The Seattle Seahawks’ newly signed quarterback, Sam Darnold, has agreed to a three-year, $100.5 million contract. However, the structure of the deal reveals that it is essentially a one-year, $37.5 million commitment with a team-held option for 2026 and 2027.
This setup allows the Seahawks to evaluate Darnold’s performance in 2025 before deciding on his future with the team. The terms of the contract suggest that Seattle is keeping its options open, ensuring flexibility in case Darnold fails to meet expectations.
Darnold Faces High Stakes and Competition in Crucial 2025 Season
A crucial aspect of the contract is a $17.5 million injury guarantee that will take effect if Darnold cannot pass a physical in early February 2026. This clause increases the pressure on Darnold, as it creates an incentive for the Seahawks to bench him if they believe he is underperforming.
If the team is not in playoff contention or if Darnold struggles on the field, the Seahawks might sit him to avoid triggering the financial obligation. Similar moves have been made in the past by teams like the Raiders with Derek Carr in 2022, the Broncos with Russell Wilson in 2023, and the Giants with Daniel Jones in 2024.
Seahawks Structure Sam Darnold’s Deal as High-Stakes One-Year TrialIn the previous season, Darnold found himself in an ideal situation. The Seahawks’ other quarterback option, J.J. McCarthy, was placed on injured reserve in August, sidelining him for the entire year.
This meant that Darnold was never at risk of losing his starting position, even after a poor performance that included three interceptions against the Jaguars. Despite back-to-back subpar games, his role remained secure simply because there were no viable alternatives.
Darnold Faces High Stakes and Competition in Crucial 2025 Season
Unlike last year, Darnold will face greater scrutiny in 2025. He must prove himself to earn a second year, as his contract does not guarantee a long-term role with the Seahawks. If he fails to perform at a high level, he could find himself benched in favor of Sam Howell by December.
The team will have little incentive to keep him on the field if they decide to move on from him, especially given the risk of owing him an additional $17.5 million due to injury guarantees.
Darnold’s future with the Seahawks hinges entirely on his performance in 2025. If he excels, he could secure a long-term role and a lucrative extension.
However, if he struggles, Seattle has structured the contract in a way that allows them to move on without financial consequences. With a strong competitor in Sam Howell and the looming financial risks, Darnold must deliver his best season yet to prove he is the franchise quarterback the Seahawks need.
