The Seahawks’ new quarterback, Sam Darnold, just signed a hefty three-year, $100.5 million contract. But here’s the catch: it’s really a one-year deal worth $37.5 million, with options for 2026 and 2027 that the team can decide on.
Now, what does this mean for Darnold? Well, there’s a crucial factor in his future with the team. He has $17.5 million in injury guarantees that will kick in if he can’t pass a physical in February 2026. This puts pressure on him to perform because if the Seahawks struggle or if he doesn’t play well, he might find himself watching from the sidelines later in the season.
This isn’t an uncommon story in the NFL. Over recent years, we’ve seen similar scenarios play out. For example, in 2022, Derek Carr was benched by the Raiders when things went south. The Broncos did the same with Russell Wilson in 2023, and the Giants benched Daniel Jones in 2024. These decisions often reflect teams trying to avoid costly contracts while evaluating their options.
Last year worked out differently for Darnold. He remained the starter when J.J. McCarthy went down with an injury, meaning he didn’t face immediate pressure to perform. Even after a rough game with interceptions, he kept his spot.
This season, however, the stakes are higher. His performance will determine whether he stays on for another year. If he doesn’t deliver, the Seahawks could switch gears and give Sam Howell a shot, especially if it seems like they won’t be winning enough games.
As Darnold prepares for this upcoming season, the debate over quarterback performance and contract decisions continues to be a hot topic. According to a recent survey, nearly 60% of fans believe performance-based contracts should be more common in the league, reinforcing the idea that players need to earn their keep every season.
In a sport built on competition and strategy, Darnold’s situation is just another chapter in the ever-evolving story of the NFL. With each game, he strives not just to win fan support but also to secure his financial future and standing in the league.
Check out this related article: Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins Sign Exciting Contract Extensions with Bengals: What This Means for the Team’s Future
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