In a surprising move, the Seattle Seahawks have traded long-time starter Geno Smith to the Las Vegas Raiders, opting instead to sign former top draft pick Sam Darnold to a three-year, $100.5 million deal. This decision marks a dramatic shift for the Seahawks, who had relied on Smith as their quarterback for the past five seasons, during which he helped rejuvenate a previously struggling offense. However, Seattle’s front office appears confident in Darnold’s ability to lead the team moving forward after a standout 2024 season.
The Darnold Era Begins in Seattle
Sam Darnold’s career has been filled with ups and downs since entering the league in 2018 as the third overall pick by the New York Jets. After a rocky start with the Jets and brief stints with the Carolina Panthers and the San Francisco 49ers, Darnold’s 2024 season proved to be his breakthrough year. The quarterback showed glimpses of his potential that had eluded him in previous seasons, earning a fresh opportunity with the Seahawks.
Seattle’s decision to replace Smith with Darnold is not without risk, but it seems the team believes that the 26-year-old signal-caller is finally ready to meet his potential in a new system. The Seahawks’ new offensive coordinator, Klint Kubiak, spoke highly of Darnold’s abilities. “Sam’s extremely talented… Obviously, a great thrower of the football. His mobility sticks out, his toughness, his maturity,” Kubiak said, as reported by Brady Henderson of ESPN.
Darnold’s mobility, which has often been overshadowed by his inconsistency as a passer, is expected to be an asset in Kubiak’s system, which emphasizes quick decision-making and adaptability. With the 6-foot-3 quarterback now in Seattle, the Seahawks hope to build on the success they found in 2024 while unlocking Darnold’s full potential in a supportive environment.
Geno Smith Heads to Las Vegas
Meanwhile, Geno Smith, who had spent five years in Seattle, is embarking on a new chapter with the Las Vegas Raiders. The veteran quarterback will bring stability and leadership
Smith, now entering his 13th season in the NFL, has experienced a remarkable career resurgence since taking over the starting role for the Seahawks in 2020. A two-time Pro Bowler (2022-23) and the AP Comeback Player of the Year in 2022, Smith has proven to be one of the most durable and effective quarterbacks in recent seasons.
Over his 13-year career, Smith has accumulated impressive statistics: 19,143 passing yards, 105 touchdowns, and 72 interceptions on a 64.8% completion rate. Additionally, he has 1,494 rushing yards and 12 rushing touchdowns, showcasing his dual-threat capabilities. His leadership and steady play were instrumental in Seattle’s recent success, including a playoff appearance in 2023.
Smith now joins the Raiders after a successful stretch in Seattle, where he was known for his resilience and ability to perform in clutch moments. His experience and skill set will likely provide the Raiders with much-needed consistency at the quarterback position, as they aim to return to playoff contention.
Looking Ahead
The Seahawks’ bold move to part ways with Geno Smith and bring in Sam Darnold represents a significant shift in their future plans. While the decision to let go of a player who led the team to two consecutive playoff berths and was a Pro Bowl selection may raise eyebrows, Seattle’s front office is betting on Darnold’s upside. The hope is that with the right coaching and system, Darnold will become the franchise quarterback the team has been searching for since Russell Wilson’s departure.
As for Geno Smith, the move to Las Vegas could be an opportunity to continue his successful career as a steady veteran presence, helping the Raiders develop their own offensive identity. With both teams making significant quarterback changes, the 2025 season is set to be one of transition and anticipation for both the Seahawks and Raiders.
In the ever-evolving NFL landscape, the trade of Geno Smith and the signing of Sam Darnold signifies a pivotal moment for both franchises as they position themselves for the future. How these quarterbacks perform in their new homes will have long-lasting implications for their careers and the success of their respective teams.
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