Sam Darnold’s NFL journey has been a winding path marked by ups and downs, from a top selected QB in 2018 (#3 overall) to a perennial backup.
However, his recent performances last season with the Vikings and a new opportunity with the Seattle Seahawks have reignited hope that he can reach the coveted $100 million career earnings mark.
Despite a slower start and faster decline than many of his contemporaries.
📉Late Start, But A Hot Trajectory
Drafted 3rd overall in 2018 by the New York Jets, Darnold struggled with injuries and inconsistent play during his early years, limiting his earning potential.
After moving to Minnesota in 2023, his production remained spotty, but he was able to lead the franchise to the playoffs in 2024.
Despite losing to Rams 27-9 in the Wildcard round with the Minnesota Vikings, the Seahawks signing offers a fresh start and the chance to maximize his value.
- Early Career Earnings:
- Jets (2018–2020): ~$23 million total contract value over 3 years
- Panthers-Vikings (2021–2024): mostly backup deals, limited earnings.
- 2025 Contract with Seattle: 1-year deal reportedly worth up to $6 million with incentives (what a deal for the Seahawks).
💰Path to $100M
To reach $100 million in career earnings, Darnold must capitalize on playing time, performance, and leverage future contracts:
- Secure Starting Role in Seattle: A strong 2025 season could position him for a multi-year extension in the $25–35 million per year range.
- Consistent Play & Health: Avoiding injuries and maintaining above-average production are essential to staying valuable in a league hungry for dependable quarterbacks.
- Capitalize on Playoff Success: Deep playoff runs can boost contract negotiations and increase market value.
- Smart Contract Negotiations: Structuring deals with bonuses, incentives, and guaranteed money will help secure wealth.
It really comes down to his performance with the new Seattle core and if he can take a team with potential further than without him.
The true key to getting the bag in any career, is consistency.
🏈Seattle vs Minnesota
- Seattle Seahawks:
- State income tax: No state income tax in Washington, allowing Darnold to keep more of his salary.
- Team trajectory: Seahawks have a rebuilding offense, so a standout performance could lead to a lucrative contract.
- Media market size: Seattle is a top 15 media market, providing endorsement opportunities.
- Minnesota Vikings:
- State income tax: Minnesota has a high state income tax (~9.85%), reducing take-home pay.
- Team status: Vikings have a competitive roster but at times a crowded QB situation, potentially limiting playing time.
- Media market size: Mid-sized market with fewer endorsement/sponsorship opportunities.
Staying in Seattle likely offers Darnold a better financial path.
This is primarily due to no state income tax in WA State and the potential to command a starting QB salary in a rebuilding, high-exposure environment.
🔮Can Darnold Make It?
With the right mix of performance, health, and contract savvy, Darnold can cross the $100 million career earnings milestone over the next five years/NFL seasons.
While his journey hasn’t followed the prototypical star trajectory, the Quarterback market remains lucrative for capable starters and Seattle presents a solid platform for him to capitalize on that.
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Next Reads
- How NFL Signing Bonuses are Structured
- Travis Hunter’s Rookie Contract with the Jacksonville Jaguars
- T.J. Watt’s 3-Year, $123 Million Contract Extension
- Cam Ward’s Rookie Contract with the Tennessee Titans
- Sauce Gardner’s $31.1 Million/Year Contract Extension
Credits
Written by: Aidan Anderson
Research and Analysis: Apostle Sports Media LLC
Sources: Spotrac, OverTheCap, NFLPA, Forbes Sports Money, APSM Proprietary Analysis.
Featured Image: Public Domain / Wiki Commons
Disclaimer: This article contains general financial information for educational purposes and does not constitute as professional advice.
“Ill-gotten treasures have no lasting value, but righteousness delivers from death.”
– Proverbs 10:2
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