Geno Smith, the Seattle Seahawks' starting quarterback, has recently become a hot topic in the NFL world. Social media platforms and sports news outlets are buzzing with discussions about his future, contracts, and performance this season. With over 1,000+ searches and mentions, Smith's name has gained traction due to his impressive preseason performance, contract negotiations, and the looming possibility of a major payday.
Who is Geno Smith?
Geno Smith is a professional football quarterback currently playing for the Seattle Seahawks in the NFL. Drafted by the New York Jets in 2013, Smith showed promise early in his career but struggled with consistency, leading to a journeyman phase that saw him move between teams as a backup quarterback. However, in 2022, Smith had a career resurgence when he became the Seahawks' starting QB after Russell Wilson’s departure to the Denver Broncos. Smith's excellent performance in the 2022 season earned him a Pro Bowl selection and renewed interest in his future as a franchise quarterback.
Now, heading into the 2023 season, Smith is not only looking to replicate his success but also prove that he deserves to be compensated as one of the league’s top quarterbacks. Let's dive into why Geno Smith is making headlines.
Smith's Performance and Potential Payday
One of the main reasons Geno Smith is currently trending is due to speculation about his future contract with the Seahawks. After a stellar 2022 season, expectations for Smith have skyrocketed, and many are wondering if he will be the next quarterback to secure a lucrative deal. According to an ESPN article, Smith has impressed the Seahawks coaching staff and his teammates during training camp. His preparation and leadership have been noted as key factors that could lead to a strong 2023 season.
However, the article also points out that any potential payday for Smith hinges on how well he performs this season. If he can replicate or improve upon his 2022 performance, it’s likely that the Seahawks will reward him with a substantial contract extension. If not, the team may reconsider their long-term plans at quarterback.
Contract Negotiations: Smith's Reps Approach the Seahawks
The buzz around Geno Smith's future has intensified after news broke that his representatives reached out to the Seahawks about a contract extension. According to a report from the Seattle Times, Smith confirmed that his camp has initiated talks with Seattle regarding his future with the team. While Smith expressed his desire to remain in Seattle long-term, there hasn’t been any official confirmation of progress in these negotiations.
Smith’s strong 2022 season has certainly positioned him to request an extension, and it’s clear that both he and his reps are eager to secure a deal sooner rather than later. However, the Seahawks seem to be taking a more cautious approach.
Seahawks Pressing the Brakes on Extension Talks
Despite Smith’s desire for a long-term contract, the Seahawks have not rushed into extension talks. According to 12th Man Rising, the Seahawks appear to be taking a "wait and see" approach. The team is reportedly pressing the brakes on any immediate extensions, likely due to the uncertainty surrounding Smith’s future performance.
While Smith had an incredible 2022 season, the Seahawks’ front office may want to see if he can maintain that level of play through the 2023 season before committing to a long-term deal. This conservative approach is not uncommon in the NFL, especially when dealing with players who have had up-and-down careers like Smith. The Seahawks are clearly weighing the risks and rewards of locking in Smith for the future.
What’s Next for Geno Smith?
As the 2023 season unfolds, all eyes will be on Geno Smith to see if he can continue to elevate his game. If he performs well, not only could he lead the Seahawks to another playoff run, but he could also earn himself a significant contract extension that would solidify his place as the franchise quarterback for years to come.
However, if Smith struggles to replicate his 2022 success, the Seahawks may decide to explore other options at the quarterback position. Either way, this season is crucial for Smith’s professional future, and his performance will likely dictate the direction of his career.
Conclusion
Geno Smith is trending not just because of his past successes, but because of what lies ahead for him in the NFL. His contract situation and the question of whether he deserves to be the next high-paid quarterback have made him a focal point of discussion. With his representatives already initiating contract talks, and the Seahawks seemingly taking their time, the 2023 season will be pivotal for Smith's future in Seattle. As the season progresses, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Geno Smith can continue to prove himself as one of the league's top quarterbacks.