### Sam Darnold Joins Seattle Seahawks: A New Era Begins The Seattle Seahawks have made a significant move in the NFL by signing quarterback Sam Darnold to a lucrative three-year contract worth $100.5 million, following the trade of their previous starter, Geno Smith. This decision marks a pivotal moment for the franchise as they aim to revamp their offense and build a competitive team for the upcoming season. Darnold's acquisition not only fills a critical position but also allows him to inherit the number 14 jersey previously worn by wide receiver DK Metcalf, who has departed the team. This transition reflects the Seahawks' commitment to a fresh start and a new direction in their quarterback strategy [https://clutchpoints.com/nfl/seattle-seahawks/seahawks-news-sam-darnold-swiftly-takes-dk-metcalfs-no-14-after-officially-joining-seahawks][https://sports.yahoo.com/article/sam-darnold-hopes-something-very-001909683.html]. ### Breakdown of the Seahawks' Quarterback Transition 1. **Contract Details**: - Sam Darnold signed a three-year deal valued at $100.5 million, with $55 million guaranteed [https://sports.yahoo.com/article/sam-darnold-hopes-something-very-001909683.html][https://www.nbcnews.com/sports/nfl/sam-darnold-seattle-seahawks-free-agency-nfl-rcna195702]. 2. **Replacement for Geno Smith**: - The Seahawks traded Geno Smith to the Las Vegas Raiders, creating an opportunity for Darnold to step in as the new starting quarterback [https://www.si.com/nfl/raiders/news/why-pete-carroll-geno-smith-las-vegas][https://www.startribune.com/minnesota-vikings-sam-darnold-seattle-seahawks-nfl-free-agency/601233298]. 3. **Darnold's Career Context**: - Darnold had a breakout season with the Minnesota Vikings, leading them to the playoffs, which likely influenced the Seahawks' decision to pursue him [https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/nfl/article-14483105/Sam-Darnold-deal-Seattle-Seahawks-NFL-Minnesota-Vikings.html][https://www.si.com/nfl/seahawks/seattle-seahawks-sam-darnold-agrees-terms-nfl-free-agency]. 4. **Team Strategy and Future Outlook**: - The Seahawks are looking to enhance their offensive capabilities and have been linked to potential additional signings to support Darnold [https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/seattle-seahawks/news/proposed-seahawks-signing-adds-2-time-1000-yard-wide-receiver-sam-darnold/cd6b65f8b5fda6c351f378a8]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Contract Breakdown**: - Total Value: **$100.5 million** - Guaranteed Money: **$55 million** - Duration: **3 years** [https://www.nbcnews.com/sports/nfl/sam-darnold-seattle-seahawks-free-agency-nfl-rcna195702][https://www.si.com/nfl/seahawks-qb-sam-darnold-agree-to-three-year-deal]. - **Darnold's Previous Performance**: - Led the Minnesota Vikings to the playoffs in 2024, showcasing his potential as a starting quarterback [https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/nfl/article-14483105/Sam-Darnold-deal-Seattle-Seahawks-NFL-Minnesota-Vikings.html]. ### Conclusion: A New Chapter for the Seahawks In summary, the Seattle Seahawks have taken a bold step by signing Sam Darnold, aiming to revitalize their quarterback position after trading Geno Smith. This move is not just about filling a vacancy; it represents a strategic shift towards building a more competitive team. The contract details underscore the Seahawks' commitment to Darnold as their franchise quarterback, while his recent performance with the Vikings adds optimism for the upcoming season. 1. **Darnold's signing is a significant investment for the Seahawks**. 2. **The departure of Geno Smith opens a new chapter for the franchise**. 3. **Darnold's previous success provides a hopeful outlook for the team's future**. This transition could redefine the Seahawks' offensive strategy as they prepare for the challenges ahead [https://www.si.com/nfl/seahawks/seattle-seahawks-sam-darnold-agrees-terms-nfl-free-agency][https://www.sbnation.com/nfl/2025/3/10/24382437/sam-darnold-seahawks-nfl-free-agency].