Last March, the Seattle Seahawks demonstrated their faith in quarterback Geno Smith by signing him to a three-year extension. The deal, setting him at $25 million per season with $40 million fully guaranteed, cemented Smith's future with the franchise and made him the 20th highest-paid quarterback in the NFL in terms of average annual value (AAV).
Smith's reward came after leading the league in the 2022 season with a 69.8% completion rate, throwing for 4,282 yards, and securing 30 touchdowns against 11 interceptions. His stellar performance guided the Seahawks to a 9-8 record and a playoff berth, earning him a spot in the Pro Bowl. The following season, Smith continued to perform at a high level, culminating in 3,624 passing yards, 20 touchdowns, and 9 interceptions, leading the Seahawks to an 8-7 record and receiving Pro Bowl honors once again.
Continuing this trajectory, the Seahawks’ decision to retain Smith for the 2024 season by guaranteeing $12.7 million underscores their confidence in his abilities. Bypassing the potential $14 million cap savings they might have gained from releasing him further emphasizes their commitment. In a bold move, the team opted against selecting a new quarterback in the draft, choosing instead to trade for Sam Howell and sign PJ Walker, further solidifying their belief in Smith.
At nearly 34 years old, Geno Smith is proving that he is "still getting better" and remains a critical piece of the Seahawks' future. Despite the assured financial commitment, the team faces considerable salary cap challenges as they are projected to be $25.6 million over the cap for 2025, according to OverTheCap.com. To navigate these waters, the idea of crafting an incentive package for Smith this year has surfaced, potentially providing a creative financial solution to their cap situation.
Seahawks' strategic decisions and cap management will be crucial as they look ahead to the 2025 season. With a speculated 11th overall pick in the 2025 draft as indicated by sportsbook odds, the choices they make could chart the course for the team's success in the coming years. The sentiment that the team may need to “meet at the negotiating table next year” hangs in the air, indicating the potential for future renegotiations and strategic adjustments to retain and maximize talent.
While the Seahawks navigate these complexities, Geno Smith’s journey echoes with resilience and consistent improvement. It stands as a testament to the organization's belief in his leadership and capabilities, both on and off the field.