Russell Wilson has picked a side amid the ongoing contract dispute between Pro Bowl left tackle Duane Brown and the Seahawks’ front office.
Speaking to reporters from training camp on Sunday, Wilson maintained that the Seahawks “need” Brown.
“Not having Duane Brown out there is a pretty significant deal because I think he’s one of the best left tackles in the game, there’s no arguing it,” Wilson said. “I think he’s as good as it gets. There’s nobody more athletic, more talented than he is.”
Wilson’s comments mark the latest instance of the star quarterback butting heads with his organization. Earlier in the offseason, Wilson was rumored to want out of Seattle following an underwhelming playoff performance and a lack of say in the team’s personnel decisions.
Brown is entering the last year of his current contract, which will pay him $10 million in base salary with $1.35 million in bonuses. Last week, ESPN reported that Brown is not pleased that he has yet to receive a new contract.
The 14-year NFL veteran turns 36 later in August.
“Age is just a number,” Wilson said. “He looks like he’s 28-30 out there. He’s really exceptional. So smart and physical, understands the game, and I think people fear him, to be honest with you, when they’re rushing him and playing against him.”
The Seahawks open their season on Sept. 12 against the Colts, leaving just over a month for the two sides to come to an agreement.