Seattle Seahawks Double Down on Geno Smith
Last March, in a move that displayed undeniable faith, the Seattle Seahawks decided to extend quarterback Geno Smith's contract, securing his services for another three years at $25 million per season. The commitment includes $40 million fully guaranteed, positioning Smith as the 20th highest-paid quarterback in the NFL by average annual value (AAV).
This extension was not just a financial investment but a vote of confidence in Smith's ability to lead the Seahawks both on and off the field. Last season, the franchise chose to retain Smith for another year, guaranteeing $12.7 million to keep him on the roster. This decision was significant considering Seattle could have opted for a $14 million cap-saving move by releasing him.
Despite the financial constraints, the Seahawks refrained from seeking a new quarterback during the draft. Instead, they traded for Sam Howell and signed PJ Walker, indicating their belief that Smith remains their best option for now.
Smith's On-Field Performance Shines
Smith’s performance over the past two seasons validates the Seahawks' trust in him. During the 2022 season, Smith led the league with a remarkable 69.8% completion rate, throwing for 4,282 yards, 30 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions. His efforts helped guide the team to a 9-8 record and a playoff berth, earning him a spot in the Pro Bowl.
The following year, Smith continued to showcase his talents, amassing 3,624 yards, 20 touchdowns, and 9 interceptions. His consistency was once again rewarded with Pro Bowl honors, and the Seahawks achieved an 8-7 record under his leadership.
Smith, now approaching his 34th birthday, remains optimistic about his future. "Still getting better," he said, reflecting his determination to continuously improve.
Financial Implications and Future Moves
However, the Seahawks’ financial situation is far from ideal. According to OverTheCap.com, the team is projected to be $25.6 million over the salary cap by 2025. To address this, the idea of crafting an incentive package for Smith this year has been floated as a potential solution. Such a package could provide flexibility in maneuvering the cap space while keeping Smith motivated.
Looking ahead, Seattle is poised to have the 11th overall pick in the 2025 draft, based on current sportsbook odds. This draft position could be pivotal for securing young talent that complements Smith’s experience and leadership.
A Balanced Approach
As negotiations and strategic planning loom on the horizon, the Seahawks’ approach will be critical. The sentiment echoed by the author of this article is, "Let's meet at the negotiating table next year." This will be a crucial juncture for both the team and Smith as they aim to chart a path that aligns with their mutual goals.
In the meantime, Smith’s role within the Seahawks’ camp remains central. His performance, coupled with the management’s strategic decisions, will determine the team’s trajectory in the coming seasons. For now, the Seahawks’ commitment to Smith signifies a blend of faith in veteran prowess and anticipation of continued excellence on the field.