To say that Geno Smith's emergence this season is surprising is a massive understatement. After sitting behind Russell Wilson last season, the Seahawks QB became one of the best players at his position this season. There's a legitimate argument that Geno is one of the MVP leaders this season.

Because of that, talks about Geno Smith's future with the Seahawks are starting to heat up. According to Ian Rapoport, Seattle is expected to offer their starting quarterback a long-term contract after his MVP-caliber play this year. This is the perfect outcome for one of the best stories this season.

If you had told Seahawks fans before the season that they'd willingly give Geno Smith long-term money, they'd wonder what went wrong with the front office. Prior to this season, Smith was seen as someone who'd top out as an excellent backup QB. The team was expected to pursue a replacement QB by the end of the season.

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GM John Schneider in the middle, Kris Jenkins, Cooper Beebe, Cedric Gray around him, and Seattle Seahawks wallpaper in the background

Enzo Flojo ·

A blank silhouette/outline of a person with the logo for the Seattle Seahawks in the middle. On either side of the silhouette/outline are University of Toledo cornerback Quinyon Mitchell and University of Georgia tackle Amarius Mims.

Ben Strauss ·

Former Mike Macdonald and Geno Smith mentor Pete Carroll with John Schneider

Jay Postrado ·

Geno Smith shut down those plans rather quickly, though, with his excellent play. It's not like the Seahawks QB is doing anything unsustainable, too: he's cut down his mistakes and improved his decision-making. All of that adds up to one of the most surprising career turnarounds in the last few years.

Behind their new-found offensive prowess and a solid defense, the Seahawks are looking to make some serious noise come playoff time. Considering the expectations for this team before the season, a postseason berth would already be a win on its own.