Seahawks Consider Trade of Riq Woolen to Lions
The Seattle Seahawks find themselves in a surprising position as the Nov. 4 trade deadline approaches. Typically, a team boasting a 5-2 record and Super Bowl aspirations would not be in a selling mode. However, the potential trade of talented cornerback Riq Woolen has sparked significant discussion, particularly with the Detroit Lions emerging as a leading candidate.
As reports circulate, ESPN has estimated a “50% chance” that Woolen could be moved, creating a buzz among fans and analysts alike. The Lions, currently dealing with a string of injuries in their secondary, have been identified as a team that is particularly eager to bolster their defensive lineup. Bleacher Report has pointed to the Lions, along with the Baltimore Ravens, Indianapolis Colts, and Los Angeles Rams, as possible trade partners for the Seahawks.
Lions’ Need for Cornerback Depth
The Lions are in a precarious situation, having relied heavily on backup players in their defensive backfield during Week 7. This need for added depth makes them a sensible fit for Woolen, especially considering that they are not direct rivals within the same division as the Seahawks. In contrast, trading Woolen to the Rams, a fellow NFC West team, seems highly unlikely given the competitive nature of the division.
Analysts have noted that Woolen’s fit within the Seahawks’ current defensive scheme has been a topic of discussion. An NFL executive commented that, “They’ve been wanting to move him for a while. He doesn’t fit what [defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald] wants to do.” This sentiment suggests that parting ways with Woolen could be a strategic decision for the Seahawks.
Woolen’s Performance History
Woolen had a standout rookie season in 2022, recording six interceptions and establishing himself as a promising young talent. However, his performance has since fluctuated. This season began on a rough note, with a game-defining touchdown allowed in the opening week against the San Francisco 49ers. Despite these early struggles, Woolen has shown improvement, particularly in recent games, especially with injuries impacting fellow defensive backs Devon Witherspoon and Julian Love.
As the deadline nears, the Seahawks will need to weigh their options carefully. The prospect of trading a player with Woolen’s potential could carry significant implications for both the team’s immediate future and their long-term strategy. The evolving narrative around Woolen underscores the dynamic nature of the NFL trade landscape, where a team’s fortunes can shift with the click of a transaction.
