The Seahawks locked up P Michael Dickson and saw QB Geno Smith ignite an 'uprising' at minicamp on June 10. See how Seattle is building for the 2024 season.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
The first day of mandatory minicamp under new head coach Mike Macdonald felt electric, and it wasn't just because the team locked down a core special teamer for the long haul. While punter Michael Dickson was busy signing a historic contract extension, quarterback Geno Smith was on the field igniting what's being called a Seahawks 'uprising,' reminding everyone that while the future is being secured, the present is looking dangerously sharp.
It's crazy going into my eighth year. I still feel like my rookie season was like a season ago. I haven't taken any of my time here for granted. I'm doing everything I can to when the time comes, leave with no regrets.
All eyes were on the offense as mandatory activities began, and Geno Smith did not disappoint. Reports from the practice field describe a quarterback fully in command, taking the NFL 'by storm' with his performance. Smith's precision and leadership have been a major talking point, drawing praise from coaches and teammates. For a team installing a new system, seeing QB1 not just participating but dominating is a massive shot of confidence. It's a clear signal that Smith is embracing the challenge and ready to lead this team's revival.
While Geno was slinging it, the front office was making history. The Seahawks signed punter Michael Dickson to a four-year, $16.2 million extension, making him the highest-paid punter in the league. The deal, which keeps the Aussie phenom in Seattle through 2029, surpasses recent contracts for top punters like Logan Cooke and AJ Cole. It's a testament to Dickson's value as a field-flipping weapon. After Tyler Lockett's departure, Dickson is now the longest-tenured Seahawk, a role he's embracing. 'I'm super grateful,' he said, reflecting on his journey since being a fifth-round pick in 2018.
Locking up Dickson was a key piece of business, but it immediately begs the question: who's next? The Seahawks' front office has a busy year ahead with 17 key players slated to hit unrestricted free agency in the spring of 2026. The list is a who's who of the team's young core, including running back Kenneth Walker III, cornerback Riq Woolen, offensive tackle Abe Lucas, and pass rusher Boye Mafe. Securing these foundational players will be crucial to sustaining the success Mike Macdonald is building toward.
Day one of minicamp delivered a perfect blend of rewarding past performance and generating excitement for the future. With a cornerstone like Dickson secured and a quarterback playing with renewed fire, the message from the Seahawks is clear: they are building a complete team, from top to bottom, ready to compete now. The next big question will be which of the 2026 free agents the team prioritizes as they continue to shape the roster for a new era of Seahawks football.
