The Seattle Seahawks are surging, but there is one player who continues to draw criticism. With the November 4, 2025, NFL trade deadline about one month away, the Seahawks face a decision on starting cornerback Riq Woolen.
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported that Woolen is a potential trade candidate and has generated some buzz around the league.
With Seahawks star CB Devon Witherspoon returning on Thursday, teams are monitoring Pro Bowl CB Riq Woolen as a possible trade target by the deadline, sources tell The Insiders,” Rapoport detailed in a series of September 28, messages on X.
“Woolen’s playing time has diminished, and in a contract year, teams believe he could be available. The emergence of Josh Jobe and Derion Kendrick, a late waiver claim, makes trading Riq Woolen something to consider. Plus, DB (Nick) Emmanwori is slated to return next week.”
Bleacher Report’s Alex Kay floated a potential trade pitch that has the Washington Commanders landing Woolen.
Seahawks Rumors: The Commanders Could Be a Potential Trade Partner for CB Riq Woolen
The Seahawks acquire a 2026 sixth-round pick and 2027 seventh-round selection from the Commanders in exchange for Woolen in the trade pitch. Despite Woolen’s struggles, why would the Seahawks be eager to move on from a starter for two future players who face an uphill battle in making the roster?
The emergence of Derion Kendrick plus the return of rookie Nick Emmanwori puts Woolen’s future role in doubt. Additionally, Woolen will become a free agent this offseason.
One way the Commanders could bolster their flailing coverage abilities is by bringing in Riq Woolen,” Kay wrote in a September 30, story titled, “1 Trade That Would Put NFL Fringe Contenders Over the Top.” “Per the NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Woolen is on the trade radar due to his reduced role with the Seattle Seahawks coupled with his contract-year status.
“While the 2022 Pro Bowler may not be thriving in 2025, he’s still only giving up a respectable 61.1 percent completion rate in coverage and should have plenty of tread left on his tires at the age of 26,” Kay added.
If Seattle is willing to move on from Woolen, the Commanders should capitalize and bolster one of the weakest areas of their roster. It could be the difference between a deep playoff run and missing out entirely.”
Seahawks CB Riq Woolen Rated Among the Worst NFL Corners
Woolen is a former Pro Bowler, but his recent play has drawn criticism. The corner has given up big plays late in games that have cost Seattle.
Through the first four weeks, Pro Football Focus has Woolen rated among the worst NFL cornerbacks. Woolen earned a 40.4 grade (out of 100) which ranks the defender No. 153 of 164 corners.
The Seahawks Could Trade Riq Woolen Before the Defender Can Leave in NFL Free Agency
Woolen is in the final season of a four-year, $3.9 million rookie contract. If the Seahawks do not plan to re-sign Woolen, it may be prudent to get something in return for the defender.
Despite his struggles, head coach Mike Macdonald has publicly supported Woolen. The corner started the first four games this season despite speculation that Woolen could get benched.
“Riq had a good week of practice, did a good job,” Macdonald noted on September 12, per The Athletic’s Michael-Shawn Dugar. “Made some plays today, it was great.”
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