Sam Darnold's Contract with Seattle Seahawks: Analyzing the Terms and Implications

This article examines the details of Sam Darnold's contract with the Seattle Seahawks, including the guaranteed money and potential incentives.

The Seattle Seahawks signed quarterback Sam Darnold to a three-year, $100.5 million contract last month. While the deal includes a $15 million March roster bonus in 2026 that some reports indicated became fully guaranteed five days after the deal was signed, the contract actually states that the bonus is guaranteed for injury right now. It will become fully guaranteed if Darnold remains on Seattle's 90-man roster five days after Super Bowl LX. Darnold's deal also includes up to $15 million in incentives over the life of the deal, with $5 million available each season via the same parameters. He would get $500,000 apiece for hitting any of the following benchmarks: 100.0 or better passer rating (minimum 224 attempts), 28 or more touchdown passes, 4,000 or more passing yards and a 67.5% or better completion rate (minimum 224 attempts). There's another $500,000 available each season for the Seahawks finishing in the top 10 in total offense, provided Darnold plays at least 70% of their offensive snaps in the regular season. If Darnold meets that same playing time threshold, he would earn the highest of the following incentives: $500,000 for making the playoffs, $1 million for winning a divisional round game, $1.5 million for winning the conference title game or $2.5 million for winning the Super Bowl. He would have to also play in 70% of the offensive snaps in the given playoff game to qualify for any of the latter three bonuses.

What to Read Next

How Robert Saleh's Return is Reshaping the 49ers Defense with Bryce Huff Trade
NFL

How Robert Saleh's Return is Reshaping the 49ers Defense with Bryce Huff Trade

Explore how Robert Saleh's return as defensive coordinator is transforming the 49ers' defense, highlighted by the strategic acquisition of Bryce Huff.

Decoding the 'Madden Curse': A Decade of NFL Stars on the Iconic Game Cover
NFL

Decoding the 'Madden Curse': A Decade of NFL Stars on the Iconic Game Cover

Explore the infamous 'Madden Curse' and its impact on NFL stars featured on the game cover over the past decade. Is it myth or reality?

49ers vs Eagles: Who Won the Bryce Huff Trade? A Comprehensive Analysis
NFL

49ers vs Eagles: Who Won the Bryce Huff Trade? A Comprehensive Analysis

Explore the details of the Bryce Huff trade between the 49ers and Eagles, including grades, impact, and future outlook for both teams.

Mastering Fantasy Football: Crafting the Perfect Team Name for NFL Enthusiasts
NFL

Mastering Fantasy Football: Crafting the Perfect Team Name for NFL Enthusiasts

Discover expert tips on choosing the perfect fantasy football team name that reflects your NFL passion and strategy, enhancing your league experience.

Cam Ward's Leadership Shines: Titans' Rookie QB Gains Veteran Respect
NFL

Cam Ward's Leadership Shines: Titans' Rookie QB Gains Veteran Respect

Cam Ward, the Titans' rookie quarterback, is earning respect from veterans and the offensive line with his confidence and leadership skills.

Josh Allen and Hailee Steinfeld: A Power Couple's Wedding and NFL Season Outlook
NFL

Josh Allen and Hailee Steinfeld: A Power Couple's Wedding and NFL Season Outlook

Buffalo Bills QB Josh Allen marries actress Hailee Steinfeld, balancing wedding bliss with NFL preparations for the 2025 season.

Rising Star Craig Woodson: The Eraser's Impact on the New England Patriots
NFL

Rising Star Craig Woodson: The Eraser's Impact on the New England Patriots

Discover how rookie safety Craig Woodson, known as 'The Eraser,' is making waves with the New England Patriots and what his future holds in the NFL.

J.J. McCarthy's NFL Comeback: Vikings' Intense Training and Team Dynamics
NFL

J.J. McCarthy's NFL Comeback: Vikings' Intense Training and Team Dynamics

Explore how J.J. McCarthy is being rigorously tested in his return to the field with the Minnesota Vikings, alongside key players like Justin Jefferson and under the watchful eye of Brian Flores.

Dak Prescott and Sarah Jane Ramos Celebrate the Arrival of Baby Aurora Rayne
NFL

Dak Prescott and Sarah Jane Ramos Celebrate the Arrival of Baby Aurora Rayne

Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott and fiancée Sarah Jane Ramos welcome their second daughter, Aurora Rayne, marking a joyous family milestone.

Shedeur Sanders and the Browns' Quarterback Battle: A New Era in Cleveland's Offense
NFL

Shedeur Sanders and the Browns' Quarterback Battle: A New Era in Cleveland's Offense

Explore the Cleveland Browns' revamped offense and the intense quarterback competition featuring Shedeur Sanders, Joe Flacco, and Kenny Pickett.

Odafe Oweh's Transformation: From Playoff Disappointment to NFL Dominance
NFL

Odafe Oweh's Transformation: From Playoff Disappointment to NFL Dominance

Discover how Odafe Oweh's playoff disappointment fueled his physical transformation, making him a dominant force for the Baltimore Ravens.

Legacy of the Giants: How NY Giants' Legends Are Shaping the Future of the Team
NFL

Legacy of the Giants: How NY Giants' Legends Are Shaping the Future of the Team

Discover how the NY Giants are leveraging their rich history and legendary players like Eli Manning to inspire and guide the current team towards future success.

Top NFL Stars Set for Blockbuster Contracts in 2025: Key Negotiations and Team Priorities
NFL

Top NFL Stars Set for Blockbuster Contracts in 2025: Key Negotiations and Team Priorities

Discover the latest on NFL stars set for massive contracts in 2025, including key negotiations and team priorities.

Jordan Love's Resilience and Growth: A Look Ahead to the 2025 NFL Season
NFL

Jordan Love's Resilience and Growth: A Look Ahead to the 2025 NFL Season

Explore Jordan Love's journey with the Green Bay Packers, his recovery from injuries, and his focus on leadership and consistency for the 2025 NFL season.

Kevin Patullo: The Mastermind Behind Philadelphia Eagles' Offensive Strategy
NFL

Kevin Patullo: The Mastermind Behind Philadelphia Eagles' Offensive Strategy

Discover how Kevin Patullo, the new offensive coordinator for the Philadelphia Eagles, is shaping the team's offensive strategy with his innovative approach and adaptability.

Load More

We use essential cookies to make our site work. With your consent, we may also use non-essential cookies to improve user experience and analyze website traffic. By clicking "Accept," you agree to our website's cookie use as described in our Cookie Policy.