The Seattle Seahawks have made a significant change in their quarterback lineup by signing Sam Darnold to a three-year contract worth $110.5 million. This move comes after the team traded Geno Smith to the Las Vegas Raiders

Darnold, who had a strong comeback season in 2024, became a top target among NFL free agents. Once the third overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, Darnold faced challenges with the New York Jets, Carolina Panthers, and San Francisco 49ers before joining the Minnesota Vikings. He started as a backup but stepped up when rookie J.J. McCarthy got injured. 

Darnold then had his best season yet, throwing for 4,319 yards, 35 touchdowns, and achieving a 14-3 record that took the Vikings to the playoffs. This signing indicates more than just a new quarterback; it signals a major shift in the team's roster. 

The Seahawks have already traded star wide receiver DK Metcalf and released veteran Tyler Lockett, leaving Darnold without the reliable targets his predecessors had. With this Sam Darnold contract, Seattle now needs to rebuild its offensive strength while ensuring their QB receives the support he needs to thrive.

 

 

 

Sam Darnold Goes To The Seahawks With A 3-Year $100 Million Dollar Contract

The Seattle Seahawks have shown strong support for their new franchise quarterback by inking this Sam Darnold contract: three-years, $110.5 million. This deal includes $55 million guaranteed, highlighting the team's confidence in Darnold's potential to continue his success from the impressive 2024 season. 

After facing uncertainty in his career, Darnold now has a stable position in Seattle, where he will lead the team into a new chapter. After trading Geno Smith, the Seahawks viewed Darnold as the perfect successor and made a substantial investment. 

While he had a successful regular season, Darnold faced challenges late in the season, struggling with accuracy and taking 11 sacks in his last two games, which led to a disappointing playoff exit. Still, the Seahawks believe Darnold's comeback is genuine and that he has more great football ahead of him.

 

 

 

Sam Darnold Age, Stats & Past Contracts

At 27, Sam Darnold has had a wild journey in the NFL. Born on June 5, 1997, he was the No. 3 pick in the 2018 NFL Draft and has played for five teams, now landing with the Seattle Seahawks in 2025. His career stats show both challenges and achievements, with 16,383 passing yards, 98 touchdowns, and a 61.2% completion rate over 83 games. 

His standout season, of course, was in 2024 with the Minnesota Vikings, where he passed for 4,319 yards and 35 touchdowns, helping the team achieve a 14-3 record. Sam Darnold's contract history is also notable. 

He started with a four-year, $30.25 million guaranteed deal with the New York Jets in 2018. After a trade to the Carolina Panthers in 2021, they picked up his fifth-year option, giving him $18.85 million for 2022. 

He then signed a one-year, $4.5 million deal with the San Francisco 49ers in 2023, followed by a one-year, $10 million contract with the Minnesota Vikings in 2024. Now, with this three-year, $110.5 million Sam Darnold contract in Seattle, he has another opportunity to establish himself as a long-term franchise quarterback.

 

 

 

Who's The Next QB Due To Sign In 2025 NFL Free Agency? (Aaron Rodgers, Russell Wilson?)

As the 2025 NFL free agency period continues, the quarterback market remains uncertain, with several notable players still without contracts. Aaron Rodgers and Russell Wilson stand out as top choices, each offering a blend of experience, skill, and uncertainties.

Rodgers had a tough 2024 season with the New York Jets, yet he still managed to achieve 3,897 passing yards, 28 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions. The New York Giants appear to be the best match for the four-time MVP, as they are in need of a seasoned quarterback to help them succeed immediately. The Las Vegas Raiders and Tennessee Titans are also considered possible destinations.

Meanwhile, Wilson, who had a mixed season with the Pittsburgh Steelers, is likely seen as a transitional quarterback for a team undergoing changes. He ended 2024 with 2,482 yards, 16 touchdowns, and five interceptions, leading Pittsburgh to the playoffs. The Titans, holding the No. 1 draft pick, could be a solid choice if they seek a veteran to guide a rookie quarterback.