3 bold moves Seahawks made during the 2024 offseason

Seahawks traded for Sam Howell

Geno Smith should be given some credit for his confidence as many other players might have seen such a move as a personal affront to their livelihood. There is only one spot for a quarterback on the field, after all, and a player with less confidence might have thought Seattle was bringing in Howell to replace Smith.

That could still be true, of course. At least, eventually. Heading into the 2024 season, Smith should be QB1 and Howell should be QB2. If Smith doesn't execute new offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb's offense, though, Seattle might see if Howell can. Howell started every game for the Washington Commanders in 2023, and he is ten years younger than Smith.

The chance that the Seahawks took, though, was upsetting the culture a bit. Most of Seattle's offensive personnel remain the same as last year. The offensive line has changed a bit, but DK Metcalf, Tyler Lockett, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Kenneth Walker III, and Noah Fant might have complete faith in Geno Smith. They might see Seattle adding Howell as a sign of an uncertain future for everyone.

The trade to get Howell might prove to be a brilliant move, though. Both he and Smith are signed through 2025 so Seattle should not need a quarterback for two seasons. Should Smith falter, Howell could replace him. If Howell thrives under Grubb, plus having a much better offensive line than he had with the Commanders, then Howell could end up being Seattle's quarterback for years to come while being inexpensive for the foreseeable future.

Schneider and new head coach Mike Macdonald want Smith to succeed, of course. If he does then likely the team overall is succeeding too. However, should Howell take over as QB1 then Seattle could release Smith next offseason and the team would have a lot more cap flexibility.