**Geno Smith Among NFL Quarterbacks on the Hot Seat Heading into 2025**
As the NFL gears up for the 2025 season, the spotlight is shining brightly on quarterbacks whose performances could determine their future in the league. Among those feeling the pressure is Seattle Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith, who finds himself on the proverbial “hot seat.” After a standout season in 2022 that earned him the NFL Comeback Player of the Year award, Smith’s subsequent performances have been scrutinized as the Seahawks navigate a competitive NFC West.
With high expectations and limited room for error, the 2025 season could be pivotal for Smith’s career and his place as the Seahawks’ starting quarterback.
### **The Journey So Far**
Geno Smith’s NFL career has been a story of resilience. Drafted by the New York Jets in the second round of the 2013 NFL Draft, Smith initially struggled to find consistency as a starter. After bouncing around the league as a backup for several years, including stints with the New York Giants and Los Angeles Chargers, Smith landed in Seattle as Russell Wilson’s understudy.
When Wilson was traded to the Denver Broncos ahead of the 2022 season, Smith seized the opportunity to start and exceeded all expectations. He led the Seahawks to a playoff berth, finishing with 4,282 passing yards, 30 touchdowns, and a league-best 69.8% completion rate. His poise and leadership silenced critics and earned him a three-year, $105 million contract extension in March 2023.
However, the NFL is a “what-have-you-done-for-me-lately” league, and Smith’s performances in the 2023 and 2024 seasons have left some wondering if his 2022 campaign was an outlier.
### **Why Geno Smith is on the Hot Seat**
Several factors have contributed to Smith being under the microscope heading into the 2025 season:
1. **Inconsistency in Recent Seasons**
After a stellar 2022 season, Smith struggled to replicate that level of performance in 2023 and 2024. His turnover numbers increased, and his decision-making came under scrutiny, particularly in high-pressure situations. While he has shown flashes of brilliance, consistency has been an issue, leaving the Seahawks with questions about his long-term viability as their franchise quarterback.
2. **Seattle’s Playoff Expectations**
The Seahawks are a team built to win now. With star wide receivers DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett, a strong running game led by Kenneth Walker III, and a defense bolstered by key offseason acquisitions, Seattle’s roster is primed for a deep playoff run. If Smith cannot deliver consistent results, the pressure will mount for the team to explore other options at quarterback.
3. **Emerging Quarterback Talent**
The Seahawks selected quarterback Drew Lock in 2023 and drafted another young signal-caller, Bryce Harmon, in 2024 as a developmental project. While neither has overtaken Smith yet, their presence looms large. A lackluster season in 2025 could prompt the Seahawks to fast-track the development of one of these younger players.
4. **Financial Considerations**
Smith’s contract is structured to give the Seahawks flexibility, with a potential out after the 2025 season. If he underperforms, the team could decide to move on without significant financial repercussions.
### **What Geno Smith Must Prove**
Heading into 2025, Smith needs to demonstrate that he can lead the Seahawks consistently and contend with the NFC’s elite quarterbacks. To solidify his position, he must:
– **Limit Turnovers**: Smith’s interceptions and fumbles have been a point of concern. Protecting the football will be crucial.
– **Perform in Big Games**: The Seahawks’ 2025 schedule includes tough matchups against the San Francisco 49ers, Dallas Cowboys, and Philadelphia Eagles. Smith’s ability to shine in these games will be critical.
– **Lead a Deep Playoff Run**: For a franchise accustomed to postseason success, anything less than a deep playoff run will be seen as a failure.
### **The Stakes for Seattle and Smith**
While Geno Smith’s journey from journeyman to starter is a testament to his perseverance, the NFL is a results-driven league. The Seahawks have invested heavily in building a team capable of contending for championships, and Smith’s performance will play a pivotal role in determining their success.
If he can rise to the challenge and lead the Seahawks to another playoff berth or a deep postseason run, Smith could solidify his place as the franchise’s leader. However, another inconsistent season could mark the end of his tenure in Seattle, forcing the team to look for its next quarterback.
As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on Geno Smith, whose ability to thrive under pressure may define not just his career but the Seahawks’ immediate future.