Last March, the Seattle Seahawks solidified their commitment to quarterback Geno Smith, agreeing to a three-year extension worth $25 million per season, with $40 million fully guaranteed. This bold move places Smith among the top earners in the NFL, ranking as the 20th highest-paid quarterback in terms of average annual value (AAV).
Smith's extension reflects Seattle's confidence in their quarterback, a sentiment echoed by their recent decision to keep him on the roster for the 2024 season. This choice came with a guarantee of $12.7 million, prioritizing continuity over potential cap savings of $14 million that would have resulted had they released him. By maintaining Smith, the Seahawks have shown their trust in his abilities and potential for future performance.
The Quarterback Market and Seahawks' Strategy
Rather than exploring the draft for new quarterback talent, Seattle opted for a different approach. They traded for Sam Howell and signed PJ Walker. This strategy highlights their belief in Smith as their primary option, while buttressing the roster with reliable alternatives. Smith’s performance in the 2022 season underscores their strategy. Leading the league with a 69.8% completion rate, he amassed 4,282 yards, 30 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions. His efforts culminated in a 9-8 record and a playoff berth, earning him a Pro Bowl selection.
The following season, Smith continued to deliver solid stats with 3,624 yards, 20 touchdowns, and 9 interceptions, guiding the team to an 8-7 record and securing Pro Bowl honors once again. As he approaches his 34th birthday, Smith remains a pivotal figure for Seattle, reinforcing his assertion that he is "still getting better."
Financial Implications and Future Considerations
However, financial challenges loom for the Seahawks. According to OverTheCap.com, the team is $25.6 million over the salary cap for 2025. This financial constraint has brought about discussions of crafting an incentive package for Smith this year, which could offer a flexible solution while continuing to motivate their seasoned quarterback.
Amid these talks, Seattle also looks ahead to the 2025 draft, where they are projected to have the 11th overall pick according to sportsbook odds. The draft position suggests an opportunity to bolster the roster with young talent, though it aligns with the sentiment of the article’s author: "Let's meet at the negotiating table next year."
Smith's Impact and Legacy
Geno Smith’s journey with the Seahawks has been one of redemption and resilience. From leading the league in completion rates to earning back-to-back Pro Bowl selections, his contributions have been vital to Seattle’s successes over the past two seasons. The team's decision to extend Smith’s contract and subsequently retain him amid potential cap savings underscores the pivotal role he plays within the organization.
Seattle’s strategic moves—eschewing the draft for quarterbacks and fortifying the position with veteran trades—further demonstrate their commitment to leveraging Smith's experience. As the team navigates salary cap challenges, potential incentive discussions, and upcoming draft picks, Smith’s presence remains a cornerstone of their game plan.
As the Seahawks prepare for future seasons, Geno Smith’s leadership and performance will undoubtedly be critical. While financial and roster decisions may dominate the headlines, the veteran quarterback's steady hand promises to guide Seattle through the complexities of NFL competition.