ESPN insider not ruling out Seahawks making shocking Sam Darnold offseason decision

The Seattle Seahawks have been a dominant force in the NFL for many years, and their quarterback, Sam Darnold, has been a key player in their success. However, rumors have been circulating that the team could potentially part ways with Darnold in 2026. ESPN’s NFL insider, Dan Graziano, recently floated this possibility, sparking debate among fans and analysts alike.

The idea of the Seahawks moving on from Darnold is certainly a controversial one. After all, he has been a consistent performer for the team, leading them to multiple playoff appearances and even a Super Bowl victory. Darnold has shown great promise as a quarterback, with his strong arm and ability to make plays both in and out of the pocket. He has also developed a strong rapport with his teammates and coaching staff, making him a valuable leader on and off the field.

So why would the Seahawks even consider parting ways with Darnold? One possible reason could be his contract situation. Darnold is set to become a free agent in 2026, and the Seahawks may be hesitant to commit a large amount of money to re-sign him. In today’s NFL, quarterbacks command some of the highest salaries in the league, and the Seahawks may be looking to allocate their resources elsewhere.

Another factor to consider is Darnold’s age. By 2026, he will be entering his mid-30s, which is typically considered the twilight of a quarterback’s career. While some QBs have been able to play at a high level well into their late 30s and even early 40s, others have seen their performance decline as they age. The Seahawks may be concerned that Darnold’s skills will diminish over time, making it necessary to find a younger, more promising quarterback to lead the team into the future.

Of course, these are just speculations and rumors at this point. The Seahawks have not made any official statements regarding Darnold’s future with the team, and it’s possible that he could remain in Seattle for many more years to come. Darnold himself has expressed his desire to continue playing for the Seahawks, stating that he feels a strong connection to the team and the city.

In addition to his on-field performance, Darnold has also been heavily involved in the Seattle community, participating in various charity events and community service projects. He has become a beloved figure in the city, with fans rallying behind him both on and off the field. Darnold’s presence in Seattle goes far beyond football, and his departure could have a significant impact on the team and the community as a whole.

Ultimately, the decision to part ways with Darnold will come down to the Seahawks’ front office and coaching staff. They will need to weigh the potential benefits of keeping Darnold against the risks of moving on from him. It’s a difficult decision to make, especially when considering Darnold’s past contributions to the team and his potential for future success.

In conclusion, while it’s certainly possible that the Seattle Seahawks could part ways with quarterback Sam Darnold in 2026, we believe that it’s highly unlikely to happen. Darnold has been a key player for the team and has shown great promise as a quarterback. His strong leadership both on and off the field, combined with his connection to the Seattle community, make him a valuable asset to the team. Only time will tell what the future holds for Darnold and the Seahawks, but for now, we remain optimistic about his continued success in Seattle.

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Source: Sporting News