**Seahawks' Coach Reaffirms Sam Darnold as Starting Quarterback for 2025 Season**

In a recent appearance on Seattle Sports 710, Coach Mike Macdonald thoroughly dispelled any doubts about who will be the starting quarterback for the Seahawks in 2025. Despite some hiccups in recent practice sessions, Macdonald made it unequivocally clear that Sam Darnold is the team's chosen leader on the field.

During Monday's Organized Team Activity (OTA), Darnold threw two interceptions in quick succession during a red-zone drill. This was the first open media session of the spring, and it naturally garnered some attention. Host Mike Salk questioned Macdonald about the possibility of another quarterback stepping in if Darnold was not performing aside from injuries. Macdonald's response was emphatic and resolute. "You guys are crazy," he said. "It's not going to happen. Like Sam's our starting quarterback. We love him. He's doing a tremendous job."

This robust confidence in Darnold aligns with the team's actions earlier this year. In March, the Seahawks signed Darnold to a lucrative three-year contract worth up to $100.5 million, with $55 million guaranteed. This decisive move followed the trade of Geno Smith to the Raiders, signaling a new era for the team's quarterback lineup.

To round out their quarterback roster, the Seahawks re-signed Drew Lock in April on a two-year contract worth $5 million, including $2.25 million guaranteed. A few weeks later, they drafted Jalen Milroe in the third round, 92nd overall. Milroe's rookie contract spans four years, worth up to $6.26 million with $1.195 million guaranteed. The plan is to develop Milroe into a potential starter, but for now, he's getting adjusted to NFL play.

Macdonald noted that in the recent OTA workout, Darnold led the starting offense, Lock managed the second team, and Milroe handled the third-string duties. This hierarchy was expected, but some observers have speculated whether Milroe's running ability could earn him playing time sooner. Nonetheless, for the time being, Darnold remains the primary focus.

Coach Macdonald emphasized that Darnold is receiving the bulk of the reps to ensure his comfort in offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak's system ahead of the regular season. "Sam is getting the vast majority,'' Macdonald confirmed, noting that as the season approaches, this distribution will become even more pronounced.

Despite the interceptions on Monday, Macdonald praised Darnold's overall performance, highlighting his impressive throws, including a touchdown pass to Cooper Kupp. This new connection is part of a broader offensive overhaul as the team adjusts to life without former key players like Russell Wilson, DK Metcalf, and Tyler Lockett.

With significant changes in personnel and strategy, the Seahawks are undoubtedly in a transitional phase. However, Macdonald's steadfast belief in Darnold underscores the team's commitment to building a strong foundation for future success.