Sam Darnold has inked a three-year contract with the Seattle Seahawks, valued at $100.5 million, with $55 million guaranteed. This move comes in the wake of his successful stint with the Minnesota Vikings, where Darnold delivered his career-best performance. The Seahawks finalized this agreement only days after parting ways with Geno Smith, who had transitioned from a struggling New York Jets player to a promising quarterback under Seattle’s wing.
Darnold's time with the Vikings was marked by several standout moments, contributing to their impressive 14-win season. Though the Vikings' offense ranked 15th in Expected Points Added (EPA) per play, Darnold individually secured the 14th spot in Quarterback Rating (QBR). His arrival in Seattle introduces both potential risks and opportunities; while there is a downside due to the significant guarantees in his contract, the upside could be substantial if Darnold maintains his upward trajectory.
The Seahawks are tasked with bolstering their offensive lineup to support Darnold's success. Recently, they released wide receiver Tyler Lockett and traded away DK Metcalf, leaving notable gaps in their receiving core. However, with five selections in the top 100 picks of the upcoming draft, Seattle possesses the resources to make strategic enhancements. The team may prioritize acquiring a robust wide receiver to complement Jaxon Smith-Njigba and focus on reinforcing their offensive line.
At 27 years old, Darnold is still considered young for a quarterback, offering Seattle a valuable window of opportunity for growth and development. His addition marks a strategic shift for the Seahawks as they aim to capitalize on his potential while navigating the complexities of team rebuilding.
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