The future of Geno Smith, the Seattle Seahawks quarterback, remains uncertain as his contract situation becomes increasingly complicated. With $12.7 million on the line, Smith was recently informed that he will remain on Seattle’s roster for the time being, ensuring his salary for next season is fully guaranteed. However, this guarantee does not guarantee his future with the team, as the Seahawks have the option to trade him before March 18.
Originally signed to a three-year, $75 million deal last March, Smith’s contract stipulated that his base salary for next season would become fully guaranteed as of Friday. Initially, this guarantee only covered injury. However, the Seahawks now find themselves committed to paying Smith $12.7 million, regardless of his future with the team. In addition to this guarantee, Smith is entitled to a $9.6 million roster bonus on March 18, along with a $200,000 workout bonus.
Comparing Smith’s Salary to Other Quarterbacks
When considering Smith’s salary in relation to other quarterbacks, it is evident that he falls in the middle of the pack. Among quarterbacks, Smith’s projected $22.5 million earnings in 2024 rank 18th, according to Spotrac.com. Additionally, his $31.2 million cap charge for next season positions him at the 12th spot, according to OverTheCap.com. While these figures might not top the charts, the Seahawks believe it is a sound financial decision to guarantee Smith’s substantial salary, taking into account the rising salaries of starting quarterbacks in the current market.
Smith’s performance in the 2022 season showcased his potential, earning him a trip to the Pro Bowl and the title of NFL Comeback Player of the Year. Transitioning from a backup role to the full-time starter, he set an NFL record with seven go-ahead touchdown passes in the fourth quarter and overtime in 2023. Furthermore, Smith boasted the league’s best Total QBR in the final six weeks of the season. However, his performance in the past season dipped, resulting in lower numbers across the board, including fewer touchdown passes and an overall lower Total QBR ranking. Despite his regression, Smith managed to secure a Pro Bowl spot as an injury replacement.
Smith’s future with the Seahawks has become increasingly uncertain, especially with the recent organizational shakeup in Seattle. With the departure of head coach Pete Carroll and the promotion of Mike Macdonald to the coaching position, alongside general manager John Schneider’s newfound authority on personnel matters, the team’s power structure has experienced significant changes. These changes, coupled with Smith’s inconsistent performance, have created an air of uncertainty surrounding his future with the Seahawks.
Geno Smith’s contract situation with the Seattle Seahawks is marked by uncertainty and unfulfilled expectations. Despite his guaranteed salary and his previous impressive performance, Smith’s future with the team remains ambiguous. As March 18 approaches, the Seahawks must weigh their options and determine whether to retain Smith or pursue trade opportunities. Only time will reveal the outcome of this contractual conundrum and shed light on the trajectory of Smith’s football career.
Leave a Reply