rushing
  • 26 total touchdowns
  • 7 interceptions
  • 11 fumbles (0 lost)
  • Two Pro Bowl appearances
  • Two Super Bowl appearances
  • Super Bowl champion (2013)

It’s hard to argue with the success.  Nobody can dispute Russell Wilson is a winner and a leader on that Seahawks team.  He is often the one responsible for several of their heroic comebacks over the past three years, most recently in the NFC championship game back in January, throwing the winning touchdown pass in overtime.

However, when thinking about the value of a player heading into free agency, it’s important to factor in outside circumstances:  coaching, health and talent around him.  There is no question Wilson has been favored by all three.  He has an outstanding coach in Pete Carroll, hasn’t missed a game in his career and plays on a roster loaded with Pro Bowl talent.

At the heart of the matter is the critical argument:  how much of the Seahawks’ success is due to him and how much is Marshawn Lynch and that defense?  Don’t forget, Wilson was the guy who threw that disastrous interception to lose the Super Bowl.  He took a backseat to the defense the year prior in their trampling of Denver.  Nobody is saying Wilson doesn’t deserve to get paid well for his effort.  The sticking point is how much.

That is where he and the team remain deadlocked.

Seattle has no desire to overpay for any player, even one who has proven critical to their success like Wilson.  If no progress can be made over the course of the season, they are the type of team that may take the gamble of letting him test the open market.

Likeliest Outcome:  Re-signs before end of regular season

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