NFL Quarterback Decisions Shift League Dynamics
SAN FRANCISCO — In the early hours of March 7 last year, just days before NFL free agency kicked off, league personnel executives were queried about the Raiders’ quarterback strategies.
“Please note the Geno Smith trade to the Raiders,” the message began. “That makes some sense. I know they’re not looking at Sam Darnold, Daniel Jones, or Justin Fields. There are limited options available.”
This conversation sparked a series of events that would reshape multiple franchises and significantly impact one highly regarded coach in the NFL and a young general manager, both eager to validate their choices made on draft night.
It’s worth mentioning Darnold in this context. His journey to redemption involves overcoming the shortcomings of two different teams, which had unfairly labeled him as one of the league’s worst players. Against the odds, he was able to lead the one team that genuinely believed in him to Super Bowl 60.
By the way, that path to success with the Seahawks was influenced by numerous individual motivations and objectives, making it a bit of a puzzle to dissect.
At its core, the situation hinged on three main players who each had particular roles to play.
The Geno Factor
Like Darnold, Smith was also a former Jets player facing his own struggles. Drafted in the second round out of West Virginia in 2013, Smith had been a backup for various teams until finding success in Seattle after the Seahawks moved on from Russell Wilson.
His surprising success as a starter helped build trust with Seahawks coach Pete Carroll, who watched Smith evolve into a quality QB. This relationship also influenced Smith’s self-perception, pushing him to believe he deserved a top-tier contract.
These dynamics set the stage for when Carroll, who took control of the Raiders in 2024, faced challenges in securing Smith’s new contract, as discussions reached a deadlock. The Seahawks were not willing to meet Smith’s financial expectations.
Meanwhile, Carroll and the Raiders were facing challenges of their own, failing to land Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford. As options dwindled, they felt compelled to acquire Smith, who was underwhelmed by Seattle’s offer.
Darnold and the Vikings Factor
Darnold, after a rough stint with the Jets and Panthers, spent a year developing under the 49ers’ leadership. That training proved invaluable as he signed a contract with the Vikings, who needed assistance with the expected learning curve of their rookie quarterback, JJ McCarthy.
McCarthy was drafted in 2024 based on the guidance of Vikings GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, who believed he was vital for the team’s future. However, Adofo-Mensah’s decisions backfired, resulting in his departure as Darnold’s success in Minnesota was overshadowed by the confidence in McCarthy, even after a tough playoff performance.
All Roads Lead to Seattle
The Vikings’ choice to favor McCarthy and the subsequent trade that brought Smith to the Raiders left a significant gap in Seattle, one Darnold was eager to fill.
Additionally, the firing of 49ers coach Kubiak—and his subsequent hiring by the Seahawks—created a crucial link that brought Darnold to Seattle. He had a strong relationship with Kubiak, who genuinely supported him.
“He’s unbelievable,” Darnold shared about Kubiak. “What I learned from him is just a rough guide. I’m excited to grow with him as a coach. He’s such a hard worker, always the first one in the facility, and players really appreciate his honesty.”
Thanks to this connection, Seattle moved to trade Smith to the Raiders, and shortly afterwards, signed Darnold to a three-year, $100 million contract.
Aftermath
Looking back, Darnold and Seattle seem to have hit the jackpot. They’re heading into Super Bowl 60 as favorites against the Patriots.
Meanwhile, Carroll and Adofo-Mensah moved on from their roles with the Raiders and Vikings, indicating how trust in Smith and the choice to prioritize McCarthy had far-reaching consequences in the NFL landscape.
