Seahawks' re-signing of QB Geno Smith now official

It took a little bit longer than most assumed, but the Seattle Seahawks have finally re-signed their chosen backup quarterback who may ultimately become their starter before September.

A report surfaced Tuesday explaining that the NFL had disapproved the initial contract between the Seahawks and veteran journeyman signal-caller Geno Smith. However, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport tweeted Wednesday afternoon that the deal is now official. 

As Michael David Smith noted for Pro Football Talk, it remains unclear why the league office frowned upon Smith’s contract before Wednesday. Nevertheless, the 31-year-old now joins a quarterback room that includes 2019 second-round pick Drew Lock and 2020 fourth-round choice Jacob Eason.

Smith appeared in four contests and made three starts last fall when the since-traded Russell Wilson was out of action due to an injury to the middle finger on his throwing hand. In total, Smith completed 65 of 95 passes for 702 yards with five touchdowns and one interception filling in for Wilson. 

It's assumed Lock is penciled in atop the depth chart this spring, but the Seahawks have repeatedly been linked with former Cleveland Browns starter Baker Mayfield in trade rumors. Some believe Seattle and the Pittsburgh Steelers are among clubs waiting to see if the Browns will cut Mayfield now that they have Deshaun Watson as their new QB1.