Sam Darnold is entering a pivotal season with the Seattle Seahawks after experiencing a career-best year with the Minnesota Vikings, where he threw for 4,319 yards and 35 touchdowns, helping the team achieve a 14-3 record. The pressure is on Darnold to perform well again, and he faces this challenge with the support of Shaun Alexander, a Seahawks icon and 2005 league MVP. Alexander confidently predicts that Darnold will surpass his previous achievements this season, citing the appropriateness of the new offensive system in Seattle.
Reuniting with Klint Kubiak, the former offensive coordinator of the New Orleans Saints and pass game coordinator with Darnold in San Francisco, brings a sense of continuity for Darnold. The Seahawks are revamping their offense, including a change in the receiving corps after trading star wide receiver DK Metcalf to the Pittsburgh Steelers. The arrival of Cooper Kupp, alongside the emergence of Jaxon Smith-Njigba, suggests a fresh dynamic that Alexander believes will be beneficial to the team’s success.
Alexander expresses optimism about the Seahawks’ potential this season, humorously suggesting they could reach an unprecedented 17-0 record. However, he realistically forecasts an 11-6 finish, predicting they will secure a playoff spot after narrowly missing out last year with a 10-7 record. He emphasizes the team’s home-field advantage and the solid performance of the offense, especially with running backs Kenneth Walker and Zach Charbonnet complementing Darnold’s capabilities.
The Seahawks’ defense also garners praise from Alexander, particularly the secondary, which he believes will be instrumental in the team’s success. Darnold’s debut in front of the Seattle fans, affectionately known as “The 12s,” is scheduled for September 7 against the 49ers, a crucial NFC West matchup that will set the tone for the season. Alexander is confident that Darnold will thrive in this setting, with the promise of a well-coordinated offensive scheme.
In addition to his football insights, Alexander recently participated in the USAA Salute to Service NFL Boot Camp, where he engaged with military personnel. He expressed admiration for the military, particularly through the lens of his family background, as his brother served in the military for 22 years. This connection instilled in him a deep respect for those who serve, leading him to celebrate their contributions while sharing uplifting moments on the field.
Overall, the combination of Darnold’s renewed potential under Kubiak’s guidance, a restructured Seahawks offense, and Alexander’s positive endorsements create an optimistic outlook for Seattle’s 2025 campaign. With a blend of talent on both sides of the ball and a culture of resilience and support, the Seahawks aim to make a significant impact in the upcoming NFL season.
