Russell Wilson is well-known to sports fans for his role as quarterback of the Seahawks, but his ability to reach a new audience may also be helping him thrive.
Wilson has been involved in a relationship with Ciara since last April, and the high-profile courtship has given him a newfound celebrity.
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Some believed the newfound fame was a distraction and a detriment to Wilson when the Seahawks struggled, but he was able to turn things around and lift Seattle to the playoffs. It eventually lost to Carolina in the Divisional Round.
Wilson's relationship with Ciara has helped him become more of a household name than he already was, but it also may be aiding him somewhere else -- his wallet.
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Wilson was the NFL's top name in merchandise sales this season, according to data from the NFL Players' Association. The one-time Super Bowl champion led the top players' sales from March 1-Nov. 30, 2015, which spans most of his courtship with the "Dance Like We're Making Love" singer.
The three-time Pro Bowler is above such names as Tom Brady, Aaron Rodgers, Dez Bryant and Peyton Manning, who serve as the other four names to round out the Top 5.
It could merely be a coincidence, but it's no secret that Wilson's name has been popping up in headlines at places other than sports websites ever since he started dating the beautiful singer. The quarterback, however, isn't the only Seahawks player to be listed in the Top 50.
Cornerback Richard Sherman (11), running back Marshawn Lynch (13), tight end Jimmy Graham (21), strong safety Kam Chancellor (35) and free safety Earl Thomas (45) all make the list. None rank as high as the quarterback.
Despite failing to make it to a third straight Super Bowl, Wilson is thriving off the field thanks to his much-publicized relationship with Ciara.
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