Canales Announces Dalton as Seahawks Starting QB
Seattle, WA - The Seattle Seahawks have officially named Andy Dalton as their starting quarterback for the upcoming 2023 season. Head coach Pete Carroll made the announcement on Tuesday, August 15th, following the conclusion of the preseason.
Dalton's Experience and Leadership
This decision comes after a closely watched competition throughout training camp and preseason. Dalton, a veteran with 12 years of NFL experience, emerged as the frontrunner after consistently performing well in practice and games. He brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the Seahawks, having led teams like the Cincinnati Bengals and Chicago Bears in the past.
"Andy has been a model of professionalism and leadership throughout this entire process," Carroll said. "He has a proven track record of success in this league, and his understanding of the game is invaluable to our team."
Geno Smith's Departure
The Seahawks opted to move on from Geno Smith, who led the team to a surprise playoff berth in 2022. However, Smith's high price tag and inconsistent performance in the playoffs led to the team exploring other options at the quarterback position.
The Competition and the Future
The competition for the starting spot included Drew Lock and rookie Anthony Richardson, who will both now be the backup quarterbacks. Lock, a former first-round pick, showed flashes of potential but failed to consistently outperform Dalton. Richardson, a highly-touted draft pick, has shown promise but will need time to develop in the NFL.
This decision sets the stage for an exciting season for the Seahawks. While Dalton provides a reliable and experienced presence, the team's future at the quarterback position lies in the hands of Richardson. His development will be a major storyline to watch in the coming years.
Overall, the Seahawks have opted for a veteran leader in Andy Dalton, hoping to build a winning culture and maintain their momentum from last season. With a talented roster and a strong defense, Seattle will be looking to compete for a playoff spot in the highly competitive NFC West.
