Sam Darnold Poised for a Breakout Season with Seahawks According to NFL Legend

Sam Darnold Poised for a Breakout Season with Seahawks According to NFL Legend

Sam Darnold is coming off a career-best year in the NFL, yet one Seattle Seahawks legend predicts he will surpass those achievements in the upcoming season. Darnold threw for 4,319 yards and 35 touchdowns with a stellar 14-3 record while playing for the Minnesota Vikings last season. Now, he must demonstrate his skills once again with a new team.

Having joined the Seahawks in free agency, expectations are high for Darnold. Shaun Alexander, former Seahawks running back and league MVP in 2005, is optimistic about Darnold’s potential this season. He expressed confidence in Darnold’s ability to excel with the Seahawks, indicating that the right system is in place for his success.

“I think he’s going to be better this year than he was last year with us, and I think they got the right offensive coordinator for him,” Alexander shared during an interview with Fox News Digital after participating in USAA’s “Salute to Service NFL Boot Camp.” He continued, “I think the system looks right for him. They look great at practice.”

The Right Support for Darnold

Darnold is reunited with Klint Kubiak, who previously served as the offensive coordinator for the New Orleans Saints. They also worked together last season with the San Francisco 49ers, where Kubiak was the pass game coordinator. Darnold, meanwhile, was in a backup role to Brock Purdy after navigating a challenging stint with the Carolina Panthers.

As Darnold transitions into this new offense, the Seahawks have undergone significant changes, especially at the wide receiver position. DK Metcalf was traded to the Pittsburgh Steelers, a move that surprised many. However, the emergence of Jaxon Smith-Njigba last season likely influenced this decision. The team has now brought in Cooper Kupp, a shift that Alexander views positively.

Competitive Edge with New Talent

The Seahawks offense now features an intriguing mix of talent. Alongside Darnold, the team boasts a dynamic backfield with Kenneth Walker and Zach Charbonnet. This combination of offensive prowess has led Alexander to make bold predictions for the upcoming season.

“I’m still thinking that it’s Seahawks 17-0,” Alexander joked, portraying an optimistic outlook for the team. More realistically, he believes the Seahawks have what it takes to secure a playoff berth. Although they narrowly missed the postseason last year with a 10-7 record, Alexander anticipates an improved season.

“I think they’re going to be 11-6,” he stated confidently. “I think they’re going to beat the right teams and shock somebody. I do know that it’s going to be very hard to beat them at home. So, you get these things all equated, and they’re going to be a good team.”

Alexander praised the health of both Kenneth Walker and Zach Charbonnet, emphasizing their potential as a formidable duo in the backfield. He also expressed appreciation for how the Seahawks plan to implement Darnold into the offense. With a talented secondary, Alexander believes the team’s defense will also play a crucial role in their success.

Season Kickoff with a Key Matchup

As Darnold and the Seahawks gear up for their season opener, they face a tough NFC West matchup against the 49ers, his former team. The game is set for September 7 and will take place at home, offering Darnold a chance to impress in front of the fervent Seahawks fan base known as “The 12s.”

Cherishing Military Connections

While Alexander relished discussing football, he also cherished the moments spent with military personnel at the USAA Salute to Service NFL Boot Camp. Engaging in drills reminiscent of those he experienced as a player, Alexander found the day impactful.

He expressed admiration for the participants, highlighting the camaraderie and competitiveness displayed during various drills. Alexander has a personal connection to the military through his family, with his second-oldest brother serving as a 22-year military veteran.

“I just thought of him as a hero. Like I have an older brother who’s a hero. He protects the country,” Alexander shared, reflecting on his brother’s service. He emphasized the importance of acknowledging the contributions of military personnel and recognized the strength and resilience they embody.

“You can’t undo what you were a part of. It’s like, ‘Man, I know what you’re all doing, and I know you’re grinding, and sometimes you want to stop and not do it. But you’re a hero to somebody,’” Alexander added, underscoring the admiration he feels for those in uniform.

With excitement for the upcoming season and a deep respect for those who serve, Alexander’s insights provide a hopeful and inspiring narrative for Seahawks fans as they anticipate what lies ahead for Sam Darnold and the team.