Last March, the Seattle Seahawks made a decisive move to secure their quarterback, Geno Smith, signing him to a three-year extension that values $25 million per season with $40 million fully guaranteed. This commitment places Smith as the 20th highest-paid quarterback in the NFL in terms of average annual value (AAV), underscoring the team's confidence in his abilities.
Smith's journey has been nothing short of remarkable. During the 2022 season, he led the league with a 69.8% completion rate, throwing for 4,282 yards, 30 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions. These stellar performances guided the Seahawks to a 9-8 record and earned them a playoff berth. Smith's efforts did not go unnoticed, as he was honored with a Pro Bowl selection that year.
In the subsequent 2023 season, Smith continued to demonstrate his prowess under center. He amassed 3,624 yards, 20 touchdowns, and 9 interceptions, leading the team to an 8-7 record and earning yet another Pro Bowl honor. As he approaches his 34th birthday, Smith's resilience and performance suggest he is, in his own words, "still getting better."
Financial Moves and Strategic Decisions
The Seahawks made a calculated decision to retain Smith for the 2024 season, guaranteeing him $12.7 million. This move came at the cost of a potential $14 million in cap savings had they opted to release him. This financial maneuver indicates a clear intent to build around Smith, prioritizing stability at the quarterback position.
Despite their commitment to Smith, Seattle explored other options to bolster their quarterback depth. Choosing to forgo selecting a quarterback in the draft, the Seahawks traded for Sam Howell and signed PJ Walker. These moves signify a strategic approach to having reliable backups, ensuring that the team has contingency plans in place.
Salary Cap Challenges
However, the Seahawks are facing significant salary cap challenges, being $25.6 million over the cap for 2025, according to OverTheCap.com. This financial predicament presents a complex puzzle for Seattle's front office, which is keen on maintaining a competitive roster while balancing the books. One potential solution being floated is crafting an incentive package for Smith this year, which could potentially align his performance with team financial flexibility.
Draft Implications
Looking ahead, Seattle is projected to have the 11th overall pick in the 2025 draft, according to sportsbook odds. This pick will be crucial for the Seahawks as they aim to fortify their squad with fresh talent while navigating the constraints of their salary cap. This draft position provides an opportunity to address other key roster needs and build for the future.
The strategic decisions made by the Seahawks underscore a long-term vision for the team's success. By committing to Smith's leadership and performance, they have created a stable foundation at the most critical position in football. With an eye on the financial constraints and the upcoming draft, Seattle appears poised to craft a path forward that balances immediate competitiveness with long-term sustainability.
While the intricacies of NFL team management may seem daunting, the Seahawks' recent moves display a calculated blend of loyalty, strategy, and foresight. Geno Smith's ongoing development and the team's proactive approach serve as a testament to a franchise that is not only planning for today but also for the seasons yet to come. "Let's meet at the negotiating table next year," encapsulates the sentiment of evaluating and evolving, ready to adapt to the ever-changing landscape of the NFL.