Last March, the Seattle Seahawks made a significant commitment to their quarterback, Geno Smith, striking a deal that extends his stay with the team for three years at an annual rate of $25 million, with $40 million of that sum fully guaranteed. This contract situates Smith as the 20th highest-paid quarterback in the NFL based on average annual value (AAV).
Smith's stellar performance in the 2022 season undoubtedly influenced the Seahawks' decision. He led the league with a 69.8% completion rate, racking up 4,282 yards, 30 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions. This remarkable display guided his team to a 9-8 record and secured a playoff berth, along with a Pro Bowl nod. The following year, Smith's output remained strong with 3,624 yards, 20 touchdowns, and 9 interceptions, resulting in an 8-7 record and another Pro Bowl honor.
Recognizing his sustained excellence, Seattle opted against turning to the draft to find a new quarterback. Instead, they retained Smith for the 2024 season, guaranteeing him $12.7 million to keep him on the roster. This decision, however, did come with a financial trade-off: the Seahawks sacrificed a potential $14 million in cap savings had they chosen to release Smith. Rather than gambling on an unproven talent, they doubled down on their seasoned veteran. Furthermore, Seattle reinforced their quarterback depth by trading for Sam Howell and signing PJ Walker.
Smith's Future and Seattle's Financial Outlook
Smith is fast approaching his 34th birthday, a point in his career where many quarterbacks begin to contemplate their longevity in the league. Yet, Smith remains optimistic about his future. "Still getting better," Smith commented on his progression, indicating his confidence in sustaining high performance levels.
The Seahawks, however, face financial challenges. According to OverTheCap.com, the team is projected to be $25.6 million over the salary cap for the 2025 season. This looming financial strain might necessitate creative solutions, one of which could involve crafting an incentive package for Smith this year. Such a package could provide the necessary motivation and financial flexibility to retain their star quarterback while addressing their cap concerns.
Draft Prospects and Team Strategy
Looking ahead, Seattle is projected to have the 11th overall pick in the 2025 draft, according to sportsbook odds. This pick could be integral in addressing other team needs, given their confidence in Smith's abilities under center. By bypassing the selection of a quarterback in recent drafts, Seattle has made a clear statement about their trust in Smith’s leadership and performance.
The sentiment among analysts and fans is that the Seahawks should approach the negotiating table with Geno Smith next year. While his current contract offers stability, an adjusted agreement could benefit both parties, especially with the financial constraints looming on the horizon.
As the Seahawks navigate the complexities of their roster and salary cap, the commitment to Geno Smith underscores a broader strategy of maintaining competitiveness while managing financial prudence. Smith's steady hand at quarterback offers the team a reliable foundation, with the potential for continued success in the seasons to come.
In summary, the Seahawks' decision to retain Geno Smith at a significant financial commitment highlights their faith in his abilities and their strategic focus on immediate performance over potential savings. With the quarterback position secured, Seattle can turn its attention to optimizing their roster and addressing cap concerns to ensure sustained competitiveness in the NFL landscape.