Matt Hasselbeck: Status with Seattle Seahawks Likely Dependent on 2011 NFL Draft

There has been much speculation as to why the Seattle Seahawks failed to sign Matt Hasselbeck prior to the end of their exclusive bargaining rights.  It is likely that few people outside of Pete Carroll and John Schneider know the actual reason why a deal didn't get signed.

In an interview with Greg Bedard of the Boston Globe, Hasselbeck spoke about the possibility of returning to the Seahawks and working with a young QB.

“I think it’s sincere that they want me back, it’s just a matter of how badly,’’ Hasselbeck said. “I know that I would like to be there, I think I can help them keep going on what we’re building there, it’s just a matter if it fits into the new agreement and how they want to do things and whatever else they look at."

The lack of a new contract has only fueled inferences from analysts and fans, and it is time to address a theory I threw onto the table a few weeks ago.

While Hasselbeck's on-field value is somewhat questionable after another up and down season, his real value to the franchise wont be determined until April 28th...or, possibly, April 30th.

I am a huge Hasselbeck fan, but still recognize the biggest value he can provide Seattle relative to reaching a Super Bowl is as a mentor to a new, young QB.  Until the draft plays out, Carroll won't know what direction the team is taking.

Thus, it is impossible to know if Hasselbeck is worth the money and roster spot over the next two seasons.

Some have projected Jake Locker will be selected by the Seahawks on April 28th, while others have them taking Ryan Mallett, Christian Ponder or Andy Dalton.  All of them would have a better NFL career if they had the chance to study under Hasselbeck for two seasons.

Hasselbeck would welcome this kind of a role.   

“He’s a great kid, just a wonderful, wonderful guy.  I feel like he’s the kind of guy who would be a great leader on a football team," Hasselbeck told Bedard regarding Jake Locker.  "Just really, really gifted and talented. Almost off the charts with his strength and explosiveness and his running ability."

Hasselbeck also added "I’ve just seen him play a little bit, but just an awesome guy to be around. He’s just got some of those qualities that you just can’t coach.  And I understand it could be a reality with me this year, whether it’s with the Seahawks or wherever that I’m with a guy like that, a young guy.’’

Hasselbeck also recognizes the responsibility of being a veteran.  “I was fortunate in my career to be around some great veteran quarterbacks and just learned so much from them.  I’m kind of excited for that kind of an opportunity to maybe be on a team with a really talented young guy and just get the opportunity to pay that forward just a little bit, things that I’ve learned along the way."

Another big priority for Hasselbeck came out in the interview, as he said he'd "hopefully be on a really good team.’’  It only stands to reason he'd like another opportunity to play in a Super Bowl.

There is a chance Seattle will largely ignore the QB position in this draft.  They might give Charlie Whitehust the reins in 2011 and plan on working into position to draft Matt Barkley or Andrew Luck in the 2012 draft.

Under a scenario in which Seattle is waiting a year to take a QB of the future, signing Hasselbeck isn't their best option.  If they spend the draft capital to get one of the top picks in 2012, the pressure to start Luck or Barkley will be huge, and Hasselbeck's value would be greatly diminished.

If Seattle does make a move at QB next weekend, expect Carroll to make a full run at Hasselbeck once free agency starts.  However, if they don't need a mentor this season, Hasselbeck may likely be on the move.  Perhaps to Minnesota to work with Locker and the Vikings.