In a pivotal move last March, the Seattle Seahawks solidified their faith in quarterback Geno Smith by extending his contract for three more years. This significant commitment is worth an average of $25 million per season, with $40 million fully guaranteed. The decision underscores Seattle's belief in Smith, especially considering the tough calls they had to make around their salary cap.
Smith, now positioned as the 20th highest-paid quarterback in the NFL by average annual value (AAV), has delivered notable performances over recent seasons that justify the financial commitment. In 2022, he remarkably led the league with a 69.8% completion rate, amassing 4,282 yards, 30 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions. His efforts propelled the Seahawks to a 9-8 record and a playoff berth, earning him a much-deserved Pro Bowl selection.
A Season to Remember
In 2023, Smith's performance continued to be commendable, albeit with a slight dip in stats. He threw for 3,624 yards, 20 touchdowns, and 9 interceptions, achieving an 8-7 record and securing Pro Bowl honors once again. As he inches closer to his 34th birthday, Smith's resilience and continual improvement remain evident. "Still getting better," Smith commented, reflecting his unwavering commitment to refining his game.
Financial Implications
The Seahawks' decision to retain Smith for the 2024 season comes with substantial financial considerations. Guaranteeing $12.7 million to keep him on the roster, they bypassed a potential cap savings of $14 million had they decided to release him. This commitment inevitably places a significant strain on their financial flexibility, a challenge the team will have to navigate.
As it stands, the Seahawks are projected to be $25.6 million over the salary cap for 2025, according to OverTheCap.com. To manage this looming challenge, there has been discussion around crafting an incentive package for Smith this year. Such a package would aim to balance rewarding Smith's contributions while managing the team's overall cap situation.
Strategic Moves and Draft Decisions
Seattle’s front office made a strategic choice to bypass selecting a quarterback in the draft, opting instead to trade for Sam Howell and sign PJ Walker. This decision indicates a clear vote of confidence in Smith's ability to lead the team, likely influenced by his strong performance metrics and leadership qualities demonstrated over the past two seasons.
Looking ahead, the Seahawks are projected to have the 11th overall pick in the 2025 draft, according to sportsbook odds. This positioning offers them a substantial opportunity to build around their existing talent and address other critical needs on the roster.
For Geno Smith and the Seahawks, the next steps will be pivotal. Both parties seem prepared for further discussions. Reflecting the sentiment of the situation, a prevailing notion is to "meet at the negotiating table next year." Smith's ongoing performance and the team's balancing act with the salary cap will undoubtedly shape the future of both the player and the franchise.