Earlier this week we learned from NFL Network reporter Mike Garafolo that starting Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith and his people approached the team and have discussed or at least “tried to talk about” a contract extension. The report came as a surprise, given that Smith still has two years remaining on his current deal and historically the team has refused to negotiate with players when there’s that much time left on the their contract.
Based on what we’re seeing from Smith’s social media activity it’s possible that Seattle’s front office has followed that pattern, refusing to discuss a new deal and Smith may be unhappy about it. At some point over the last few days Smith cleared his Instagram feed of all his former posts, and his profile makes no mention of the Seahawks. Here’s a screenshot of what it looks like now:
For what it’s worth, Smith’s posts on Twitter are still up on his timeline. However, his profile there also makes no mention of the Seahawks, only a G$ , the same as Instagram.
We don’t want to get too far ahead of ourselves assuming why Smith cleared his feed, which can be for all sorts of reasons. However, for what it’s worth clearing any mention of their current team on social media has become a common tactic/behavior by players around the NFL who are looking for a new deal. This coming on the heels of that report by Garafolo has naturally raised speculation with fans online that he could be in a contract dispute with the front office.
Apparently the last thing Geno posted before wiping his Instagram clean was a set of lyrics from a Drake song, which includes the line “you know the price of everything but the value of nothing.” Also, one of the images attached included the words “I’m gone” several times and an “I just hope that you miss me…” superimposed over a photo of Smith.
It doesn’t sound great, but Seattle fans should probably hold off panicking until we actually get some more hard reporting on the situation. Garafolo’s comments came on a podcast and sounded more speculative than anything really concrete.
If Geno Smith and the Seahawks are having a legitimate beef over his contract, we will find out soon via one of the more plugged-in beat writers who follow the team. Until then, remember that Smith still has two years remaining on his deal and really doesn’t have much leverage to speak of, if any.
