Geno Smith earns $1 million incentive for guiding Seahawks to playoffs

Geno Smith didn’t write his doubters back, and now he’s cashing hefty checks.

Perhaps no player in the NFL raised their value more in 2022 then the Seahawks quarterback. After playing some awesome football and officially getting Seattle into the playoffs, Smith earned a nice incentive in his contract.

“As noted earlier this week, Seattle getting to the playoffs means Geno Smith earns a $1 million incentive,” tweeted Bob Condotta of The Seattle Times. “Smith ended up earning all $3.5 million of the incentives in his contract, meaning he’ll earn $7 million overall this year.”

Of course, that’s small potatoes compared to what Smith will earn this offseason, but it’s a nice little stipend following a fantastic season for the former West Virginia star.

In his first season as the unquestioned starting quarterback, Smith amassed 4,282 passing yards and 30 passing touchdowns, throwing 11 interceptions. He was selected to the Pro Bowl as well, proving his status as one of the top quarterbacks in the NFC in 2022.

Additionally, Smith provided magnificent play when the Seahawks were entering uncharted waters, replacing Russell Wilson and breaking his franchise record for the most passing yards in a single season. Now, Seattle may look to use the first round pick they got for their former quarterback to improve the team around Smith, instead of drafting his successor.

It’s going to be interesting to watch Smith in free agency, as he’s earned a nice payday, whether it’s from Seattle or another quarterback needy team. Perhaps a return to New York with the Jets could be in the cards if he’s priced himself out of the NFC West.

But that’s a worry for the offseason. Right now, Geno Smith is focusing on continuing the Seahawks’ playoff run. Nobody should be betting against him any time soon.