With reports today that Baker Mayfield is expected to be named the Week 1 starting quarterback for the Carolina Panthers, just one quarterback competition remains: Geno Smith vs. Drew Lock in Seattle.'Lock was to start tonight's preseason game vs. Chicago but is out with COVID, meaning Smith could win the gig almost by default if he plays well vs. the Bears. SportsLine offers updated odds on the Seattle QB competition.
Smith was always considered the favorite b ecause he's familiar with offensive coordinator Shane Waldron's schemes. Smith played in seven games for the Seahawks last year and started three in place of the injured Russell Wilson, going 1-2. Smith had an overall rating of 103.0, which actually would have ranked sixth in the league, just behind Wilson (103.1).
The veteran Smith started the preseason opener in Pittsburgh and was sharp, going 10 of 15 for 101 yards and a rushing touchdown. Lock, acquired in the Wilson trade from Denver, was 11 of 15 with 102 yards and two scores, but fumbled away a ball that led to Pittsburgh's winning touchdown. Turnovers have been Lock's biggest issue since entering the NFL as a second-round pick in 2019 by the Broncos.
Coaches generally don't like to play their starters in the third and final preseason game (Seattle visits Dallas next Friday), so Lock's chances of winning the job could be over if Smith shines against the Bears. Lock may not even be he althy in time for the Cowboys game.