The Seahawks traded quarterback Geno Smith to the Las Vegas Raiders in exchange for a third-round pick on Friday, according to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero, who also revealed Darnold is a viewed "leading contender" among veteran quarterback options Seattle intends to explore. That's a new hat in the ring for the Vikings to compete with for Darnold.

The Seattle Seahawks sent Geno Smith to the Las Vegas Raiders for a 2025 third round pick. It gives Pete Carroll a familiar face at the most important position. Tom Pelissero said, shortly after announcing the deal, that the Seahawks are contenders for Darnold.