Sam Darnold To Start For Seahawks, Says Defensive Coordinator Macdonald

David

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Post on Jun 05, 2025

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Sam Darnold to Start for Seahawks, Confirms Defensive Coordinator Macdonald

Seattle, WA – In a surprising turn of events, the Seattle Seahawks have announced that veteran quarterback Sam Darnold will be the team's starting quarterback for the upcoming season. This decision, confirmed by Seahawks defensive coordinator Clint Hurtt, throws a wrench into many preseason predictions and ignites a wave of discussion amongst fans and analysts alike. The unexpected announcement follows a closely-watched quarterback battle throughout training camp and the preseason games.

The news came as a shock to many who expected either Geno Smith, the incumbent starter from last season, or rookie Drew Lock to secure the coveted starting role. Hurtt, speaking to reporters earlier today, stated that Darnold's performance in recent practices and the preseason games ultimately swayed the coaching staff's decision. While he didn't delve into specifics, he emphasized Darnold's improved command of the offense and his strong connection with the receiving corps.

<h3>Darnold's Road to Redemption?</h3>

For Sam Darnold, this represents a crucial opportunity to revive his NFL career. After a tumultuous stint with the New York Jets and a less-than-stellar performance with the Carolina Panthers, the pressure is on to prove his worth in Seattle. His time with the Seahawks has been marked by a quiet determination, a stark contrast to the intense scrutiny he faced in his previous teams. The move to Seattle, with its relatively less demanding media environment, might just be the change of scenery he needs.

Many believe that the Seahawks' offensive scheme, under the guidance of offensive coordinator Shane Waldron, suits Darnold's skillset better than previous systems. Waldron's emphasis on quick passes and play-action could leverage Darnold's arm strength and mobility, mitigating some of his past weaknesses.

<h3>Smith and Lock's Future in Seattle</h3>

The decision leaves the future of Geno Smith and Drew Lock uncertain. While Smith proved himself capable last season, his performance in the preseason may not have been enough to retain his starting spot. Lock, meanwhile, faces a longer road to proving his potential. Both quarterbacks are valuable assets to the Seahawks organization, however, and their roles in the upcoming season remain to be seen. They might find themselves competing for backup positions or contributing in other ways.

<h3>What this Means for the Seahawks' Season</h3>

This bold decision by the Seahawks’ coaching staff could significantly impact their season. Darnold’s performance will be closely scrutinized, and his success will largely determine the team’s trajectory. While some may view this as a gamble, others see it as a strategic move to inject new energy into the offense and capitalize on Darnold’s potential. The Seahawks' success hinges on Darnold's ability to minimize turnovers and consistently deliver accurate passes.

Keywords: Sam Darnold, Seattle Seahawks, NFL, Geno Smith, Drew Lock, starting quarterback, Clint Hurtt, Shane Waldron, NFL season, preseason, quarterback battle, NFL news

Related Articles:

• [Link to an article about Geno Smith's previous season performance]
• [Link to an article about the Seahawks' offseason moves]

Call to Action: What are your thoughts on the Seahawks' decision to start Sam Darnold? Share your predictions for the upcoming season in the comments below!