Seattle Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith faces an uncertain timeline for his return to the field, as he undergoes imaging tests following consecutive days of missed training camp practice.
Smith sustained a leg injury during an 11-on-11 drill on Tuesday when a defensive teammate knocked him to the ground. Since that incident, he has been sidelined indefinitely. Head coach Mike Macdonald shared details of Smith’s condition, explaining that the quarterback struggled throughout the remainder of the day, favoring his leg. This led the medical staff to focus on his hip and knee the following day.
Smith's absence was keenly felt at Wednesday's practice, where the spotlight shifted to the Seahawks' alternate quarterback, Sam Howell. Howell, at 23 years old, has stepped in as the fill-in starter. Acquired through a trade from the Washington Commanders last March, Howell started all 17 games for the Commanders in the 2023 season. During that time, he led the NFL in pass attempts with 612, completing 21 touchdowns and an equal number of interceptions.
Impact on the Team
Smith's injury raises immediate concerns about the Seahawks’ strategy moving forward. Smith is entering the second year of a three-year contract extension that he signed last offseason. In the previous season, Smith posted an 8-7 record as the Seahawks' starter, throwing 20 touchdowns against nine interceptions, and missing two games due to a groin injury. While Smith's past performance was generally solid, his current predicament throws the Seahawks’ plans into disarray.
Head coach Macdonald remains cautiously optimistic but indicated uncertainty regarding Smith's immediate future. "I don't know about tomorrow, but we'll see what comes out of when he goes and sees the doc," Macdonald noted. This statement encapsulates the current air of uncertainty surrounding Smith's condition and timeline for recovery.
Howell's Opportunity
For Howell, this sudden shift presents both a challenge and an opportunity. Despite his mixed statistics last season with the Commanders, wherein he recorded 21 touchdowns and 21 interceptions, Howell's extensive game time will be invaluable experience as he steps into the starting quarterback role for the Seahawks. His acquisition has gained newfound importance, and his performance will be key in maintaining the team’s competitive edge during Smith's absence.
The Seahawks’ coaching staff and players now must pivot their focus to making the most of Howell’s potential. Howell's performance during training camps and preseason games will be closely scrutinized, and his ability to adapt to the Seahawks' playbook and team dynamics will be crucial. The experience he gained last year will be put to the test as he takes the helm.
Outlook for the Season
While the immediate future remains uncertain for Smith, the Seahawks must press forward with Howell at the forefront. The situation underscores the importance of having a capable backup ready to step up at a moment’s notice. Howell’s journey from the Commanders to the Seahawks in March has now come full circle, putting him in a position where his contributions could significantly influence the team's trajectory for the upcoming season.
As the Seahawks await further clarity on Smith’s condition, the primary focus will be on Howell and how effectively he can lead the team in Smith’s stead. Seahawks fans and analysts alike will be watching closely, hopeful for a swift recovery for Smith and for Howell to seize this opportunity to demonstrate his worth on the field.