The Seattle Seahawks have had a highly active offseason, making significant changes to their offense. The departures of Geno Smith, DK Metcalf, and Tyler Lockett signal a major shift in the team’s direction under head coach Mike Macdonald in his second season.
At the recent NFL annual meetings, Macdonald provided some insight into these roster moves. Letting go of two receivers who combined for 1,099 receptions, 14,918 yards, and 110 touchdowns underscores the organization’s commitment to a fresh approach.
Speaking with the media, Macdonald revealed that efforts were made to retain Geno Smith, but ultimately, circumstances dictated otherwise. As reported by Bob Condotta of the Seattle Times, Macdonald explained, “You have the best intention to try to make something happen,” regarding Smith’s potential contract extension. However, he acknowledged that they had to evaluate whether the deal aligned with both their short- and long-term goals. Once it became clear a deal wasn’t feasible, the team had to act decisively to avoid being left without a viable option at quarterback. As a result, Seattle traded Smith to the Las Vegas Raiders and signed Sam Darnold to a three-year contract worth up to $100.5 million.
Smith’s departure wasn’t the only major shake-up, as the Seahawks also traded Metcalf to the Pittsburgh Steelers and released Lockett after a decade with the team. Reflecting on the Metcalf trade, Macdonald noted that such moves involve a lengthy process of evaluating interest and weighing options before reaching a final decision.
Since entering the league in 2019, Metcalf had been a consistent playmaker for Seattle, recording at least 55 receptions, 900 yards, and four touchdowns in each of his six seasons. Macdonald acknowledged that from an outsider’s perspective, the trade may have seemed abrupt, but internally, it was the culmination of a thorough decision-making process that both sides felt was best.
To reinforce their receiving corps around Jaxon Smith-Njigba, the Seahawks signed Cooper Kupp and Marquez Valdes-Scantling in free agency. However, they may still look to add more talent at the position in the 2025 NFL Draft, where they currently hold the No. 18 overall pick. Potential first-round targets include Tetairoa McMillan, Matthew Golden, and Emeka Egbuka.