Paul A. Hebert

Life off the field isn't going quite as smoothly as life on it for Seattle Seahawks star Russell Wilson, who announced on Wednesday that he and his wife, Ashton, have filed for divorce.

The defending Super Bowl-winning quarterback made a statement through the team, via The Seattle Times' Bob Condotta:

I have made the difficult decision to file for divorce. Clearly, decisions like these don’t come easy. Ashton and I respectfully ask for prayers, understanding and privacy during this difficult time. Moving forward, I will have no further comment on this personal matter.

The couple was married in 2012 shortly before the Seattle Seahawks selected the signal-caller out of Wisconsin. As some might remember, Ashton became an internet sensation on draft day when the excitement of Wilson being selected led to this memorable reaction and image.



Ashton always seemed to be by Wilson's side during his many trips to the children's hospital, and on the surface, the couple seemed to be a perfect match for each other.

Alas, people change, and as radio host Joe Ovies noted, we don't often know what's going on behind the scenes, even when it comes to sports' most visible stars:

You never want to see anyone go through divorce, but the most we can do is trust this was a thought-out decision that will be best for both parties in the future.



After an encouraging rookie season in 2012, the dynamic Wilson stayed remarkably consistent last season, completing 63.1 percent of his passes for 3,357 yards, 26 touchdowns and nine interceptions. He also picked up 539 yards and another score on the ground, helping the 'Hawks to their first Super Bowl in franchise history.

The sky is the limit for the 25-year-old, who is set for a massive contract extension next offseason.

