Seahawks Double Down on Geno Smith: Analyzing Seattle's Bold Moves
In a move that underscores their faith in quarterback Geno Smith, the Seattle Seahawks committed to a three-year extension worth $25 million per season last March. The deal also includes a solid $40 million fully guaranteed for Smith, making him the 20th highest-paid quarterback in terms of average annual value (AAV). This decision, however, comes with noteworthy financial and strategic implications.
Commitment to Experience Over Potential Savings
The Seahawks' decision to retain Smith for the 2024 season involved guaranteeing him $12.7 million, a move that came at the expense of a potential $14 million cap savings had they released him. The strategic choice to hold onto Smith instead of exploring new quarterback talent in the draft speaks volumes about the franchise’s assessment of Smith’s capabilities and value to the team.
In contrast to some teams looking to build for the future through the draft, Seattle's approach was different. They explored immediate support options for Smith by trading for Sam Howell and signing PJ Walker, thus ensuring a strong quarterback roster without risking a drop in performance due to inexperience.
Smith’s Proven Track Record
Smith's performance has certainly justified the Seahawks’ confidence. In the 2022 season, he led the league with an impressive 69.8% completion rate. Accumulating 4,282 yards, 30 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions, Smith guided the team to a 9-8 record and a playoff berth. His stellar play earned him a well-deserved spot in the Pro Bowl that year.
The following season, the numbers, while slightly less gaudy, were still solid. Smith threw for 3,624 yards, 20 touchdowns, and 9 interceptions, finishing with an 8-7 record and securing another Pro Bowl honor. This consistency over two seasons highlights why Seattle is banking on Smith as he approaches his 34th birthday.
Looking Ahead to Financial Nuances
However, the Seahawks' financial situation adds complexity to this equation. According to OverTheCap.com, the franchise is projected to be $25.6 million over the salary cap for 2025. This projection has inevitably sparked discussions around crafting an incentive package for Smith in the upcoming season as a potential solution to manage the cap crunch.
Another layer to this financial puzzle is Seattle’s projected draft position. According to sportsbook odds, the Seahawks hold the 11th overall pick in the 2025 draft. This position provides the team with a meaningful opportunity to invest in a potential franchise quarterback if they choose to, alleviating some financial pressure in future seasons.
Smith’s Perspective and Future Negotiations
Throughout these developments, Smith has maintained a positive outlook, suggesting that his best football is still ahead. "Still getting better," Smith remarked, reflecting his belief in continuous improvement and his determination to validate the Seahawks’ faith in him.
For the Seahawks and Smith, the upcoming year will indeed be pivotal. The sentiment of the article’s author aptly captures the sense of anticipation surrounding future negotiations: "Let's meet at the negotiating table next year." As both parties brace for the next round of talks, the stakes are clear, and the shared vision for success is evident.
Seattle finds itself at a crossroads, blending veteran leadership with strategic foresight. In Geno Smith, they've found a quarterback who embodies resilience and growth, qualities that the Seahawks hope will usher in continued postseason success and perhaps, greater heights in the seasons to come.