Sam Darnold, now leading the Seattle Seahawks under a $100 million contract, faces mounting skepticism about his ability to sustain his role as a starting NFL quarterback. Despite a career-reviving season with the Minnesota Vikings in 2024, his transition to Seattle has been met with concerns about regression.
Darnold’s strong campaign in Minnesota showcased his potential, with over 4,300 passing yards and 35 touchdowns. However, his struggles in critical moments, such as a poor season finale and a playoff blowout, have created doubts. The Seahawks’ less robust offensive line and a lack of elite receivers compared to Minnesota amplify the challenges he now faces.
The shift from Kevin O’Connell’s quarterback-friendly system to Mike Macdonald’s defensive-focused scheme further complicates Darnold’s situation. Analysts predict Darnold could struggle to adapt, potentially reverting to the inconsistent form that defined his earlier career. This regression would open the door for rookie Jalen Milroe to take over, especially if the team’s record falters.
Milroe, known for his athleticism and arm strength, represents the future of Seattle’s quarterback position. If given the opportunity, his on-field development could signal a shift in the team’s direction. Darnold, meanwhile, would need a stellar start to maintain his grip on the job amidst growing pressure.
NFL Analysis Predicts Sam Darnold Won’t Last as Seattle Seahawks’ Starting Quarterback
As it stands, Darnold is projected to lose his starting QB job in Seattle ahead of next season. This is detailed more in an analysis by Alex Kay for Bleacher Report.
While Darnold had a relatively strong season with the Minnesota Vikings, the decision could come back to haunt the Seahawks. Prior to his breakout campaign in the Twin Cities, the 28-year-old had spent time with three different clubs over the first six years of his career and failed to distinguish himself with any.
Even in 2024, when Darnold led Minnesota to a 14-3 record and postseason berth while putting up 4,319 passing yards and 35 touchdowns with a 66.2 percent completion rate, things still ended poorly.
The Vikings missed out on an NFC North title and first-round bye by losing to the rival Detroit Lions in the finale—a game Darnold completed just 18-of-41 throws for 166 yards in—and then continued to struggle in a blowout Wild Card Round defeat to the Los Angeles Rams, another contest the 2018 No. 3 pick disappeared in.
It’s worth noting Minnesota boasted a far more talented offensive line than the one Seattle is set to field for 2025. Darnold also had some of the league’s best pass-catchers in Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison to lean on.
Factor in the coaching switch from Kevin O’Connell—a renowned quarterbacks whisperer—to Mike Macdonald, a defensive-oriented head coach, and there’s a real chance Darnold returns to being a subpar starter in 2025.
If that’s the case, it wouldn’t be a shock to see third-round rookie Jalen Milroe get some run in the latter portion of the campaign as the team evaluates its future.
The Seahawks’ decision to invest heavily in Darnold already carries significant financial risk. Should his performance falter, the organization could find itself turning to Milroe sooner than anticipated. This scenario would not only impact Darnold’s career trajectory but also reshape the Seahawks’ long-term plans.
Darnold’s ability to retain his starting role is under intense scrutiny as the 2025 season approaches. With high expectations and a rookie waiting in the wings, his performance will determine whether he thrives or becomes a costly misstep for Seattle.
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