Seahawks Release Noah Fant Ahead Sam Darnold Era

The Seattle Seahawks have made significant changes heading into the 2025 NFL season, notably replacing quarterback Geno Smith with Sam Darnold, who signed a three-year, $100.5 million contract. Darnold, coming off a career-best 2024 season with the Minnesota Vikings where he earned his first Pro Bowl selection, is seen as a quarterback who could thrive under new offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak's QB-friendly scheme. However, skepticism remains about Darnold's consistency, as his past includes struggles and a notorious moment in 2019 when he admitted on the sidelines he was "seeing ghosts" during a poor performance. The Seahawks also released tight end Noah Fant, which impacts Darnold's offensive weapons, although other options remain available. Despite these uncertainties, Darnold was ranked No. 72 on the NFL's 2025 Top 100 Players list, reflecting respect for his potential to lead Seattle to success. Overall, the Seahawks are banking on Darnold's resurgence and strategic offensive changes to contend in a competitive NFC landscape.