Just a week after trading superstar quarterback Russell Wilson to the Denver Broncos, the Seattle Seahawks organization released statements on Wednesday suggesting that Wilson was responsible for initiating the trade.
“While Russell made it clear he wanted this change, he made Seattle proud and we are grateful for his decade of leadership on and off the field,” Seahawks owner Jody Allen said in a statement. Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll reiterated Allen’s words, saying, “As Jody stated, Russ’ desire in doing something different afforded the organization an opportunity to compete in multiple ways.”
And in yet another statement, Seattle’s general manager John Schneider said that “it became evident that Russell was interested in playing elsewhere.”
In his introductory press conference with the Broncos, however, Wilson rejected the notion that he was the catalyst for the split.
“I didn’t initiate it,” Wilson said. “It was definitely mutual along the way. There has definitely been a lot of conversations. It hasn’t been my initiating anything. But it is what it is.”
Wilson added, “I’m happy to be here, that’s all I know. Obviously I’m happy about the 10 years I had. I think we’ll have to read about it later, we’ll have some fun in a book someday, maybe. We’ll have some good stories.”
Over the course of ten seasons in Seattle, Wilson led the Seahawks to two Super Bowl appearances, winning the Lombardi Trophy with a victory over the Broncos in Super Bowl XLVIII.
In exchange for the nine-time Pro-Bowler, the Seahawks are receiving quarterback Drew Lock, tight end Noah Fant, defensive lineman Shelby Harris, two first-round picks, two second-round picks, and a fifth-round pick. The Broncos will receive a fourth-round pick in addition to Wilson.
Related Stories
Winners & Losers: Russell Wilson Traded to the Broncos
Denver’s aggressive trade will have major ramifications. We broke down the winners and the losers of the deal that landed Russell Wilson with the Broncos.
Seattle Seahawks Trading Russell Wilson to Denver Broncos
The Seattle Seahawks are trading superstar quarterback Russell Wilson to the Denver Broncos after weeks of negotiations between the two teams.
Ciara and Russell Wilson Reportedly Walk Out of Super Bowl Party During Future's Performance
Ciara and Russell Wilson reportedly left Drake's Super Bowl performance on Saturday night because Ciara's ex Future was Drizzy's surprise performer.
