Seattle Seahawks To Start Rookie Russell Wilson On Friday
Rookie quarterback Russell Wilson will open the upcoming preseason game for the Seattle Seahawks on Friday. The team announced the pre-season starting position after Russell impressed during the teams first two pre-season game of the 2012-2013 season.
Coach Pete Carroll informed free-agent starter Matt Flynn of the decision on Monday but chose to wait 24 hours before officially announcing the decision.
Wilson is expected to play at least most of the first half against the Kansas City Chiefs and could potentially see some second half first-team reps should he control the ball well during the start of play.
Matt Flynn was brought over from the Green Bay Packers and has proven to be a steady QB during the first several outings of the pre-season; however, Russell Wilson has been far more dynamic, although he has only had to prove himself against second-string defenders. Even so, team watchdogs note that Wilson has managed to throw some impressive passes even while under horrid pass protection from his offensive line. Russell has also managed to convert 54 percent of third-down possessions.
During the preseason, Wilson has racked up 22 of 33 passes for 279 yards while connecting for three TDs and one interception. The rookie QB has also demonstrated his willingness to leave the pocket by rushing for 92 yards.
In comparison, Matt Flynn is 17-of-26 with 102 yards, no touchdowns, and one interception.
The big question on coaches minds will be whether or not Russell Wilson can come out of the gate with the same intensity he has already shown. Starting an NFL game is far different than filling in on second-team, and that will be the challenge Russell Wilson will have to meet or exceed if he wants the regular season QB 1 position.
If the QB struggles but still shows potential, it could be a toss up in terms of who the Seahawks start in their final preseason game.
Matt Flynn is currently under the start of a 3-year, $26 million contract with the Seattle Seahawks.
