Should i counter offer?

Im at 122k in texas. I currently have the two most important projects in my team and have a lot of exposure. What truthfully holds be back is that im an introvert.

An atlanta based company had a posting for my exact same role (sr data scientist) but for 140-160k. It was the same team, just a different software. The software I use is similar though that it translates.

HR called saying the team felt i don’t qualify for the senior role but want me to apply for the junior role.

The verbal offer said they would do 140k and 5k sign on bonus. Said 1.5-2 years before getting promoted to senior data scientist.

The number that i would need to move is 150k. Idk if to say no thanks or to apply for the junior role and ask for 10k sign on bonus.

Im in no rush to move but my current company only does 2% yearly raises and i wont be promoted until 3-4 years and thats a fixed 12%.

Do you think HR is trying to be smart? They took 4 weeks after interviewing me to reach out. They either count find a better candidate or got rejected by their number one choice. This is a direct competitor by the number one company in the field. So i would close the doors on my current company but could move to another for a manger role in the long term.