Seattle signed Sam Darnold to a 3‑year, $100.5 million contract after his breakout season with the Vikings (4,319 yds, 35 TDs, Pro Bowl), including $55 million guaranteed theguardian.com+12si.com+12si.com+12. While impressive, this came after years of inconsistent play early in his career .
No Room for Error
Analysts warn that Darnold may be a “one-year flash” tied closely to Kevin O’Connell’s system in Minnesota the-sun.com+12vikingsterritory.com+12foxsports.com+12. If he reverts to old habits—turnovers, erratic accuracy—Seattle could face a season unraveling quickly en.wikipedia.org+14heavy.com+14si.com+14.
Wheels In Motion: Exit Plan in Place
Fortunately, the contract is structured smartly. The Seahawks can cut him after the first year and save $27.5M on the cap—mitigating some risk en.wikipedia.org+12heavy.com+12foxsports.com+12. Still, that leaves open the question: is this calculated or desperate?
Weaker Supporting Cast
Unlike Minnesota’s star-studded offense, Seattle’s weapons and OL took a hit this offseason—losing Geno Smith, DK Metcalf, and Tyler Lockett sbnation.com. With fewer pass-game tools and less protection, Darnold has a tougher hill to climb in a less forgiving system sbnation.com+5fieldgulls.com+5nypost.com+5.
Final Take
This is a true make-or-break scenario. If Darnold can replicate his 2024 magic, Seattle could land a cost-effective, long-term starter. If he regresses, the move may haunt the front office. Either way, eyes are on Renton this fall.
