geno smith or richardson

Daniel Parker

3 min read

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27-02-2025

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Geno Smith or Richardson: The Seahawks' QB Conundrum

The Seattle Seahawks' quarterback situation is a fascinating one heading into the 2024 season. After a surprising run to the playoffs in 2023, the team faces a crucial decision: stick with the veteran leadership of Geno Smith, or hand the reins to the highly touted rookie, C.J. Richardson. Both quarterbacks offer unique strengths and weaknesses, making this a complex evaluation. This article delves into the pros and cons of each player, helping to unravel the Seahawks' quarterback conundrum.

Geno Smith: The Steady Veteran

Geno Smith’s 2023 season defied expectations. Many considered him a journeyman quarterback, at best. Yet, he led the Seahawks to a winning record and a playoff berth, throwing for over 4,000 yards and a respectable touchdown-to-interception ratio. His performance earned him a Pro Bowl nod and significantly altered perceptions of his abilities.

Strengths of Geno Smith:

• Experience: Smith's extensive NFL experience brings stability and composure to the offense. He understands game management and can read defenses effectively. This experience proved invaluable in crucial moments during the 2023 season.
• Accuracy: Smith consistently demonstrates accuracy on short and intermediate throws, crucial for the Seahawks' offensive scheme. His ability to make quick reads and deliver the ball on time is a significant asset.
• Leadership: Smith is a proven leader in the locker room, commanding respect from his teammates. This leadership is crucial for a team aiming for sustained success.

Weaknesses of Geno Smith:

• Arm Strength: While accurate, Smith's arm strength can be a limiting factor on deep throws. This could hinder the Seahawks' offensive potential, particularly in the red zone.
• Mobility: Smith is not a mobile quarterback, limiting his ability to extend plays outside the pocket. This restricts the Seahawks' offensive playbook somewhat.
• Consistency: While his 2023 season was exceptional, there were games where Smith struggled with consistency, highlighting a potential vulnerability.

C.J. Richardson: The Untapped Potential

C.J. Richardson enters the picture as a high-profile rookie quarterback with immense potential. His college stats were impressive, showcasing a strong arm and playmaking ability. However, translating college success to the NFL is never guaranteed.

Strengths of C.J. Richardson:

• Arm Talent: Richardson possesses a cannon for an arm, capable of making all the throws. This opens up the deep passing game and significantly expands the offensive playbook.
• Mobility: Unlike Smith, Richardson is a dual-threat quarterback, able to make plays with his legs. This adds a dynamic element to the offense, keeping defenses guessing.
• High Ceiling: Richardson has the potential to become an elite quarterback in the NFL. His raw talent and athleticism are undeniable.

Weaknesses of C.J. Richardson:

• Inexperience: The biggest hurdle for Richardson is his lack of NFL experience. He needs time to adapt to the speed and complexity of the professional game.
• Accuracy: While possessing a strong arm, Richardson’s accuracy needs refinement. He needs to improve his ball placement, especially under pressure.
• Decision Making: Like many young quarterbacks, Richardson sometimes struggles with decision-making, leading to turnovers. This needs improvement to become a consistent starter.

The Decision: Smith or Richardson?

The Seahawks face a difficult decision. Smith provides stability and proven success. Richardson offers a potentially higher ceiling but carries significant risk. The decision likely hinges on the Seahawks' long-term goals.

• Short-term success: Smith is the safer bet for immediate contention.
• Long-term potential: Richardson represents a gamble with potentially greater rewards down the line.

Ultimately, the choice will depend on Seattle's coaching staff's assessment of Richardson's development and their confidence in Smith's continued high level of play. The 2024 season will likely be crucial in determining the Seahawks' quarterback of the future. The quarterback position is pivotal, and the Seahawks' decision could significantly impact their future success.