When the Seattle Seahawks signed veteran quarterback Sam Darnold to a three-year, $100 million deal this offseason, it was widely assumed he would be the starter. He was coming off a career-best season with the Minnesota Vikings, where he threw for 4,319 yards and 35 touchdowns, and was expected to bring stability and experience to a new-look Seattle offense under head coach Mike Macdonald. However, the best-laid plans of mice and men often go awry, and in this case, it was the explosive emergence of rookie Jalen Milroe that changed the trajectory of the Seahawks’ season.
Now, five games into the season with a perfect 5-0 record, it’s clear that Milroe, the third-round draft pick from Alabama, is the face of the franchise. His dynamic playmaking ability and raw talent have captivated the city of Seattle, and his early-season stats speak for themselves. Milroe is a dual-threat nightmare for opposing defenses and the clear leader of this offense. The question then becomes: how is the former starter, a high-priced veteran with a Pro Bowl appearance on his resume, handling his new reality as a backup?
In a league often defined by ego and competition, Darnold’s approach has been nothing short of remarkable. He has fully embraced his role as a mentor and a sounding board for the young QB. You can see it on the sidelines—a quiet conversation, a quick word of advice, a pat on the back after a big play. He’s a professional in every sense of the word, understanding that his ultimate value to the team goes beyond just playing time.
“He’s seen it all, and he’s been a huge help for me, especially when it comes to understanding defenses and situational football. He’s the first one to congratulate me on a good play and the first one to offer constructive criticism when I need it. He’s made this transition so much easier.”
Jalen Milroe, on his relationship with Darnold
It’s a selfless act in a selfish profession. While it’s easy to focus on the flashy plays and the skyrocketing numbers of Jalen Milroe, the story of this team’s success so far is also the story of Sam Darnold. He’s the veteran who chose team success over personal glory, the professional who has become an invaluable asset without ever having to be the star. And in a locker room with championship aspirations, that kind of leadership is just as valuable as any touchdown pass.
