Seahawks Affirm Sam Darnold as 2025 Starting Quarterback

The Seattle Seahawks are taking a cautious, long-term approach with rookie quarterback Jalen Milroe, who was selected in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft. While Milroe shows strong athleticism and arm strength, he is currently viewed as a developmental project and is running exclusively with the third-string offense during OTAs. Head coach Mike Macdonald has firmly stated that Sam Darnold, who signed a $100 million contract and was the 2024 NFL Most Improved Player of the Year, is the clear starter for the Seahawks, barring injury. Analysts and insiders agree that Milroe is unlikely to start this season unless the team's performance drastically declines, emphasizing the need for him to assimilate into Klint Kubiak's complex offense. Despite some speculation predicting Milroe might start, the consensus within the organization is to allow him to develop gradually behind Darnold and veteran backup Drew Lock. This strategy reflects the Seahawks' intent to build Milroe into a future starting quarterback without rushing his progression.