The Seattle Seahawks are looking at an equally stark transition as they begin to look to the future. No player from the Seahawks’ breakout 2022 campaign is in a deeper bind than quarterback Geno Smith. Smith signed a three-year, $75 million pact after the resurgent Smith’s great comeback 2021 season. Today he awaits a patchwork quilt of performance measures and difficult contract negotiations. As Smith starts Year 2 of his contract, the Seahawks are causing a disturbance. They’ve recently stolen the spotlight by trading for former Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Sam Darnold, indicative of a major change in their quarterback room.
In 2022, Smith won NFL Comeback Player of the Year and reached the Pro Bowl. These accomplishments underscore the remarkable renaissance for him after serving the majority of the last seven years as a reserve player. In fact, he boasts a winning record of 27-22 as the Seahawks’ full-time starter. Then there was Collins’ breakout playoff appearance. Smith’s performance metrics were so abysmal that a serious discussion was warranted. In another, he ranked 21st in QBR and led the league with a red zone-high four interceptions.
Geno Smith’s Contract and Performance
After signing his big money extension in the wake of the Seahawks’ unexpected success during the 2022 season, Smith’s job would appear to be safe. That deal averaged out to $25 million per year, but it has since fallen to 20th among all quarterbacks in annual average value. The Seahawks’ management has faced scrutiny regarding Smith’s performance relative to his pay scale. Smith’s accolades are numerous, but his recent four-day hiatus from practice has many wondering. Most people think his absence is due to frustration with his contract situation and not a physical injury.
Smith’s desire for financial recognition is palpable. He won’t be able to apply for an extension until after his failed try in the summer of 2024. In this way, he’s been candid in admitting that he’s wanting to show himself worthy of a huge payday.
“I’m really happy for those guys. Whatever they get they deserve. You pay attention to it, but you try to stay focused on what you have to stay focused on, which is my job here with the Seahawks.” – Geno Smith
Even with these hurdles, Smith is still a widely respected figure inside the NFL. His track record reflects his determination and tenacity, but his heart and commitment. The Seahawks’ front office and coaching staff still have to assess his skill set and decide their plans moving forward.
Sam Darnold’s Arrival and Transition
The Seahawks’ recent trade for Sam Darnold indicates a pretty radical change in their own approach on the quarterback wheel of fortune. Darnold has been a tantalizing quarterback talent for most of his career, but he has definitely not been blameless. His arrival brings competition and an opportunity for growth within the team.
Jaxon Smith-Njigba, a teammate, provided insight into Darnold’s performance during practice, noting the quarterback’s determination and preparation.
“Sam was an absolute dog today. His demeanor, his approach, everything about what he did today was great … Of course there’s always going to be some things to fix, but … really the way he prepared all week to make sure his guys were ready is one-of-one stuff. I’m super happy for him.” – Jaxon Smith-Njigba
Darnold’s ability to adapt to new environments will be crucial as he integrates into the Seahawks’ offensive scheme. His very presence is competition Smith’s, and that’s a good thing. It can do wonders for the team’s quarterback play as a whole.
Team Dynamics and Future Outlook
The Seahawks are in the midst of a rebuilding year. The team’s internal dynamic will be just as important for their success. When the outside noise and expectations mount, he said, the coaching staff implores the players to stay together and keep their eyes on the prize. Macdonald, a central figure in the organization’s acclaimed coaching staff, considered the gauntlet quarterbacks are expected to run in a pressure cooker such as this one.
“It’s the hardest position to play in sports, in my opinion,” – Macdonald
He elaborated on the need for players to remain centered despite distractions:
“There is a lot of noise that goes with it. It’s us as a football team, too, I think we have to have a vision who we want to be as a player, as a person, as a team and just stick to that and just chase that all the time.” – Macdonald
With Smith’s contract situation unresolved and Darnold stepping into an influential role, the Seahawks face pivotal decisions that will shape their trajectory. As they prepare for upcoming games and evaluate their roster, both quarterbacks will need to demonstrate their capabilities on and off the field.
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