Seahawks Have Two Paths They Can Go Down at QB in 2025
As the Seattle Seahawks look ahead to the 2025 season, their quarterback situation remains one of the most intriguing storylines in the NFL. With Geno Smith’s resurgence and the development of young talent, the team faces a critical decision about its future under center. Stacy Rost, a trusted voice on all things Seahawks, recently broke down the two potential paths Seattle could take at quarterback in 2025.
Whether the Seahawks stick with a proven veteran or usher in a new era with a younger option, the decision will have far-reaching implications for the team’s trajectory. Let’s explore the two possible scenarios Rost outlines and what each path could mean for Seattle’s success.
The first option for Seattle is to continue building around veteran quarterback Geno Smith. After spending years as a backup, Smith earned the starting job in 2022 and delivered an unexpected Pro Bowl season. His accuracy, poise, and leadership brought stability to the Seahawks’ offense, helping the team reach the playoffs in 2022 and remain competitive in 2023 and 2024.
Smith’s performance silenced doubters who questioned whether he could be a long-term solution. However, as he approaches his mid-30s, the Seahawks must weigh the risks of relying on an aging quarterback. Rost argues that if Smith can maintain his production and durability, sticking with him could allow Seattle to focus its resources on strengthening other areas of the roster.
Smith’s continuity would benefit the Seahawks in several ways:
- Stability in the Offense: Smith’s familiarity with offensive coordinator Shane Waldron’s system ensures minimal disruption to the team’s offensive identity.
- Veteran Leadership: Smith’s experience and leadership are invaluable, especially for a team with young playmakers like Kenneth Walker III, DK Metcalf, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, and Zach Charbonnet.
- Draft Flexibility: Keeping Smith as the starter allows Seattle to use high draft picks to address other needs, such as bolstering the offensive line or strengthening the defense.
However, the biggest question mark is whether Smith can sustain his performance for another two to three seasons. The NFL is a league of constant change, and teams often look to younger options to stay competitive long-term.
The second path Seattle could take is transitioning to a younger quarterback, either through the NFL Draft or internal development. While Geno Smith has proven reliable, the Seahawks may see 2025 as the perfect time to invest in their future at the most important position in football.
The 2025 draft class is expected to feature several highly touted quarterback prospects, including Caleb Williams, Drake Maye, and potentially others who emerge during the college season. Rost highlights the appeal of drafting a young quarterback with elite potential to lead the franchise for the next decade.
- Long-Term Stability: A successful young quarterback provides a foundation for sustained success, similar to what Patrick Mahomes has done for Kansas City or Joe Burrow for Cincinnati.
- Cap Flexibility: Rookie contracts for quarterbacks offer significant savings, allowing Seattle to invest in other areas of the roster during the player’s early years.
- Alignment with Young Core: Pairing a young quarterback with Seattle’s emerging stars could create a dynamic offense built to contend for years.
If the Seahawks pursue this path, they must decide whether to trade up for a top prospect or target a mid-round quarterback they can develop. The team’s strong draft capital and history of savvy trades give them flexibility to make a bold move if necessary.
Alternatively, Seattle could groom a young quarterback already on the roster. Drew Lock, who has served as Smith’s backup, remains an intriguing option. If Lock shows significant improvement and readiness to lead, Seattle could transition to him as a cost-effective solution.
Regardless of which path the Seahawks choose, the decision will hinge on several key factors:
- Geno Smith’s Performance in 2024: If Smith continues to play at a high level, the team may feel less urgency to move on. Conversely, a decline in performance could accelerate their timeline for finding a replacement.
- Draft Position: Seattle’s draft position will heavily influence their options. A high pick could make a top-tier quarterback prospect attainable, while a lower pick may require creative maneuvering.
- Team Needs: The Seahawks must evaluate whether they can afford to invest in a young quarterback or if other areas, such as the defensive line, take precedence.
Stacy Rost believes the Seahawks are in a unique position of strength. Unlike teams scrambling to fill a glaring void at quarterback, Seattle has the luxury of time and options. “This isn’t a decision that needs to be rushed,” Rost explained. “The Seahawks have set themselves up to compete now while also planning for the future.”
Rost also emphasizes the importance of alignment between the front office and coaching staff. Pete Carroll and John Schneider have consistently worked together to build a competitive roster, and their collaboration will be critical in determining the right path forward.
The Seahawks’ quarterback decision in 2025 will shape the franchise’s direction for years to come. Whether they stick with Geno Smith or usher in a new era with a young quarterback, the team’s commitment to strategic planning and development ensures they’ll remain a contender in the NFC.
While each path comes with risks and rewards, Seahawks fans can take comfort in knowing that the team is well-positioned to make the most of either scenario. As the 2024 season unfolds, all eyes will be on Smith’s performance and the development of potential future quarterbacks, setting the stage for one of the most pivotal decisions in recent team history.