Seattle Seahawks Training Camp: New QB Sam Darnold, Elijah Arroyo Breakout Season

The Seattle Seahawks have undergone significant offensive changes this offseason, with key storylines emerging for training camp. Sam Darnold takes over as the new quarterback after mixed NFL performances; his struggles occurred primarily with the New York Jets, while he showed improvement last season within the Minnesota Vikings' quarterback-friendly system. The Seahawks hope Darnold replicates his Vikings form, similar to Geno Smith's resurgence in Seattle.

At running back, Kenneth Walker III remains the lead back but faces durability concerns with a current ankle injury, compounding his injury history. With Walker's contract expiring after this season, his future with the team is uncertain. The Seahawks have backup Zach Charbonnet and rookie Damien Martinez, prompting questions about whether they will heavily utilize Walker or begin transitioning to younger backs during camp.

The wide receiver corps saw major turnover: DK Metcalf was traded and Tyler Lockett departed in free agency. Seattle signed Cooper Kupp and Marquez Valdez-Scantling to join Jaxon Smith-Njigba (JSN) and drafted rookie Tory Horton. JSN is established, and Kupp is expected to be WR2, but competition for snaps among the remaining receivers will be a focal point in camp.

At tight end, the team released starter Noah Fant after selecting Elijah Arroyo in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Arroyo is now positioned as the primary pass-catching tight end and could emerge as a breakout rookie this season.