Sam Darnold played for the Seattle Seahawks last year during the 2025 NFL season, leading their offense as the starting quarterback and delivering one of the most notable campaigns of his career. In this article, we’ll break down every factual, up-to-date detail about his role, performance, and current status as of January 18, 2026.
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Sam Darnold and the 2025 Seattle Seahawks
In the 2025 NFL season, Sam Darnold played for the Seattle Seahawks as their primary quarterback, wearing the No. 14 jersey and leading the team through a highly successful regular season. He signed a multi-year free agent contract with Seattle before the season as the franchise’s QB1, taking over after his standout 2024 campaign with the Minnesota Vikings.
Darnold’s 2025 season with the Seahawks was marked by consistency, leadership, and statistical production that helped Seattle secure one of the best records in the NFC. By the end of the regular season, he had thrown for 4,048 passing yards, 25 touchdowns, and 14 interceptions, showcasing his ability to command an NFL offense and deliver results on the field. His performance also earned him Pro Bowl recognition for a second consecutive year.
2025 Season Stats at a Glance
Here’s a snapshot of Sam Darnold’s key statistical achievements during the 2025 season with Seattle:
- Team: Seattle Seahawks
- Games Started: 17
- Passing Yards: 4,048
- Touchdowns: 25
- Interceptions: 14
- Completion Percentage: Around 67%
- Pro Bowl: Selected
These numbers reflect Darnold’s full workload as the Seahawks’ starting quarterback and confirm the answer to the question who did Sam Darnold play for last year — it was the Seattle Seahawks.
Season Highlights and Impact
Darnold’s presence in Seattle immediately reshaped the Seahawks’ offense. He consistently moved the ball, connected with his receivers on deep and intermediate throws, and helped the team secure crucial wins throughout the season.
Some season highlights include:
- A commanding win late in the season that clinched the No. 1 seed in the NFC, underscoring his leadership in big moments.
- Multiple games where Darnold delivered four or more touchdown passes, showcasing his ability to take over offensively.
- A strong regular-season finish that helped Seattle secure home-field advantage in the playoffs.
His role wasn’t just statistical — he became the focal point of Seattle’s offensive identity and earned respect from teammates and opponents alike.
Playoffs and Current Status
As of January 18, 2026, the Seahawks were preparing for a Divisional Round playoff matchup following a first-round bye. Darnold was listed as questionable for the game due to a minor oblique injury sustained in practice, but both he and the Seahawks expressed optimism about his availability to play. The team listed backup quarterback Drew Lock as the secondary option should Darnold be unable to go.
This playoff context reflects his most recent status and highlights Seattle’s continued reliance on him as their starting quarterback.
Darnold’s Career Path to Seattle
Understanding Sam Darnold’s NFL journey provides context for why his 2025 season was significant:
- 2018–2020: New York Jets – Drafted third overall and served as the franchise QB.
- 2021–2022: Carolina Panthers – Continued starter duties.
- 2023: San Francisco 49ers – Served as a backup and spot starter.
- 2024: Minnesota Vikings – Breakout season with Pro Bowl play.
- 2025: Seattle Seahawks – Starter and team leader.
This path shows steady evolution, with 2025 marking one of his most pivotal roles in the league.
Team Performance With Darnold
Under Darnold’s leadership, the Seahawks finished the regular season with a strong record, won the NFC West, and clinched the top seed in the NFC playoffs. Seattle’s offensive rhythm often revolved around his ability to make key throws and sustain scoring drives.
His connection with key receivers, decision-making in critical situations, and performance under pressure were central to Seattle’s success throughout the year.
Why This Matters to Fans
For Seahawks fans and NFL observers alike, knowing who Sam Darnold played for last year is important for several reasons:
- It confirms the quarterback hierarchy in Seattle.
- It provides insight into how the Seahawks built their playoff run.
- It allows fantasy football players to evaluate Darnold’s performance in a competitive season.
His time in Seattle represents not only his most recent professional chapter but also one of the most productive in his career to date.
Looking Forward
While the 2025 season is now in the books and the playoffs are underway, Sam Darnold’s role with the Seahawks continues to draw attention. Whether he remains healthy for postseason action or impacts Seattle’s future beyond 2025, one thing is certain: his play for the Seattle Seahawks last year is the factual answer to who he played for.
Thanks for reading! Drop a comment with your thoughts on Sam Darnold’s 2025 season and what you think lies ahead for him.
