Last March, the Seattle Seahawks made a bold statement about their future by extending quarterback Geno Smith's tenure with the team. Committing to a three-year extension worth $25 million per season, with $40 million fully guaranteed, the Seahawks have shown a solid trust in Smith's abilities to lead the team forward. This lucrative deal currently ranks Smith as the 20th highest-paid quarterback in the NFL in terms of average annual value (AAV), a clear indication of both his performance value and Seattle's confidence in him.
The Seahawks' decision to retain Smith for the 2024 season came with significant financial implications. By guaranteeing $12.7 million to keep him on the roster, Seattle forewent the $14 million potential cap savings that could have been achieved by releasing him. This strategic choice highlights the team's belief in Smith's capabilities and his role in their long-term plans.
A Proven Performer
Smith has proven his worth on the field, particularly during the 2022 season, where he led the league with a remarkable 69.8% completion rate. That year, Smith also amassed 4,282 passing yards, 30 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions, leading the Seahawks to a 9-8 record and securing a playoff berth. His stellar performance earned him a spot in the Pro Bowl, validating his status as one of the top quarterbacks in the league.
In the subsequent 2023 season, Smith delivered another strong performance, throwing for 3,624 yards, 20 touchdowns, and 9 interceptions. Despite these robust statistics, the Seahawks finished the season with an 8-7 record. Nevertheless, Smith's consistent excellence on the field earned him Pro Bowl honors for the second consecutive year, further solidifying his reputation.
Critical Financial Decisions
As Smith approaches his 34th birthday, his future with the Seahawks continues to be a topic of considerable interest. Seattle faces significant salary cap challenges, currently being $25.6 million over the limit for the 2025 season according to OverTheCap.com. In light of these financial constraints, there has been talk of crafting an incentive package for Smith this year as a potential solution to ease the cap burden while maintaining his talents on the team.
The Seahawks' strategic financial planning is further complicated by their draft position. Seattle is projected to have the 11th overall pick in the 2025 draft according to sportsbook odds, a middle-of-the-pack slot that could influence their decisions regarding roster adjustments and potential trades. This draft position and the associated decisions will undoubtedly impact the team's future direction and competitiveness.
Offseason Moves
In addition to retaining Smith, the Seahawks made notable moves in the offseason by trading for quarterback Sam Howell and signing PJ Walker. These acquisitions suggest that Seattle is not solely reliant on Smith and is looking to build a robust quarterback room to ensure depth and competitive performances in upcoming seasons.
Reflecting on his career and future, Smith himself remains optimistic and motivated. "Still getting better," he affirmed, indicating his ongoing commitment to improvement and excellence. This positive outlook mirrors the sentiment of many within the organization and the fan base, who are eager to see Smith continue to evolve and lead the team with distinction.
Future Negotiations
The road ahead for Smith and the Seahawks will involve critical negotiations and strategic decisions. The sentiment of the article’s author captures the essence of what lies ahead: "Let's meet at the negotiating table next year." This perspective underscores the ongoing dialogue and decision-making process that will define the future of both Smith and the franchise.
As the NFL landscape continues to evolve, the Seahawks' commitment to Geno Smith stands as a testament to their belief in his talent and leadership. The coming seasons will reveal the outcomes of these carefully made decisions, shaping the legacy of a quarterback who is, indeed, still getting better.