Last March, the Seattle Seahawks made a significant decision regarding their quarterback position by signing Geno Smith to a three-year contract extension worth $25 million per season. With $40 million fully guaranteed, this deal reflected a substantial commitment to Smith, who has consistently demonstrated his value on the field.
The deal places Smith as the 20th highest-paid quarterback in the NFL in terms of average annual value (AAV), a testament to his steady performance and the faith the Seahawks have in his abilities. This extension came at a pivotal moment, as Seattle opted to keep Smith for the 2024 season, guaranteeing him $12.7 million. This choice incurred a financial cost, foregoing a potential $14 million in cap savings had they decided to release him.
Decision Over Draft and Trades
Interestingly, the Seahawks took a rather unconventional route by bypassing the selection of a quarterback in the draft. Instead, they traded for Sam Howell and signed PJ Walker, showcasing a strategic approach to their quarterback depth chart. This decision underscored their commitment to Smith and confidence in his leadership.
Impressive Performances
Geno Smith’s performance in the 2022 season solidified his position as a key player for Seattle. He led the league with an impressive 69.8% completion rate, amassing 4,282 yards, 30 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions. His efforts not only guided the Seahawks to a 9-8 record but also secured a playoff berth, culminating in a well-deserved Pro Bowl selection.
In the subsequent 2023 season, Smith continued to prove his worth by throwing for 3,624 yards, 20 touchdowns, and 9 interceptions, achieving an 8-7 record. His consistent performance earned him Pro Bowl honors once again, reaffirming his status as a top-tier quarterback.
Financial Considerations
As Smith approaches his 34th birthday, the Seahawks face financial challenges with their salary cap situation. According to OverTheCap.com, Seattle is projected to be $25.6 million over the cap for the 2025 season. These financial constraints necessitate strategic planning, and one potential solution being considered is crafting an incentive package for Smith. This idea, if executed, could provide the team with some much-needed cap relief while rewarding Smith for continued excellence.
Future Prospects
Looking towards the future, Seattle is projected to have the 11th overall pick in the 2025 draft, based on sportsbook odds. This signifies an opportunity for the team to potentially strengthen their roster further, depending on the available talent and their strategic needs.
Geno Smith remains optimistic about his growth and future with the Seahawks, expressing, "Still getting better." This sentiment resonates with the organization’s belief in his continual improvement and their apparent willingness to revisit negotiations next year, as indicated by the article's author who suggests, "Let's meet at the negotiating table next year."
The Seahawks' commitment to Smith and their strategic decisions around the quarterback position reflect a deep investment in both the player and the broader team goals. As they navigate financial challenges and roster decisions, the Seahawks' approach towards maximizing Smith's potential and their overall team performance remains a focal point. With Smith at the helm and the strategic maneuvers of the Seahawks' front office, the team aims to build on their recent successes and address the challenges that lie ahead.