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NFL.com News fantasy football takes on Sam Darnold
Every source-backed article insight STACKED has extracted from NFL.com News about Sam Darnold.
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Insight ledger
All NFL.com News insights about Sam Darnold
NegativeProjectionAug 1, 2026
Darnold's 2024 season ended poorly with two disastrous games for Minnesota, including a playoff loss to the Rams where he was sacked nine times and generated his lowest EPA of the year (-27.4). For Darnold to succeed with Seattle, he needs strong pass protection; his 2024 tendency to hold the ball (3.08 seconds average, third-longest in NFL) and take deep shots (73.2% of passes after 2.5 seconds, highest rate in league) makes him vulnerable to pressure.PositiveProjectionAug 1, 2026
Darnold signed a three-year, $100.5 million deal with Seattle after an excellent 2024 with Minnesota, throwing for career highs of 4,319 yards and 35 touchdowns while averaging 3.08 seconds to throw (third-longest in NFL) and attempting 73.2% of passes after 2.5 seconds (highest rate in league). However, he has no guaranteed salary after 2025 and the team can save $27.5 million with a post-June 1, 2026 cut, meaning his performance will be heavily scrutinized in training camp and every snap matters.PositiveProjectionAug 1, 2026
Darnold rejuvenated his career last season in the Vikings offense, which is described as a 'Porsche of offenses' that has made almost every driver look good. The offense features Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison, T.J. Hockenson, and a remade offensive line, demonstrating the quality of weapons and system that elevated Darnold's performance.PositiveProjectionAug 1, 2026
Darnold authored a storybook tale last season, quarterbacking the Seahawks to a Super Bowl title after being viewed as a mega bust; he's back with the pressure of defending a championship and must learn new offensive coordinator Brian Fleury's system, which is similar to the departed Klint Kubiak's but still represents change.