The Seahawks made a bold move ahead of the 2025 season, turning the page at quarterback by trading away longtime starter Geno Smith and handing the reins to Sam Darnold. The decision raised eyebrows at the time, but it’s hard to argue with the results now.
Darnold, fresh off signing a three-year, $100.5 million deal, delivered in a big way. He led one of the NFL’s most efficient and explosive offenses throughout the regular season, earning his second Pro Bowl nod and guiding Seattle to a 14-3 record. With Darnold at the helm and a ferocious defense on the other side of the ball, the Seahawks locked up the NFC’s No. 1 seed - a testament to how quickly this team has retooled and refocused under new leadership.
But as any seasoned fan knows, success in the NFL is never just about the starter. Depth matters.
Injuries happen. So, if Darnold were to miss time, who’s next in line?
Let’s take a closer look at Seattle’s quarterback depth chart and what each option brings to the table.
QB2: Drew Lock - The Veteran Backup
Backing up Darnold is Drew Lock, who’s no stranger to Seattle or the NFL grind. A former second-round pick out of Missouri in 2019, Lock is in his second stint with the Seahawks. He started two games back in 2023, going 1-1 while throwing for 543 yards, three touchdowns, and three interceptions.
Lock didn’t see much action in 2025 - just three pass attempts all year - but that doesn’t mean he’s not ready. With 28 career starts under his belt, Lock offers a level of experience that’s tough to replicate in a backup. He’s got a big arm and the physical tools to run an NFL offense, even if consistency and accuracy have been challenges throughout his career.
If Darnold were to go down, Lock is the most likely candidate to step in and keep the offense afloat. He may not bring the same mobility or playmaking flair, but he knows the system, and that counts for something - especially with weapons like Jaxon Smith-Njigba and DK Metcalf around him.
QB3: Jalen Milroe - The Wild Card
Rounding out the quarterback room is rookie Jalen Milroe, the dynamic Alabama product who turned heads in college with his dual-threat ability. Milroe’s game is built around athleticism - a big-time arm paired with track-star speed - and while he’s still raw by NFL standards, the upside is clear.
Milroe isn’t likely to leapfrog Lock on the depth chart just yet, but don’t be surprised if the coaching staff finds ways to get him involved if Darnold misses time. Offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak could tap into Milroe’s versatility with some creative packages, especially in red-zone or short-yardage situations. His ability to keep defenses honest with his legs opens up a different dimension that neither Darnold nor Lock brings to the table.
Seahawks QB Depth Chart:
- Sam Darnold - The clear-cut starter and centerpiece of Seattle’s offensive resurgence.
His 2025 campaign was a career-best, topping 4,000 passing yards with 25 touchdowns and 14 interceptions. At 28, he’s playing the best football of his life and looks like the long-term answer under center.
- Drew Lock - A steady, experienced backup who can step in and manage the offense if needed. He won’t replicate Darnold’s ceiling, but he gives Seattle a safety net with starting experience.
- Jalen Milroe - The developmental rookie with tantalizing tools. He’s not ready to lead the offense full-time, but his athleticism could make him a situational weapon if the Seahawks need to get creative.
Bottom Line:
Seattle’s quarterback room is in a good place. Darnold has established himself as the guy - a leader capable of taking this team deep into January.
Behind him, Lock offers a veteran presence who can steady the ship if called upon. And Milroe?
He’s the future wild card, a player with the kind of athletic profile that makes coaches dream big.
In a league where quarterback depth can make or break a season, the Seahawks have positioned themselves well. And with the No. 1 seed in hand, they’re hoping it’s Darnold - and only Darnold - who’s taking every meaningful snap the rest of the way.