Last March, the Seattle Seahawks made a significant commitment to their quarterback Geno Smith. Signing him to a three-year extension worth $25 million per season, with $40 million fully guaranteed, demonstrated the franchise's confidence in Smith's abilities. The extension positions Smith as the 20th highest-paid quarterback in the NFL based on average annual value (AAV).
Securing Smith for the 2024 season was also a priority for the Seahawks, as they guaranteed him $12.7 million to remain on the roster. This decision, however, came at a financial cost. Seattle could have saved $14 million in cap space by releasing Smith, but they chose to invest in his experience and leadership instead.
Quarterback Commitment
Seattle's decision to retain Smith was further solidified by their actions during the draft. Rather than selecting a new quarterback, they opted to trade for Sam Howell and sign PJ Walker. This move clearly indicated that Smith would continue to be the centerpiece of their offensive strategy.
Smith's performance in the 2022 season justified the Seahawks' confidence. He led the NFL with a 69.8% completion rate, accumulating 4,282 yards with 30 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. This remarkable effort guided Seattle to a 9-8 record and earned Smith a Pro Bowl selection.
Pro Bowl Honors and Consistency
In the subsequent 2023 season, Smith continued to demonstrate proficiency and stability. He threw for 3,624 yards with 20 touchdowns and 9 interceptions, achieving an 8-7 record and once again earning Pro Bowl honors. As Smith approaches his 34th birthday, his consistent performance remains a cornerstone for the Seahawks.
However, financial considerations loom large for Seattle. The team is $25.6 million over the salary cap for 2025, according to OverTheCap.com. One potential solution being discussed is crafting an incentive package for Smith this year, which might offer some cap relief while motivating the quarterback to continue delivering high-level performances.
Future Prospects
Beyond financial engineering, the Seahawks are also keeping an eye on the future through the draft. Current sportsbook odds project Seattle to have the 11th overall pick in the 2025 draft. This position could be pivotal for securing new talent to complement their existing roster.
Geno Smith himself remains optimistic and driven. "Still getting better," he asserts, reflecting his unwavering commitment to improvement. The sentiment around his retention and future negotiation seems to mirror this optimism. "Let's meet at the negotiating table next year," implies a belief that both parties are looking forward to continued collaboration and success.
As the Seahawks strive to balance performance and fiscal responsibility, the decisions they make regarding key players like Smith will be critical. One thing is certain: with his proven track record and enduring ambition, Geno Smith remains a vital asset for the Seattle Seahawks, both on and off the field.