Key Highlights
- The team had just drafted who they thought would be their franchise quarterback, J. J.
- McCarthy, but he tore his meniscus in his first preseason game. Suddenly, Darnold was starting, and many assumed it would go the same way much of his career had.
- Then again, Darnold had never had a player like Justin Jefferson to throw to, and certainly never a head coach like Kevin O’Connell. Despite an impressive first season as the Vikings’ starter, Darnold’s rough playoff showing led Minnesota to go with the younger McCarthy. An opening with the Seattle Seahawks then presented itself, and leaving Minnesota might have been the best thing for Darnold. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementThe Sporting News has the full breakdown of Darnold’s contract situation. MORE: Meet Sam Darnold's grandfather, Dick HammerSam Darnold contract detailsFollowing his departure from Minnesota, Darnold was a free agent looking for a home. Darnold eventually landed a deal with the Seahawks.
- In March of 2025, he signed a three-year, $100.5 million contract. This made Darnold the 18th-highest-paid active quarterback in the league.
- MORE: What is Sam Darnold's net worth?Why did Sam Darnold sign with Seahawks?It was sort of a perfect storm for Darnold and the Seahawks.