NFL fans react to Russell Wilson's cryptic update on future with Seahawks
Trade speculation season is officially upon Russell Wilson, the Seattle Seahawks, and the NFL. At a press conference in the lead-up to the Seahawks' game against the Detroit Lions at home, Wilson alluded to the possibility that it could be his final home game as a member of the Seattle Seahawks. According to Gregg Bell, the comment was unforced, as Wilson said:
“I know for me, I hope it’s not my last game (in Seattle). But at the same time, I know it won’t be my last game in the NFL.”
Predictably, the quote sent Twitter ablaze with many reactions pointing to another installment of a stressful offseason regarding the future of the Seahawks' franchise quarterback. The prevailing sentiments ranged from some NFL fans wanting Wilson to land with their team to a few Seahawks fans being saddened to hear the news, with one fan in particular ready to cut ties with Wilson altogether.
Unsolicited, Russell Wilson says as Seahawks sit at 5-10 entering home finale Sunday vs Detroit: “I know for me, I hope it’s not my last game (in Seattle). But at the same time, I know it won’t be my last game in the NFL.” https://t.co/QGPNNN1m1j
@gbellseattle When Russell finally leaves Seattle, I'll cry!! I'll cry my eyes out!! This might be a great move for both the Seahawks and Russell! #Seahawks
@gbellseattle Sounds like he gave an ultimatum
@gbellseattle @AshleyLolaRyan It’s been real, and will always appreciate what he’s done for this team. But please, please, please trade him this offseason!
Absolutely done with him.
@gbellseattle @JamesPalmerTV @AllbrightNFL please tell me he’s going to Denver? Your odds on where he ends up? Thanks!!!
@gbellseattle I think Ciara wants to be near a media center like NYC or LA. Add in a losing season and I think he will ask for a trade.
@Tnystrmg @gbellseattle But, would you give your boss a list of 6 demands he must fill in order for you to continue working there. He’s orchestrating a drama. Get your popcorn
@gbellseattle How do y’all get to he wants to leave Seattle from the article? Read the actual article 🤦🏻♀️ if I was better than avg at my job, but no longer felt things were working where I was or they no longer wanted me. I would move on to continue doing what I love. Anyone would.
@gbellseattle It was not unsolicited. Part of the question was if he saw being able to see winning 3 more Super Bowls was in the cards with the direction the Seahawks were going.
@GodzBurnerAcct @gbellseattle It’s clear he doesn’t want to play the type of ball the HC has set as the standard. What he wants is more important than what the team needs. He’s not leading, he’s already planned his exit. Look for the drama to reach middle school levels.
@gbellseattle 2 years ago the Packers were 6-10. They are now SB favorites.
If it becomes public that Russ wants out after 1 bad year, that's a REALLY bad look on him IMO.
If the Seahawks trade him, it'll verify that Seattle has no idea what they are doing.
Where could Russell Wilson end up?
In any given NFL offseason, there are a number of teams planning around who their next face of the franchise will be. A player of Wilson's caliber would be welcome in any number of locker rooms, but it seems there are only a few places that would stand to benefit the most from his immediate arrival. Here's a look at some potential destinations.
#1 - Denver Broncos
The Denver Broncos were in the heat of the playoff race until bridgewater-play-tonight-vs-chiefs-week-13" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-is-sponsored="false">Teddy Bridgewater was injured. However, going into the season, not many expected him to become the long-term solution at quarterback. Unless he made the playoffs, it was unlikely he was going to be the unchallenged starter in 2022.
With Bridgewater's team now essentially waiting to be eliminated from playoff contention, it is clear that Denver has improved much over recent years. But the Broncos still lack a spark to push them over the edge. Russell Wilson could be that spark. The team nearly landed Aaron Rodgers last season, so a move for Wilson could be on the cards as a consolation prize.
#2 - Pittsburgh Steelers
The Pittsburgh Steelers have been mentally preparing for Ben Roethlisberger's retirement over the last few seasons. Following his recent comments in the lead up to the week 17 game against the Browns, it became clear that Roethlisberger's time in the NFL is coming to an end this season.
The Steelers still have a solid roster on both sides of the ball with a talented defense as well as multiple receiving and rushing weapons. Inserting Wilson into the lineup could save Pittsburgh from becoming a middling team and preserve their status as a perennial playoff contender.
#3 - New Orleans Saints
The Saints are a much different team in 2021 without Drew Brees. They've done what they can with what they have, having started four different signal callers this season. Yet somehow the team still managed to stay in playoff contention, even with a revolving door at quarterback.
However, with Wilson's addition to the lineup, the Saints could be catapulted into NFC title contention seemingly overnight, while competing closely with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers next season.
With Tom Brady's retirement also on the horizon, the door is essentially open for Matt Ryan to return as the face of the NFC South division. That is, unless the Saints can land Wilson to compete with the Atlanta Falcons quarterback in the coming years. Should they fail to do so, the Saints might find themselves languishing in the division until they acquire a true franchise signal caller.