SEATTLE, WASHINGTON – DECEMBER 15: Geno Smith #7 of the Seattle Seahawks throws a pass against the Green Bay Packers during the first quarter at Lumen Field on December 15, 2024 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)
Seattle Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith left Sunday’s game against the Green Packers with an apparent leg injury.
The injury took place in the third quarter as Green Bay held a 20-3 lead. Smith leapt and threw the ball under pressure. Packers linebacker Edgerrin Cooper hit Smith in the lower leg while Smith was still in the air. Smith landed awkwardly and was in pain on the ground after the hit.
Geno Smith went down with what looks to be a lower leg injury after this play. He was able to walk off of the field with help from trainers. pic.twitter.com/0Hgv7YK4WK
— Arye Pulli (@AryePulliNFL) December 16, 2024
Backup quarterback Sam Howell replaced Smith on third down on the next Seahawks play that didn’t result in a first down. Smith, meanwhile, limped to the tunnel and was listed as questionable to return with a knee injury.
If significant, the injury could alter the NFC playoff race. The Seahawks entered Sunday’s game at 8-5 with a half game lead over the 8-6 Los Angeles Rams for the lead in the NFC West. If the Seahawks were to fall out of the NFC West lead, they could end up missing the playoffs altogether. The 9-5 Washington Commanders were in position for the No. 7 seed and final wild-card berth in the NFC following their win over the New Orleans Saints on Sunday.