Seahawks make bold quarterback swap, trading Geno Smith for Sam Darnold
The Seattle Seahawks pulled off a surprising move this offseason, trading away record-setting quarterback Geno Smith to the Las Vegas Raiders. Smith’s remarkable 2024 season saw him complete an unprecedented 70.4% of his passes, a first for a quarterback in the Pacific Northwest. Yet, despite his historic performance, the Seahawks opted for change, signing Sam Darnold to a lucrative free agent contract.
The rationale behind the trade
At the heart of this bold decision lies a notable factor: age. Geno Smith, now 34, has shown flashes of brilliance but has also faced inconsistency over the past couple of seasons. In contrast, Darnold, at 27, represents a younger option with potential upside.
While Smith had a commendable season, Darnold’s performance outshone him in key metrics. According to ESPN’s QBR, Darnold ranked seven spots ahead of Smith, boasting a value of 60.4 compared to Smith’s 53.8. This statistic underscores the Seahawks’ desire for a fresh start at the quarterback position.
A shift in expectations
Despite being labeled a draft bust after being selected third overall by the Jets, Darnold’s resurgence as a backup for the 49ers has rejuvenated his career. His impressive performance last season raised eyebrows and positioned him as a viable starter in Seattle. The Seahawks are betting on Darnold’s potential, even as doubts linger about whether his success is sustainable.
Coach Mike Macdonald acknowledged Smith’s tenacity and work ethic but also identified areas where improvement was needed, particularly in leadership. Smith’s 15 interceptions last season—including a league-high four in the red zone—may have weighed heavily on the Seahawks’ decision to move in a different direction.
Looking ahead
The decision to trade Smith and invest in Darnold is certainly a gamble. Seahawks fans are left wondering if Darnold can maintain his momentum and avoid being labeled a one-year wonder. As the franchise looks to the future, they hope this bold move will yield the results they desire on the field.
In the world of the NFL, where the stakes are ever-increasing, Seattle’s decision reflects a willingness to take risks in search of sustained success. Whether this gamble pays off remains to be seen, but it has certainly set the stage for an intriguing 2024 season.
