Seahawks GM Confirms Sam Darnold as Franchise QB After Super Bowl Win

Darnold's rocky start gives way to historic success, but Seahawks face cap challenges to keep title-winning core

Feb. 27, 2026 at 3:38pm

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Seattle Seahawks General Manager John Schneider officially named Sam Darnold the team's franchise quarterback after he led them to a Super Bowl LX championship, despite a rocky start to the season that sparked doubts over his hefty contract. Darnold's focus during high-pressure moments became key to Seattle's title run, but the Seahawks now face financial obstacles in maintaining their Super Bowl-winning core.

Why it matters

Darnold's journey from early-season liability to championship-winning quarterback demonstrates the value of patience and the ability to overcome adversity. However, the Seahawks must now navigate a complex offseason of contract negotiations and an ownership transition to keep their title-winning team intact.

The details

Darnold's season got off to a difficult start, including a costly late fumble in the opener against San Francisco and a turnover against Tampa Bay that directly contributed to the Buccaneers' game-winning field goal. These early missteps led many fans to question whether the Seahawks had made a mistake in signing Darnold to his three-year, $100.5 million deal. However, Darnold gradually found consistency, throwing 17 of his 25 touchdown passes during the first nine games, and his standout performance contributed to a 14-3 regular season record and a Super Bowl LX championship.

  • On February 27, 2026, Seahawks GM John Schneider announced that Sam Darnold would be the team's franchise quarterback.
  • Darnold's rocky start to the season included a costly late fumble against San Francisco in the season opener and a turnover against Tampa Bay that led to a game-winning field goal.

The players

John Schneider

The general manager of the Seattle Seahawks who officially named Sam Darnold the team's franchise quarterback after their Super Bowl LX championship.

Sam Darnold

The quarterback for the Seattle Seahawks who led the team to a Super Bowl LX championship despite a rocky start to the season that sparked doubts over his hefty contract.

Kenneth Walker III

The Super Bowl MVP running back for the Seattle Seahawks who is expected to command a salary around $11 million annually as he approaches free agency.

Boye Mafe

A defensive standout for the Seattle Seahawks who requires a new contract as the team faces financial challenges to maintain their Super Bowl-winning core.

Riq Woolen

A defensive standout for the Seattle Seahawks who requires a new contract as the team faces financial challenges to maintain their Super Bowl-winning core.

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What they’re saying

“We want him to be our quarterback for a long time, for sure.”

— John Schneider, General Manager, Seattle Seahawks (The Rich Eisen Show)

“He came in and fit in just like seamless.”

— John Schneider, General Manager, Seattle Seahawks (The Rich Eisen Show)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.