Geno Smith's Seahawks Legacy Endures Despite Uncertain NFL Future

The veteran quarterback kept the Seahawks relevant after Russell Wilson's departure, even if he's not a franchise legend.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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Geno Smith's NFL career has taken an unexpected turn after being released by the Raiders, but his time as the Seahawks' starting quarterback from 2022-2024 deserves recognition. Though he's not a Hall of Famer or Ring of Honor member, Smith helped the Seahawks stay competitive and relevant in the aftermath of Russell Wilson's trade, leading the team to three straight winning seasons and a playoff appearance. His engaging personality also resonated with fans during a transitional period for the franchise.

Why it matters

The Seahawks were expected to spiral after trading away their star quarterback Russell Wilson, but Geno Smith stepped up and kept the team competitive, preventing a prolonged rebuild. His performance, while not elite, was crucial in maintaining the Seahawks' status as a contender during a period of uncertainty.

The details

Geno Smith took over as the Seahawks' starting quarterback in 2022 after Russell Wilson was traded to the Broncos. Despite being a longtime backup, Smith led the team to a one-point win over Wilson's Broncos in the season opener, endearing himself to Seahawks fans. Over the next three seasons, Smith guided the Seahawks to three straight winning records, made the playoffs once, and led the league in completion percentage in 2023. While he struggled with turnovers and sacks, Smith also had several game-winning drives and proved to be an engaging, authentic presence that resonated with the fanbase.

  • Geno Smith took over as Seahawks starting QB in 2022 after Russell Wilson was traded.
  • Smith led the Seahawks to three straight winning seasons from 2022-2024.
  • In 2023, Smith led the NFL in completion percentage at 69.8%.

The players

Geno Smith

A veteran quarterback who stepped up as the Seahawks' starter after Russell Wilson's departure, leading the team to three straight winning seasons from 2022-2024 and making the playoffs once.

Russell Wilson

The former Seahawks star quarterback who was traded to the Broncos in 2022, marking the biggest trade in Seahawks history.

John Schneider

The Seahawks' general manager who made the decision to trade Russell Wilson, a move that ultimately proved to be one of the shrewdest of his tenure.

Sam Darnold

The quarterback who signed with the Seahawks after Geno Smith was traded to the Raiders, and who led the team to their second Super Bowl championship.

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What they’re saying

“They wrote me off, I ain't write back, though.”

— Geno Smith (Seattle Times)

What’s next

Geno Smith's NFL future remains uncertain after being released by the Raiders, as he looks to land a starting job or return to a backup role.

The takeaway

Geno Smith's tenure as the Seahawks' starting quarterback, while not legendary, was crucial in keeping the franchise relevant and competitive during a transitional period after the departure of Russell Wilson. His engaging personality and ability to lead the team to winning seasons earned him a special place in the hearts of Seahawks fans.