The Seattle Seahawks have found their new quarterback, Sam Darnold, stepping in to replace Geno Smith. However, for Darnold to succeed, he will need solid support from the team.
The Seahawks have signed Darnold to a three-year, $100.5 million deal, with $55 million guaranteed, according to Dianna Russini from The Athletic. This contract is similar to the one Baker Mayfield signed last year with Tampa Bay, adjusted somewhat for the rising salary cap. In comparison, it’s lower than the three-year, $75 million deal Geno Smith signed after his breakout season in 2022.
Currently, Darnold’s contract ranks among the more affordable options for starting quarterbacks. It’s even several million less per year than what Smith might earn with the Raiders, where he could seek $40-$45 million annually.
Seattle is hopeful that they can help Darnold reach his full potential. Previously, he had only one season with over 3,000 passing yards and a completion rate of at least 60% (2019 with the Jets). At his best, Darnold is athletic and has a powerful arm, capable of making big plays. Last season, he had the sixth-best touchdown rate in the league at 6.4%, just shy of star quarterback Joe Burrow’s rate.
To achieve success, Seattle needs to provide Darnold with strong support, especially from the offensive line. If the Seahawks can replicate what Minnesota did to help Darnold thrive last season—offering a solid offensive line and effective play-calling—then he can shine.
In pursuit of bolstering the line, Seattle is likely signing former Ravens lineman Josh Jones to a one-year deal up to $4.75 million. Jones, who was a third-round pick in 2020, has starting experience at both guard and tackle and could fill in for George Fant, recently released by the team.
Still, the Seahawks must continue to search for additional help along the offensive line. The market for veteran centers has thinned out quickly. Chicago recently locked up Drew Dalman, rated the top center by The Athletic, to a substantial deal, highlighting the rising costs for securing quality linemen.
Other teams, like the Bears and the Vikings, are also competing for talent in this market. Minnesota just secured center Ryan Kelly, ranked third by The Athletic, demonstrating that the need for quality offensive linemen is widespread.
While Seattle remains cautious, General Manager John Schneider has also made big leaps in the past. He signed Gabe Jackson to a significant deal in 2021 to improve protection for Russell Wilson. However, after just one effective year, that move didn’t pay off long-term for the team.
As the free agency period progresses, several talented guards have already found new homes. Players like Aaron Banks, Patrick Mekari, and others have secured lucrative deals. Seattle is still keeping an eye on potential signings, including top-ranked guard Will Fries, although injuries might affect his availability.
In addition to improving the offensive line, the Seahawks should explore options to strengthen their receiving corps. Potential targets could include Demarcus Robinson or Marquez Valdes-Scantling, with rumors swirling about Cooper Kupp being released by the Rams.
Additionally, veteran fullback Kyle Juszczyk may soon hit the market, offering another potential asset. Yet, the immediate focus for Seattle needs to be on building a more robust run game and ensuring Darnold has ample time in the pocket, unlike in the previous season where Geno Smith often faced heavy pressure.
The Seahawks must use their resources wisely to make the most out of this transition from Smith to Darnold, focusing on strengthening the roster where it counts most.
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