Sam Darnold

Klint Kubiak was hired as Raiders head coach on Feb 9, 2026, creating offensive coordinator instability after Darnold thrived in Kubiak's system. Darnold ranked 2nd in yards per attempt and operated extensively from under center with play-action, elements that may change with a new coordinator.

Darnold's $33.5M AAV ranks only 18th among QBs after a Super Bowl win, and league sources indicate he could seek an early extension this offseason. Contract negotiations could create organizational friction given Seattle's historical reluctance to renegotiate with multiple years remaining.

Darnold posted 20 turnovers in 17 regular-season games during his 2025 debut—a meaningful floor risk. His turnover-free playoff run was encouraging but may reflect game-script and opponent quality rather than a genuine correction, leaving weekly consistency concerns intact.

At 28 with 2 years remaining on his $100.5M deal, Darnold's dynasty value is near its ceiling. If production erodes approaching 30, the back end of his contract (2027) carries significant sell risk and the market will price in decline before it arrives.

Darnold managed Seattle's Super Bowl LX win on 19-of-38 for 202 yards—a game-manager performance that underscores his value is closely tied to JSN's health and scheme continuity rather than independent elite passing ability.

Three of Darnold's last four games came in at 12.6, 9.0, and 8.8 fantasy points — well below his 14.2 PPG season average. The ceiling-floor gap remains a persistent concern that keeps him outside the true QB1 tier in dynasty.

Darnold operates with JSN, Kenneth Walker, and emerging weapons like Rashid Shaheed. Super Bowl MVP Walker rushed for 135 yards in the title game, establishing a dominant run game that reduces pressure on Darnold.

Darnold just won Super Bowl LX, forever cementing his organizational value and narrative redemption. This validates the Seahawks' investment and significantly reduces long-term uncertainty about his starter role—he's now a proven winner in their system.

Darnold operates with a loaded skill position group: JSN (value, elite receiver), Kenneth Walker (, dominant RB), Cooper Kupp (newly acquired, proven target), and reliable TE AJ Barner. This elite surrounding cast supports sustained elite production.

Darnold's Super Bowl win, combined with a 14-win regular season and 67.7% completion rate (career high), establishes him as the unquestioned franchise QB. Jalen Milroe poses zero immediate threat and was redshirted despite being drafted.

Coming off a Super Bowl LX win, GM John Schneider publicly wants Darnold 'for a long time' — he is the unquestioned QB1 with the cheapest competition (Milroe/Lock) posing no real threat in 2026.