If you're a fan of the Seattle Seahawks and you aren't in on the Geno Smith hype train you're missing out. Smith was one of the best stories in the NFL last season and looks like he is only going to build on that momentum from such an impressive 2023 season.

Comeback Player of the Year and the best completion percentage in the league isn't anything to scoff at.

There is a good chance that 2023-2024 is even better.

There was a lot to like about Smith's game in 2023 that indicate he could take steps further with a Seahawks team that could be sneaky-good in the upcoming season.

One of the biggest areas that show an upward opportunity for Smith comes from his pass-protection. Smith faced the 12th-highest pressure rate in the NFL last year and was still the most accurate quarterback in the league.

Just imagine what he could do with some semi-decent protection where it matters.

If the Seahawks can find a way to keep Smith protected and from immediately having to get on his horse when the ball is snapped, the Pro Bowler can mix his impressive athleticism with his ability to read the field to build upon his already-impressive 2023 numbers.

In addition to the pure rate by itself, Smith was fourth in the league in both times pressured and hits. After an offseason of growth on this side of the ball, one has to thing that these numbers will come down as guys take their next steps and the scheme becomes solidified.

If the protection scheme was fixed (which it should've if the Hawks care about being competitive), Smith could be in a position to throw for something close to 5,000 yards on the year based on that receiving corps and the fact that offense is still king in the NFL.

If you haven't bought in yet, it might be time to start getting very excited about Geno Smith and what his next season will look like. Pro Bowl opportunities should be the floor for what he can achieve.

Geno Smith and D.K. Metcalf pick up where they left off heading into the 2023 season

After an early offseason of uncertainty, the quarterback and sure-handed wide receiver get to run it back in 2023.

Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports