Does Sam Darnold have a big point to prove in 2025?
Continuing his quest for redemption in the NFL, Sam Darnold’s move to the Seattle Seahawks ahead of the 2025 season, marks a pivotal moment for the quarterback and the franchise. Tasked with proving his breakout 2024 season with the Minnesota Vikings was no fluke, Darnold must now elevate a roster with championship ambitions, following an era on the edge of the periphery under Geno Smith.
He has a point to prove, but is this the perfect landing spot for Darnold?
From Turbulent Beginnings to Vikings Renaissance
Sam Darnold’s NFL career began with lofty expectations as the New York Jets’ No. 3 overall pick in 2018. Blessed with a strong arm and mobility, he struggled amid poor support, posting a 13-25 record over three seasons with more interceptions (39) than touchdowns (36). His stint with the Carolina Panthers from 2021 yielded a 4-7 record, and by 2023, he was a backup with the San Francisco 49ers.
His fortunes changed in 2024 with the Vikings. After rookie J.J. McCarthy’s injury, Darnold seized his chance, delivering a career-best 4,319 passing yards and 35 touchdowns under coach Kevin O’Connell. Leading the Vikings to a 14-3 record, he earned Pro Bowl honours, though late losses to the Detroit Lions and Los Angeles Rams — including nine sacks in their play-off defeat — left lingering doubts about his clutch performance.
A New Chapter in Seattle: Replacing Geno Smith
In a bold move, Seattle traded Geno Smith to the Las Vegas Raiders for a third-round pick and signed Darnold as a free agent, reuniting him with offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak.
Smith had been a cornerstone for the Seahawks since replacing Russell Wilson in 2022, reviving his career after years as a journeyman. He led Seattle to a play-off berth in his first year as starter, earned Comeback Player of the Year honours, and compiled a 23-13 record over three seasons. His pinpoint accuracy (69.8% completion rate in 2022) and clutch drives — like the game-winning touchdown pass against the Rams in 2023 — endeared him to fans.
Smith’s age and escalating contract demands became sticking points, which led to the entry of Darnold on a fresh $75 million, three-year contract, including £40.3 million guaranteed.
The move reflects a calculated pivot: trade a proven veteran for a younger, cost-effective option with untapped potential. Smith’s departure netted Seattle a draft pick to bolster the roster, while Darnold’s deal saves cap space compared to Smith’s proposed extension.
Yet, the switch carries risk. Many are split on the decision, citing that the upgrade on Smith with Darnold isn’t a big one. Infact, the two are fairly similar statistically, though Darnold’s 2024 explosion (4,319 yards, 35 TDs) hints at a higher ceiling. Darnold’s late-2024 struggles also loom large; he’ll need to prove he can handle the pressure Smith often thrived under.
Can Darnold Elevate Seattle’s Roster?
Seattle’s roster offers Darnold a mixed bag of tools and hurdles. Offensively, the trades of DK Metcalf to Pittsburgh and Tyler Lockett’s release have thinned the receiving corps, but the addition of All-Pro receiver Cooper Kupp brings elite route-running and veteran savvy. Jaxon Smith-Njigba, now in his third year, has blossomed into a dynamic slot option, posting well over 1,000 receiving yards in 2024.
The run game remains a strength, with Kenneth Walker III’s bruising style and rookie Zach Charbonnet adding complimentary versatility. Yet, the offensive line’s woes persist — having allowed 48 sacks last season, ranking 25th in the league — posing a threat to Darnold’s success unless addressed.
Defensively, Seattle has playmakers but lacks dominance. Cornerback Tariq Woolen, a 2022 Pro Bowler, anchors the secondary with his length and speed, while edge rusher Boye Mafe’s 8.5 sacks in 2024 signal growth. The pass rush as a whole, however, remains middling, finishing 22nd in sacks league-wide, with ageing veteran Leonard Williams shouldering too much.
The run defence, bolstered by nose tackle Jarran Reed, holds firm, but injuries to key reserves exposed depth issues late in 2024. Head coach Mike Macdonald, a defensive guru, and Kubiak, who’ll craft an offence around Darnold’s quick-release and play-action skills, provide schematic hope. Still, roster gaps linger—offensive line upgrades and a top-tier edge rusher are musts for a deep play-off run.
Darnold’s 2024 campaign proves he can lead a winning team, but his play-off collapse raises questions about his big-game mettle. Kubiak’s system, mirroring Minnesota’s, should ease his transition, yet Seattle’s ceiling hinges on close-season moves. For now, Darnold’s renaissance offers optimism, but he must deliver from September 2025 to quiet sceptics and lift the Seahawks beyond their recent plateau.
