Seattle Seahawks' Bold Bet on Geno Smith: A Closer Look
Commitment to Continuity
Last March, the Seattle Seahawks made a pointed decision in their quarterback strategy. By extending Geno Smith's contract for three seasons at $25 million per year, with $40 million fully guaranteed, Seattle signaled a strong commitment to their veteran QB. Smith's deal places him as the 20th highest-paid quarterback in the NFL, a reflection of the team's faith in his abilities and potential for growth.
Keeping Smith for the 2024 season wasn't without its financial implications. The Seahawks guaranteed $12.7 million to retain him, forfeiting a potential $14 million cap savings had they opted to release him. Clearly, Seattle values Smith's presence on the field and in the locker room more than the immediate cap relief.
Draft Decisions and Backup Plans
Seattle's approach to the quarterback position was further demonstrated during the draft. The Seahawks passed on selecting a new quarterback, instead choosing to trade for Sam Howell and signing PJ Walker. Both moves underline the team's belief in Smith as their primary quarterback while ensuring they have depth and potential future starters in place.
Performance and Pro Bowls
Smith's performance over the last two seasons has validated Seattle's faith. In 2022, Smith led the league with an impressive 69.8% completion rate, throwing for 4,282 yards, 30 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions. These stellar numbers guided the Seahawks to a 9-8 record and a playoff berth, earning Smith a spot in the Pro Bowl.
His form continued into the 2023 season, albeit with a slight dip in numbers. Smith accumulated 3,624 yards, 20 touchdowns, and 9 interceptions, leading the team to an 8-7 record and another Pro Bowl nod. As he approaches his 34th birthday, Smith's game seems to show no signs of decline.
"Still getting better," Smith confidently stated, emphasizing his determination and growth mindset.
The Financial Landscape
However, Seattle's financial landscape poses challenges. The Seahawks are projected to be $25.6 million over the salary cap for 2025, according to OverTheCap.com. The team's front office will need to make shrewd decisions to manage the cap space effectively. One floated idea is crafting an incentive package for Smith this year to potentially alleviate some cap pressure while still rewarding his contributions.
Looking to the future, the Seahawks are anticipated to have the 11th overall pick in the 2025 draft, according to sportsbook odds. This positioning could offer them pivotal opportunities in building a competitive roster.
Negotiating the Future
Smith’s solid performance and the team’s commitment signal a partnership that could yield more success in the coming seasons. The sentiment hinted at is, "Let's meet at the negotiating table next year." This suggests discussions on extending and possibly restructuring Smith’s contract could be on the horizon, contingent on his continued high level of play and strategic fit within the team.
The Seahawks' bet on Geno Smith is a fascinating narrative of trust, performance, and strategic decision-making. As Smith looks to remain a key figure in Seattle's quest for success, his journey will undoubtedly be one to watch in the seasons ahead.