Last March, the Seattle Seahawks made a bold statement about their confidence in quarterback Geno Smith, inking him to a three-year extension worth $25 million annually with $40 million fully guaranteed. This deal reflects Seattle's faith in Smith, recognizing his pivotal role in leading the team over the past two seasons.
Smith's Performance and Contract Details
Smith's contract places him as the 20th highest-paid quarterback in the NFL in terms of average annual value (AAV). Despite the hefty price tag, Seattle chose to retain Smith for the 2024 season, guaranteeing $12.7 million to keep him on the roster. This decision came at the expense of a $14 million potential cap savings had they opted for his release.
Over the last two seasons, Smith has proven why he's worth the investment. In the 2022 season, he led the league with a 69.8% completion rate, racking up 4,282 yards, 30 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions. This stellar performance guided the Seahawks to a 9-8 record and a coveted playoff berth. His efforts were further validated with a Pro Bowl selection.
Smith's Continued Excellence
The 2023 season saw Smith maintain his high level of play. Throwing for 3,624 yards, 20 touchdowns, and 9 interceptions, Smith helped Seattle achieve an 8-7 record and once again earned Pro Bowl honors. As he approaches his 34th birthday, Smith's performance on the field exemplifies his declaration that he's "still getting better."
Seattle's Strategic Decisions
The Seahawks' commitment to Smith extended beyond just financial terms. The team decided to bypass selecting a quarterback in the draft, opting instead to trade for Sam Howell and sign PJ Walker. These moves clearly indicate that Seattle values experience and immediate impact over the uncertainty that often accompanies rookie quarterbacks.
Seattle's fiscal strategies, however, face challenges. The Seahawks are projected to be $25.6 million over the salary cap for 2025, according to OverTheCap.com. Crafting an incentive package for Smith this year is another floated idea to ease the team's cap situation.
Future Prospects
The Seahawks are projected to have the 11th overall pick in the 2025 draft, as per sportsbook odds. This high pick could offer the team an opportunity to bolster other positions and support Smith, as they continue to build a more formidable roster.
As the talks about the next steps in Smith’s career unfold, the sentiment of the article’s author resonates: "Let's meet at the negotiating table next year." It’s a clear indication that Smith's role and future with the Seahawks will continue to be a major point of discussion, as both sides navigate the complexities of maintaining a competitive edge in the NFL.