Comparing Geno Smith and Sam Darnold: A Closer Look at Their Contract Disparities

Remember when the Seattle Seahawks made the surprising switch from Geno Smith to Sam Darnold? At the time, it seemed like Smith’s contract demands were too high, and Darnold, signed for less, was an appealing alternative. But now, with a clearer picture of the contracts, things look quite different.

Recent reports suggest that Smith has a two-year extension worth $75 million, which, when combined with his previous contract, gives him a total of $106 million over three years. Meanwhile, Darnold’s deal is for three years at $100.5 million. When you dig into the details, Smith’s deal allows for up to $116.5 million, while Darnold’s could go as high as $115.5 million.

Darnold’s contract has some flexibility, potentially letting the Seahawks part ways after just one year and $37.5 million. The terms of Smith’s new deal aren’t fully disclosed yet, but the competition between these two contracts is more comparable than many expected.

Initially, Smith had his sights set on a salary well over $40 million a year. However, it looks like he reassessed his expectations, maybe swayed by a return to coach Pete Carroll. In the end, Smith’s reported average of $37.5 million per year isn’t vastly different from what Darnold will earn.

This shift illustrates a broader trend in the NFL. Many players are re-evaluating their worth in a changing market. A 2023 survey of NFL players revealed that 60% believe that contract disputes could lead to more team changes in the upcoming seasons. It highlights how quickly the situation can turn.

Understanding how player contracts work can be complex, but it’s fascinating to see how these dynamics play out on the field. For more insights on NFL contracts and trends, you can visit ESPN’s player contract database.

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