Reading between the lines on the latest Matt Flynn buzz
Feb 21, 2013, 5:22 PM | Updated: 5:27 pm
By Brady Henderson
Seahawks general manager John Schneider reiterated Thursday what he told 710 ESPN Seattle last month: the Seahawks are willing – but not determined – to trade backup quarterback Matt Flynn.
Matt Flynn |
Schneider, speaking with reporters from the scouting combine in Indianapolis, did his best to convey that the Seahawks would have the leverage in any trade talks involving Flynn.
First, there was the subject of Flynn’s ability, which some might question after he failed to beat out rookie third-round pick Russell Wilson in an offseason competition. The Seahawks have maintained that Wilson won the job more so than Flynn lost it. Schneider again suggested that was the case.
“I feel very blessed that we have two quarterbacks like this, two starting-caliber guys,” he said. “What happened last year didn’t really have a reflection on what Matt did, or Tarvaris [Jackson] for that matter. It was really what Russell did in terms of just kind of stepping forward and taking charge.”
There’s also the matter of Flynn’s contract, which calls for him to make $5.25 million in base salary next season. Some might consider that a prohibitive amount for a backup quarterback. Even if the Seahawks feel that way, they have no incentive to suggest that releasing Flynn is an option should they fail to find a trade partner. Doing so would only hurt the market for Flynn.
Schneider gave no indication that the team is unwilling to keep Flynn at his current salary.
“We have different models set up with our cap, and obviously we have a model that includes Matt – our primary model,” Schneider said.
Schneider said he hasn’t had a chance to sit down with other general managers to talk about a potential deal.
“As you guys well know, we’re always going to listen to everything and if we’re not doing that, we feel like we’re not doing our job,” he said. “That doesn’t necessarily mean that we will do something with Matt.”
Bob Stelton and Dave Grosby share additional thoughts on Schneider’s comments in the video below.
You can listen to Thursday’s show here.