NEWSLETTER
Geno Smith has some security for the first time in his career, both on and off the field. Smith absolutely dominated for the Seahawks last season, making him the undisputed NFL Comeback Player of the Year. Smith helped lead the Seattle Seahawks to a postseason berth in his first year as the team’s successor to Super Bowl-winning quarterback Russell Wilson. Smith’s performance earned him a three-year $105 million contract this offseason.
Still, I thought the Seahawks might look to draft Smith’s eventual replacement. The Seahawks can get out of his deal after this season, and Smith will be 33 years old in October. However, Seattle is riding with Geno Smith after bolstering their receiving corps and adding cornerback Devon Witherspoon with their two first-rounders in March.
So, what does that mean for fantasy football owners? Geno Smith is a value play at QB that could pay off big for you this season.
As mentioned, the Seahawks added added Jaxson Smith-Njigba to a receivers group that featured DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett. Smith Njigba gives the Seahawks a reliable third pass-catcher this season. Without it in 2022, Seattle was forced to use two-wide sets on 47 percent of Smith’s dropbacks. With JSN in the mix, Seattle can open up the offense with more three-wide looks this season.
That’s good because Seattle’s passing offense was efficient when they threw the ball last season. Pete Carroll went away from his run-first tendencies and placed the ball in the hands of his veteran QB. As a result, Seattle ranked 12th in pass EPA per play.
Here’s another fun note: Smith ranked eighth in QB rushing attempts and yards last season but only had one touchdown to show. With defenses forced to cover three-wide formations, there should be more real estate on the ground for Smith this season.
Additionally, Pete Carroll is working rookie running back Zach Charbonnet into the pass-catching game out of the backfield, opening things up for Seattle’s passing attack even more.
Smith was one of four quarterbacks to throw at least 30 touchdowns last season while finishing as a QB5 in fantasy football leagues. Seattle’s 2022 season exceeded expectations, thanks in large part to the impressive performance of Geno Smith. Seattle has made some impressive moves, bringing in rookies Jaxon Smith-Njigba and Zach Charbonnet to bolster their passing game.
Take note, fantasy football players — Seattle’s upgraded offensive line guarantees a significant surge in passing volume and efficiency. Smith, ranked as QB10 in 4for4’s rankings, is currently underrated. Fourteen other players at his position are being drafted before him. Don’t make the same mistake – Smith is a valuable and promising pick for this year’s fantasy drafts.
For more on Geno Smith’s 2023 Fantasy Football outlook, check out TJ Hernandez’s profile over at our sister site, 4for4!
