It looks like Seattle Seahawks general manager John Schneider was very impressed by one specific quarterback prospect while the team was doing serious homework this week ahead of next month’s NFL Draft.
The Seattle Seahawks were one of the surprise teams in the NFL last season. They received unexpectedly strong performances from rookie running back Kenneth Walker III, as well as rookie cornerbacks Tariq Woolen and Cody Bryant. However, no player surpassed expectations more than Geno Smith.
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The player that was viewed as a draft bust and journeyman became a Pro Bowler in 2022 and delivered the Seattle Seahawks back to the playoffs last season. And that impressive showing was rewarded this month when they gave the 32-year-old a three-year, $75 million contract. However, the organization has a unique opportunity next month at the NFL Draft.
The Seahawks have the fifth pick overall in 2023 after trading away their previous homegrown franchise QB Russell Wilson last spring. In the end, Smith is still a short-term answer for Seattle. While it is no guarantee, and the team has several needs, there is a chance they could select a signal-caller with their top pick.
Seattle Seahawks record (2022): 9-8. second place in NFC West
With that in mind, the organization has been doing its due diligence over the last month researching all the prospects who could be available at five next month, including the quarterbacks.
Earlier this week, representatives for the team, including GM John Schneider and head coach Pete Carroll took in the pro day for Florida QB Anthony Richardson. And the team’s general manager seemed to be exceedingly impressed with the 20-year-old talents.
“He was really impressive. Great athlete, great young man. He has a ton of physical talent, no question about it. … He did a great job. He had fun. He was loose, and he had a good time with his teammates.”
– John Schneider (h/t Pro Footbal Talk)
Along with the rave reviews, Sports Illustrated also reported that “Schneider spent extensive time with quarterback Anthony Richardson’s agent in Gainesville on Thursday, while Carroll held a private meeting with Florida coach Billy Napier to continue digging on the quarterback.”
Richardson is seen as a player with the potential to be the best among the QBs in this year’s class. However, many also believe he will need a year or two on an NFL bench to be coached up into a starting signal caller in the league.