Sam Darnold Eyes Richer Deal in Year 2 of $100.5 Million Seahawks Contract
Updated
Updated · The Seattle Times · Sep 9
Sam Darnold Eyes Richer Deal in Year 2 of $100.5 Million Seahawks Contract
3 articles · Updated · The Seattle Times · Sep 9
Summary
Darnold opens his second Seattle season Wednesday against New England with his contract outlook suddenly central after leading the Seahawks to a Super Bowl title in year one.
The 28-year-old is entering season two of a three-year, $100.5 million deal that carries a $35.5 million 2027 salary and a $10 million roster bonus due March 17.
A second title, another Super Bowl trip or even a deep playoff run could push his market toward the $55 million annual range, with Baker Mayfield's new three-year deal worth up to $165 million offering a fresh benchmark.
That would mark a sharp rise for a quarterback once viewed as a stopgap: Seattle could have exited after one season, and Darnold was making just $4.5 million as a 49ers backup in 2023.
His broader test now is whether he can turn one championship into lasting elite status, answering critics who still rank him 14th among NFL quarterbacks and credit Seattle's defense for much of the run.