Last March, the Seattle Seahawks made a significant commitment to their quarterback, Geno Smith, solidifying his role with a three-year contract extension worth $25 million per season. The deal included $40 million fully guaranteed, emphasizing the team's confidence in Smith's abilities moving forward.
Smith's contract positions him as the 20th highest-paid quarterback in the NFL in terms of average annual value (AAV). This contract renewal reflects Seattle's strategic decision to build around Smith, rather than seeking alternatives through the draft. Indeed, the Seahawks bypassed selecting a quarterback and instead opted to trade for Sam Howell while securing PJ Walker through free agency.
Smith's Impact and Performance
Geno Smith's performance on the field underscored the Seahawks' decision. In the 2022 season, he posted league-leading stats with a 69.8% completion rate, accumulating 4,282 yards, 30 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions. His stellar performance led Seattle to a 9-8 record and secured them a playoff berth. Smith’s excellence was recognized with a Pro Bowl selection that year.
The 2023 season saw Smith continuing to deliver strong performances. He threw for 3,624 yards, 20 touchdowns, and 9 interceptions, contributing to the Seahawks’ 8-7 record and earning yet another Pro Bowl nod. This consistency cemented his role as a reliable leader for the Seahawks offense.
Financial and Roster Decisions
Seattle's financial maneuvers included a strategic decision to retain Smith for the 2024 season, guaranteeing him $12.7 million. This move came at the cost of forfeiting a potential $14 million in cap savings had they opted to release him. The Seahawks are now faced with the challenge of managing their salary cap, as they find themselves $25.6 million over the cap for 2025, according to OverTheCap.com.
Amid these financial tensions, the idea of crafting an incentive package for Smith has emerged as a possible solution to both reward and motivate their veteran quarterback. Smith himself remains optimistic about his future in Seattle, expressing his belief that he is "still getting better."
Draft and Future Prospects
Looking ahead, the Seahawks are projected to hold the 11th overall pick in the 2025 draft, according to sportsbook odds. This placement offers them a valuable opportunity to bolster their roster, potentially addressing areas of weakness or securing additional support for Smith.
The mutual commitment between Smith and the Seahawks appears strong, with the sentiment around Seattle hinting at future negotiations to further solidify this partnership. The notion of meeting at the negotiating table next year resonates with both team officials and fans, reflecting a collective belief in Smith’s abilities and potential to lead the team to greater successes.
As Smith approaches his 34th birthday, his experience and performance remain crucial to the Seahawks' strategy. Seattle's choice to prioritize his leadership, while navigating financial constraints and roster adjustments, demonstrates their calculated approach to maintaining competitiveness in a challenging NFL landscape.
In conclusion, the Seahawks’ decision to invest in Geno Smith aligns with their long-term vision and ambitions. Smith's proven track record and ongoing development make him a key asset in Seattle's quest for success. As both player and team continue to evolve, their partnership stands as a testament to mutual belief and a shared goal of achieving greatness on the football field.
The upcoming seasons promise to be pivotal for both Geno Smith and the Seahawks, as they strive to balance performance, financial realities, and the dynamics of an ever-competitive league.