NFL: Seattle Seahawks Minicamp
Sam Darnold, Seattle Seahawks Have Major Question Mark for 2026 NFL Season 1
The Seattle Seahawks enter the 2026 NFL season with Sam Darnold leading an offense facing one of its biggest questions of the year. Seattle has the talent to remain competitive, but uncertainty surrounding a new offensive system could determine how far the team can go.
The Seahawks have made significant changes on offense, including the promotion of Brian Fleury to offensive coordinator. Fleury is taking on his first opportunity in the role, creating uncertainty about how quickly his system will translate when Seattle begins facing regular-season competition.
Seattle Seahawks, Sam Darnold, Super BowlSeattle Seahawks, Sam Darnold, Super Bowl
Feb 8, 2026; Santa Clara, CA, USA; Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold (14) celebrates with the Vince Lombardi Trophy after defeating the New England Patriots during Super Bowl LX at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
The biggest concern is whether the offense can establish consistency around Darnold while adapting to its new approach. A redesigned system can create fresh opportunities, but it also requires the quarterback, receivers and offensive line to develop chemistry and execute unfamiliar concepts under pressure.
Seattle appears to be moving toward an offense built around more movement, versatility and formations designed to create favorable matchups. The approach could resemble some of the concepts used by successful offenses around the league, but the Seahawks still must prove they can turn those ideas into sustained production.
Sam Darnold and Seattle Seahawks’s Major Question for Brian Fleury Ahead of 2026 NFL Season
Seattle Seahawks, Sam Darnold, NFLSeattle Seahawks, Sam Darnold, NFL
Dec 28, 2025; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold (14) looks to throw a pass against the Carolina Panthers during the first quarter at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images
Seattle is going to deal with a major concern involving Fleury next season. This is detailed more in an analysis done by Brady Henderson for ESPN.
Biggest concern: It’s more of a question mark than a concern, but Sam Darnold and the offense will be relying on a first-time coordinator in Brian Fleury. Macdonald’s choice to replace Klint Kubiak, Fleury will be running an offense that’s similar to his predecessor’s, but he will almost certainly have to endure some growing pains as he calls plays for the first time.
Darnold will sit at the center of that process. His ability to quickly process the offense, make efficient decisions and develop timing with his receivers could determine whether Seattle’s changes become an advantage or create growing pains during a difficult season.
The Seahawks have enough talent to overcome the uncertainty, but the transition remains their biggest question mark entering 2026. If the new system clicks quickly and Darnold settles into a productive rhythm, Seattle could have an offense capable of complementing its established strengths and keeping the team in the NFC playoff race.