In a move that has caught the attention of many, Sam Darnold signed a 3-year, $100.5 million contract with the Seattle Seahawks following a standout season with the Minnesota Vikings. Darnold’s impressive performance, which helped lead the Vikings to a 14-3 record and a playoff spot in the NFC, earned him a lucrative deal. However, there’s an intriguing twist: the Seahawks have the option to part ways with Darnold after just one year if he doesn’t meet expectations.
Darnold is set to earn $37.5 million in his first season with the Seahawks. But according to NFL insider Ari Meirov, the contract structure allows Seattle to move on from Darnold at the end of the year, as long as he stays healthy. This means that Darnold is essentially on a “prove-it” deal, where his performance this season will determine whether he remains with the Seahawks long-term or becomes a free agent again next year.
The veteran quarterback initially signed with the Vikings as a stopgap solution for Kirk Cousins before the rookie J.J. McCarthy was ready to take the reins. However, McCarthy’s season-ending meniscus injury changed the plan, forcing Darnold to take on a more prominent role and prove his worth as a starting quarterback. His success with the Vikings last season helped him secure this high-profile contract with the Seahawks.
Despite the promising start, Darnold’s future with Seattle is far from guaranteed. If he doesn’t continue to deliver at a high level, the Seahawks could opt to move on after just one season, making this deal a risky gamble for both sides. Darnold’s next season will be critical, as he fights to secure his place in the league for the long run.
As the Seahawks look to strengthen their roster, all eyes will be on Darnold to see if he can maintain the momentum from his successful season with the Vikings and prove that he’s worth the investment in Seattle. His performance will be key in determining whether he remains the centerpiece of the Seahawks’ future or if he’s back on the market sooner than expected.
