Last March, the Seattle Seahawks demonstrated their commitment to quarterback Geno Smith by signing him to a lucrative three-year extension. The contract averages $25 million per season, with a noteworthy $40 million fully guaranteed. This move signifies the organization's belief in Smith’s abilities and potential to lead the team moving forward.
A Financial Gamble
Smith's new deal places him as the 20th highest-paid quarterback in the NFL when considering the average annual value (AAV). Despite more lucrative offers available on the market, the Seahawks chose to invest in Smith’s stability and leadership. This decision was further solidified when the team opted to retain him for the 2024 season, guaranteeing $12.7 million to ensure his continued presence on the roster. While this choice came at the cost of a potential $14 million cap savings, the Seahawks evidently deemed Smith's value to outweigh the financial benefits of releasing him.
The Seahawks' financial strategy is an indicator of the high regard in which they hold Smith. The decision to bypass selecting a quarterback in the draft further underscores their confidence. Instead, Seattle traded for Sam Howell and signed PJ Walker, augmenting their quarterback depth chart with experienced alternatives.
Smith's On-Field Performance
Smith's performance over the past two seasons has been instrumental in justifying the organization’s faith in him. In the 2022 season, Smith led the league with a remarkable 69.8% completion rate. He amassed 4,282 yards, threw 30 touchdowns against 11 interceptions, and guided his team to a 9-8 record, ultimately securing a playoff berth. His stellar performance earned him a spot in the Pro Bowl.
The following year, Smith continued to demonstrate his reliability and skill. In the 2023 season, he threw for 3,624 yards, adding 20 touchdowns and 9 interceptions to his record. Once again, he achieved Pro Bowl honors while leading his team to an 8-7 record. As Smith approaches his 34th birthday, his consistency and leadership both on and off the field have made a lasting impact on the Seahawks' organization.
Challenges Ahead
Despite Smith's contributions, the Seahawks face considerable financial challenges. According to OverTheCap.com, Seattle is projected to be $25.6 million over the salary cap for the 2025 season. An incentive package for Smith has been floated as a potential solution to this financial crunch. Such a package could offer performance-based rewards that align with the team's financial strategies and Smith’s continued contributions.
The Seahawks' decision to stand by Smith is undoubtedly linked to their long-term strategic planning. With a projected 11th overall pick in the 2025 draft, as estimated by sportsbook odds, the organization is positioning itself to navigate the complexities of upcoming seasons while keeping key players like Smith at the core of their plans.
Geno Smith's Continued Growth
Smith himself remains optimistic about his development and future prospects. "Still getting better," he remarked, reflecting his dedication to continuous improvement. His progress over recent seasons has not only silenced his critics but has also solidified his role as a cornerstone of the Seahawks' offense.
The sentiment of the article’s author echoes a forward-looking perspective: “Let's meet at the negotiating table next year.” This suggests a willingness to reevaluate and possibly extend Smith's role with the team, contingent on his performance and the financial landscape.
In conclusion, the Seattle Seahawks' decision to commit to Geno Smith underscores a blend of faith in his leadership and a calculated risk in the landscape of quarterback contracts. With financial challenges on the horizon, the team’s strategic choices will be crucial in maintaining competitive performance while navigating salary cap constraints. Smith’s stability and growth are poised to be central to the Seahawks' future ambitions.