Quarterback Roster: Russell Wilson, Brady Quinn, Josh Portis, Jerrod Johnson

Watchlist:

January 27, 2013; Honolulu, HI, USA; NFC quarterback Russell Wilson of the Seattle Seahawks (3) runs past a tackle attempt by AFC defensive tackle Geno Atkins of the Cincinnati Bengals (97) in the third quarter during the 2013 Pro Bowl at Aloha Stadium. The NFC defeated the AFC 62-35. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

I think a lot of 12′s thought that quarterback still needed to be addressed in the draft after the team picked up three very mediocre talents (at least to this point in their careers) in free agency. Pete Carroll and John Schneider had a different philosophy, apparently.

After listening to some of the Seahawks’ live feed during the latter stages of the draft, a good point was brought up. I can’t remember who said it but it was an ex-Seahawk who was alongside spokesperson Tony Ventrella. The ex-Hawk said something along the lines of “some people just know how to take a hit or avoid it. Others go out and fall down into a concussion every time. Russell’s one of those guys that I don’t think you have to worry about getting injured, knock on wood, because he just knows how to avoid that contact.”

He’s absolutely right and I think this is probably in the back of the minds in Seattle’s front office. The hardest hits I can remember Wilson taking were the fumble that was returned for a touchdown by the Jets and the slide against the Fed-Ex Field turf.

Unlike last season, quarterback is the one spot that really won’t have a competition for the starting spot this Summer and Fall. However, don’t let that fool you into thinking that there won’t be a lot of work done. If there’s one thing we’ve learned about Russell Wilson, it’s that he will push himself harder than anybody can to be great. Being the leader and professional that he is, he’ll also push and prepare the rest of the Seahawks, including whoever is his backup.

Another thing to consider is that the Seahawks are so deep on the overall roster that there’s no way they can afford to carry three quarterbacks. With the dwindling need for these three guys in particular throughout the entire league, Portis, Quinn, and Johnson are all fighting for a single spot on the roster and a paycheck. The backup position also has the potential to be a multi-year deal as I’m sure Pete and his staff would love to maintain some continuity in case something were to happen. A lot is on the line and it should be a fun battle to keep tabs on throughout.

Wishlist: 

I still wish the Hawks would’ve drafted or picked up a quarterback in free agency. Specifically speaking, I think a few of us here at 12th Man Rising had Seneca Wallace and Matt Scott pegged. Scott would have been a prototypical backup to Russell and a boost in talent at the position overall. Who knows if the Seahawks did indeed try to acquire his services, but Gus Bradley and the Jaguars have him for now and I expect him to make a good run at the roster there. Before that, Wallace apparently didn’t make the Carroll-cut because Quinn beat him out for the offer.

I don’t know that there’s another quarterback that got missed in the draft that I would really like as the backup at this point. What Carroll has should be good enough for now and the foreseeable future since the backup will have only spot duty and maybe the occasional start, assuming Wilson doesn’t get seriously injured.

EDIT: I didn’t realize that Jerrod Johnson was only 24 and has only been in the league for 1 season. He’s 6’5″ 251 lbs and holds (for now at least) 24 school records. NFL.com’s profile on him:

He started 29 of 37 career games at Texas A&M and finished his career holding 24 school records, including total offense (8,888 yards), passing yards (8,011), completions (650) and touchdown passes (67).

When they signed him, I’m betting that Carroll and Schneider said “that’s our draft pick” and they’ll let him battle for the backup spot. That’s the reason Scott was probably never an option for them. Interesting.

Put it to the 12′s:

Who would you have liked to see in a Seahawks uniform at quarterback, either in the form of free agency or by draft?

Dec 30 2012; Denver, CO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Brady Quinn (9) checks off in the first quarter against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field. The Broncos defeated the Chiefs 38-3. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

When I heard that Seattle signed Quinn instead of Seneca Wallace or Matt Leinart, I was confused. I thought that Quinn was the least likely to be chosen.  Quinn lacks the raw foot speed of Russell Wilson. However, he does have good footwork in the pocket and is able to shuffle his feet well enough to create room.  Don’t expect Quinn to be running the ball out of the zone read option anytime soon, though.

I was comfortable with Wallace as Matt Hasselbeck’s backup. He is not great by any measure, but he has a strong arm and can make plays with his legs. He is also someone who can take care of the ball and limit mistakes.

Following the Quinn signing I had to find out more about his abilities. What did Pete Carroll see in him above Wallace, Leinart, and Thigpen? Carroll likes players who bring a unique skill set to the team. What is  Brady Quinn’s? He had flamed out in Cleveland, Denver, and Kansas City. All three teams basically said, “thanks, but no thanks.”

After doing some reading, I learned that Quinn is, in fact, very unique, at least to Carroll. In Matt Flynn, Seattle had one of the best backups in the NFL as well as a good starter. Seattle hopes Quinn will be able to share his experience with Russell, and Russell with Quinn to create a strong quarterback room.

During my research I found an interview with Quinn’s former quarterback Coach in Kansas City, Jim Zorn. In it Zorn praised Quinn for his football IQ, work ethic, and attitude. He spoke highly of Quinn’s ability to make calls at the line of scrimmage and predict what the defense is trying to do, and put the offense in a position to be successful. This carries some weight since Zorn himself was a quarterback and has coached the likes of Trent Dilfer, Matt Hasselbeck, and Joe Flacco.

While Zorn’s opinion is valuable, the fact that Quinn has not translated his skill set onto the field for an extended period of time is troubling. He has shown flashes of being a solid NFL quarterback but has yet to prove he can play consistently at a high level.

Having a solid offensive foundation in place, including an above average receiving corps, may help Quinn out. I do believe having a quarterback who is willing to talk things out with Russell Wilson will benefit both players. Flynn was not known to share Wilson’s regimen of arriving first and leaving last, which may have been a big factor in trading him. I do not believe Carroll would have signed Quinn if he felt that Quinn would be unwilling to help the growth of Russell Wilson in the film room and playing field.

My ideal quarterback situation is to have a starter who makes those around him better, and, if needed, can take games over. I believe Seattle has that in Russell Wilson. The backup must be able to competently run the offense, not make too many mistakes, and put the ball in other play-makers’ hands. In other words, play completely and comfortably within himself and the system

It remains to be seen if Quinn is a lock to be the number two quarterback behind Russell Wilson.  Josh Portis, is also a talented quarterback who Seattle likes and resigned with the team during the off-season. The NFL draft will include players such as USC’s Matt Barkley, who played under Pete Carroll for a season, and Matt Scott, who has risen up draft boards since the combine. Scott is raw as a passer, but is able to move around well, and run the same offense that was installed for Russell Wilson.

It remains to be seen whether Quinn can live up to that standard. I will be excited to see the steps he takes in preseason to better both himself and the team.

Oct 7, 2012; Charlotte, NC, USA; Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson (3) looks to pass as Carolina Panthers outside linebacker Luke Kuechly (59) defends in the fourth quarter. The Seahawks defeated the Panthers 16-12 at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports

Is it too early to start putting money down on next season’s games? I’m not sure the answer to that question, but I’ve always heard that the smart gambler gets their bets in early before the line moves. Why give up 6 points later when you only have to give up 4 now, right?

As of right now, the Seahawks open as a 3.5 point favorite for week 1′s game against Carolina. All of this is according to Odds Shark.

I find that line to be rather interesting in a number of ways. The game is in Carolina with a 10:am start time, and we all know how well the Seahawks play in that time slot. The Seahawks are also only 1-2 under Pete Carroll in week 1 games. All of that would suggest perhaps that a closer line might be more appropriate.

On the other hand, the Seahawks played in Carolina a year ago, and came away with a 4 point win. That early October victory was before Russell Wilson emerged as a franchise QB, and before the acquisition of Percy Harvin to help the offense. The Seahawks have clearly gotten better since that previous game, and it’s unclear if the Panthers can say the same.

I should add that I don’t bet money games. It’s just not my thing. If it was, I’d probably give the points and take the Seahawks in this one.

Nov.11, 2012; Miami, FL, USA; Tennessee Titans quarterback Matt Hasselbeck (8) warms up before a game against the Miami Dolphins at Sun Life Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

The 2013 edition of the Seattle Seahawks, barring horrific injury or unexpected regression, has a chance to be the best team Seattle has ever fielded. That’s no guarantee of a Super Bowl. That’s no guarantee of a division title. It’s no guarantee that they don’t go 0-16. However, if someone offers you an over/under of 0.5 wins for the season bet your life savings on the over. Times are good and Seahawks fans should, and I think largely do, appreciate what they have at this moment.

For this reason it is odd that I have been overcome with nostalgia for some vastly inferior Seahawks teams from the not too distant past. Specifically, I’ve caught a bad case of Matt Hasselbeck-related melancholy  Given the dearth of quarterback depth right now, Hasselbeck would have been a great addition this off-season, from a football standpoint. The kind of nostalgia I’m talking about though, is too strong to be based on the desire for a second string quarterback upgrade.

Before we go deeper down the rabbit hole, this is the video that got me thinking about Mr. Hasselbeck in the first place.

The thing that stood out to me that in this video is that Hasselbeck just seems to be a really fun enjoyable person to be around. I realized that I don’t miss Matt Hasselbeck as our quarterback. Russell Wilson is more exciting and arguably had a better rookie year than any season Hasselbeck had. I miss Hasselbeck as a guy.

This is an unusual thought for me to have. Firstly, I’m largely drawn to football based on my own experiences playing and a very strong interest in the strategy of the game. I’m much more interested in statistics than narratives; personalities have never been a big part of my fan experience. Of course, I have my favorites like anyone else. My current favorite player is Kam Chancellor but I couldn’t tell you anything about the man except that I love his unorthodox size for a safety and the way he hits.

Matt Hasselbeck is a big exception to the way I think about football players. Most players seem to be either in the camp of cliché artist or smack talker. I often find myself bored with the predictable nature of their interviews. Hasselbeck is different. He strikes me as a guy with a sense of humor who is very genuine and transparent. I find both traits refreshing and entertaining. My usual assumption with players is that I don’t know much about them as people because I am exposed to such a small sample of their personalities. For some reason I always felt like Matt Hasselbeck was someone I sort of knew.  For example, this video from a couple of years ago depicts a guy who is a multi-millionaire star athlete who acts like he’s just a guy. That is a pretty rare find.

Here’s another brief example.

I promise this post won’t devolve into me just sharing examples of Matt Hasselbeck being cool because I think you get it at this point. Or not. Either way I’m not really in the business of just posting a bunch of links.

Ultimately, I miss having Matt Hasselbeck on the Seahawks because of the person he is, and that’s probably a first for me. I’m not trying to deify the man, he just seemed like a really decent human being to me and I always liked having him on the team. I also don’t mean to criticize Russell Wilson. Wilson seems like an intelligent, hardworking and well-spoken man and I have nothing against him. I just don’t yet feel like I know much about him as a person, and, based on the way he carries himself, I’m not sure I ever will. It is Wilson’s prerogative to present himself any way he likes and I don’t begrudge him that. Maybe I’m just not a great interpreter of him and other fans feel like they know him inside and out. It’s hard for me to say.

The point is, even though I would take Russell Wilson over Matt Hasselbeck as starting quarterback every time, it doesn’t mean I don’t miss Matt. There is a lot more to sports fandom than X’s and O’s, wins and losses, or numbers on a page. I suppose it took a video of a third string quarterback I’ve never heard of hitting a half court shot to remind me of that today.

In any backup quarterback you want someone who can keep the offense from self-destructing and put the players around him in a position to make plays without making critical mistakes in critical moments. You don’t necessary need the backup quarterback to make big plays but they need to be able to move the offense down the field.  Leinart, Wallace, Quinn and Thigpen all have been career backups and have shown spurts where they have been able to move the ball downfield, none have done it at a consistent level, which is why all four are looking for a job as a backup.

Sep 11, 2011; Kansas City, MO, USA; Buffalo Bills quarterback Tyler Thigpen (4) warms up before the game with the Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports

In Quinn and Leinart you get two quarterbacks who can stand in the pocket and deleiver the ball to receivers in a west coast timing offense when the running game is clicking forcing the linebackers to cheat up, creating passing lanes underneath.  In Thigpen and Wallace you get very much the same just an extra element. Thigpen and Wallace both can get out of the pocket and make plays with their legs, neither is as crafty as Russell Wilson but the threat to run the read option is there with them, while Quinn and Leinart are not able to do so.

Who gets the job at quarterback then? My guess is as good as any but I’d think Tyler Thigpen is the most likely to sign.  Seattle’s offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell spent time with Thigpen in Minnesota before Thigpen was cut and picked up by the Chiefs in 2007, his rookie year. Thigpen while with the Chiefs was able to run for 386 yards, and 3 touchdowns while averaging 6.2 yards per rush.  Thigpen is a talented passer too who is able to throw the ball downfield and find open receivers. Don’t expect him to go out and make the plays we often see from Wilson, but expect him to be able to run the same offense.  Leinart, Quinn, and Wallace could all be possibilities but the fact that Thigpen is only 28 and quicker on his feet than the rest I expect him to get the nod on Monday.

Aug 30, 2012; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Seahawks quarterback Josh Portis (2) throws a pass against the Oakland Raiders at CenturyLink Field. The Seahawks defeated the Raiders 21-3. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee/Image of Sport-USA TODAY Sports

Seattle made another roster move Thursday night signing former quarterback Josh Portis. Seattle signed Portis to be the 3^rd string Quarterback in 2011 backup Tavaris Jackson and Charlie Whitehurst.  Portis then served on the practice squad last season before being let go later in the season. With the trade of Matt Flynn Seattle needed another quarterback who knew the system and decided to go with Portis.

Is Portis the quarterback Seattle feels can be the primary backup to Russell Wilson? I believe the answer is no. Portis shares many of the same skills that Wilson does, he is mobile, he can throw the ball down field and he can avoid pressure. Portis was a highly recruited Quarterback coming out of High School he attended Florida for a year before transferring to Maryland due to a lack of playing time. He was later suspended for the 2007 season due to cheating on an exam. Portis later transferred to California (PA). The fact that he was not able to find stability with a coaching staff his entire college career is concerning to me.

The problem I have with Josh Portis is he is not a great thrower in 2011 he played in three preseason games and failed to complete 50 percent of his passes coming out at an pedestrian 41.7  percent. The guy is simply not a great passer at this point and with Seattle aiming for a super bowl this year they need a backup quarterback who can move the offense. I believe if Portis gets thrown into a game that matters he will falter.

I really do like Portis as quarterback to develop for another year and see if he progresses, but the fact that Seattle was not willing to carry him on the practice squad for the entire year and another team did not take a chance on him is telling. I fully expect Seattle to sign another veteran quarterback such as Thigpen or Leinart and maybe draft a young quarterback too. Seattle needs a veteran quarterback with experience during Matt Hasselbeck’s tenure in Seattle his backups included Trent Dilfer, Brock Huard, Seneca Wallace, and Charlie Fry all Quarterbacks who had experience under their belt.

January 24, 2013; Honolulu, HI, USA; NFC quarterback Russell Wilson of the Seattle Seahawks (3) claps during practice for the 2013 Pro Bowl at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

Given that outside of the Matt Flynn trade it’s pretty quiet around here, I thought I would embark on something of a thought experiment to help pass the time. It’s often said that, “every man has his price” and that saying got me thinking, what is Russell Wilson’s price? More specifically, what price would the Seahawks accept to part with Russell Wilson? Not that I would want him to leave, I’m just curious if it would be even remotely possible to trade for him. Wilson is immensely valuable because he is 24, he costs nothing, and he is already a top 10 quarterback in the NFL. I can’t recall when an asset of that caliber has ever been made available which is what makes it such an interesting thought experiment (at least as far as I’m concerned).

The first place to start would be what the Redskins paid for the 2^nd overall pick in the 2012 draft that they knew was going to be Robert Griffin III. In order to obtain that pick, the Redskins traded the Rams the 6^th overall pick and 38^th overall pick in 2012 as well as first round picks in 2013 and 2014. That’s quite the bounty and an interesting starting point but there is absolutely no way Schneider would trade Wilson for a similar package.

Although RGIII was clearly something special, at the time of that trade he had never taken a snap in the NFL let alone performed at an elite level. Russell Wilson has performed at an elite level in the NFL and even won a playoff game in his rookie season. How much more value does Wilson have now than Griffin ? I’d say to start you could add two second round picks to the mix to make it an even three 1^st  rounders and 2^nd rounders. John Schneider is now listening but he’s not really paying attention. So a quarterback desperate team decides they’ll do one more year of forking over their high draft picks, now is trading Wilson worth thinking about? Now we’re talking about four 1st rounders and four 2^nd rounders.  Is that enough?

Given that an unprecedented draft bounty is being discussed, the Seahawks would have to seriously consider it. Russell Wilson is a franchise player but with that many picks Seattle could create a dynasty. The problem is that they are going for it this year and as a result need some kind of quarterback in return. Pete Carroll believes in the point-guard role player quarterback so conceivably that he wouldn’t think this fictional quarterback needs to be particularly good for his team to succeed, merely good enough.  If we look at teams drafting near the top of the draft we can put together these ridiculous hypothetical packages including quarterbacks that might be able to manage games for the 2013 Seahawks, in Pete Carrolls view.

#1: Jaguars offer 2^nd overall and 33^rd overall picks in 2013 and 1^st and 2^nd round picks in 2014,2015 and 2016 as well as QB Chad Henne or Blaine Gabbert.

This is an interesting thought because the picks this year are so high but neither quarterbacks are good enough that the Seahawks could be confident in winning in 2013, unless Carroll somehow unleashed Gabbert’s latent potential. However, if Schneider didn’t think Henne or Gabbert was the answer he could draft Geno Smith 2^nd overall. If you really liked Geno Smith then this deal would be worth considering, but it is such a monumental risk for both sides that of course it would never happen.

#2: Bills offer 8^th overall and 41^st overall picks in 2013 and 1^st and 2^nd round picks in 2014, 2015 and 2016 as well as QB Tarvaris Jackson.

The picks aren’t nearly as good but there is familiarity with Jackson who could likely win with this Seahawks team behind them. The likely inability to get Geno Smith as well as Buffalo’s potential to make a quick turnaround with a quality quarterback and make the future picks less desirable makes this a no-go for John Schneider. If you squinted hard enough (like dangerously hard) you could see the Bills making this offer given their desperation to bring Ralph Wilson a Super Bowl.

#3 Jets offer 9^th and 39^th overall picks in 2013 and 1^st and 2^nd round picks in 2014, 2015, and 2016 as well as QB Mark Sanchez

Very similar to the Bills deal, and including another QB that Pete Carroll is familiar with in Mark Sanchez. Sanchez is likely worse than Jackson, and while you could argue he has more upside, I wouldn’t. Schneider says no and I don’t think the Jets could get away with attempting something this bold in that market.

No other teams in the top 10 fit the criteria for creating such a package: Browns (no 2^nd round pick in 2013), Eagles (have both Michael Vick and Nick Foles), Lions (Matt Stafford), Chiefs (traded for Alex Smith), Raiders (traded for Matt Flynn), Cardinals (traded for Carson Palmer), and Titans (giving Jake Locker a chance).

All in all what we’ve learned here is probably nothing. It’s pretty clear that Russell Wilson is not on the trading block, nor should he be. What I find interesting is that even the starting place for this hypothetical is fairly ridiculous. Trading for Wilson would require the kind of bounty no team would be willing to give because it would be betting it all on one player who could get injured or regress. With that in mind, it seems clear that Wilson is an illiquid asset. It’s kind of cool to think that the Seahawks’ franchise player is so talented and such a good contract value that you actually could not trade him. A counter intuitive thought that is also comforting somehow. Not that it takes a 1,000 words for Seahawks fans to know that the team is in good hands at quarterback. To conclude I will do what Russell Wilson would do and simply say “Go Hawks.”

Used with Permission. Credit: @NFL_Stats and @sports_pics1 (from twitter)

We already know Russell Wilson is awesome. I have nothing to add or say on the subject. I just wanted to pass along a very awesome pic of our very awesome quarterback.

Check out the other work from the creator of this image by checking out his tweets: Sports_Pics1. And while you’re at it, don’t forget to follow is main account: NFL_Stats.

Possible free agent quarterbacks Seattle could add includes Tyler Thigpen, Vince Young, Seneca Wallace, Matt Leinart, Kevin Kolb, Rex Grossman and if cut by Oakland, Carson Palmer could be a target for Seattle.

I see Thigpen, Leinart, and Young as the most likely being targeted by Seattle.  Leinart played under Seattle Head Coach Pete Carroll while Carroll was at USC, and Leinart was the starting Quarterback. Seattle targeted Leinart in during the 2010 off-season when they acquired Tavaris Jackson, but Leinart chose to stay with Houston.

Leinart has an 8-10 record as a starter, and spent most of his career in Arizona but was cut after failing to beat out veterans Kurt Warner, and Derek Anderson during his time there. He is smart, accurate and able to control an offense. He lacks a big arm, and is unable to move well behind the line of scrimmage to make plays with his legs. Leinart would come cheap, and is a player who will not lose you many games, the downside is he will not be able to run the option, or be a threat doing so, and he will not make many big plays with his arm either.  I could see Leinart coming to Seattle but I would think Carroll would want someone a little more mobile to run the offense if needed.

Aug 30, 2012; Detroit, MI, USA; Buffalo Bills quarterback Tyler Thigpen (4) makes a pass against the Detroit Lions during the third quarter of a preseason game at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports

Tyler Thigpen is an interesting option he was the first NFL Quarterback to run the current zone-read pistol college style offense during his time with the Chiefs. In 2008 he started 9 games, threw for 18 touchdowns, and ran for nearly 400 yards.  Despite racking up some nice stats he was unable to win many games going 1-10 as the starter. Despite a poor record he was able to move the offense, and would be able to run the zone-read option with success.

Thigpen also spent time with current Seattle Seahawk offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell during the 2007 off-season while both were in Minnesota. Thigpen was however put on waivers and claimed by the Chiefs before Minnesota could stash him on the practice squad. Thigpen’s poor record as a starter could scare Seattle away but his physical abilities would be appealing to Seattle.

The Quarterback I find the best fit on the market, but probably not a player Seattle is likely to sign is former Seattle Seahawk Seneca Wallace. Wallace spent 2003-2008 as the backup to Matt Hasselbeck during his time with Seattle, before being traded to the Cleveland Browns.  Wallace shares many of the same attributes as Russell Wilson, in skill set and size.  Both are quicker than fast, undersized, and can stretch the field with their arm.

Wallace was always able to come and move the offense while taking over for Matt Hasselbeck, but was never able to play at a consistent level over a long stretch of games. This has led to him being a career backup and he spent the last year completely out of the league. Wallace like Wilson stands under six-feet tall, and is able to make plays with the pocket brings down and would any play in the Seattle playbook. The problem is would Carroll bring back a player he traded when he came here? Would Wallace want to come back to a coach who did not want him? I think Wallace would love to take any job, but not sure if Carroll sees Wallace as his backup.

July 27, 2012; Pittsford, NY, USA; Buffalo Bills quarterback Vince Young (10) on the field during a training camp practice at St. John Fisher College. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-USA TODAY Sports

I see these three veterans as the best fit for Seattle’s offense, other veterans such as Rex Grossman, and Vince Young could be explored. Grossman and Young do have winning record as starters in this league, Grossman however has been very inconsistent and Young is a time bomb waiting to happen with an explosive attitude. His skill set however could make Carroll give him a shot that and a 31-19 record as a starter. While I see it possible and close to plausible I feel his attitude is to much of a threat for Carroll to take a chance.

Whoever the backup is, I don’t see him actually getting any playing time. Wilson has always been able to move around to avoid big hits, and is a smart quarterback who takes care of himself.

This year’s cover athlete is being decided by a fan vote in an NCAA tournament-style bracket. The voting has reached the elite-8 and our very own Russell Wilson is still in it. You can see the remaining bracket below, or there’s also the entire bracket.

If you want to vote, you can do so HERE.

I find it interesting that Seahawks fans seem to be debating on whether or not they want Wilson to win. Being on the Madden cover is great exposure for the player and team. It also has a chance of helping Wilson end up with many lucrative endorsement deals. That might, in turn, lower his asking price in a few years when it’s time to finally pay him what a franchise QB should be paid.

On the other hand, there is that mythical “Madden Curse.” Personally I think that Adrian Peterson and Calvin Johnson have shown that to be false, but then again I’m also the least superstitious person you’re likely to ever find. There are still people who swear it’s true, and I don’t care enough to argue.

August 18 2012; Denver, CO, USA; Seattle Seahawks quarterback Matt Flynn (15) in the second quarter of a preseason game against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

When it became clear that Matt Flynn was on the trading block I must confess I had mixed feelings. I like Flynn and I feel for him because things probably didn’t work out exactly as he planned last year through no fault of his own. The ascendance of Russell Wilson was something that very few predicted and Flynn had done nothing to lose his perch atop the Seahawks depth chart except be in competition with a truly special player. I hope he gets an opportunity to start because I think he’s among the 32 best QB’s in the league and deserves a shot. Additionally the return the Seahawks stand to gain in terms of draft picks and salary cap relief is going to be very useful, both for resigning a guy like Kam Chancellor and restocking the roster with quality depth. I understand and agree with the rationale behind dealing Flynn but the eternal pessimist in me really would like an elite Russell Wilson insurance policy in a year where the Seahawks are really going for it. That said, although it looks like the Raiders, Jaguars, and Bills are the front runners for Flynn, rumors of his departure got me thinking of just how many teams Matt Flynn could start for at this moment in time. I’m a guy who likes to base his theories on statistics and to be honest there aren’t a ton of statistics on Flynn so this is more subjective than I’d like, but it’s just a fun thought experiment.  Quarterback depth charts aren’t finished yet but there isn’t a star QB in the draft that I’m convinced would be better than Flynn anyway.  So let’s take a look at just how many teams Mr. Flynn could start for in today’s NFL:

AFC EAST

Buffalo Bills

#1 QB: Tavaris Jackson

Is Flynn an upgrade? Yes. The Seahawks brought in Flynn as an upgrade over Jackson just a year ago and Buffalo seems to be gunning for Flynn so this one is pretty easy.

New York Jets

#1 QB: Mark Sanchez

Is Flynn an upgrade? Yes. Mark Sanchez is awful. Sanchez has completed 55.1% of his passes in his career with more interceptions than touchdowns. Flynn may be something of an unknown quantity but I know he’s better than Sanchez.

Miami Dolphins

#1 QB: Ryan Tannehill

Is Flynn an upgrade? Maybe, but I’ll go with no. Tannehill showed a great deal of potential as a rookie last year and could be poised for a breakout. With the kind of seasons RGIII, Andrew Luck and Russell Wilson had last year people seem to forget that quarterbacks often take a while to develop.

New England Patriots

#1 QB: Tom Brady

Is Flynn an upgrade? No. Just no.

AFC North

Pittsburgh Steelers

#1 QB: Ben Roethlisberger

Is Flynn an upgrade? Definitely not. Two rings and underrated statistics place Roethlisberger among the elite quarterbacks in the NFL.

Baltimore Ravens

#1 QB: Joe Flacco

Is Flynn an upgrade? No. You’d hope not for Baltimore’s sake given what they are paying Flacco.

Cincinnati Bengals

#1 QB: Andy Dalton

Is Flynn an upgrade? No. Dalton is no superstar but he’s a good quarterback, not one you would be looking to replace.

Cleveland Browns

Top QB on the Depth Chart: Brandon Weeden

Is Flynn an upgrade? I’d say yes. Weeden may only be a sophomore but he’s two years older than Flynn so it’s not as if there is a ton to dream on in terms of his development. I doubt the Cleveland front office would agree, but I just can’t see Weeden as a franchise player.

AFC SOUTH

Houston Texans

#1 QB: Matt Schaub

Is Flynn an upgrade? No. Schaub is getting a great deal of flak with Houston’s failure to go deep in the playoffs the last two years but he remains a solid starting quarterback.

Indianapolis Colts

#1 QB: Andrew Luck

Is Flynn an upgrade? No. I would like to say here that Andrew Luck’s rookie year has been heavily overrated. He put up enormous yards because the Colts threw so much and he had difficulty with accuracy and avoiding turnovers. Not to say he doesn’t have an incredibly bright future ahead of him because he does, I guess that’s just a little bit of Russell Wilson fan rant that needed to come out. No one would rather have Matt Flynn than Andrew Luck though.

Jacksonville Jaguars

#1 QB: Chad Henne/Blaine Gabbert (?)

Is Flynn an upgrade? Yes. Very much so. This is where I suspect he winds up for a reunion with Gus Bradley. It’s funny how that is a storyline people have mentioned when Flynn was the backup QB and Bradley was the defensive coordinator, I wonder to what extend they know each other…

Tennessee Titans

#1 QB: Jake Locker

Is Flynn an upgrade? This is a tough one. I think in all likelihood Flynn is an upgrade on Locker who is probably a bust. However, Locker is only 25 and has only started 11 games in his career and you have to think Locker deserves a little more time to show he belongs. Verdict: Reluctant no.

AFC WEST

Denver Broncos

#1 QB: Peyton Manning

Is Flynn an upgrade? No.

San Diego Chargers

#1 QB: Phillip Rivers

Is Flynn an upgrade? Two years ago this question would have been a joke. Now I have to pause for a second but Rivers still deserves a chance to regain his elite form and hasn’t been as bad over the last two years as people think. (Passer Ratings of 88.7 and 88.6 just to give you an idea)

Kansas City Chiefs

#1 QB: Alex Smith

Is Flynn an upgrade? The Chiefs must not think so because they paid far more for Smith than Flynn is going to cost. Smith is better but Flynn will most likely be a better value.

Oakland Raiders

#1 QB: Carson Palmer (for now)

Is Flynn an upgrade? Sadly yes. I remember when Palmer was an elite quarterback but those days are deep in the past. Palmer has been a huge disappointment in Oakland, especially given the price they paid for him. Oakland is in the running for Flynn and I’d assume Palmer would get cut if the Raiders grab Flynn. It would be funny if we then signed Palmer as a backup but I’m getting ahead of myself.

NFC EAST

New York Giants

#1 QB: Eli Manning

Is Flynn an upgrade? No, personally I despise Manning but there is no way for me to realistically claim Flynn is the better player

Washington Redskins

#1 QB: RGIII

Is Flynn an upgrade? Easy no.

Dallas Cowboys

#1 QB: Tony Romo

Is Flynn an upgrade? No. Romo is a really good quarterback who seems one of the best in the sport at attracting undeserved criticism. Thanks for that playoff win though, Tony.

Philadelphia Eagles

#1 QB: Mike Vick

Is Flynn an upgrade? I’m going to say yes here. Vick is getting old and breaking down. He was an absolute mess last year and only demonstrated the ability to be an above average passer once, in 2010.

NFC NORTH

Green Bay Packers

#1 QB: Aaron Rodgers

Is Flynn an upgrade? Another quick no.

Detroit Lions

#1 QB: Matt Stafford

Is Flynn an upgrade? Stafford and the Lions had a nasty year in 2012 but this is a very easy no.

Chicago Bears

#1 QB: Jay Cutler

Is Flynn an upgrade? No. There are many dislikable things about Jay Cutler but he is a good player with a terrible supporting cast and has been for years. For some reason the Bears just can’t provide him with any pass protection (hands up if you think Jermaine Bushrod is the answer).

Minnesota Vikings

#1 QB: Christian Ponder

Is Flynn an upgrade? Maybe. This is another tough one. Despite Percy Harvin’s opinion of him Ponder is young and improving and so I don’t think I could describe Flynn as a definite upgrade.

NFC SOUTH

New Orleans Saints

#1 QB: Drew Brees

Is Flynn an upgrade? No. no. no.

Carolina Panthers

#1 QB: Cam Newton

Is Flynn an upgrade? Newton has some serious detractors but one would have to say no here.

Atlanta Falcons

#1 QB: Matt Ryan

Is Flynn an upgrade? Nope.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

#1 QB: Josh Freeman

Is Flynn an upgrade? It’s possible but Freeman still has upside remaining at 25 and if the accuracy that abandoned him last year returns he will go back to being a solid starter. Tentative no.

NFC WEST

San Francisco 49ers

#1 QB: Colin Kaepernick

Is Flynn an upgrade? Not likely

St. Louis Rams

#1 QB: Sam Bradford

Is Flynn an upgrade? First truly bold call… Yes. Bradford turns 26 this year and has only shown marginal growth as a quarterback in his three years in the league.

Arizona Cardinals

#1 QB Drew Stanton

Is Flynn an upgrade? Yes. Stanton hasn’t played a great deal more than Flynn and when he has he’s been much worse. Stanton is also a year older.

People often say things like, “Player X  could start for X number of teams” (they usually use real players and numbers to be fair) but they rarely back it up. This used to come up quite a bit with Maurice Morris when he was backing up Shaun Alexander. I figured I would actually take a look exactly how many teams I figure Flynn could start for, and based on this highly subjective analysis I’d say that he would be an upgrade at quarterback for eight teams. That’s a quarter of the NFL. Flynn is a real asset, and as much as it would be nice to keep him around he’s a luxury considering he could really be a starter elsewhere. I look forward to seeing what kind of return the Seahawks could get for someone who is quite clearly among the top 32 quarterbacks in the league. 

Russell Wilson is Awesome!

Jan 13, 2013; Atlanta, GA, USA; Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson (3) carries the ball for a touchdown during the fourth quarter against the Atlanta Falcons in the NFC divisional playoff game at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

In case you couldn’t tell from my crazy-long thesis on Breno Giacomini a couple days ago, I’m a data driven individual. Even when I’m not working on an article for 12thMR, I still find myself looking over NFL and Seahawks related data just for the fun of it.

Yesterday, I started looking at some Russell Wilson stats, and then comparing those to the other NFL QBs and discovered something interesting: The numbers show that he played as well last season as it seemed he did.  That isn’t always the case, but it definitely is here.

So lets take a look at some of the stats that are out for evaluating QBs. Data comes from Pro Football Focus, STATS LLC, and ESPN.

Overall QB Rating

Before we break it down into some of the individual pieces that make up QB play, lets start by looking at a few of the different meta-stats that measure QB play.

QB Rating: 100.0 – 5th Best in the NFL

PFF QB Rating: 98.32 – 4th Best in the NFL

PFF Performance Ratings: + 39.4 – 5th Best in the NFL

Total QBR: 69.6 – 8th Best in the NFL

Accuracy

Completion percentage the common metric for gaging accuracy, but it doesn’t account for things like spiked passes, balls thrown away, dropped balls, etc.. That  makes it an incomplete measure of how true QB accuracy.

Adjusting for these factors, Wilson’s accuracy percentage from 2012 comes out to be 77.1%, which was the 4th best in the NFL.

The numbers also look good when you look just at deep passes (pass where the target is at least 20 yards downfield). In Those cases, his accuracy percent is 48.4%, which was 5th best in the NFL

Under Pressure

Only one QB in the NFL (Mike Vick) was under pressure often often than Wilson when dropping back to pass. Wilson was under pressure on 39.2% of his pass attempts. This had as much to do with his holding onto the ball too long as it did the offensive line, but more on that in a minute.

NFL QBs have to be able to handle pressure and still perform. Wilson had no problem in this area. When under pressure, his accuracy percentage was still 66.0%, which was 5th best in the NFL.

Red Zone

To be truly successful in the NFL, a QB can’t just be able to complete passes between the 20′s. He must be able to also do so inside the redzone where the defenses get more compact and the passing windows get smaller. Failure to do so means getting FGs instead of TDs, which usually translates to winning less games.

Inside the 20, Wilson’s QB Rating was 107.5, which was 3rd best then NFL. Inside the 10 yard line it drops down a little to 100.0, which is still 6th best in the NFL.

4th Quarter

I’m not really into 4th quarter come backs as a measure for QBs. There’s too many examples of players who don’t play well early in the game, forcing the 4th quarter situation. I don’t think we should give people credit for surviving a situation that they created by playing poorly. I also know that many people don’t agree with me. So lets take a look anyways.

Wilson’s 4th quarter QB Rating was 102.7, which was 5th best in the NFL. I really wish that PFF and total QBR splits like this were available, but they aren’t at this time.

Conclusion

All you have to do is look at all the bolded phases where his stats are compared to his NFL peers and you’ll know what I’m going to write here. We all knew Wilson was good last season, but has it really sunk in just how well he played? I’m not sure it has.

Also keep in mind that the first 3 and half games were fairly brutal. Wilson showed flashes of what was to come, but he also showed that he was a rookie and the numbers were pretty bad. I remember looking at PFF’s performance ratings after 3 games and seeing Wilson sitting at 31st in the league, just above Blaine Gabbert.

This is significant because it shows that over the final 12 games, he played better than any of the stats listed above. The stats from those final 12 games are being “weighted down” by the first 4, and yet his final numbers are still among the league’s best. If only the stats were available over just the final 8 or 12 games, I’m guessing Wilson would be even higher in the rankings in every category.

Russell Wilson is very good. You heard it here first.

January 25, 2013; Ko Olina, HI, USA; Hawaiian hostesses Aureana Tseu (far left) and U

The Seattle Seahawks have stolen the stage during the offseason by signing Cliff Avril, Michael Bennett, and trading for wide receiver Percy Harvin. Seattle added these three players to an already lethal squad that includes Earl Thomas, Richard Sherman, Sidney Rice, Golden Tate, Zach Miller, and of course Russell Wilson. Seattle finished the 2012-2013 season in a gut wrenching loss to the Atlanta Falcons, losing a slim lead in the last 30-seconds to a Matt Bryant field goal. A lot of hype is headed Seattle’s way after adding the trio, and some are calling them the team to beat for the 2013-2014 NFL Season.

The addition of Percy Harvin has made Seattle even better on offense. Harvin will give Seattle a much needed deep threat at the wide receiver position that they lacked during Pete Carroll’s three first years in Seattle. Harvin also gives Seattle another element in the zone-read option. He often lined up as running back during his time at Florida with Tim Tebow. Minnesota also used Harvin at running back on third down situations.  The addition of Harvin also takes pressure off of Sidney Rice, and Golden Tate, and will give Russell Wilson another weapon who will haul in a lot of receptions, and be able to gain yards after the catch, much like Golden Tate was able to last year.

On the defensive side of the ball Seattle has added defensive end Cliff Avril, and Michael Bennett who can play tackle and defensive end much like Jason Jones was able to do last year for Seattle. These two combined for 18.5 sacks last year, add that to Seattle’s total of 36 last year that is a total of 54.5 sacks.  I find it hard to believe Seattle will be able to rack up that many total sacks, especially with Chris Clemons, who led the Seahawks in sacks last year with 11.5, is recovering from an ACL injury he suffered in the playoffs, and may not be ready for the 2013 NFL season. However it is not hard to believe with the growth of rookie defensive ends Bruce Irvin and Greg Scruggs that those two can’t add to their sack total. Irvin led all rookies with eight sacks, and fellow rookie Greg Scruggs totaled just two sacks in a very limited role. I expect both players to up their sack totals next year.  I see no reason Seattle can’t get at least 42 sacks which would put them in the top half of the league.

Jan 13, 2013; Atlanta, GA, USA; Seattle Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll talks to Russell Wilson (3) against the Atlanta Falcons during the second quarter in the NFC divisional playoff game at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

In the latter part of the 2012 season Seattle arguably played better than any other team in the league. They dominated on offense and defense, and showed little overall weakness. A slow start in the playoff game against the Falcons led to the end of the season for Seattle, despite outscoring Atlanta 28 to 10 in the second half. Seattle is now one of the most complete teams in the NFL, with two deep threats at wide receiver, one of the best running backs in the league, and a young roster. Seattle is bringing back every starter on offense, and nine of eleven starters on defense. It is logical to think this team is only going to be better.

Some fans are calling this team the “Dream Team.” Is it true? Is Seattle the best team in the league, and the team everybody else does not want to play? Is Seattle the most talented team in the entire league? My quick answer to all three of these questions is simply, yes. I am, however, scared of a team that originally dubbed themselves the “Dream Team” (something no Seattle player has done, which I am very thankful for). The team I am speaking of is the 2011 Philadelphia Eagles.

The Eagles, like the Seahawks, brought in big-name players to a team that went 10-6 the year before, and had one of the most lethal quarterbacks in the NFL in Michael Vick. They had a seasoned coach in Andy Reid.

The Eagles decided to add to an already potent roster and brought in All-Pro corner back Nnamdi Asomogha, former Pro Bowl defensive end Jason Babin and veteran defensive tackle Cullen Jenkins. Philadelphia also added former first round picks Ronnie Brown and Vince Young. The talented roster, along with these new additions, formed what was supposed to be the “Dream Team,” as Vince Young famously called them.

What happened to this so called Dream Team? A 11-5 NFL football team, ended up going 8-8. Poor coaching and management of the team by Andy Reid is the simple answer. Andy Reid made the mistake of hiring Juan Castillo, who coached the offensive line, to become his defensive coordinator. I failed to see the logic in this at the time and still do.

Dec 18, 2011; Philadelphia, PA, USA;Philadelphia Eagles defensive coordinator Juan Castillo during warmups prior to playing the New York Jets at Lincoln Financial Field. The Eagles defeated the Jets 45-19. Mandatory Credit: Howard Smith-USA TODAY Sports

Reid also tried to buy himself a championship team, something you can’t do in the NFL He added a lot of high priced guys who did not fit with his or his staff’s system. Injuries to Michael Vick also led to the demise of the Eagles’ season but that should also be blamed on Reid. He failed to give his franchise quarterback a stable offensive line to protect him. I highly doubt this fate will be Seattle’s. The Seahawks go into 2013 with the same coaching staff besides defensive coordinator Gus Bradley, who became the head coach in Jacksonville. Pete Carroll replaced him with Florida defensive coordinator Dan Quinn, who worked as Seattle’s defensive line coach from 2009-2010.  As long as Seattle stays with the system they have run under Carroll, I see no reason why the defense should suffer with the arrivals of Avril, Bennett, and Dan Quinn.

The 2007 New England Patriots also used free agency to improve an already talented team who went 12-4 the year before. The result turned into a 16-0 regular season and a loss in the Super Bowl to the New York Giants.

The Patriots’ first move in the offseason before 2007 was trading for Miami Dolphins wide receiver Wes Welker, giving up a 2^nd and 7^th round draft pick to acquire the veteran pass catcher. The Patriots continued to boost a wide receiving group that lacked explosiveness and signed free agent wide receiver Donte Stallworth.  New England finished off by adding Randy Moss. The end result was a 16-0 season and both Brady and Moss shattered the touchdown record for their respected positions on the football field.  Moss was the biggest risk as many felt he played lazy and uninspired football during his stint with Oakland. Patriots Head Coach Bill Belichick was able to keep the talented wide receiver happy. All three wide receivers contributed greatly to the season. Moss finished the season with 98 receptions, 1493 yards, and 23 touchdowns. Welker had 112 receptions, 1175 yards, and 8 touchdowns. Donte Stallworth finished his season with 46 receptions, 697 yards, and three touchdowns.  Spending in free agency can work if you have a good coach, stability at the quarterback, and a solid franchise. The Patriots clearly had that. The Eagles, well they are still looking.

So will the Seahawk’s season end in flames like the Eagles’, or will it end in record breaking success like the Patriots. I feel somewhere in between. I do not believe Russell Wilson will throw for 50 touchdowns, or that Harvin will haul in 21 touchdown receptions, or even 112 receptions. The team is too balanced for that to happen. Nor do I believe they will go 16-0 at the moment. I do believe, however, they can achieve something the 2007 New England Patriots were not able to, and that is a Super Bowl. I do believe this Seattle team is the Dream Team and team to beat for the 2013 NFL season.

Jan 6, 2013; Landover, MD, USA; Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson (3) celebrates as he leaves the field after the game against the Washington Redskins in the NFC Wild Card playoff game at FedEx Field. The Seahawks won 24-14. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

Russell Wilson was cut a nice little check today by the league office for $222,000. That might be pocket change for some NFL QBs, but it’s more than half what his salary for 2012 was, so I’m guessing he’s pretty happy about it.

Why the extra moola? It came from the rookie pay for performance pool.

The pay for performance pool was created in 2011 with the new CBA. Since rookie contracts were greatly restricted and their ability to renegotiate was eliminated, the league created this pool to help pay players who greatly out-performed their contract level.

The rookie pool money comes directly from the league office, and doesn’t not count against the salary cap in any way.

Let’s face it, if there was any rookie who out-performed their contract, it was Wilson.

I suggest he use a small portion of it to buy a really comfy chair for the film room. We all know he practically lives in there, he might as well have some back support.