Sam Darnold's Seattle ascent reframes a career once defined by injuries into a study in resilience and leadership. Grounded in California roots and a strong athletic family, his path blends steady growth with a stable personal life alongside Katie Hoofnagle. The profile underscores a quarterback who has learned to manage risk, stay durable, and elevate Seattle's offense, hinting at a reliable fantasy floor and upside in a balanced system.

Off the field, the Darnold clan—mom Chris, dad Mike Darnold Jr., sister Franki, and fiancé Katie—provides a steady support network that complements his on-field maturation. Grandfather Dick Hammer adds a rich multi-sport lineage. The piece argues that this combination of preparation, mindset, and family perspective contributes to Darnold’s growing fantasy appeal in 2025.

Geno Smith’s move to the Las Vegas Raiders flags a quarterback reshuffle in the AFC West, but Jeff Howe’s first 2025 NFL QB rankings still lean toward the big names, with Sam Darnold slotted No. 14 and Smith at 17. The top three remain Allen, Burrow, and Mahomes, while Darnold’s arrival in Seattle comes after a strong preseason showing and sets the stage for a Seattle–SF opener at Lumen Field.

The rankings place four QBs between Nos. 10-15 in a crowded division, including Purdy at 10 and Murray at 15, framing a season where Seattle’s decision to move on from Smith could redefine fantasy outlooks in the NFC West.

Week 1 features the NFC West’s fiercest clash as the 49ers visit Seattle. San Francisco arrives with a healthy, star-studded offense led by Purdy and friends McCaffrey, Aiyuk, and Kittle, aiming to remind the league their championship window is still wide open. Seattle counters with a revamped attack under a new scheme and Darnold at the helm, with Jaxon Smith-Njigba ready to spark the offense.

Expect a physical, sometimes messy opening half, then SF’s depth, coaching edge, and playmakers pull away. Smith-Njigba could provide the Seahawks a meaningful spark with 70+ receiving yards and a TD, while Purdy, McCaffrey, and Kittle anchor a late surge for the visitors.