In a surprising but not entirely unforeseen move, the Seattle Seahawks have announced their decision to part ways with veteran quarterback Geno Smith at the end of the 2024 season. After leading the team to a playoff berth and earning a Pro Bowl selection in 2022, Smith’s tenure in Seattle seemed to be on an upward trajectory. However, with the Seahawks eyeing a new era at quarterback, the decision to move on from Smith represents both the natural progression of the franchise and a strategic retooling of the roster for long-term success.
Reasons Behind the Move: Why It Makes Sense
While Geno Smith has shown flashes of brilliance and earned the respect of his teammates and fans, the decision to part ways with him at the end of the season can be understood in several key ways:
1. The Development of the Young Talent:
The Seahawks have a promising young quarterback in the form of Drew Lock, who was brought in as part of the trade for Russell Wilson. While Lock has had limited opportunities to start, his athleticism and strong arm are assets that the Seahawks could develop further as they look toward the future. By parting ways with Smith, Seattle frees up the opportunity to give Lock more playing time in a starting role or even explore other options in the upcoming draft.
Moreover, the 2024 draft is shaping up to be rich in quarterback talent, with several top-tier prospects expected to be available. Teams like Seattle, who are in a relatively strong position with a solid supporting cast, could use their draft capital to move up and secure a quarterback of the future, which could be a critical part of their rebuilding plan.
2. Financial Flexibility:
Geno Smith’s current contract, while relatively modest compared to elite quarterbacks, is still a factor in Seattle’s financial strategy. By parting ways with him at the end of the season, the Seahawks would gain substantial salary cap relief, which could be reinvested into bolstering other positions of need, particularly on defense and in the offensive line. This move would allow the Seahawks to be more aggressive in free agency, possibly acquiring the necessary pieces to return to Super Bowl contention.
3. Looking for Long-Term Stability:
Smith’s success in 2022 was remarkable, but his performance in 2023 has been inconsistent, with some struggles that have raised questions about his ability to lead a championship-level team. While he remains a solid, reliable option as a game manager, his limitations—particularly his inability to stretch the field and create big plays consistently—have become apparent. As the NFL evolves, teams are increasingly prioritizing young quarterbacks with high upside who can develop into long-term, franchise-altering players. For Seattle, it may be time to pivot to a player who embodies that potential.
4. Smith’s Own Desire for Opportunity:
Geno Smith, now 34 years old, may also prefer a change of scenery if it means a fresh opportunity to compete for a starting job elsewhere. Given his resurgence in Seattle, Smith has shown that he still has the ability to start in the NFL. By parting ways amicably, the Seahawks give Smith the freedom to explore other options in his pursuit of a final, lucrative contract before the end of his playing career.
5. The Coaching Staff’s Vision for the Future:
Head coach Pete Carroll has always been known for his ability to adapt and build teams for the long haul. With the Seahawks currently in a strong position to make some strategic moves, Carroll and general manager John Schneider are likely taking a forward-thinking approach. The decision to let go of Smith is not an indictment of his skills but rather a reflection of the team’s vision for the future—one that will see them prioritize a younger, more dynamic quarterback who can grow alongside their talented roster.
The Impact on the Team and Fans
Parting ways with Geno Smith is a move that will no doubt have an emotional impact on both the team and the fanbase. Smith was widely respected for his leadership and for helping the Seahawks transition away from the Russell Wilson era. His contributions to the locker room, both on and off the field, have been invaluable, and the franchise will undoubtedly thank him for his service.
However, this move signals a new chapter for the Seahawks. While Geno Smith is unlikely to be remembered as one of Seattle’s all-time great quarterbacks, his time in the Pacific Northwest has been meaningful, especially in the aftermath of the Wilson trade. Fans will likely appreciate his contributions, but the reality is that NFL teams must always look toward the future, and for Seattle, that future is likely with a new quarterback leading the way.
Conclusion
Seattle’s decision to part ways with Geno Smith at the end of the season marks a pivotal moment in the franchise’s ongoing evolution. While it may seem abrupt to some, the reality is that the move is part of a larger strategy to build a team capable of sustained success in the years to come. With financial flexibility, the development of young talent, and the potential to add a top quarterback prospect in the 2024 draft, the Seahawks are positioning themselves for a bright future—and they believe that moving on from Smith is a necessary step to get there.
In the ever-changing landscape of the NFL, Seattle’s decision to move on from Geno Smith might just be the start of a new and exciting chapter for the team.
