Last March, the Seattle Seahawks made a decisive move by committing to quarterback Geno Smith with a lucrative three-year extension, valued at $25 million per season and featuring $40 million in guaranteed money. This decision placed Smith as the 20th highest-paid quarterback in the NFL based on average annual value (AAV), highlighting the franchise’s confidence in his abilities.
The vote of confidence from the Seahawks came to fruition when they chose to retain Smith for the 2024 season, ensuring his presence on the roster with a guaranteed $12.7 million. This commitment did come with a financial consideration, as the team bypassed a potential $14 million cap savings that releasing him would have afforded.
Quarterback Moves and Draft Choices
In a strategic move during the offseason, Seattle opted against drafting a new quarterback. Instead, they bolstered their depth by trading for Sam Howell and signing PJ Walker. This maneuver signaled their trust in the current roster and their belief in Smith's leadership and capabilities to guide the team moving forward.
Strong Performance Leading to Accolades
Smith’s performance under center has been nothing short of impressive. In the 2022 season, he led the league with a remarkable 69.8% completion rate, threw for 4,282 yards, notched 30 touchdowns, and recorded 11 interceptions. These stellar statistics propelled the Seahawks to a 9-8 record and a cherished playoff berth. Smith's noteworthy efforts did not go unnoticed, earning him a well-deserved spot in the Pro Bowl that year.
The 2023 season saw a slight dip in his yardage, with Smith amassing 3,624 yards, 20 touchdowns, and 9 interceptions. Despite these changes, he still managed to drive the Seahawks to an 8-7 record and once again earned Pro Bowl honors, solidifying his reputation as a resilient and effective quarterback.
Approaching Career Milestones
As Smith approaches his 34th birthday, the Seahawks face financial challenges, finding themselves $25.6 million over the salary cap for 2025, according to OverTheCap.com. Given these constraints, there has been speculation about crafting an incentive package for Smith this year as a potential solution to manage the budget while rewarding performance.
Moreover, with the Seahawks projected to have the 11th overall pick in the 2025 draft according to sportsbook odds, the franchise will need to make astute decisions to balance their current cap situation and future potential.
Despite the looming fiscal hurdles, Smith remains optimistic about his trajectory with the Seahawks. "Still getting better," he has stated, reflecting his ongoing commitment to improving his game and contributing to the team's success.
As the Seahawks navigate these waters, the sentiment expressed within the organization and echoed by observers is clear: "Let's meet at the negotiating table next year." This cautious yet hopeful outlook underscores the dynamic between Smith and the Seahawks as they eye continued collaboration and success in the seasons ahead.