The Seattle Seahawks’ decision to sign quarterback Sam Darnold to a three-year, $100.5 million contract has been recognized as one of the NFL’s top offseason moves. NFL analyst Jeffri Chadiha included this acquisition in his list of the ten best moves of the 2025 offseason, highlighting the strategic fit between Darnold and the Seahawks’ offensive plans.
Darnold’s journey in the NFL has been marked by both challenges and successes. After being drafted third overall in 2018 by the New York Jets, he faced difficulties that led to stints with the Carolina Panthers and San Francisco 49ers. In 2024, Darnold experienced a resurgence with the Minnesota Vikings, stepping in for injured rookie J.J. McCarthy and leading the team to a 14-3 record. During that season, he threw for 4,319 yards and 35 touchdowns, both ranking fifth in the NFL, along with 12 interceptions. His QBR of 60.4 placed him 14th in the league.
The Seahawks’ acquisition of Darnold came after trading their previous starting quarterback, Geno Smith, to the Las Vegas Raiders in exchange for a third-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. Seattle’s offensive coordinator, Klint Kubiak, has a history with Darnold from their time together in San Francisco, which is expected to facilitate a smooth integration into the Seahawks’ offensive system.
Analysts view this signing as a calculated risk with significant upside. The contract is structured to allow the Seahawks to part ways with Darnold after one year without major financial repercussions, providing flexibility if the partnership does not yield the desired results. This strategic move reflects Seattle’s commitment to revitalizing their offense and positioning themselves as contenders in the NFC.
