Last week, ESPN's John Clayton hopped on Seattle radio and confidently declared Seahawks quarterback Matt Hasselbeck would not be back, and Tarvaris Jackson would be the starter in 2011. The assertion raised some eyebrows, and rightfully so. However, the Jackson to Seattle rumors does have a basis in reality, and makes sense on multiple levels -- enough that the local media has picked it up and ran with it.
Jackson knows new Seahawks offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell from their time with the Minnesota Vikings. The relationship, and Jackson's knowledge of the playbook, could make the Seahawks offensive transition smoother. With only a small amount of time to learn the playbook, Seattle is at a distinct disadvantage, and Jackson would have an immediate leg-up on the competition.
CBS Sports Draft analyst Rob Rang is sold on Jackson as the Seahawks starter, telling KJR he believes Jackson will beat-out Charlie Whitehurst for the starting job earlier this afternoon. That alone isn't surprising -- Jackson knows the offense, has the athleticism Seattle desires and would seem to have more raw ability that Whitehurst. But Rang, who always delivers solid scouting analysis, took it a step further, saying Jackson has the potential to be a Pro Bowl level quarterback.
While Jackson doesn't exactly inspire confidence, and has yet to perform on a consistent basis, he could have a chance to succeed in Seattle. The Seahawks' options at quarterback are wide-open, and Jackson would be the immediate front-runner for the starting job, if Seattle does pull the trigger and sign him. The options are aplenty, including Jackson, Whitehurst, the return of Matt Hasselbeck or a trade, and the Seahawks have a big decision to make as free agency opens.
For the latest on free agency, including players to watch and Seahawks transactions, stay with this StoryStream. For full coverage of the Seahawks free agency moves, head over to Field Gulls.