Seattle Seahawks’ new head coach, Mike Macdonald, has affirmed that Geno Smith retains the starting quarterback position, despite the team’s acquisition of Sam Howell, who will instead vie for the spot.
The Seahawks recently engaged in a draft-pick swap with the Washington Commanders. In this exchange, Washington acquired a third and fifth-round pick, while Seattle obtained Sam Howell, along with a fourth and sixth-round pick. Although Howell served as the team’s captain last year and showed promise in his inaugural season as a starter, the arrival of a new general manager and head coach at Washington, now possessing the second overall pick, is anticipated to result in the selection of either Drake Maye or Jayden Daniels, rendering Howell surplus to requirements.
Following the departure of Drew Lock to the New York Giants, the Seahawks found themselves in need of a backup quarterback. They seized the opportunity to trade for Howell, whom general manager John Schneider had previously expressed admiration for during the 2022 NFL Draft evaluation process. While Seattle’s positive remarks about Howell led to speculation about his potential for competing for the starting role, the new head coach, Macdonald, has dispelled any such notion, affirming Geno Smith’s status as the definitive starter. Macdonald stated in an interview with NFL Network, “I don’t. I’ve talked to Geno about it. Very confident in Geno. Geno’s going to be our starter. Sam knows he’s going to be our backup, but Sam is a great young player, and he’s got a bright future that we believe in.”
Both Smith and Howell have contracts extending for two more years, with manageable financial terms. Meanwhile, the Seahawks have been focused on enhancing their team following the departure of coach Pete Carroll. They have bid farewell to several players who were part of Carroll’s era, including star safeties Jamal Adams and Quandre Diggs, as well as the legendary linebacker Bobby Wagner.
Despite having two quarterbacks ready to play, the Seahawks may still explore new quarterback prospects in the NFL Draft, particularly after an offseason overhaul. The team has overhauled its coaching staff, with Ryan Grubb, former play-caller for the Washington Huskies, assuming the role of offensive coordinator.
Grubb, who has worked closely with Michael Penix Jr. – a quarterback likely to enter the NFL Draft – could potentially bring Penix Jr. to Seattle. While Smith is slated to lead the team this season, his contract implies the possibility of his departure after the 2024 season, which would create salary cap space and potentially open the door for Howell or a drafted quarterback to step up.
Smith, who has been a Pro Bowler for the past two seasons since taking over from Russell Wilson, has seen significant changes in the team following Wilson’s trade to the Denver Broncos and subsequent release and signing with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
