Macdonald Confirms Darnold as Starting Quarterback
Seattle Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald is already fielding questions about the team’s quarterback situation, specifically concerning Sam Darnold’s grip on the starting role. During an appearance on Seattle Sports 710 AM on Tuesday, Macdonald was asked whether there were any scenarios, aside from injury, where Darnold wouldn’t start in Week 1.
“No, you guys are crazy,” Macdonald said, slightly shaking his head at the query. “I respect that you’ve got to ask it, but it’s just a crazy question. It’s just not going to happen. Sam’s our starting quarterback. We love him. He’s doing a tremendous job.”
Darnold’s Performance at OTAs
This question came on the heels of a report highlighting a mixed performance from Darnold during a media-accessible OTA session. Macdonald acknowledged that Darnold made some mistakes but underscored the importance of learning from such errors during this part of the offseason.
He emphasized that this is the ideal time for players to make mistakes so they can be addressed well before the season starts. “God forbid you’re the worst payer of all time because you made one bad throw or one bad decision,” Macdonald said following a sarcastic riff about offseason practice.
“That is not what we’re trying to build. We want these guys to go prepare the right way and then when they go out on the practice field, go freaking let it rip, and then we’ll go fix it. We’ve got time. It’s June 3. They’re going to get plenty of reps. We’ll get those things fixed.”
“Sam made a lot of great throws yesterday, he was gashing us on third-and-goal to start the day out too. So, yeah, it’s kind of a crazy question.”
Darnold’s Position Remains Secure
Concerns remain about Darnold leading a restructured Seahawks offense, but one rough OTA session does not alter his position as the clear Week 1 starter. Drew Lock, who served as a backup last season in New York, remains behind Darnold, and rookie Jalen Milroe, currently operating as the third-string quarterback in open OTA sessions, still has development ahead before becoming a contender.
Macdonald’s firm response reflects confidence in his starter, suggesting that speculation about the quarterback depth chart is premature. The real focus now shifts to how new offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak and the team plan to help Darnold clean up those offseason errors and avoid repeating past mistakes during the regular season.
