Expectations for Russell Wilson

Rookie was the right choice over Matt Flynn. How far can he take Seattle?

Originally Published: August 27, 2012
By Matt Williamson | ESPN.com

Pete Carroll is a coach who loves competition among his players. And throughout the 2012 NFL preseason, no team has had more competition among its quarterbacks than the Seattle Seahawks. With last year's starter, Tarvaris Jackson, on the way out to Buffalo, the Seahawks' starting QB this year was either going to be third-round draft pick Russell Wilson or free-agent signing Matt Flynn.

After the big contract given to Flynn this offseason, most presumed that the competition Carroll was holding was simply to light a fire under Flynn and force him to win the job. Flynn would be the starter this year and Wilson the future No. 1. After Wilson's performance against Kansas City on Friday night, though, he was named the Week 1 starter Sunday night.

But just how good can Wilson be in Year 1 for a team with playoff hopes? What are realistic expectations for Wilson and how far can he lead the Seahawks?


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Matt Williamson

ESPN.com
  • Hosts "Football Today" podcast
  • Joined ESPN in 2005
  • Was an NFL and college scout for the Cleveland Browns

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