NFL and College Football: Staying in the Game During the Offseason
Even though both college football and the NFL are currently in the offseason, the sports world continues to buzz with news and speculation. From the ongoing spring football practices at universities to the NFL’s preparations for the upcoming free agency period, teams are making strategic moves to shape their rosters for the future. One of the most notable transactions in recent days is the Seattle Seahawks’ trade of quarterback Geno Smith to the Las Vegas Raiders for a third-round draft pick. This move, which became official on Friday, not only alters the quarterback landscape for the Raiders but also leaves the Seahawks with a significant decision to make regarding their starting signal-caller for the 2025 season.
Reuniting with a Familiar Face: Geno Smith to Las Vegas
The trade of Geno Smith to the Las Vegas Raiders is more than just a roster change; it’s a reunion. Smith is set to join his former head coach, Pete Carroll, who recently signed on to lead the Raiders. Carroll, known for his innovative coaching style and ability to develop talent, has a history with Smith from their time together in Seattle. This connection could provide a smoother transition for Smith as he settles into his new team. The Raiders, who have been searching for a reliable quarterback, now have a strong contender for the starting position. Smith’s experience and his solid performance in the past season with the Seahawks make him a valuable asset, and the third-round pick he brings to Seattle will help the team in its future draft strategies.
Questions Arise in Seattle: Who Will Step Up?
The departure of Geno Smith raises a crucial question for the Seattle Seahawks: Who will be their quarterback for the 2025 season? The Seahawks are no strangers to quarterback changes, and they will need to find a suitable replacement to maintain their competitive edge. One name that has been circulating in NFL circles is Sam Darnold, a former USC Trojan and the third overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft. According to NFL Network National Insider Ian Rapoport, Darnold is being linked to a possible move to the Seahawks. Darnold, who has shown significant improvement with the Minnesota Vikings, where he earned a Pro Bowl selection and threw for 35 touchdowns and 4,319 yards, could be a solid choice to fill the void left by Smith.
Darnold’s Career Rebound: A Pro Bowl Season with the Vikings
Sam Darnold’s journey in the NFL has been nothing short of a rollercoaster. Drafted high by the New York Jets with high expectations, Darnold’s early career was marred by inconsistent performances and injuries, earning him the label of a "bust." However, his move to the Minnesota Vikings in 2022 marked a turning point. Darnold had a career-best season, throwing for 35 touchdowns and 4,319 yards, and was named to the Pro Bowl. His resurgence under the guidance of the Vikings’ coaching staff demonstrates his potential and adaptability, making him an appealing candidate for the Seahawks. Pro Football Focus projects that Darnold could sign a three-year contract worth approximately $41.25 million annually this summer, further solidifying his value and marketability.
USC Connection: Darnold’s College Legacy
Sam Darnold’s college career at USC was nothing short of spectacular. In his two seasons with the Trojans (2016-2017), he threw for 57 touchdowns and 7,229 yards, establishing himself as one of the program’s most prolific passers. His 57 touchdowns rank seventh all-time among USC quarterbacks, and he is only surpassed by Caleb Williams among players who played two or fewer seasons. Darnold’s college success, combined with his recent NFL resurgence, could make him a familiar and exciting addition to the Seahawks, especially with the USC connection to Pete Carroll. The familiarity and shared history could play a crucial role in Darnold’s transition to Seattle.
Looking Ahead: The New Era of the Seahawks
As the Seahawks prepare for the 2025 season, the potential addition of Sam Darnold represents a new chapter for the franchise. The team has been eyeing a projected $160 million investment in a quarterback, and Darnold’s value and recent performance align well with their plans. The Seahawks’ decision to trade Smith and potentially sign Darnold reflects their commitment to building a strong and sustainable offense. The upcoming free agency period and draft will be critical in shaping the Seahawks’ roster, and the organization is keen to make strategic moves that will keep them competitive in the highly competitive NFL. The future looks promising, and Seahawks fans are eager to see how this new era unfolds.
