The Seattle Seahawks are making headlines in the NFL as they gear up for the upcoming draft, particularly with their interest in Louisville quarterback Tyler Shough. Rumors are swirling about the direction Seahawks general manager John Schneider will take after trading Geno Smith to the Las Vegas Raiders, indicating it might be time for a fresh start in Seattle’s quarterback room.
Following the offseason trade of Smith, the Seahawks swiftly secured Sam Darnold, signing him to a three-year, $100.5 million contract. However, the contract includes a provision that could void after one year, effectively making it potentially a one-year deal valued at $37.5 million with an option for the two subsequent years worth $63 million. This strategic move by the Seahawks, as Darnold has a mixed history in the league, especially after an impressive 2024 season leading the Minnesota Vikings to a franchise-record 14 wins, speaks volumes about their cautious yet proactive approach to managing their quarterback situation.
Indeed, Darnold's performance for Minnesota last season earned him respect after throwing for 4,319 yards and 35 touchdown passes. Impressively, he showcased his skills during tight games, passing for 377 yards against the Green Bay Packers and throwing five touchdown passes in a notable matchup against the Atlanta Falcons. Yet, for every highlight, there are concerning moments, including a disappointing outing against the Lions where he completed only 18 of 41 passes without a touchdown, followed by a poor playoff performance against the Rams.
As it stands, Seattle’s method of evaluating its options has become a focal point of discussion. Darnold is seen as a stopgap if another promising quarterback emerges. Schneider, who remains committed to finding the right player, has been linked to Shough, who has recently caught the attention of scouts following his performance during the college football season and at the NFL Combine.
On March 18, 2025, ESPN's Brady Henderson reported that the Seahawks are conducting a top-30 pre-draft visit with Shough, a quarterback with a sturdy resume, having transferred from Oregon and Texas Tech before flourishing at Louisville. Shough enjoyed a standout senior year, passing for 3,195 yards and 23 touchdowns against only six interceptions. His dual-threat capability, highlighted by his career total of 11 rushing touchdowns, adds another layer to his appeal as a candidate.
Shough's presence at the NFL Combine was a revelation as he clocked in a 4.64-second 40-yard dash, showcasing the speed that could make him an enticing prospect for NFL teams. Influential draft analysts including Field Yates and Mel Kiper Jr. rank him as the fourth best quarterback of this draft cycle, indicating how quickly Shough's stock has risen. The Seahawks are clearly capitalizing on this momentum, and given Darnold's recent signing, they seem prepared to give themselves options as they head into the draft.
Historically, Seattle has demonstrated an ability to find quarterback talent through unconventional means. Schneider’s astute moves have seen success, such as the acquisition of Russell Wilson, who was initially drafted in the third round. The hope among fans is that, whether in Shough or another prospect, he remains open to the chance of discovering untapped potential.
Despite the buzz around Shough, the Seahawks must tread carefully. While some speculate they might select him at the 18th overall spot, there is also a cloud of uncertainty surrounding the quarterback potential remaining in the draft. Teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers, Los Angeles Rams, Cleveland Browns, and New York Giants are also showing keen interest, which complicates Seattle's draft strategy. Schneider has explicitly stated that he is looking to invest in the next franchise quarterback, a move that underlines the importance of this NFL Draft for the future of the franchise.
The landscape surrounding the Seahawks depicts a team in transition, striving to redefine its identity post-Wilson and now with Darnold in the fold. While he is praised for his high potential from his tenure with the Vikings, skepticism still lingers among fans about whether Darnold can truly lead the Seahawks back to the top of the NFC West.
Critics argue that trusting Darnold, a player who has faced challenges throughout his career, could lead to missteps. With decisions to make at a pivotal moment, Seattle’s management is left contemplating whether to build around Darnold or start fresh with a new prospect like Shough.
This year’s NFL Draft promises to be a turning point for various franchises, particularly for the Seahawks, whose decisions will have lasting implications as they look to reinvigorate their quarterback roster. Fans remain hopeful yet anxious, eagerly anticipating how Schneider and his team will fill their quarterback needs. Will they go for the safe option with Darnold or take the risk of launching their future with a talented rookie? Time will tell.
As the draft approaches, one thing is certain—the Seahawks are committed to reshaping their quarterback position and are poised to make moves that could define their next chapter in the NFL storyline.
