The Seattle Seahawks have signed former Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold to a three-year, $100.5 million deal, including $55 million guaranteed. This move comes just three days after trading quarterback Geno Smith to the Raiders. With Darnold now in Seattle, what are the best first-round NFL draft options to help the team the most? Let’s dive in.
How the Seahawks’ Big Moves Shape Their 2025 Draft Plans
Like it or not, the Seahawks are making big changes. For the past three seasons, their offense relied on Smith, DK Metcalf, and Tyler Lockett—now, all three are gone.
First, they cut Lockett to save $17 million in cap space, which many expected due to his decline in production last season. However, they then made a surprising move by trading Smith to the Raiders, saving another $31 million and gaining a third-round pick in the process.
On top of that, yesterday they traded star wide receiver Metcalf—widely seen as the heart of their offense—to the Pittsburgh Steelers in exchange for draft picks. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the deal included the Steelers sending a second-round pick to Seattle, along with a swap of sixth- and seventh-round picks in the 2025 NFL Draft.
With the Seahawks signing Darnold, they have a big decision to make with their first-round draft pick. With Metcalf gone, the best option might be to add another wide receiver to the roster.
While they still have Jaxon Smith-Njigba—who had a great season with 100 receptions, 1,130 yards, and six touchdowns—adding another receiver could help take pressure off him and make Darnold more comfortable.
Seahawks also have picks in Rounds 2-7, so they should look to draft linemen with their current unit not looking too strong. Strengthening the offensive line would go a long way in protecting Darnold and improving both the passing and rushing attack.
ESPN’s Dan Orlovsky seems to agree, saying, “If I’m Sam Darnold, I’m asking who you’re getting at wide receiver. The offensive line is a below-average unit right now.”
He also believes the Seahawks should build their roster based on what Darnold has been comfortable with in the past.
GET DRAFTING: College Football Network’s Mock Draft Simulator
“Build the proper people around Sam Darnold, somewhat similar to what he had in Minnesota.” He finished by adding, “I love Sam, but he will not be the same player in Seattle unless they try to replicate what he had in Minnesota.”
The Seahawks have made major changes this offseason, and their draft decisions will be key to setting up Darnold for success. Adding a top receiver and improving the offensive line should be top priorities if they want to stay competitive. With plenty of picks left, Seattle has a big opportunity to rebuild and shape its future.
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in football, basketball, and more!
