Let's make this clear first: There is currently no Seattle Seahawks quarterback controversy. But that does not mean things are all hunky dory with the position, and the presumed QB1 needs to play better. So far in organized team activities (OTAs), [Sam Darnold has been inconsistent](https://12thmanrising.com/sam-darnold-honeymoon-phase-seahawks-comes-quick-close).
The confusing part is that he should have had the easiest transition from his old team, the Minnesota Vikings, and his new one, because the system Seattle runs is the same kind of one he played in during 2023 and 2024.
Meanwhile, Seattle's [other free-agent quarterback signee](https://12thmanrising.com/seahawks-making-their-draft-plans-clear-unexpected-drew-lock-signing), Drew Lock, is outplaying Darnold so far. That all comes with a caveat, however.
Seahawks' Sam Darnold's early-OTAs struggles something to keep watch on
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Darnold has played almost solely with the ones, so he is going up against Seattle's best defenders. Lock is playing with the twos, so he is facing presumed backups. The issue, however, is that Darnold was throwing interceptions (or simply missing throws) while Lock was tossing dimes deep.
Rookie Jalen Milroe played with the third team and didn't get that many reps. He is unlikely to play much in 2025, except in special packages.
But what happens if Darnold struggles once training camp and the preseason begin, while Lock continues to excel? Darnold has had one good season in the league, and while that came last year, there is no guarantee of future success.
Plus, the Seahawks have a history of working with Lock and know what he is capable of. He might not be worthy of being a long-term QB1, but Darnold might not be either. There isn't a lot of difference, other than 2024, between what the two quarterbacks have accomplished in the NFL.
In other words, while unlikely, the real free agent gem at the quarterback position could turn out to be the strong-armed Lock. Darnold does not have any guaranteed money on his three-year deal starting in 2026, and Lock's contract was low. The hope might be for Milroe to take over by 2027, at least, but for this season, Darnold needs to come through.
His past issues have stemmed quite a bit from his interception rate, and the points in games he throws a pick. Seahawks fans might feel a bit of PTSD if Darnold follows that trend into 2025 because former quarterback Geno Smith struggled with poorly-timed interceptions in 2024.
Again, though, it is only OTAs, and Darnold could quickly turn things around, but his play is certainly something to keep watch on. Any hint once the season begins that he is going to struggle, and he should be replaced by Lock.
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