Last March, the Seattle Seahawks made a decisive move that signaled their optimism in quarterback Geno Smith's potential by re-signing him to a three-year extension. This sizeable contract guarantees Smith $25 million per season, with $40 million fully guaranteed. As of now, this puts Smith among the top 20 highest-paid quarterbacks in the NFL in terms of average annual value (AAV). Despite the hefty price tag, the Seahawks evidently believe Smith is worth every penny.
Smith's contract solidified the Seahawks' commitment to their quarterback. This past offseason, the team doubled down on this commitment by opting to guarantee $12.7 million to retain him for the 2024 season, foregoing a potential $14 million in cap savings that would have come with releasing him. Their decision underscores a vote of confidence that goes beyond the dollar signs.
Roster Moves and Draft Decisions
Instead of looking for fresh talent from the draft to fill the quarterback position, the Seahawks took an alternative approach by trading for Sam Howell and signing PJ Walker. These roster moves indicate a strategy of blending experienced players rather than banking entirely on new talent. It’s a calculated gamble that reflects the organization’s belief in Smith’s ability to lead the team while having reliable backups.
Statistical Achievements and Leadership
Smith has certainly earned his stripes over the past couple of seasons. The 2022 season was particularly notable as he led the league with an impressive 69.8% completion rate. Smith's precision and playmaking ability were on full display, as he amassed 4,282 yards, threw 30 touchdowns against 11 interceptions, and steered the Seahawks to a 9-8 record, earning them a playoff berth. His stellar performance did not go unnoticed, as he was selected for the Pro Bowl that year.
The following season, in 2023, Smith continued to demonstrate his competence and reliability. He threw for 3,624 yards, 20 touchdowns, and 9 interceptions, guiding the team to an 8-7 record and earning another Pro Bowl selection. As he approaches his 34th birthday, Smith’s recent form suggests he has plenty of gas left in the tank.
Financial Challenges Ahead
However, the Seahawks are not without challenges. They are projected to be $25.6 million over the salary cap for the year 2025, posing significant financial hurdles. Among the solutions considered to navigate this financial tightrope is crafting an incentive package for Smith. Such a package could potentially align Smith's performance goals with the team's financial realities, providing motivation for both the player and the organization to succeed.
Adding to the complexity of their situation, the Seahawks are poised to have the 11th overall pick in the 2025 draft according to sportsbook odds. This pick could serve as a pivotal opportunity to bolster the roster and address positions of need, perhaps alleviating some of the cap concerns by integrating younger, cost-controlled talent.
The Road Forward
"Still getting better," says Geno Smith, expressing a sentiment that likely resonates within the Seahawks' front office. Indeed, Smith’s recent performance suggests continued improvement, and his leadership on the field has become increasingly invaluable.
As next year's contract negotiations loom, the sentiment around the Seahawks organization is one of cautious optimism blended with strategic thinking. "Let's meet at the negotiating table next year," echoes the article’s author, crystallizing the anticipation and uncertainty that envelops Seattle's quarterback situation.
As the Seahawks navigate the intricate dance of player retention, salary cap management, and draft strategies, one thing remains clear: their calculated risks and decisions over the past couple of years reflect a deep trust in Geno Smith's capabilities. Whether this trust will pay dividends in the seasons to come remains an intriguing narrative to follow.