Last March, the Seattle Seahawks reaffirmed their faith in quarterback Geno Smith with a hefty three-year extension, locking him in at $25 million per season. The deal includes $40 million fully guaranteed, placing Smith as the 20th highest-paid quarterback in the NFL based on average annual value (AAV).
Smith, who will soon turn 34, has been instrumental to the Seahawks' performance over the past seasons. During the 2022 season, he led the league with an impressive 69.8% completion rate. His efforts didn't stop there; Smith accumulated 4,282 yards, throwing for 30 touchdowns against 11 interceptions. His stellar play guided Seattle to a 9-8 record and a coveted playoff berth, earning him a well-deserved spot in the Pro Bowl.
2023 Season Performance
The 2023 season saw Geno Smith continue to showcase his prowess on the field. He amassed 3,624 yards, threw for 20 touchdowns, and registered 9 interceptions, steering the team to an 8-7 record. Once again, his consistent performance earned him Pro Bowl honors. Reflecting on his trajectory, Smith concisely stated, "Still getting better."
The Decision to Retain Smith
As the offseason approached, the Seahawks faced a critical decision regarding Smith's future with the team. They chose to retain the seasoned quarterback for the 2024 season, guaranteeing $12.7 million to ensure his presence on the roster. This move, however, came at the cost of a potential $14 million in cap savings, had they opted to release him.
Interestingly, the Seahawks did not pursue a quarterback in the draft. Instead, they traded for Sam Howell and signed PJ Walker, signaling their commitment to build around the current roster and their trusted quarterback.
Financial Implications and Future Outlook
Looking ahead, the Seahawks are staring at a significant financial challenge. The team is projected to be $25.6 million over the salary cap for 2025, according to OverTheCap.com. This cap situation puts added pressure on the front office to make strategic decisions moving forward. One potential solution being floated is crafting an incentive package for Smith, aligning his compensation more closely with performance metrics and team success.
The Seahawks' projected position in the upcoming 2025 draft further adds a layer of complexity to their strategic planning. According to sportsbook odds, Seattle is expected to have the 11th overall pick. This mid-first-round pick presents an opportunity for the team to address other critical areas of need.
A Team in Transition
The Seattle Seahawks' choice to keep Geno Smith underlines a sentiment of continuity and faith in proven talent. The 2024 season will be crucial for both Smith and the franchise as they navigate the dual challenges of maintaining competitive performance on the field while managing their financial commitments prudently. "Let's meet at the negotiating table next year," is the sentiment echoing in the team’s meeting rooms, reflecting the careful and calculated approach Seattle is taking towards its future.
For now, the Seahawks and their fervent fan base will continue to rally behind Geno Smith, hoping he can lead them to new heights while keeping the promise of "still getting better" alive. The next season holds the potential for redemption, strategic acumen, and a continued narrative of trust and performance between a franchise and its quarterback.