Just In: Seahawks signed in competitor for QB Geno Smith
|It makes sense for the Seahawks to add another quarterback who can push Geno Smith, who has regressed this season.
Dane Burgler of The Athletic projects that the Seahawks will choose Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy with the 22nd overall choice in the 2024 NFL Draft in his most recent mock draft.
“General manager John Schneider and head coach Pete Carroll view Seattle as a win-now team,” Burgler stated.”But at some point, they will invest in a young quarterback to develop.”
After winning 2022 Comeback Player of the Year, Smith inked a three-year, $75 million contract, but he hasn’t played well this season. He has completed 65.4% of his throws for 12 touchdowns, eight interceptions, and a below-average passer rating of 88.8 through 11 games.
Although Smith hasn’t played poorly, it’s reasonable to question if the 33-year-old can lead a team. There isn’t another reliable starter on Seattle’s roster. In four NFL seasons, backup quarterback Drew Lock has completed 58.9% of his throws with a passer rating of 78.3.
McCarthy of Michigan is a productive passer who is sixth in the FBS in passer rating (1768.8) and fourth in completion percentage (74.3), but Burgler says scouts are hoping for more from McCarthy.
“McCarthy is a polarizing prospect. He has all the tools, and NFL coaches will love the intangibles,” wrote Burgler.” But evaluators want to see him put the offense on his back and take over games. It’s not that he can’t, it’s that he hasn’t really needed to, given Michigan’s play style and schedule.”
Seattle could be a suitable place to land. Smith is under some pressure to deliver because the Seahawks will give him time to establish himself as the organization’s face.