Seahawks Expect Sam Darnold to Sustain 2026 Form as 53-Man Roster Opens Season

2 articles · Updated · Seahawks.com · Sep 9

Wednesday’s opener against New England will start with Seattle convinced Sam Darnold can match or exceed last season’s level, with GM John Schneider saying his play is further along than at this point a year ago.
Darnold’s standing rests on daily consistency as much as production: teammates and coaches described him as the first in, last out, deeply involved in film study and increasingly in command of the offense.
Brian Fleury and Mike Macdonald said that command has grown through a fuller relationship with the coordinator and clearer ownership of what fits Darnold’s strengths within the scheme.
Rashid Shaheed said a full offseason together sharpened their connection, while Darnold said he is still refining footwork, progressions and deep-ball accuracy after a season that included a turnover-free playoff run and a four-interception low against the Rams.
The broader message inside Seattle is that Darnold’s career narrative matters less than repeatable habits, with the Seahawks betting that steadiness can anchor their 2026 campaign.