The quarterback carousel continues to spin this offseason, and a new team has unexpectedly entered the race for free agent quarterback Sam Darnold.
Following the Las Vegas Raiders’ acquisition of Geno Smith from the Seattle Seahawks, the Seahawks are now in the market for a quarterback, and according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, that puts them in play as a potential landing spot for Darnold.
Seahawks’ Sudden QB Vacancy Opens the Door for Darnold
Seattle’s quarterback situation was stable for the past three seasons with Geno Smith at the helm, as he helped guide the team to consistent success. Smith, who revitalized his career after years as a backup, won NFL Comeback Player of the Year in 2022 following a 4,282-yard, 30-touchdown season, leading the Seahawks to an unexpected playoff berth.
The Seahawks had been in discussions to extend Smith’s contract, but reports suggest they were unwilling to meet his salary demands, ultimately leading to his trade to the Raiders. Now, with no clear-cut starter on the roster, Seattle could turn its attention to Darnold as a possible solution under center.
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Sam Darnold’s Free Agency Market Heats Up
Darnold has become one of the most intriguing names in free agency, as he revived his career with a breakout season for the Minnesota Vikings in 2024. After struggling in previous stints with the Jets and Panthers, Darnold finally found stability and success in Minnesota, putting up:
- 4,319 passing yards
- 35 touchdowns
- 12 interceptions
- A 14-3 record as a starter
His impressive performance helped the Vikings secure a top seed in the NFC, making him a coveted option in a relatively weak free agent quarterback class.
Will the Vikings Let Darnold Walk?
While Seattle is now in the mix, the Vikings are still interested in bringing Darnold back. However, his return to Minnesota reportedly hinges on one major condition—whether or not the team pursues a long-term upgrade at quarterback in the draft.
With the Vikings exploring their options, Darnold could look elsewhere for a starting opportunity, and Seattle now offers an intriguing alternative.
Seahawks Could Be a Logical Fit
Given the Seahawks’ offensive weapons and Darnold’s recent resurgence, the pairing makes a lot of sense. Seattle has a strong receiving corps, led by DK Metcalf, Tyler Lockett, and Jaxon Smith-Njigba, as well as a solid offensive system that helped Smith thrive.
Darnold would step into a situation where he could compete for the starting job and potentially lead a playoff-caliber team in a new era post-Geno Smith.
What’s Next for Darnold?
As free agency continues to unfold, Darnold’s market is evolving. The Raiders were once seen as a top option, but with Smith now in Las Vegas, the Seahawks have emerged as a realistic landing spot.
With few high-quality quarterbacks available, Darnold’s decision could shape the outlook of multiple teams in the quarterback-needy market. Will he return to the Vikings, or will Seattle make a strong push to bring him in as their new starter? The answer may come sooner than expected.