5 QB options for Seattle Seahawks if Russell Wilson leaves in 2022

#4 Desmond Ridder

Ridder runs for a touchdown during a win over Tulsa earlier this fall. (Photo: Getty)

Desmond Ridder's legendary career at the University of Cincinnati could soon come to an end. Time will tell if he'll get a chance for a national championship.

If his Bearcats prevail in the American Athletic Conference championship game on Saturday (4 PM. ET, ABC), they'll likely clinch a spot in the College Football Playoff.

He has had a legendary college career, amassing a 41-5 record as a starter. Now at its twilight, the NFL Draft appears to be the next step.

The Seahawks will miss out on some of the top selections (i.e. Matt Corral, Sam Hartman and Malik Willis), thanks to their lack of a first-round pick. But not all is lost.

Ridder is one of several prospects expected to hear his name called in the early stages of day two, which could also include Sam Howell and Carson Strong. Seattle have gotten a bye without first-round standouts, their last opening day quarterback being the ineffective Rick Mirer back in 1993.

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#5 Jameis Winston

Winston seen during New Orleans' October visit to Seattle. (Photo: Getty)

Mariota's partner in 2015 draft stardom, Jamies Winston showed why New Orleans granted him the franchise reigns in the post-Drew Brees era earlier this season.

Before a torn ACL injury ended his season prematurely, Winston put up a career-best 102.8 passer rating. He led the league with touchdown passes on 8.7% of his attempts. His value has become more apparent in his absence, as the Saints haven't won a game since he left. They tried to get by with the likes of Trevor Siemian and Taysom Hill.

Jamies Winston is once again set to hit free agency, less than a year after the Saints bestowed him a $12 million contract to stay for another year.

Older quarterbacks have dominated the free agent market. So Winston, blessed with both aerial and mobile talents, could be the best option for any team looking for a long-term solution, even with the uncertainty surrounding his injury situation.