Seahawks QB Russell Wilson speaks about distractions

Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson spoke to the media Thursday afternoon. First, his evaluation of his performance last Sunday against Arizona, when he was 14-for-32 for 240 yards with one touchdown and one interception:

“Just a little bit off. I missed one to Doug [Baldwin], I missed one to Jimmy [Graham]. I just have to complete those passes, that’s what it comes down to.”

There were many questions asked this week about whether the distractions that came with the success of the past two seasons played a role in the Seahawks being 4-5. Here’s Wilson’s answer to whether his four-year, $87 million contract extension has been a distraction or created additional pressure:

“I don’t think so at all. People want to make it something else, but for me, I just love the game of football, I love working, I love coming to work, I love getting here early and leaving late. That’s what it’s all about and ultimately I love the guys on this football team. So nothing’s changed. I think the biggest thing is we just have to find ways to win and continue to find ways to capitalize on those opportunities when we have them — and we’ve had them. We’ve been close in all the games we’ve lost, it’s come down to the wire. Hopefully the ball bounces our way the next few games.”

What about Wilson’s high-profile romance with pop star Ciara and the visible public nature of their relationship?

“My private life is my private life, but at the same time there’s no fear or anything like that. I’m grateful for the people I have in my life. Just the surroundings, from the team, to everybody and my friends and all that, too. I’m sure you’re referring to Ciara as well, she’s an unbelievable person. That’s part of it, but I think ultimately when it comes down to football the focus is on football. That’s just how it has to be and how it always is.”

“I don’t want to go into too much detail, but [Ciara] is a great girl. I’m grateful for her and all the things she does. But ultimately right now, obviously the focus is on football and preparing and getting ready to win.”

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