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Antonio Brown Rumors: Russell Wilson Wants WR to Sign with Seahawks
May 22, 2020
Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson would like to add more skill players on offense and reportedly has wideout Antonio Brown in mind.
According to 710 ESPN's John Clayton, Wilson wants Brown in Seattle, though no deal is close:
"Wilson would love to add Antonio Brown. Brown is also close with backup QB Geno Smith, whose one-year contract with the Seahawks was finalized Wednesday.
"Don't expect anything soon in regards to Brown. While it is an option down the road, deals like that are something John Schneider waits on, as he likes to leave extra cap room for moves in the summer and during the season."
Brown remains a free agent following brief stints with the Raiders and New England Patriots last season.
After a contentious training camp with the Raiders because of foot injuries and restrictions on which helmet he could use, Brown was released Sept. 7 and signed with New England two days later. The next day, his former trainer filed a lawsuit against Brown in which she said he sexually assaulted her on three occasions in 2017 and 2018.
He played one game with the Patriots before another woman accused Brown of sexual misconduct. She also said he sent her threatening text messages after her story went public. The Patriots then released him Sept. 20.
Clayton believes if the Seahawks do attempt to sign Brown, it won't be until late July or August in keeping with general manager John Schneider's typical approach.
Last season, Seattle's offense ranked eighth in yards (374.4 yards per game) and ninth in points (25.3). While those numbers should keep the team in Super Bowl contention, it trails behind the division-rival San Francisco 49ers and Los Angeles Rams, who ranked fourth and seventh, respectively, in offensive yards.
To help keep up in the NFC West, the Seahawks have signed wideout Phillip Dorsett, tight end Greg Olsen and offensive lineman B.J. Finney. They'll slide into a unit highlighted by receivers Tyler Lockett and DK Metcalf.
From a numbers perspective, Brown could make sense. During his last full season in 2018, the wideout recorded 1,297 yards on 104 catches with 15 touchdowns.
However, Brown remains under investigation by the NFL related to the sexual assault and misconduct allegations, as well as his Jan. 21 arrest on charges of felony burglary with battery, burglary of an unoccupied conveyance and criminal mischief, and could face a lengthy suspension should a team sign him.
The Seahawks will have plenty to consider as they discuss signing him. Wilson's endorsement, however, should carry some weight as the franchise looks for a third consecutive postseason appearance.