Chicago made “a very aggressive pursuit” of Seahawks QB Russell Wilson, per sources, and the Bears were told that Seattle is not trading him at this time.
The Bears were one of four teams Wilson’s agent named as a place of interest. Now Chicago has an agreement with Andy Dalton.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 16, 2021
You might think this is the end of the drama.
But really, it isn’t.
There’s been no resolution between the Seahawks and their franchise quarterback. We’d know about it by now if there was.
There would’ve been some form of statement or symbolic gesture. From something minor like a tweet from Russell Wilson, to something more significant like a new contract.
The middle ground would’ve been the Seahawks restructuring Wilson’s contract to create cap space. They have a function to do that, even without his permission.
Yet they haven’t. And they’ll need to do something eventually. Once Poona Ford is tendered, they will have just $14m to spend and four draft picks. They have seven key players to retain or replace. They also have the second fewest contracted players in the NFL currently — so depth is an issue too.
Something has to give.
It’s just unclear what exactly it’s going to be.
Wilson’s next move will be interesting.
So far, the Seahawks haven’t granted his wish to make a bold move on the offensive line. Rodney Hudson, recently cut by the Raiders, would be an opportunity to do that (although we have to remember he turns 32 in July).
Yet they didn’t land Joe Thuney, Corey Linsley or Kevin Zeitler. The remaining options are very much in the ‘name recognition’ category but the likes of Trai Turner and Gabe Jackson are well past their best.
Will Mark Rodgers re-emerge? Will Wilson extend his list of potential suitors and be willing to consider other teams?
Will the Seahawks and their star player use this moment to create a truce? If so — it better be a long term one, not a ‘see you in 12 months for more of the same’ arrangement.
I still think the best thing to do would be to create resource by shifting stock from linebacker and safety to create picks and cap space. From there, you could improve your O-line in the draft and take a punt on a receiver market that increasingly appears to be carrying some value.
Then you grant Wilson’s desire to have more input in the offensive vision. After all, if you’re willing to shift to bear fronts on defense and double your blitzing to accommodate Jamal Adams, why aren’t you willing to listen to a quarterback you opted to pay $35m a year?
However, what I fear is this is merely a delaying tactic.
For example — there’s been plenty of talk about Sam Darnold recently. Brad Biggs from the Chicago Tribune quoted a GM as saying the Seahawks were a team to watch with Darnold. Colin Cowherd also made the connection, as did a report in the New York Daily News — citing a league source.
The Jets insist they won’t make a call on Darnold’s future until they’ve seen the top quarterbacks in the draft throw live. Zach Wilson’s pro-day, for example, isn’t until the end of the month.
It’s also possible the Jets are simply not inclined to deal Darnold at this stage. What’s the rush? Especially if a vibrant market emerges with a little patience.
If that’s the case, this might be a situation that isn’t resolved for weeks.
After all, look at Schefter’s wording:
“the Bears were told that Seattle is not trading him at this time“
The Bears weren’t told they aren’t trading Wilson, period. They were told they aren’t trading him at this time.
Schefter went on to add in an ESPN appearance later:
“That doesn’t mean eventually… next month, next year, whenever it may be, that Seattle won’t eventually trade Russell Wilson but the Bears were finding the Seahawks were unwilling to budge right now”
He then added the Seahawks haven’t been able to do sufficient work on the 2021 quarterback class, before adding:
“To date, they’ve not said, we’re not trading Russell Wilson publicly — but they essentially rejected the Bears advances, with the Bears holding the 20th pick in the draft”
Sadly, this saga appears set to drag on for a while yet.
And as Mike Florio points out, that might not be great news:
If, as seems likely, Wilson stays, that won’t automatically solve the issues between player and team. Wilson wants the offense to run through him. Unless the Seahawks decide to give Wilson what he wants, it could be a potentially awkward and dysfunctional season for Seattle.
If the intention is to move forward together — then three things need to happen:
1. Make it right with Wilson and then make it public that you’ve made it right
2. Nail the rest of free agency (there are lots of pass rushers and receivers available, channel some of the 2013 magic to land some needed quality)
3. Get back in the draft — because combine or no combine, there are some great options in this class to get cheap talent (this means trading an asset)
Meanwhile, the Seahawks made their first move in free agency — agreeing to sign 49ers cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon.
Like Shaquill Griffin, he was a third round pick in 2017. He fits the Seahawks prototype perfectly. He turns 26 next week and had an 80.2 PFF grade last year — their sixth ranked cornerback.
Of course, Quinton Dunbar was PFF’s second ranked corner a year ago…
What now? Hope and pray…
More frustration I’d say
And unnecessary dysfunction
This just bleeds the same ol same ol Pete Carroll now. His in game coaching is brutal, now his off season maneuvering is just as suspect.
Rob, I’m sure your responses during the interview will be calm, cool and measured. Wish I could tune it but I will wait for the replay.
Replay at 620pm PST.
“After all, if you’re willing to shift to bear fronts on defense and double your blitzing to accommodate Jamal Adams, why aren’t you willing to listen to a quarterback you opted to pay $35m a year?”
So well said!
Spot on.
I’d add preached loudly at fans and the press about patience and belief while they fielded the worst unit in NFL history for a stretch.
My biggest fear is that all parties want to move on (as Tony Pauline reported)
The environment simply isn’t there to accommodate it.
So they’re stuck
If that’s the case, it will be a monumental mishandling of the situation by the Seahawks.
Good thought.
Right! I mean, if you don’t have a trade partner willing to send you a true haul you can’t move Wilson. That also means an extreme lost opportunity for the Seahawks and Wilson.
We’re in a holding pattern until Jody sells the team y’all. Welcome to a different but no less painful version of NFL purgatory.
Jody Allen is starting to trend toward Ken Behring territory in terms of worthlessness as an owner which is sad because her brother is a legend because he was the opposite of Behring.
You know, everybody is complaining about the FO not making a trade with the Bears, but no one knows what kind d of trade package the Bears were offering. I agree that the FO is in a bad spot now, what with Russ essentially being a lame duck for the team now. But what would we all have thought if we had of traded him for 1st in next years draft, and a couple of players they were going to cut anyway?
I still think Russ gets traded this off season, but it probably will not be for the major haul of draft picks that we were all planning on.
The #Bears offer to the #Seahawks for Russell Wilson was indeed very aggressive: They offered three 1st-round picks, a 3rd and two starters for Wilson and the #Seahawks declined, according to @dpshow
I keep telling myself they must have a plan and I’m just too silly to figure it out. Because it seems to me that they don’t have a plan, and this is backed by the idea of giving 10 mil to Griffin. And it’s scary to have your team run by a QB who doesn’t agree with the organization. He will likely play as he did at the end of last season.
I could almost deal with this long drawn out drama IF PC/JS would come out of their ivory tower and say something…..anything. Their typical “need to know basis” deal with the fans and media. Very frustrating and a real turn off as a fan.
Yeah it’s not good
Fans deserve to know what’s going on here I think. It’s f-ing Russell Wilson
So if the Jets draft a QB and this is a instant hit, do you feel the Darnold to Seattle, Russell to Chicago could happen mid season???
No
‘prim and proper’ ?
LOL
Go Rob go!! Anxious to hear you drop wisdom and clarity to our Seattle sports media 👍
I think the only team on his list that wanted Wilson of was the Bears and they did not have the draft or player capital to make a compelling offer,
I have a feeling there is not the interest league wide to give away the farm for Russ and the drama that goes with him.
As Rob has covered so perfectly the last 6 months this is a mess that is not going away unless the Hawks step up and do something proactive one way or another.
I think you’re right on the mark, Trevor.
What drama though, Trevor.
All you need to do is remotely attempt to build your offense around your future HoF QB, and there isn’t any drama. The drama is that Pete is so stuck in his preferences for how to play that he refused to evolve to maximize and leverage his greatest on field asset.
That “drama” dies when v Pete is no longer holding Russell back.
Don’t know if this is live or not…
https://www.iheart.com/live/sports-radio-kjr-2565/
Sorry, just garbage on that link…
No, I got to the feed from there – – so thanks – – listening now…. nice break from the work day.
ah, who am i kidding by not putting “work” in quotes these past two days…..
welp, I missed it. All I got was commercials. If anyone has a link to the recording, please post it.
Is there an unknown team not on Wilson’s list that has a deal on the table to the Hawks that blew the Bears out of the water, and they want to take, and they’re hoping Wilson accepts it if they just wait him out?
If……….probably big if………..that’s in the background it might be the Panthers with the Fitterer connection. Intriguing to think of…………..
Josina – who whether you like her style or not, does have connections, said that “the level of ire” between Russ and the Hawks had been decreasing in recent weeks.
Well let’s see some evidence of that then
How about a press conference
Or announce a restructuring of his cap number to free up money or an extension, or something. That would be telling.
If they restructure his contract it just pushes more dead money onto their cap if they do trade him…say next February.
https://mobile.twitter.com/MikeDugar/status/1371931443824234497
What a time to be alive for Russel Wilson hahah
However the Raiders really gave everybody a second wind by releasing Rodney Hudson, if you are not able to sign Hudson I don’t see a way to fix the situation with Russ.
I really thought that going to the McVay tree for an OC was step one in an effort to appease Russ.
I feel that there are still a handful of moves out there that could improve the offense and make Russ happy.
Hudson, Andrews, Mack, another WR from what appears to be a depressed WR market, wait to see what the Eagles do with Ertz, maybe Everett (though not if Jonnu $ is the market).
I will not be robbing a liquor store…at this time.
Well if PC is stuck with RW for another year, may as well give RW offensive input. If it doesn’t work, you’re still back to where you were at the start of the offseason.
That British accent was awful, but great job on KJR. Love hearing you live.
Thanks Chase
Well done Rob!
Great job Rob, you were very kind tolerating that crappy impression haha
Thanks Leonardo
You definitely brought the facts and data… very fun to hear you on there.
Thanks, hope people found it interesting
Informative as always, Rob. I apologize for the ubiquitous accent parodies but it’s what we get from that show.
Appreciated your comments….great job.
Nice job on the interview, enjoyed it. I do wish my fellow Americans would cease and desist the attempted putting on of British accents in an interview situation. Top marks for you, though.
Thanks Tomas
Right now PC/JS are the dog sipping coffee in a burning house.
That is a good way of putting it
I wonder if Mark Rodgers will throw on some petrol
It might be me, not Rodgers.
If you’re sticking with Wilson… you have to do three things:
1. Make it right with him, and then make it public that you’ve made it right
2. Nail the rest of free agency
3. Get back in the f-ing draft
Rob,
1. Sign Wilson to an extension, lower hs cap hit for the next two years.
2. Sign Andrews or Reiter at C, Reddick at SAM, Smith Schuster to work the slot, add some Secondary pieces.
3. Trade Adams, get some picks, add J. Williams and Brevin Jordan.
Between Numbers 2 and three figure out LG.
Which means we will do none of these things.
I’m not being a smartass or anything and I’m totally serious. I’ve just come to the conclusion that this is how Pete operates.
That’s about my level of confidence in them sorting this situation out as well.
Silver confirming
Would love to know what constitutes an aggressive offer. Oh to be fly on the wall and know all the details.
Would very much like to know if Khalil Mack was either offered or asked for in a deal, or if they were purely going for picks.
I’ll bet money that they want to keep Mack. They want to keep their defense.
Jacoby Brisset to the dolphins.
Hey Rob, If this soap opera from hell lasts until Training Camp do you think Russ refuses to play this season and sits out?
He’s running out of options to plead his case.
I have a feeling we will be sitting here next off season having the exact same discussion about Russ, after a disappointing 10-6 season 1st round playoff loss or 8-8 no playoff season.
Rob, I get the feeling Pete is the one behind a lot of this. Of course, Russell is like JS’s golden cow per se’, but Pete is the one that thinks he can get the best out of everybody. But we do know that Pete isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.
The serve has most definitely been hit back into Russ’ court.
Excellent handle. Maybe we should work on differentiating one another!
@NFL_DovKleiman
·
47s
The #Seahawks sign former #49ers CB Ahkello Witherspoon to a 1-year deal according to
@JosinaAnderson
Witherspoon was often benched during his time in San Francisco.
I remember Sherman having lots of good things to say about Witherspoon
Then we have to take account that the Bears offer wasn’t up to par: not enough draft capital, not having Mack part of the deal, and no QB in return. We’d also have to assume that any other players that could be of value weren’t part of the trade (RSmith?) and/or we didn’t value those players as Chicago valued them. I mean, Chicago probably drafted worst than us in the last couple years.
First of all, great interview with Softy, Rob! Secondly, the knives are out in Chicago after the signing of Dalton. This is where we are going to see the real squeeze on their GM and Coach. The pressure must be palpable in their HQ right now. The wet dream of having RW has been squelched for the time being and Chicagoans are pissed.
Nobody knows what the future will hold. That being said, I’m all for the Seahawks playing hardball while also affording themselves time to do their due diligence on potential QB draft targets and/or working out QB trade for Darnold (or whichever QB they think would best help this team in the interim). I don’t love the drama related to RW and PC/JS silent treatment, but it makes sense.
Seahawks have the leverage right now to do whatever they see fit with RW. If they had seen a deal they couldn’t refuse then RW would’ve been gone by now. To me, clearly they haven’t seen that deal quite yet. Maybe they lose leverage by dragging this out OR maybe RW says, hell I hate it here so much that I’ll open up that list of teams for you OR a team swoops in and truly offers a deal of all deals. Either way, if the Seahawks don’t trade him, then they have a top 3 QB still. Albeit, a disgruntled QB. Nothing a little OL love and whispers of sweet nothings into RW’s ear from JS/PS couldn’t fix — at least for a temporary amount of time.
Playing hardball baby! Keeping us on our toes.
Seattle Seahawks = F-the Fans!
I don’t have any major disagreement with your commentary, but I believe there’s plenty of blame and poor behavior on both sides of this particular issue. Russ has crossed a line that, if he stays in Seattle (even if only for ’21) he’s going to have to work hard to repair his locker room relationships. Fan boys won’t want to see it, but anyone who’s played serious team sport will know that his self centered whining of late is deadly for team spirit/unity/cohesion. Not saying he can’t make it right, just that he’s going to have to bend over backward to avoid look out blocks and other forms of “take that prima donna”. On the other side, PC/JS have a history of floating valuable players who are disgruntled and blowing the opportunity. They floated Sherm and didn’t think they were offered enough value in return……………..and then got nothing (yeah, because of injury, but still……). Same thing happened with Earl. And almost the same with Mike B. They appear to have gotten greedy and didn’t take the best they were going to get when it was right in front of them. Once might be acceptable, twice is not, and three times is a weakness.
You make fair points.
I totally agree that RW lost a lot of respect from teammates for throwing them under the bus. I also agree they stretched their luck and struck out big time with potential trades of prior stars.
That being said, and playing Devil’s advocate, it’s an odd situation to be in contemplating proper value for the best players at their respective positions ie Sherman & ET. Trades like that rarely happen because players of that caliber are rarely traded during their prime. No excuses though. They definitely could have and should have gotten something in return for both. Hindsight is 20/20.
Speaking more to the current RW situation, the nuance for me is that it’s not all about getting great value for RW, it’s also about what’s best for the team. If the Seahawks lose out on a trade, they still have a top QB who is unlikely to sit out. Is it awkward? Yes. Is it an enviable situation? No. Do I believe a group of people getting paid 10s of millions of dollars can find away to compromise if a better alternative does not present itself? Definitely. Right now Russell’s legacy is tied to the Seahawks for the next 2years regardless of his wishes. So, it’s up to the Seahawks to pull the trigger of they think it’s best for the team. Nothing else.
Really like these posts. Well said guys.
Glad you like it. I should be studying for my Step 2 exam on Saturday (to be a doctor). Per usual, I find myself constantly refreshing this website instead.
Does anyone remember what Russ looked like during the last 8 games or so of the season? And that was before he was at this level of unhappy. I think we missed the boat not trading him. In the NFC West, I predict a 7-9 last place finish and a season of borderline unwatchable football.
Hard to say if we don’t know what the offer was. What if they only offered the 3 1st round picks.
Without knowing the offer it’s hard to fault them for saying no.
If they were offered something like 5 1sts and a 2nd then i might be feeling the same.
We’ll just never know.
I also agree though it will be difficult for both moving forward.
Tough to go through a season with your QB and Coach with different views.
They’ll need to get something done with Russ or we’ll be dealing with a bigger problem later. Just saying they’re not trading him now doesn’t fix anything.
As Rob said it will take something bigger, like the new long term deal with concessions from Pete.
Basically we’re still where we were 24hrs ago, only with a slightly new narrative
This is 100% true.
One thing is for sure — this won’t just go away. We await Mark Rodgers’ next move. Because it’ll be coming.
https://twitter.com/Flerken19/status/1371946184487673859
This was pretty funny. Sometimes gallows humor is the only way to cope.
Haha. BTW, I’m not very strong, just hairy. (In reference to my name)
Rob, was great hearing you on local radio.
Finally hearing someone dispell the dead cap hit mirage on air along with proposing the logical reasons to trade Adams made the interview all that much better. I truly hope it leads to more opportunities.
Thanks Scot
That’s not the ex-49ers cornerback I wanted them to sign. Pretty underwhelming first signing overall. Sadly, he’s probably the starter across from Reed now.
Yeah, Witherspoon is flat out bad and was constantly benched in San Fran. Hope we got him for cheap…
Absolutely the continuation of last off-season so far. Take a questionable veteran and give him a minimal deal (1-year) and pretend you’re building a winner. Except I won’t be disappointed when they either don’t make the playoffs or make it through Wild Card weekend.
We aren’t making the playoffs this coming year. We’ll be lucky to be 8-8.
Except last year they would have given him a big raise for no reason
Adam Schefter here… hardly putting out the Wilson trade fire…
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0hSA81VKyT4
Seems to be implying that a trade could still happen, hasn’t been ruled out, but not now, not to the Bears and not without doing a bit more work on the alternative QB options out there
FFS — why is everything with this team like this?
Because…Pete. Ego. He the man!
Agree Tom
Sounds like Seattle is working on a 2 year deal for Poona too
Where’s that from?
Brady Henderson tweet
Brady Henderson
Cant wait for those numbers. Hopefully the first year hit is under or at the $3.4 tender.
I was hoping for a 3 year deal
👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽
Ahkello Witherspoon to replace Griffin…
Correct me if i’m wrong, but isn’t this the same guy who was absolutely allergic to tackling while at CO?
He was all about deflections. He was in the same secondary as Tedric Thompson and Chidobe Awuzie. Witherspoon was like a Sherman-clone. He was inconsistent last year…
This guy has a crystal ball.
https://www.nbcsports.com/bayarea/49ers/2021-nfl-free-agency-predictions-where-49ers-top-players-will-land
Keep an eye on Hyder. He’s an up and comer.
Is he really an up and comer? He’s 29 years old I think its fair to say he has already hit his ceiling.
You’re right about his age. May be I should’ve said he’s a late bloomer. The Niners are very high on him and I wouldn’t be surprised if Saleh poaches him.
You know what guys? I really can’t be arsed with another month… six months… 12 months of Russell Wilson drama.
I miss the days when it felt like we were on an exciting journey. Not stumbling around with no picks or cap space, wondering how they’re going to fill out a roster — with a split between those who are concerned and those who feel obliged to defend the team at all costs.
It’s just become a bit shit.
Yeah I agree, I’ve weirdly been hoping for trade the last 2 weeks just so we can move on. I hope we get something reassuring to indicate that the franchise has an actual plan moving forward.
That’s very much how I feel and I LOVE Wilson.
It just feels like some of us have realized that the party is over.
While others are like “no way, we keep Wilson who is a great QB and that means great things for next season”. That seems to completely ignore all of this and how important it is to have players all in on a team. Perhaps I overestimate the importance of Wilson being happy?
Couldn’t say it better myself. As discussed I think the hawks need a new approach and breathe some life into the team and fan base. Worst thing is to be stuck in the middle. Either tear it down to the studs by getting rid of Wilson, Wagner, and Jamal or build around Russ and give him the tools he needs.
I still stick by my off-season plan.
Shift resource from LB/S.
Get back in the draft.
Improve the trenches.
OK — the top O-liners are gone. Let’s load up on these out of contract pass rushers instead. Trade Jamal Adams to get back in the draft and save money. Draft a center and a guard in a great class.
And if there’s money left, shoot for value at receiver in free agency
To me I’m not even saying anything that isn’t totally obvious. How is this not preferable vs clinging onto Jamal Adams?
But you know that they won’t trade Jamal.
Well they should
It’s totally plausible they could trade Adams. I’d guess June or July they’ll know if they can work out signing him long term or not and if not all bets are off.
“I still stick by my off-season plan.”
I like your plan a lot.
“Shift resource from LB/S”
I have a bad feeling they’re working on extending Jamal instead of trading him. And resign KJ?
“OK — the top O-liners are gone. Let’s load up on these out of contract pass rushers instead. Trade Jamal Adams to get back in the draft and save money. Draft a center and a guard in a great class.”
I really wanted us to sign Linsley. But not for $62M. There are better value players available. Resign Dunlap and one other pass rusher. Draft the guard (Cleveland).
This is not all lost if they get their $%#@% together.
Gallant was on 710 ranting about how crazy it is to think about trading Jamal Adams. Seemed sincerely shocked at the mere suggestion.
Many of these local media guys have their head in the sand, or some other dark place.
Deary me
Trading Adams would expose their mistake trading for him a year ago.
Well they’ve swallowed their pride numerous times before — Sheldon Richardson, Percy, Michael Bennett extension etc.
It really has and I know I’m not helping the mood around here, for that I apologize. I’m so upset with the whole thing. I no longer have my unending optimism that I once had about our Seahawks.
What a mess, and an absolute waste.
Wasnt one of the knocks on Witherspoon coming out that he was terrified of tackling? Has that been an issue for him in the pros?
I don’t know exactly, but I do know he was benched several times in San Francisco. I can only hope Sherman rubbed off on him a bit.
https://seahawksdraftblog.com/saturday-notes-on-ahkello-witherspoon-budda-baker
Rob’s write-up on Akhello Witherspoon from 2107.
Obviously I meant what I wrote. Rob is from the future.
Interesting comparison from PFF on Akhello leading up to the 2017 draft.
https://www.pff.com/news/draft-pff-scouting-report-ahkello-witherspoon-cb-colorado
Florio:
Do ya ever feel like they ought to just say these things over phone call rather than all these press leaks? What a weird way to communicate.
Just have some well timed ‘headset issues’ when the need arises.
Fantastic listen today on KJR Rob. Can tell you have been on a bunch of these in your time as you are very good.
Thanks
(although worth noting I am a radio host and TV reporter in my day job)
I can tell as it comes very natural for you. Id be a nervous wreck stumbling over my words.
Ahkello Witherspoon= more Penny-stock trading. Just absolutely dreck.
Still no word on any of the details of the contract. Contracts from every other team have at least some speculation of the APY when the announcement is made, but Seattle attempts to keep this under wraps for some reason, in some cases.
We waited weeks (months?) for confirmation on Irvin’s deal last year, and when it finally came out, long after the NFL spotlight had moved on from FA spending, what Seattle had spent approached double the speculated amount.
I suspect we are looking at the same deal with Witherspoon. I believe they think his ceiling is high, so they are paying well over market value, believing they will get a steal when he plays at the level they believe he is capable of, regardless of the fact that he has never come close to manifesting it.
It’s one year $4m for Witherspoon
Well the part about withholding APY info aged well!
But I stand by the overpay part.
They better get OL replaced.. After Russ threw them under the bus i doubt its going to work out well.
Here’s another thought.
Why are the Seahawks so laissez-faire with time?
How often are things left unresolved, even going into camp or the regular season?
Needs unaddressed etc.
Now my fear is they’re simply kicking the can down the road on a Wilson trade, rather than properly drawing a line under it.
Do they never learn?
In the past, OK. They can be let off the hook.
But 2020? No way.
Pete Carroll, the defensive coach, the defensive back whisperer, heading up the worst defense in NFL history through 8 weeks??
Russell Wilson drama aside, that should kick your rear. Get it in gear and fix this. Granted maybe you cannot fix this in-season with COVID and guys need 10 days to clear protocols and all that. But now, you’re just sitting there doing nothing.
They are just really non-committal on everything. Signing everyone to 1-2 year deals, letting free agents test the market before committing a price, cutting guys in hopes of resigning them, etc.
It might make for consistent roster management, but it sews very little trust or interest among players to stay or come play for them.
I think that is a great point and one not discussed nearly enough. How do you build loyalty and a great culture when you are constantly just churning guys on 1 yr deals.
You forgot routinely asking players to change positions. This is the way Mickey Mouse teams are run. Has it only been 5-6 years since the Seahawks were considered a model franchise and among the class of the league. Positive Pete will leave this team in a flaming ruins.
The other thing I can’t stop thinking about is Pete is supposed to be the player’s coach. Personable, warm, door’s always open type. It’s part of his legend and lore. Supposed to be a big part of why he’s been so successful.
And yet, clearly there is little to no effective communication directly between coach and the team’s most important player. Or even between agent and team. All the communication seems to be taking place through intermediaries in the public eye. And this after 7 years together. Also nothing from the team to the fans. Nothing.
I can’t help but think Pete’s no longer that kind of coach, which means that what we’ve seen from him lately, and presumably from here on out, is just an act.
I’ve thought about this too – – and I think PC is still a player’s coach – in that he’s not a everyone wear a suit on the plane hardass – – BUT, he is also an old-school, the coach-is-the-coach kind of guy. And Russell is borrowing from sort of a new level of power/influence that some top athletes have started to exert (i.e. LeBron, AD, KD, in the NBA, and then Brady in the NFL) – and Carroll hasn’t been able, so far, to adjust to and live in that world.
It’s a great question Rob, “why are the Seahawks so laissez-faire with time”?
Be nice to have a pint with JS and ask him that very question.
Why so laissez -faire with time?
How has that approach worked?
After nearly 10 years – are you pleased with the results?
Would the data show your approach is the correct one?
Laissez-faire with time? Does this apply to Pete’s in-game mistakes with the clock?
Can’t help but put me in mind of the parallel to their wasteful use of Q1-3 time on the gridiron…
It would be very funny if it turns out they are in fact willing to trade the face of the franchise but so fixated on getting back specifically Sam Darnold that they end up having to pay a premium for the latter weeks down the road with the QB shelves emptied. Fleeced twice by the Jets, what an epitaph.
Agree with the fact that the seahawks are often too lackadaisical with their moves.
At the same time, if Russ truly wants out, it was a mistake to only list 4 teams, 3 of which had some level of options at QB. The mantra should have been “Russ has 8-10 teams he would consider” and then behind the scenes rodgers let’s seattle know it’s only 4. Make teams think they have to compete with their offers.
With Dak signed, and Winston too – however viable that actually is – why would Chicago give away everything?
They are desperate, but they are the only bidders seemingly. The move for Jamal showed PC/JS will panic, so why not wait us out?
regardless, continued mismanagement from the FO.
Well, maybe. If he doesn’t want to go to teams though, why would he list them?
We’ll see if he opens that list up now. He might do.
I love that you’re doubling-down on this, Rob. I don’t really know how I feel at this point… but at least someone out there is challenging the usual “nothing’s happening” narrative (well, someone outside the reactionary screamers on Twitter).
Is this interview everyone talking about going to be available to listen to at a later date? I don’t see it anywhere online, and I know nothing about Seattle radio (I’m in BC).
Yeah they will publish the podcast version soon
Oh my….what a mess indeed.
Thanks Rob, for all of the content and being out in front, so consistently, with quality.
As others have said, I also have found myself pining for a RW trade, just to shake up the malaise. A Jamal Adams trade, or release, that is correct I’d rather release him, than pay him a salary that essentially costs 2 good defenders, or one elite tackle. Damn the sunk trade cost. Blah blah.
For respite I’ve taken this news about Andy Dalton and put on my conspiracy hat: weren’t the Hawks confirmed in on Dalton at one point? A $10 million contract….pretty team friendly….maybe the trade is still on?
There’s no chance this Dalton move is anything to do with Seattle
Ok, Rob has poo-poo’d that scenario several times now and I don’t blame him. We don’t want Dalton. We want Russ as a happy koombaya camper, but that is not going to happen now.
What a terribly, terribly sad way this franchise handles things now. I won’t list it all, we know.
I promise I will only watch this year when the weather isn’t conducive to motorcycling or Gonzaga hoops isn’t on, etc., etc.. I’ve really lost all oomph for the franchise. And yes, some of this is on you being a beeotch Russ.
I wouldn’t be so quick to dismiss the 12-4 defending division champs. The NFC always has a different winner in recent years. If the Panthers, Falcons, Eagles and 49ers can have a one year surge before returning to mediocrity or worse, the Russ Wilson Seahawks certainly can.
“FFS — why is everything with this team like this?” ~ Rob
You wouldn’t want it any other way. 😉
Bummer, according to the Seattle Times, former Special Teams coordinator and defensive coordinator for the Seahawks, Rusty Tillman, has died. He was a great special teams coach, and led one of the best defenses of all time–with the worst offense ever dragging them down.
And he was a good guy, by all accounts.
Makes me wish I believed in heaven…
Sad to hear.
RIP
Outstanding ST coach.
RIP Rusty
Hum
Might be worth kicking the tires on this guy.
Rodney Hudson / Center
Cut by the Raiders today.
Kicking the tires? Dude has allowed only 5 sacks in the last 3 seasons. He is going to be signed for a large contract very soon.
Check out the end of the last thread. There were quite a few comments about Hudson. Would absolutely love him as a Hawk. Need to free up some $$ though.
I’d give Ifedi $5m to play LG for Seattle for one year. Not saying he would’ve returned for that amount but that’s what Chicago just resigned him for.
No thanks…
Was LG his natural position or has he always been a T? I was one if the very few who thought he was ‘meh’ rather than dumpster fire during his time here. And being ‘meh’ during that period on the line was pretty good going.
Looks like Witherspoon’s deal is for one year $4m. A little higher than I thought it would be.
I know that this is a weird Covid year for scouting talent and other such things. It just seems to me, however, that this off season the Seahawks would have the most leverage, stand to gain the most resources in trading RW, in spite of the CAP thing.
If this trade thing is going to happen, it’s looking like RW is going to have to open the field to more teams. Many around here have mentioned the best potential teams/franchises already.
The Hawks are always dicking around of late. Didn’t they know they had to decisively solve the PC/RW thing from the get go this off season?
Ahh…
Nothing will be properly addressed until the franchise has new ownership – it’ll continue as a lackadaisical melange of inexplicable non-decisions and inexplicable knee jerk over-reactions that kick the can a bit farther. I’m neither jacked nor pumped for the immediate future.
Great radio spot – although it was a little like listening to a professor talking to The Wiggles.
That’s hilarious…. I’m almost scared to listen to it now.
I read an article today endorsing Kevin king coming to the hawks. I remember how excited we were during the draft for him. I think he could do wonders for the hawks. He still has the skills to be very good.
Well, they just signed San Francisco’s version of Kevin King
Speaking for kings, even under-producing ones such as Kevin, Witherspoon is no Kevin King.
do you thinkits possible if wilson stays that he just says f it and calls the plays he wants?
No
Bob Condotta
@bcondotta
·
4m
Hearing Poona Ford’s two-year deal with Seattle is done. So he avoids being a restricted free agent for this year, and Seahawks maybe get some cap relief as well.
How would they get cap relief if he was an RFA?
Details
Tom Pelissero
@TomPelissero
·
3m
The #Seahawks are re-signing NT Poona Ford to a two-year deal that can be worth close to $14 million with incentives, per source. Ford gets over $4.4M in 2021 — more than the second-round tender — with a chance for bigger money in 2022 and free agency in 2023, when he’ll be 27.
Makes you wonder how feasible a trade really is. Seattle, rightly so will expect a ransom, and the other team at some point has to say “how can we still win with no draft, and possibly losing a top player?”
https://twitter.com/TomPelissero/status/1371995439516516355
So Poona Ford getting over $4m this year and potentially a LOT more in 2022
What are your thoughts on the comp Rob?
I have no problem committing to/rewarding Poona Ford.
He had a good season and when a player deserves to be paid, it’s always justified.
But now they’re $8m down and they’ve filled one need.
So how on earth are they going to fill other needs without creating cap space? Why haven’t they done it yet?
I like it- don’t want both him and Reed entering FA at the same time.
Also, where’s the cap relief going to come from?
He will make $4.4 in cash. Sounds like the cap hit will be lower.
Lot’s of good free agents available. Some worth investing in beyond 2021/22.
Lots of interesting draft prospects.
Please… create cap space and get back in this draft
Please… fix the trenches
But how? If they’re not trading Wilson it’s going to be difficult to get back into the draft. And like you said Rob Jamal Adams seems like he’s staying since they’ve basically modeled their defense for him. Will they trade Wagner? I don’t know if he’s worth more than a 3rd round pick this year.
Well they need to do something
Jamal Adams can play both ways.
They need to trade Adam’s even if it is only for a 1st this year and then use that draft capital to add at least 2 picks on Day #2. If they can move Bobby for a Day #2 pick that would be a bonus.
If the they had 4 picks on Day #2 they would have the chance to add a quality C, LG, WR and RB
I just wanted to say that Azeez Olujari is really good.
Top 20 lock? If he somehow lasts to pick 23, it will be painful.
I think he’s top-20
Too good
So what we know of the Seahawks 2021 offseason plan so far.
1. RW will be the starting QB come September
2. They will get their starting LG in the draft
3. Poona Ford is the starting 1T for this year and next
4. Witherspoon, Reed, Flowers, and probably a CB from the draft will battle for the outside CB spots.
Great start Pete! #sackpetecarroll
I wouldn’t assume some of those
If the Jets know we would like Darnold why wouldn’t they wait and play it slow? They saw last year what Pete will agree to when he is disparate.
The Seahawks aren’t desperate to trade for Darnold. They have Russell Wilson at QB.
I wonder why the Seahawks are so into the 2 year deals. I was thinking Poona at his age would have been a great candidate for atleast 3yrs
Latest rumor, Watson wants to play for the Niners or Broncos. Caserio, the new Texan GM knows JimmyG from his time in NE. Niners + Watson would be deadly.
What would the niners have to give up though?
Garoppolo, Bosa, and 3 1sts round picks & two 2nds
12 & 43 in 2021. Would be a nice package
So is Pete waiting for Watson to be dealt? Russ is a far more accomplished QB so whatever the Texans get the Hawks will want double.
Well, that would be a typical Seahawks miscalculation given that Watson is over 7 years younger.
A haul for sure. But Niners have some leverage too. Watson has said he wants out and he picked them as one of two destinations. Niners have a deep roster and a very good coach/system and could give up a couple players (not Bosa) plus a bunch of picks and still be a SB contender for years.
Rob, looking at someone like D’Ante Smith, the OT from East Carolina, is he someone that could come in and compete for the LG spot as a rookie and then transition over to LT in a year or two? Just curious since you have him listed in the 2nd and as an OT on your board, but then PFN says this about him:
Positives
Three-year starter at left tackle who projects to guard in the NFL. Sets with a wide base, bends his knees and stays square. Works his hands throughout the action, keeps his feet moving and makes good use of angles as well as body positioning. Strong, anchors in pass protection and controls opponents once engaged in a block. Very effective with his hands, jolts defenders with punch and keeps his head on a swivel. Plays with a nasty attitude and attacks defenders. Smooth and fluid getting out to the second level then seals linebackers from the action.
Negatives
Struggles adjusting and gets exploited by inside moves. On the ground too much and must improve his blocking balance. Lacks quick and smooth footwork off the edge.
Analysis
Smith was a consistent lineman for East Carolina but will be best in confined quarters at the next level. He’s an offensive guard with possibilities in a zone-blocking scheme if he improves his balance and finishes his game.
Yes. I’ve talked about him a lot and there’s an interview with him on my YouTube channel
Thanks, that’s what I thought. And after reading the PFN review again, I sort of think that’s what’s being said there as well “He’s an offensive guard with possibilities in a zone-blocking scheme if he improves his balance and finishes his game”
I take Smith in the PFN SIM a lot since he’s available after the first tier of OT, along with Walker Little. Seems like he would be a good pick for the Seahawks…
Brockers from LA to Detroit. That will help the poor Oline for the Hawks
Guess he doesn’t have to be in the same division as Russ after all
I love how if you are a cap problem for the Rams, they trade your ass to Detroit.
Sherm on Colinsworth’s show. Always insightful. Talks hawks around 35min
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shaq-barrett-on-resigning-w-tb-tom-bradys-influence/id1533558695?i=1000513349015
Loved Sherm’s comments about “Legacy”. Sounded a little like it could have been a shot at Russ.
Also him and Barrett talking about the importance about being able to get pressure with your front 4. Too bad Pete evidently forgot that. We need Dunlap and another rusher; not Jamal Adams.
Liked Sherm’s comment on the city you won in always being there for you.
Still has a home here, so definitely thinking he could comeback if they want him. Barrett hammering our O-line too, need to improve it if they want to go further. Sherman actually sticking up for the line a bit. Says it’s set up to where it’s on Russell to win how it’s currently setup. Talks about Metcalf’s upcoming contract as well.
Lot’s of great points. Thanks for posting Gohawks.
I bet Pete was frustrated not having an in-house QB replacement that they trusted. Rob, could you see them taking a QB with one of their earlier picks this year?
Well at the moment, no. They have a ton of holes on the roster.
Does Pete just have contempt for the fans or is it just to Russ? You’ve wasted two days without any significant improvements that would instil confidence in your QB, that is unhappy and you have no intent on trading (apparently). Get ready for cheap, over the hill, shoestring linemen folks.
Seahawks were never going to be players in the FA feeding frenzy on day one or two.
They never have and never will, spend big money day 1 or 2. Starting this weekend, they might start making some moves….. but guys such as the cut/former Raiders center might pop loose and provide excellent value pick-ups.
There is time and plenty of space to make some deals.
For the record I would not have paid OC Linsey, OT Thuney or CB Griffin the deals they got….. too many coins. No huge misses on reasonable priced FA yet, imo.
If I read this one more time, the laptop’s getting lobbed across the room.
Seattle’s ‘plan’ for free agency has delivered nob all for years.
Instead of highlighting what we all already know, we should be asking whether they should do something different.
Rob quick question for you how angry or upset would Russell Wilson be if the Seahawks drafted a quarback in the draft. Can you imagine what would happen if the first pick in round 2 . Would it be like Aaron Rodgers last year draft or far worse. Just wondering
It’s not happening though — because they have so many holes on the roster
Our reality is that we will be stuck with this franchise being run into the ground for the remainder of the PCJS era. Recently we’ve begun imagining the QB position with life after Russ. I want to take it one step further and imagine life after Pete ‘cause it’s the only thing that gets me through the malaise. I for one want a 30-something progressive and innovative offensive-minded head coach and a return to a traditional / conventional coach/GM relationship and accountability structure where a real GM has the authority to hire and fire the head coach. I have spent my last dollar on Hawks tickets until Positive Pete is gone. Dare to dream. #sackpetecarroll
I live in London and have followed Seattle from afar since the mid nineties. I did get to see The Seahawks at Wembley and go to all the games in London. I also have a season ticket at Arsenal FC and watched a great 8 years under Arsene Wenger followed by a agonising 12 years of hanging onto an old successful coach who never reached previous success. Now AFC are a middle team trying to rebuild.
Seattle need to rebuild now. Pete may reach another playoff game but ultimately his success/idea/coaching has passed
PC – Wenger comp is a scary proposition
Could not agree with you more. I live in BC, Canada, but was at the London game with you!
🤔🔥🔥🔥
https://mobile.twitter.com/DangeRussWilson/status/1372016093179486209
If I ever put something like that on the internet my friends and family would never speak to me again.
Someone gave him The Hunger Games on DVD.
You mean the Dark Knight Trilogy?
Yawn
Either sort this stuff out with the Seahawks or let’s all bloody move on
Apparently Witherspoon had a 80.2 PFF Grade in 2020 (334 snaps played). Maybe the lights came on for him right at the end of his 9ers career. Could be a good upside signing at just 25 years old.
Hopefully. But I echo what others have remembered above that he was allergic to tackling coming out.
Also wonder if DJ Reed might have had anything to say about him to PC/JS
Like Quinton Dunbar, who was PFF’s #2 highest rated corner in 2019
The link for Rob on Softy for anyone like me who missed it yesterday. Starts at 11:48.
https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuc3ByZWFrZXIuY29tL3Nob3cvMjUwNDY2Ni9lcGlzb2Rlcy9mZWVk/episode/aHR0cHM6Ly9hcGkuc3ByZWFrZXIuY29tL2VwaXNvZGUvNDM5MjY4NDg?hl=en-IE&ved=2ahUKEwjnl4b157bvAhVUURUIHeAmBWsQjrkEegQIAxAF&ep=6
Well done Rob and hope you get more appearances.
I thought KJ would be gone by now. I believe he will return due to lack of better offers.
He turns 32 in July, was always going to be a 3rd wave FA for me.
That said, would we rather spend the money on Reddick instead of KJ to add a pass rush threat at SAM? I hope so. Loved Reddick coming out and his production this past year makes me think the Cards were just misusing him before that.
Looks like Mack to 49ers. There’s goes another olineman.
https://www.nfl.com/news/free-agent-center-alex-mack-expected-to-sign-with-49ers
Packers, Eagles, Saints, Rams, and Bears have only a few hours today to get under the cap.
What are the ramifications if they don’t?
I believe the Rams,,Bears,Eagles, and Packers all all under the cap.
The offer was 3 1sts, a 3rd and 2 starters… damn
https://twitter.com/PFF/status/1372193691041996803?s=20
Not enough..