Introduction
The Seattle Seahawks enter the 2025 NFL season undergoing a major quarterback overhaul. After trading veteran Geno Smith to the Las Vegas Raiders, the Seahawks have positioned Sam Darnold as their new starting QB. The contrast between Smith’s legacy and Darnold’s potential resurgence sets up a compelling storyline for fans and analysts alike.
1. Geno Smith’s Departure: End of an Era
In March 2025, the Seahawks traded Geno Smith to the Raiders for a third-round draft pick (No. 92 overall) Seattle SeahawksField Gulls.
Smith had established himself over three seasons in Seattle, earning Pro Bowl honors and setting franchise passing records in 2024 Seattle SeahawksCBSSports.comWikipedia.
The trade reunites Smith with former coach Pete Carroll in Las Vegas Diario ASSilver And Black Pride+1.
2. Sam Darnold: The New Signal-Caller
The Seahawks signed Sam Darnold to a multi-year deal in March 2025. He joins from a breakout season with the Vikings where he earned Pro Bowl honors (4,319 yards, 35 TDs) Seattle SeahawksThe SunWikipedia.
Darnold is the projected starter on the depth chart, ahead of Sam Howell and Jaren Hall SI12th Man Rising+1.
Head coach Mike Macdonald reinforced that Darnold will lead the new-look offense in 2025 AS USA.
3. The QB Comparison: Smith vs. Darnold
| Feature | Geno Smith | Sam Darnold (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Experience | Veteran starter with Seattle (3 seasons) | Fresh infusion; Pro Bowl in 2024 |
| 2024 Performance | Franch. records, Pro Bowl | 4,300+ yards, 35 TDs, Pro Bowl |
| Current Status | Traded to Raiders | Seahawks starter under contract |
| System Fit | Familiar with Carroll; had momentum | Scheme familiarity with OC Klint Kubiak; high upside |
4. The Rising Rookie: Jalen Milroe
Seattle selected Jalen Milroe in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft, directly following the trade that sent Smith to Las Vegas Field GullsSilver And Black Pride.
Milroe is currently QB3 on the roster behind Darnold and Drew Lock Wikipedia12th Man Rising+1.
He represents a long-term developmental play and adds intrigue to the quarterback room.
5. Who’s Poised to Shine in 2025?
Sam Darnold
Brings recent Pro Bowl-caliber performance and a high-powered arm.
Fits well with Seattle’s new offensive scheme and leadership dynamic.
Clearly slated as the starter with a valuable offensive coordinator partnership.
Geno Smith
Though now with the Raiders, his legacy looms large.
Smith remains a familiar benchmark of quarterback stability and success for Seattle fans.
Wild Card: Jalen Milroe
While not expected to start in 2025, his presence may shape the QB room’s future direction and competition.
Conclusion
In the 2025 quarterback showdown for the Seahawks, Sam Darnold clearly stands out as the one expected to shine. His recent success, multi-year deal, and scheme-fit make him the front-runner. Though Smith’s departure ends a notable era, it paves the way for Darnold—and soon, maybe Milroe—to carve a new path forward.
Related Queries:
Geno Smith vs Sam Darnold: Who Will Shine as Seahawks QB in 2025?
Las Vegas Raiders vs Seahawks: Prediction, Rosters, and Where to Watch Tonight
Mike Macdonald Era Begins: What the New Seahawks Head Coach Brings to Seattle
Raiders Preseason 2025: Key Players to Watch Including Isaiah Pola-Mao and Nick Emmanwori
Seahawks Starting QB Battle: Geno Smith, Sam Darnold, and the Future of Seattle Football
Raiders vs Seahawks Channel and Streaming Guide: Don’t Miss the Action
Jake Bobo’s Impact on the Seahawks Roster: Rising Star for the 2025 Season
Raiders Head Coach Strategy Breakdown Ahead of the Raider Game vs Seahawks
Seahawks Quarterback 2025 Outlook: From Geno Smith to the Next Generation
Where to Watch Raiders vs Seahawks Tonight: Live Stream, TV Channel, and Kickoff Time