Report: Seahawks make final decision regarding drafting a quarterback

The Seattle Seahawks won’t be drafting a quarterback in the 2022 NFL Draft. Instead, head coach Pete Carrol will usher the post-Russell Wilson era in with one of three quarterbacks: Geno Smith, Drew Lock and Jacob Eason, but one is out to an early lead.

“The competition is underway,” Carroll told reporters. “Geno [Smith] has come in and is obviously ahead going in because he’s had all the background with us. He’s been with us for a number of years. He leads the charge right now. He’s in command of our system as much as a guy could be.

“[Jacob Eason] had a year with us so he’s doing his part. Meanwhile we’re watching how Drew [Lock] comes along and he’s going. He’s busting his tail to catch up and be right with it. All of our guys we know are strong-armed throwers. We will not lack in the potential of our throwing game, the style and the things that we can do.”

Smith is a proven veteran, and Lock pent the 2020-21 season as Denver’s starting quarterback. Eason on the other hand, is yet to prove himself during his short tenure with the Seahawks after being picked up on waivers by Seattle in mid-season last year.

While Eason likely has a ways to go, Smith came into the organization knowingly providing backup services to Wilson, and the Seahawks will be looking to get something out of trading their franchise quarterback other than a few draft picks and a veteran defensive tackle. Lock will get reps and could make a strong case for himself to take the first offensive snap of the Seahawks season come September.

“We’ve been able to see Drew [Lock] in great depth. We’ve seen everything. We went all the way back to all his college days and everything else,” Carrol said. “Every throw he’s ever thrown to show us what he’s capable of doing. We’re fitting it together. It’s going to be a really strong, competitive group and we’re going to be smart. Geno [Smith] knows what he’s doing. He knows the game. He’s a seasoned veteran. When he got his chance to get going last year, he showed some terrific stuff. We know the system can fit and work.”