Is it Reasonable to Pose the Query: Will Sam Darnold Commence in Seattle? Indeed, it's Appropriate.
Revised Article:
Sam Darnold, freshly inaugurated into the Seattle Seahawks after an astronomical free-agent deal following a stellar stint with the Minnesota Vikings, seems to be back to his old ways - namely, the rocky performances of his early NFL career rather than his impressive 2024 season.
Notably, Darnold's poor performance during a recent OTA practice has been the talk of the town in Seattle. Seahawks coach Mike Macdonald was even questioned about the possibility of a new quarterback starting in 2025, despite Darnold being the team's newly-anointed leading man.
"Crazy question," Macdonald dismissed the notion on Seattle Sports 710-AM. "Sam's our starting quarterback. We love him. He's doing a tremendous job."
However, what can be perceived as a "tremendous job" might be up for debate. During the practice open to media, Darnold tossed two interceptions in quick succession and repeatedly held onto the ball too long, disrupting play timing. It's worth noting this unfolded without any pass rush, collision, or full speed.
Looking back, Macdonald wasn't too enthusiastic about the media's newfound expertise on the team's potential.
"It's funny the media thinks it knows how good we are after the first OTA session," he quipped. "We haven't even practiced in pads yet, let alone made a single tackle or meaningful play."
Seahawks history carries a unique context that shouldn't be disregarded. Quarterbacks like Matt Flynn, Russell Wilson, and Geno Smith have played prominent roles in the team's journey. Notably, Wilson, initially selected as a third-round pick, outshone Flynn in 2012 - a situation somewhat reminiscent of the current setup.
Although Macdonald downplayed the concern, a precedent for quarterback shakeups has been set in Seattle. As expectations run high for Darnold, he and Macdonald will likely need to steer past the heightened scrutiny that comes with joining the storied Seahawks franchise.
"Sam Darnold's poor performance during OTA practice, marked by two quick interceptions and prolonged ball-holding, raises question marks about his ability in American football, specifically NFL games, reminiscent of his early career struggles."
"In the context of the Seattle Seahawks, a team known for its exceptional quarterbacks like Russell Wilson and Matt Flynn, Darnold's performance warrants close attention, given the history of quarterback changes within the franchise, and the expectations that come with joining such a prestigious team."
