Next year, the Seahawks want to continue the feel-good story of 2022.
Smith will lead his Seattle team to Germany today to face the Buccaneers. Sources say the organization hopes Smith will continue to be the QB for years to come.
As a matter of fact, the Seahawks want both QBs back, Smith and backup Drew Lock. They have yet to extend Smith’s contract, and those talks will take place after the season.
But it appears Smith has done enough to convince the team that his star turn is real and spectacular. Smith ranks third in the NFL with a 107.2 passer rating, just ahead of Patrick Mahomes and Joe Burrow. It’s impressive for someone who hasn’t started more than three games since 2014. Prior to beating Lock in training camp ahead of this season, Smith was considered a career backup, but now he is completing 73.1% of his passes and throwing for 2,199 yards.
Since trading Russell Wilson, Seattle’s offense has actually improved.
He was asked on NFL Network if he could’ve seen his play and his team’s play coming. His nonchalance about his play was comical.
Smith replied, “Without sounding arrogant or cocky, yes.” He then went on to praise his team’s work ethic and explain how it all started in OTAs.
Seattle’s impromptu dance party at practice in Munich this week exemplified the atmosphere in the QB room. Lock and Smith get along well in the QB room, creating a fun atmosphere in what could otherwise have been an awkward situation.
Pete Carroll has the ability to instill confidence in players, and that confidence leads to performance. That seems to have occurred here.
The Seahawks’ focus this offseason was finding a quarterback. They traded for Lock to compete with Smith, but they did not pursue Jimmy Garoppolo or Baker Mayfield.
Smith and Seattle are now benefiting from Smith’s stellar play.