In the ever-evolving drama that is the NFL offseason, the Seattle Seahawks find themselves at the heart of a compelling quarterback narrative. With the recent acquisition of Sam Howell, speculation abounds that veteran Geno Smith may find his starting position under threat.
ESPN’s Seahawks insider, Brady Henderson, sparked the conversation by suggesting that Howell could indeed “push” Smith for the coveted QB1 spot during the upcoming training camp and preseason.
Geno Smith: A Veteran Under Pressure
Geno Smith, once celebrated for his Pro Bowl selection and Comeback Player of the Year award in 2022, faces a pivotal moment in his career. Despite a commendable QBR of 62.8 in 2022, Smith witnessed a decline in his performance last season, with his QBR slipping to 59.5. Henderson points out,
“Smith has two years remaining on his contract, with a looming $38.5M cap hit in 2025—a figure the Seahawks might balk at if Smith’s performance doesn’t improve.”
Sam Howell: The Unlikely Contender
On the flip side, Sam Howell, a fifth-round draft pick in 2022, brings a mix of concern and potential to the Seahawks’ quarterback room. His rookie season stats—21 touchdowns and an equal number of interceptions, coupled with the most sacks taken—hardly paint the picture of a starting quarterback.
However, it’s Howell’s arm talent and mobility, highlighted in a standout performance against the Seahawks last November, that has caught the eye of Seattle’s management.
Sam Howell Effect
The Seahawks’ interest in Howell isn’t without its logic. As Henderson notes, “The Seahawks like his arm talent and ability to extend plays.” Such traits are invaluable in the modern NFL, where quarterbacks are increasingly expected to conjure plays from collapsing pockets. Moreover, at just 24 years old come September, Howell represents a younger option with room to grow.
Competition and Potential Transition
Seattle’s strategy appears to be one of open competition and cautious optimism. Smith, nearing 34, is afforded the chance this fall to prove he can be the franchise’s long-term solution. Conversely, Howell’s potential one-year trial in 2025 could either cement his role as the new face of the Seahawks or serve as a bridge to prospects.
Sam Howell is going to the Seattle Seahawks, a move that gives them a quarterback with experience to pair with starter Geno Smith and upgrades the Washington Commanders’ draft capital.https://t.co/hFedPknGA9 pic.twitter.com/ySVB4VSMgj
— WAVY TV 10 (@WAVY_News) March 15, 2024
Seattle Seahawks at a Crossroads
Brady Henderson’s insights illuminate a Seahawks organization at a crossroads. With Smith “the guy” for now, the coming months promise a gripping duel between experience and potential. For Geno Smith, it’s a challenge to validate his tenure in Seattle amidst the looming pressure of his contract.
For Sam Howell, it’s an opportunity to defy expectations and carve out his place in the NFL. As summer approaches, all eyes will be on Seattle’s training camp, where the next chapter of this quarterback saga will unfold.
Source: Yardbarker
