Russell Wilson Rumors: Seahawks QB Wants to Explore Options; Hasn't Demanded Trade

While Russell Wilson has not demanded a trade, the Seahawks quarterback would reportedly like to explore his options outside of Seattle this offseason.

Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reported Wilson is curious whether departing the Seahawks would put him in a better position to compete for championships. Seattle finished 7-10 in 2021, the first losing season of Wilson's career.

Tension between Wilson and coach Pete Carroll has been building the scenes for years. The Athletic published a deep dive into their relationship last year, highlighting Wilson's desire for a more wide-open offense clashing with Carroll's preferred conservative style. Wilson went public multiple times last offseason over his displeasure with the offense and stating a desire for the Seahawks to shore up their offensive line.

While things cooled down as the offseason progressed, it was clear something was amiss with the Seahawks all season. Wilson missed three games with a finger injury and was not nearly as impactful in new offensive coordinator Shane Waldron's system; his 53.9 QBR was by far the worst of his career.

The Seahawks found success in the ground game late in the season with Rashaad Penny but spent much of the year bullheadedly sticking to an ineffective ground game led by Alex Collins.

Wilson has publicly maintained a desire to stay in Seattle despite the rumors about his status.

"We've always thought I would be here," Wilson said. "That's been always my goal, to win multiple Super Bowls, and my plan is to be here and do that. You take every day and you just enjoy the moment."

Carroll remains the coach and has the final say over all roster decisions. If the relationship between the two has reached a point of no return, it'll come down to Seattle ownership deciding whether to side with its 70-year-old coach or its 33-year-old quarterback.