Last March, the Seattle Seahawks made a decisive move to solidify their quarterback position by signing Geno Smith to a three-year extension worth $25 million per season, with $40 million fully guaranteed. This significant commitment underlined the team's confidence in Smith's abilities and potential leadership.
Smith's Performance and Contract
With this new deal, Smith is now the 20th highest-paid quarterback in the NFL in terms of average annual value (AAV). The Seahawks' decision to retain Smith for the 2024 season has been equally significant, guaranteeing him $12.7 million and forgoing a potential $14 million cap savings had they chosen to release him. This move underscores Seattle's belief in Smith as their quarterback moving forward.
Choosing not to draft a new quarterback, the Seahawks instead opted to trade for Sam Howell and signed PJ Walker, illustrating their commitment to enhancing their quarterback depth while maintaining Smith as their starter. The choice to bypass drafting a new quarterback further emphasizes Seattle’s confidence in Smith's performance and leadership capabilities.
Exceptional 2022 Season
Smith's 2022 season was a testament to his skills and resilience. Leading the league with a remarkable 69.8% completion rate, Smith amassed 4,282 yards, 30 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions. Under his guidance, the Seahawks achieved a 9-8 record and secured a playoff berth. His outstanding performance earned him a Pro Bowl spot, cementing his status as a top-tier quarterback in the league.
Consistent Excellence in 2023
Building on his success, Smith continued to excel in the 2023 season. Throwing for 3,624 yards, 20 touchdowns, and 9 interceptions, he led the team to an 8-7 record and earned Pro Bowl honors once again. Smith's consistency and dedication to improving his game have been evident, as he himself noted, "Still getting better."
Challenges Ahead
Despite Smith's individual success, the Seahawks face financial challenges. The team is $25.6 million over the salary cap for 2025, according to OverTheCap.com, creating a pressing need for financial strategizing. One proposed solution has been the idea of crafting an incentive package for Smith this year to help balance the cap while rewarding his contributions and performance.
Looking ahead, Seattle is projected to have the 11th overall pick in the 2025 draft, according to sportsbook odds. While their current financial situation poses challenges, the Seahawks’ focus will likely remain on maximizing their draft capital and navigating their cap issues strategically.
As Smith approaches his 34th birthday, his journey with the Seahawks will be closely watched. The sentiment from the article's author sums up the current state of affairs aptly: "Let's meet at the negotiating table next year." This sentiment captures the ongoing dialogue and forthcoming negotiations that will shape the future dynamics of Smith's role and contract with the Seahawks.
In conclusion, the Seattle Seahawks have made a clear commitment to Geno Smith, valuing his proven performance and leadership. With financial challenges looming, the team will need to navigate the cap smartly while continuing to leverage Smith's talents on the field. As the Seahawks look forward to the upcoming seasons, the focus will remain on supporting Smith's growth and strategically managing their resources to maintain competitive success.