Sam Darnold

Sam Darnold enters the 2026 fantasy season in a strong spot as Seattle’s returning starter and the quarterback of a team that just won the Super Bowl with him under center. The Seahawks’ own training-camp coverage describes him as a Pro Bowler in each of the past two seasons and the clear leader of the offense heading into 2026.

From a fantasy standpoint, Darnold looks like a solid QB2 with upside rather than a weekly must-start in single-quarterback leagues. ESPN’s 2026 projection has him at 3,924 passing yards, 24 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions on 65.4% completions, which points to usable production but not elite rushing-driven ceiling.

The biggest thing to watch is health, but the early offseason concern appears manageable. Darnold played through an oblique injury in the 2025 postseason, was listed as questionable at points, and still continued to progress through treatment and practice rather than face a major setback. By camp, Seattle’s coverage made it clear he was back in the fold and discussing the offense normally, which is a good sign that the injury is not expected to define his 2026 outlook.

Overall, Darnold is the kind of quarterback you can target as a reliable, reasonably safe fantasy starter if you wait on the position. His value should be boosted by continuity in Seattle and a proven supporting cast, but he probably needs either a small leap in touchdown volume or another step forward from the offense to become a true top-10 fantasy option.