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With only Sam Howell, Jaren Hall, and John Rhys Plumlee currently on the roster, Seattle is looking for a veteran option to lead the team in 2025.
Darnold, who revitalized his career with the Minnesota Vikings last season, is considered the best available quarterback on the market. He posted career highs with 4,319 passing yards, 35 touchdowns, and a 102.5 passer rating while leading Minnesota to the playoffs.
According to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, Seattle views Darnold as a “leading contender” to replace Smith.
As Sam Darnold is set to become a free agent next week, he now is expected to have another option available to him: the Seattle Seahawks, who are trading Geno Smith to the Raiders.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 8, 2025
Darnold already has a connection to the Seahawks through new offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak, who worked with him in San Francisco in 2023.
That familiarity, combined with the opportunity to start, makes Seattle an appealing destination. The Vikings have reportedly made an offer to retain Darnold, but it’s believed to be a short-term deal as they transition to rookie J.J. McCarthy.
Meanwhile, Seattle could offer the 27-year-old a three-year contract, which aligns with what he’s seeking, per The Athletic’s Dianna Russini. While Darnold thrived last season, some concerns remain after his struggles in Minnesota’s final two games, where he was sacked 11 times and the team was eliminated in the wild-card round.
In the past 10 minutes alone I’ve seen Sam Darnold, Kirk Cousins and Aaron Rodgers linked to the Seahawks.
— Chris Rosvoglou (@RosvoglouReport) March 8, 2025
Can us Saints fans interest them in a slightly used Carr? pic.twitter.com/UmTuVUvwPK
Seattle's decision to trade Smith stemmed from a contract dispute, as he sought between $40-45 million per year.
The Seahawks, believing they could find a capable replacement for around $30 million, opted to move on. Whether Darnold’s resurgence continues remains to be seen, but Seattle appears ready to bet on his upside.
Free agency begins next week, and unless the Vikings make a significant push to keep him, Darnold could soon be leading the Seahawks into the 2025 season.
Photo Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
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