The Minnesota Vikings’ decision not to put the franchise tag on Sam Darnold initially indicated a lackluster market for the veteran quarterback. Friday night, however, saw the Las Vegas Raiders make a bold move to acquire Geno Smith from the Seattle Seahawks, which quickly changed that perception. With the Raiders filling their veteran quarterback vacancy, Darnold’s next destination has become a hot topic of discussion.
According to The Athletic’s Dianna Russini, Darnold must sign a multiyear contract with the Seahawks. Seattle would benefit from this move, particularly given the financial constraints of Smith’s contract. The 33-year-old veteran was slated for a potential extension, but with a reported asking price of $45 million per year, the Seahawks opted for a more economical and younger alternative in Darnold.
As free agency approaches, the QB carousel is beginning to spin:
◽️ Decision makers around the league expect Sam Darnold to end up in Seattle on a multi-year deal
◽️ Minnesota will attempt to pivot and sign Daniel Jones, who is receiving interest from the Colts
◽️ The Vikings… pic.twitter.com/wu8NHBg4dW— Dianna Russini (@DMRussini) March 8, 2025
Why Seattle is the Right Fit for Sam Darnold
At the age of 27, Darnold is almost seven years younger than Smith and may be able to receive a contract in the $40 million-per-year range on a three-year deal. The Seahawks, who are currently undergoing a roster transition, seem poised to select him as their next franchise quarterback. What makes Seattle the best place to land?
- Cap Considerations & Contract Efficiency
- Seattle had difficulty swallowing Geno Smith’s $25 million cap hit in 2025, especially considering his long-term financial needs. Darnold is not a cheap option, but his contract structure is more reasonable and allows for more roster flexibility.
- Stable Offensive Weapons
- Even though the Seahawks have recently parted ways with Tyler Lockett and are considering trade offers for DK Metcalf, the offense still has a solid foundation. Kenneth Walker III and Zach Charbonnet are creating a strong backfield, while Jaxon Smith-Njigba is becoming a highly skilled receiver.
- Scheme Fit & Coaching Stability
- Seattle’s new head coach, Mike Macdonald, has a fresh approach, but consistency on the offensive side is crucial. By building an offense that is tailored to Darnold’s strengths, such as quick reads, play-action efficiency, and mobility, the Seattle Seahawks can maximize his potential in ways that other teams didn’t initially do.
Minnesota Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold (14) pitches the ball to Minnesota Vikings running back Cam Akers (27) during their football game Sunday, December 29, 2024, at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
- Seattle’s new head coach, Mike Macdonald, has a fresh approach, but consistency on the offensive side is crucial. By building an offense that is tailored to Darnold’s strengths, such as quick reads, play-action efficiency, and mobility, the Seattle Seahawks can maximize his potential in ways that other teams didn’t initially do.
Could Darnold Return to the Jets?
CBS Sports’ Garrett Podell has presented an intriguing scenario that involves returning to the New York Jets despite having strong ties to Seattle. Even though the Jets once struggled with Darnold, Podell asserts that the franchise has experienced significant changes. New York’s new head coach, Aaron Glenn, and general manager, Darren Mougey, have changed the roster, including the addition of offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand, who was previously with the Detroit Lions.
The Jets are now more appealing than they were during Darnold’s first stint because of the improved offensive line and playmakers like Garrett Wilson, Breece Hall, and Braelon Allen. Given Darnold’s resurgence in Minnesota, the Jets seem unlikely to reunite. Kevin O’Connell thrived thanks to the exceptional supporting cast provided by the Vikings’ core players, such as Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison, T.J. Hockenson, and Aaron Jones. Returning to New York, despite its improvements, would be a risky decision.
Seattle vs. New York: The Logical Choice
Seattle provides the best combination of stability, opportunity, and a system designed for Darnold to succeed, despite the progress made by the Jets. The Seahawks’ roster changes indicate evolution rather than a complete rebuild. Even if they separate from Metcalf, they have a history of developing offensive playmakers. Seattle’s competitiveness in the NFC West would also benefit Darnold. The NFL is a place where anything can happen. Given the circumstances, Darnold’s best chance for long-term success is joining the Seattle Seahawks. Darnold’s next deal will shape the quarterback landscape in 2025 and beyond, whether it’s Seattle or a surprise return to Minnesota.
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