Will Geno Smith starting at QB lead to success?

By: Jake Rajala

Geno Smith is singing “Hope by Shaggy” – as he will be the starting quarterback for the Seattle Seahawks in Week 1! As widely enunciated, the former New York Jets signal-caller isn’t a stranger to leading the Hawks onto the field. Smith started against the New Orleans Saints, the Pittsburgh Steelers, and the Jacksonville Jaguars a season ago. He had a strong losing effort against the Steelers – as T.J. Watt (shocker) had a sack and forced fumble on him in OT. Smith gained more experience this off-season as the QB1 and he’s clearly antsy to prove his worth in Week 1 of 2022. With that said, I’m going to unfold the pros and cons of Smith starting.

Pros of Geno Smith starting

• He has familiarity with DK Metcalf

The Seahawks official starting QB in Week 1 truly has fine chemistry with his hulk-like wideout in DK Metcalf. He showed his ability to lock in with Metcalf against the Saints last season – where he launched a beautiful, 84-yard touchdown strike to Metcalf (who was supposed to be covered by Marshon Lattimore) on the play.

• He can take care of the football

Smith may have had a critical turnover against the Steelers (who showcase a greek god-like defender), but he only tossed a single interception a season ago. Meanwhile, Drew Lock (aka the QB that fell off a cliff in Denver) unveiled three interceptions in his latest pre-season debut.

• Accurate

Smith is honestly an accurate NFL QB – which was evident with his 68.4 cmp% last season. He can absolutely execute the ins and outs of the Hawks west-coast offense.

Cons of Geno Smith starting

• He doesn’t have a sexy ceiling

Smith may have arm talent, mobility, understanding of the Seahawks scheme, and a lot of confidence heading into 2022. Although, he doesn’t have the sexiest ceiling. I’m talking about a QB that hasn’t thrown more than 13 touchdowns in a single season. Furthermore, Smith doesn’t have a fountain of youth – as he is six years older than Drew Lock. I’m not convinced that he can revolt into a top-tier QB at this stage in his career.

• Injury issues

Smith filled in for the injured, mythical Russell Wilson last season. Let’s still not forget that Smith has had injury issues himself. His starting opportunity in his fourth season (2016) was eroded after he suffered a season-ending ACL tear. So, can Smith survive in 2022 and beyond behind the Hawks OL that was ranked as the 32nd best OL by PFF heading into the season?

• Short-term success

Smith can be a superb game manager for his beloved team, but I’m not confident in him transcending into a Pro Bowl-caliber QB in the Rainy city. The Carolina Panthers had a similar situation as Seattle prior to bringing in Baker Mayfield. The Hawks may not enjoy the most short-term success in the frigid NFC West with their fourth-ranked QB in their hyper-competitive division.