Last March, the Seattle Seahawks made a bold commitment to quarterback Geno Smith. The team agreed to a three-year extension with Smith, securing his services for $25 million per season and guaranteeing $40 million of that contract, a clear indication of their confidence in his abilities.
Smith, now the 20th highest-paid quarterback in the NFL by average annual value (AAV), received further validation from the Seahawks when they decided to retain him for the 2024 season. To keep him on the roster, the team guaranteed an additional $12.7 million. This decision was financially significant, as it meant forgoing a potential $14 million in cap savings had they chosen to release him.
Strategic Roster Moves
Rather than searching for a new quarterback in the draft, the Seahawks opted for experience by trading for Sam Howell and signing PJ Walker. This move underlines the team's trust in their current roster's veteran leadership while subtly building depth behind their starter, ensuring stability and competition in their quarterback room.
Smith’s Stellar Performance
Smith's performance over the past two seasons has justified the Seahawks' investments. In the 2022 season, he led the league with a remarkable 69.8% completion rate, throwing for 4,282 yards, with 30 touchdowns against 11 interceptions. His efforts guided Seattle to a 9-8 record and a playoff berth, earning him a well-deserved Pro Bowl spot.
The following year, Smith continued to prove his worth. In the 2023 season, he amassed 3,624 yards through the air, alongside 20 touchdowns and 9 interceptions, guiding his team to an 8-7 record and once again securing Pro Bowl honors. Such consistency has demonstrated his critical role in the Seahawks' offense.
As Smith approaches his 34th birthday, his statement, "Still getting better," encapsulates his mindset and determination to continue performing at a high level, pushing himself and his team towards greater heights.
Financial Challenges on the Horizon
Looking ahead, the Seahawks face significant financial challenges. According to OverTheCap.com, the team is projected to be $25.6 million over the salary cap for the 2025 season. To address this looming issue, there has been talk of crafting an incentive package for Smith this year, potentially providing a flexible solution to their cap situation while rewarding their quarterback for continued excellence.
Future Prospects
In terms of draft prospects, Seattle is projected to hold the 11th overall pick in the 2025 draft according to sportsbook odds. This strategic positioning could provide the team with an opportunity to reinforce their roster with promising talent, further solidifying their competitive prospects.
Negotiating the Future
The sentiment surrounding Smith's future with the Seahawks is optimistic but cautious. The article’s author aptly captures this with the remark, "Let's meet at the negotiating table next year," indicating a belief in Smith's value and the importance of continued dialogue to ensure mutual benefit.
In conclusion, Geno Smith has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the Seahawks, both on and off the field. His performances have not only earned him individual accolades but have also propelled the team towards competitive relevance. As Seattle navigates their financial landscape and plans for the future, Smith remains a pivotal figure in their quest for sustained success.