The Seattle Seahawks have made a significant roster change by releasing quarterback Geno Smith, a move that has sent ripples through the NFL community. Smith, who has been with the Seahawks since 2019, has played a pivotal role in the team’s offense over the past few seasons.
Geno Smith’s Tenure with the Seahawks
Geno Smith joined the Seattle Seahawks in May 2019, initially serving as a backup quarterback. His role expanded in the 2021 season when he stepped in as the starting quarterback following an injury to Russell Wilson. Smith’s performance during this period was commendable, showcasing his resilience and leadership. In the 2024 season, he set a new franchise record for passing yards, throwing for 4,283 yards and breaking his own single-season records for passing attempts and completions. citeturn0search17
Reasons Behind the Release
The decision to release Smith appears to be influenced by several factors:
- Salary Cap Considerations: The Seahawks are projected to be $13.4 million over the salary cap for the 2025 season. Releasing Smith would free up $31 million in cap space, though it would also result in a dead-cap charge of $13.5 million. citeturn0search1
- Team Performance and Ceiling: Analysts have suggested that the team has reached a performance ceiling with Smith at quarterback. Despite his individual achievements, the Seahawks have faced challenges in advancing deep into the playoffs, leading to questions about the team’s long-term trajectory with Smith under center. citeturn0search8
- Coaching Changes: The Seahawks have undergone coaching changes, including the hiring of offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak. Kubiak’s vision for the offense may not align with Smith’s playing style, prompting the team to consider a change at quarterback to better fit the new offensive scheme. citeturn0news11
Implications for the Seahawks
Releasing Geno Smith marks a significant shift for the Seahawks. The team will need to address the quarterback position, either by promoting from within, acquiring a new quarterback through free agency, or selecting one in the upcoming draft. This move also signals a potential change in the team’s offensive philosophy, aligning with the new coaching staff’s vision.
Geno Smith’s Future
Following his release, Geno Smith’s future in the NFL remains uncertain. Given his experience and recent performance, he is expected to attract interest from other teams seeking a seasoned quarterback. Smith’s resilience and adaptability throughout his career suggest that he will continue to be a valuable asset in the league.
In conclusion, the Seattle Seahawks’ decision to release Geno Smith is a significant development that will have lasting implications for the team’s roster and future direction. As the team navigates this transition, both the organization and Smith will be poised for new opportunities in the evolving landscape of the NFL.
