Wait… The Seahawks Traded Josh Wilson?

Like most fans in Seattle, I don’t quite understand why the Seahawks traded cornerback Josh Wilson. In my opinion, Josh Wilson has been the team’s most productive and impressive defensive back the past two seasons.

Wilson always seemed to be fighting for a starting job during his time spent in Seattle. Pitted against Kelly Jennings, Ken Lucas, and other defensive backs, he always managed to earn playing time and overcome any competition.

While he certainly isn’t an elite defensive back, Wilson is a very good football player. Not many Seahawks are untouchable, but to dump Wilson for a late-round draft pick seems absurd. No doubt the Baltimore Ravens are happy to acquire him for such a bargain price.

Maybe the team is looking to build a group of larger defensive backs. But Josh Wilson played more physical than most of Seattle’s defenders and overcame his physical limitations on the field. Wilson frequently showed off sub-4.4 speed and playmaking ability to make up for his lack of size.

The emergence of young prospects played a role in Wilson’s departure, but I still don’t like letting him walk for a fourth- or fifth-round draft pick.

Roy Lewis and Walter Thurmond have both looked impressive in training camp and exhibition games, and the team probably won’t carry more than four cornerbacks on the 53-man roster. Marcus Trufant is healthy again, and Kelly Jennings is playing good enough to start on the opposite side.

Josh Wilson may have been expendable because of Seattle’s depth at his position, but I have to believe the Seahawks could have demanded more than a late-round pick for him. Considering Baltimore’s reported interest, one would have to assume the Seahawks should have had leverage in any negotiations that took place.

Maybe I’m just overreacting. Maybe Josh Wilson isn’t as good as I think he is; a homer bias can quickly turn good players in great ones.

Either way, best of luck to Josh Wilson in Baltimore. The Ravens are getting a good player for close to nothing and Wilson returns to Maryland where he played college ball.

Everyone involved seems to be a winner – except the Seahawks.

Shaun Dolence: dolencesm@gmail.com
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