Seahawks Make Bold Moves: Geno Smith Traded, Sam Darnold Signed
As the NFL scouting combine unfolded, Seattle Seahawks general manager John Schneider addressed inquiries regarding the team’s quarterback situation and upcoming contract negotiations with Geno Smith’s agent. Schneider hinted at potential changes, indicating, “We expect him to be our guy, but we want to do what’s right, too,” which left room for speculation on a quarterback swap.
Trade and Acquisition
On March 10, 2025, the Seahawks traded Geno Smith to the Las Vegas Raiders in exchange for a third-round draft pick after protracted extension negotiations fell through. Shortly thereafter, the Seahawks made headlines by signing free agent quarterback Sam Darnold to a lucrative three-year deal worth $100.5 million, with $55 million guaranteed, as reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Comparing the Quarterbacks
The Seahawks’ bet on Darnold comes with significant risk. Smith demonstrated remarkable talent, recently achieving a record 70.4% completion rate for the franchise. Over the last two years, he has led the Seahawks to nine winning drives and holds a 27-22 record over three seasons. Despite these numbers, his performance dipped last season with 15 interceptions, including a league-high four in red zone situations.
Conversely, Darnold, at 27, is seven years younger than Smith and enjoyed a productive last season with the Minnesota Vikings, contributing to a 14-3 record. His QBR of 60.4 ranked 14th in the league, showcasing a notable improvement over Smith’s 53.8. Darnold also earned a Pro Bowl selection but faced challenges in the postseason, struggling during a wild-card playoff loss.
Assessing Risks and Roster Changes
Darnold’s career has seen ups and downs since being selected as the No. 3 overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, switching teams and demonstrating inconsistent performances. While he thrived under Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell, it remains to be seen how he will adapt to Seattle’s new offensive system under coordinator Klint Kubiak, especially after the Seahawks’ recent roster overhaul.
The Seattle strategy entails a significant reshuffle on offense, including the departure of key veterans. Smith’s trade is part of a broader trend, with the team releasing several players and trading away prominent receivers like DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett. This leaves the Seahawks’ receiving corps lacking proven talent, with Jaxon Smith-Njigba as the top option.
The Path Ahead
Despite the transformation and the perceived risks of switching quarterbacks, the Seahawks are not positioning themselves for a step back in the 2025 season; rather, they aim to strengthen their roster in the long run. With a solid foundation returning from a top-10 defense and significant salary cap space, the team is well-positioned going into the upcoming draft, holding five picks within the top 100 to target improvements in the offensive line and receiving corps.
Seattle has navigated similar transitions under Schneider in the past, emerging successfully from what was widely regarded as a rebuilding phase. The outcomes of these moves will rely heavily on the success of Schneider and head coach Mike Macdonald’s decision to trade for Darnold and part ways with Smith.