Sam Darnold’s Seattle Bet Pays Off as Seahawks Rise to NFC’s Top Seed
Seattle’s three-year $100.5 million gamble followed Minnesota’s decision to pivot to J.J. McCarthy after Darnold’s late 2024 slide.
Overview
- One season into his deal, Darnold led Seattle to 14 wins and the NFC’s No. 1 seed, shifting scrutiny of his contract toward playoff expectations.
- He signed in March 2025 on a three-year, $100.5 million contract after Seattle moved on from Geno Smith by trading him to the Raiders.
- Familiarity with offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak, who worked with Darnold during their 2023 stint with the 49ers, was a key factor in the fit.
- Minnesota declined a long-term commitment after Darnold’s poor Week 18 and wild-card performances in 2024, turning to first-round pick J.J. McCarthy.
- Darnold’s 2024 breakout with the Vikings produced 35 touchdowns, 4,319 yards, and 14 wins, and in 2025 he became the fourth quarterback to lead two franchises to 14-win seasons.