Russell Wilson’s list of four teams as possible trade destinations sparked a continuing firestorm of speculation regarding the future status of the Seattle Seahawks’ star quarterback.

Wilson has not asked for a trade and the prevailing opinion is the Seahawks will not trade the quarterback in 2021. However, the diminished prospect of a Wilson trade apparently may not prevent the Chicago Bears attempting to make a trade for Wilson.

The Bears have “prioritized” trading for Wilson, according to a report. The Bears were one of the four teams – New Orleans Saints, Dallas Cowboys, Las Vegas Raiders – Wilson named as the teams he would be willing to waive his no-trade clause.

The Bears have made no secret of their desire to find an upgrade at the position in 2021 after struggling with Mitchell Trubisky and Nick Foles at various times during the 2020 season. Bears’ general manager Ryan Pace has said everything is on the table regarding the position in 2021.

If the Seahawks do trade Wilson, the Bears could be a frontrunner to land the Pro Bowl quarterback. The Cowboys are trying to sign Dak Prescott to a long-term deal and if they don’t, they’re likely to apply the franchise tag on him for the 2021 season. The Raiders seem committed to Derek Carr and the Saints are nearly $70 million over the salary cap and can’t afford Wilson’s salary without gutting their roster.

The Bears figure to have a tough time assembling a package attractive enough for the Seahawks to approve a trade. They possess first-round picks in 2021 (No. 20), 2022 and 2023. They also have second-round picks in the next three seasons. In terms of impact players, there’s linebacker Khalil Mack, but he’s 30 and hasn’t reached double-digit sacks in a season since the 2018 season.

Most important, the Seahawks are likely to demand as part of any package a quarterback who can help them remain in playoff contention. Neither Trubisky nor Foles can check that box.

For Pace and head coach Matt Nagy, their jobs could be on the line in 2021 and they are looking to strengthen the most important position on the team. They may have to look beyond Seattle.

— Geoffrey C. Arnold 5/8 @geoffreyCarnold