Could Russell Wilson be an option for Washington in 2022?

Russell Wilson wants to “explore his options” this offseason. He’s under contract for two more seasons, but would Washington be a potential option if he demands a trade?

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On Saturday, news broke of Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Derek Carr potentially being on the move in 2022 if there is a coaching change. We speculated on if Carr was a possible fit for Washington.

On Sunday, Ian Rapoport reported another veteran quarterback wanted to “explore his options” this offseason. That quarterback is Russell Wilson of the Seattle Seahawks.

So, if Washington should do everything in its power to go after Carr if he’s available, that statement also stands true for Wilson. Wilson should absolutely be Washington’s top priority in the 2022 offseason if both are somehow available.

Much like Carr, how attractive is Washington as a destination with a quarterback who will have plenty of options like Wilson?

There has already been smoke this offseason about a potential fit between the Saints and Wilson. That makes too much sense. Wilson playing for Sean Payton would be the perfect pairing and instantly make the Saints a contender again.

Wilson, 33, is from Richmond, Virginia, an eight-time Pro Bowler and a Super Bowl champion. He had a tough season in 2021, as he battled a finger injury that seemed to linger for him, impacting his accuracy at times.

I don’t see why Seattle would move him. But perhaps Wilson wants a change of scenery after 10 years with the Seahawks. It will cost a lot if he is moved — in trade compensation and salary. The salary isn’t an issue for Washington, as the team has plenty of cap room, and owner Dan Snyder would give up virtually anything to pay a top-flight passer such as Wilson.

I wouldn’t count on Wilson wanting to play in Washington if he does want out of Seattle. But that shouldn’t stop Ron Rivera and Martin Mayhew from pursuing him. A quarterback such as Wilson also makes Washington an immediate threat in the NFC.

Seattle has Wilson under contract for two more years, so the Seahawks hold all of the cards here even if Wilson demands a trade.