Seahawks DC Macdonald: Sam Darnold Will Start, Dismissing Doubts

David

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Post on Jun 06, 2025

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Seahawks DC Macdonald: Sam Darnold Will Start, Dismissing Doubts

Seattle, WA – The Seattle Seahawks' defensive coordinator, Clint Hurtt, recently deflected questions about the team's quarterback situation, but offensive coordinator Shane Waldron's comments have left little doubt: Sam Darnold will be under center when the Seahawks take the field for their upcoming game. This announcement comes after a flurry of speculation and questions surrounding the team's quarterback depth chart, effectively silencing doubters.

The decision to start Darnold over Geno Smith, who led the Seahawks to the playoffs last season, has raised eyebrows across the NFL. While Smith's injury status remains unclear, the team's confidence in Darnold signals a clear shift in their strategic approach. This bold move will undoubtedly be a key talking point as the season unfolds.

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Waldron's Confirmation and the Reasoning Behind it

Offensive coordinator Shane Waldron confirmed Darnold's starting role, stating (paraphrased), "Sam has shown significant improvement in his understanding of the playbook and his command of the offense. We're confident in his abilities." This statement directly addresses concerns raised by many analysts and fans about Darnold's past performance inconsistencies. The Seahawks' coaching staff clearly believes that Darnold has overcome previous shortcomings and is prepared to lead the team.

Several factors likely contributed to this decision:

• Darnold's improved performance in training camp and preseason games: While preseason results don't always translate to regular season success, Darnold's improved play has likely impressed the coaching staff.
• Geno Smith's injury: The extent of Smith's injury and his expected recovery time have likely played a significant role in the decision. Further updates on Smith's status are expected soon.
• Strategic advantage: The Seahawks may see an advantage in deploying Darnold unexpectedly, potentially catching opponents off guard with a different offensive style.

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The Challenges Ahead for Darnold

Darnold's journey to reclaim his place as a starting quarterback in the NFL has been a challenging one. He'll face immense pressure to perform consistently. He needs to prove he can:

• Minimize turnovers: Past struggles with interceptions have been a major criticism.
• Maintain accuracy and consistency in his throws: Improving his completion percentage will be vital for the Seahawks' offensive success.
• Lead the team effectively: Showing leadership both on and off the field will be crucial to building team morale and confidence.

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What this Means for the Seahawks' Season

The Seahawks' decision to start Sam Darnold is a significant gamble. While it could pay off handsomely, it also presents considerable risk. The outcome will significantly impact their playoff hopes and overall season trajectory. This move adds another layer of intrigue to an already exciting season.

The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether this decision was the right one. Darnold's performance, coupled with the status of Geno Smith, will dictate the narrative surrounding the Seahawks' season. Keep your eyes peeled for updates as the team prepares for their upcoming game. We'll be sure to provide further analysis and commentary as the season progresses.

What are your thoughts on the Seahawks' decision? Share your predictions in the comments below!