NFL Exec Predicts Jalen Milroe Beats Out Sam Darnold to be Seahawks' QB1 in 2026

While the Seattle Seahawks signed quarterback Sam Darnold to a three-year deal this offseason, some around the NFL feel that it won't take long for him to lose his starting job.

The Athletic's Mike Sando spoke to an NFL executive who said they feel 2025 third-round pick Jalen Milroe will earn the starting quarterback position over Darnold in 2026.

"I think Sam starts one year, and they go with the young kid," the exec said, referring to Milroe.

Darnold is coming off the best season of his seven-year career, as he led the Minnesota Vikings to a 14-3 record and earned his first career Pro Bowl selection after throwing for career highs of 4,319 yards and 35 touchdowns. He cashed in with a $100.5 million deal from the Seahawks, though Pro Football Talk's Mike Florio explained that Seattle will be able to part ways with him after just one year and $37.5 million due to the structure of his contract.

Milroe had some impressive moments in Thursday's preseason opener against the Las Vegas Raiders, throwing for 61 yards on 6-of-10 passing and rushing for 38 yards on three carries. His dual-threat ability has fueled intrigue about his potential in the NFL, and he could see the field as a rookie in certain offensive packages.

Darnold is no stranger to proving his doubters wrong, so he will have to stay at the top of his game if he hopes to avoid losing his job to Milroe next year.