Seahawks Head Coach Discusses Jalen Milroe’s Chances of Starting Next Season: Roll Call, June 5, 2025

Seattle Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald didn’t hesitate to put an end to speculation. Standing before reporters at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center, Macdonald fielded a barrage of questions about his quarterback situation, many of which centered around the possibility that rookie Jalen Milroe could find himself in serious contention to start in 2025. Macdonald, measured yet emphatic, clarified that Sam Darnold was the starter and would remain the starter unless something wildly unexpected occurred. To suggest otherwise, he said, was “crazy.” Those words echoed through sports media and Seahawks fan circles, where Milroe had quickly become a subject of fascination. The speculation didn’t come out of nowhere. Jalen Milroe, the electric quarterback from the University of Alabama, had become one of the most talked-about prospects of the 2025 NFL Draft. Selected by the Seahawks in the third round, Milroe came with a highlight reel packed with jaw-dropping runs, off-platform throws, and dazzling playmaking that had made him one of college football’s most polarizing yet intriguing figures. At Alabama, he had finished his final season with 2,844 passing yards, 726 rushing yards, and 35 total touchdowns. His game-breaking ability against defenses like Georgia, LSU, and Tennessee made NFL scouts drool, and his charisma and leadership qualities made him a favorite in the locker room. But being dynamic in college does not guarantee immediate success in the NFL, and Macdonald made it clear the team’s plan for Milroe was centered around development, not competition for the starting job.

Sam Darnold, on the other hand, represents the present. A veteran with a winding career trajectory, Darnold arrived in Seattle after a strong campaign with the Minnesota Vikings, where he posted a 14–3 record and re-established himself as a capable starter. The Seahawks had made a significant financial investment in Darnold during the offseason, signing him to a three-year, $105 million deal with $65 million guaranteed. That kind of commitment is not made with the intention of giving a rookie a fair shot at supplanting the starter. Darnold’s arrival was accompanied by the departure of Geno Smith, who had been traded to the Las Vegas Raiders, further solidifying Darnold’s place as the team’s number one option. Despite a bumpy showing during organized team activities, including a pair of interceptions in a single session, Macdonald stood firm behind his quarterback. He noted that mistakes in May and June mean little in the grand scheme and that Darnold’s experience, resilience, and arm talent give the Seahawks the best chance to win in 2025.

Still, fans and analysts alike remain fascinated with what Milroe might bring. Offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak, who is known for his creative schemes and quarterback-friendly play designs, has already begun crafting packages specifically for Milroe. While Macdonald insists the rookie is a quarterback only, and not a gadget player like Taysom Hill, there is clear interest in finding ways to get Milroe onto the field in meaningful situations. Bootlegs, red-zone snaps, short-yardage plays—all are on the table. Kubiak has reportedly spent hours in the film room, not only reviewing Milroe’s Alabama tape but also studying past offenses that have successfully integrated dual-threat quarterbacks without disrupting offensive rhythm. The coaching staff views Milroe’s athleticism as a weapon that can be deployed situationally to stress opposing defenses, all while accelerating his development.

Milroe, for his part, has taken the transition to the NFL with professionalism and humility. Speaking to reporters after rookie minicamp, he said he’s focused on learning the playbook, earning the respect of his teammates, and improving every day. He acknowledged that Darnold is the starter and said he is grateful for the chance to watch a seasoned pro operate. “I’m just trying to be a sponge right now,” Milroe said. “This league moves fast, and I want to be prepared when my number is called—whenever that may be.” Those words did little to quiet speculation, but they did confirm what many around the Seahawks have been saying behind the scenes: Milroe understands his role, and he’s approaching it with the right mindset.

That mindset will be critical, especially in a city like Seattle, where quarterback debates have long animated sports talk radio and online fan forums. The shadow of Russell Wilson still looms over the franchise, and after a few years of quarterback instability, the fanbase is hungry for its next long-term solution. Some believe Darnold can be that answer. Others are already eyeing Milroe as the future. What’s clear is that Macdonald and general manager John Schneider are trying to balance both perspectives. In Milroe, they see immense upside. His arm strength, speed, and improvisational ability make him a rare talent. But they also recognize the steep learning curve that faces most rookie quarterbacks, especially those whose collegiate offenses were tailored to their athletic gifts. The Seahawks have no intention of rushing Milroe into action before he’s ready. Instead, they hope to build a structure around him—coaching, mentorship, incremental experience—that will allow him to thrive when the time is right.

In that regard, the Seahawks’ approach mirrors what other franchises have done with success. The Kansas City Chiefs famously sat Patrick Mahomes behind Alex Smith for nearly an entire season. The Baltimore Ravens brought Lamar Jackson along slowly before he eventually took over. The Green Bay Packers waited three years before turning to Jordan Love. Patience, when it comes to young quarterbacks, has often paid off, particularly when the surrounding infrastructure is solid. Seattle believes it has that infrastructure in place now. With playmakers like DK Metcalf, Tyler Lockett, and Kenneth Walker III; an improving offensive line anchored by Charles Cross; and a defense that appears poised to take a leap under Macdonald’s leadership, the Seahawks think they’re positioned to compete now while grooming the quarterback of tomorrow.

That dual-track strategy also reflects a broader philosophical shift under Macdonald, who took over as head coach following Pete Carroll’s departure. While Carroll often trusted his veterans and leaned on experience, Macdonald has embraced youth and innovation. He’s not afraid to play rookies, and he encourages assistant coaches to think outside the box. His message to the team has been clear: Every role matters, and everyone must be ready when called upon. That ethos is likely part of what drew the Seahawks to Milroe in the first place. His willingness to contribute in small ways, to learn, to compete, and to lead by example aligns perfectly with the culture Macdonald is building. Even in his limited exposure so far, Milroe has earned praise from teammates for his work ethic and enthusiasm. He’s often the first on the practice field and one of the last to leave. Those traits, more than his 4.4-second 40-yard dash or rocket arm, might ultimately be what accelerates his path to NFL success.

Of course, nothing is guaranteed. The NFL is a results-driven league, and things can change quickly. An injury to Darnold, or a string of poor performances, could force the Seahawks to reconsider their quarterback depth chart. Macdonald has said he wants to avoid that scenario and hopes to keep Milroe in a developmental role for the entirety of the 2025 season. But he also acknowledged that the rookie is “a competitor” and “a guy who’s going to be ready if and when his chance comes.” That kind of public support, combined with the private praise being whispered inside team headquarters, suggests that Milroe is being taken seriously, even if he’s not being seriously considered for the starting role just yet.

Meanwhile, the Seahawks continue to evaluate every aspect of their team during offseason workouts. Training camp will bring more clarity, but for now, Macdonald’s plan appears both conservative and forward-thinking. Let Darnold lead, let Milroe learn, and let competition elevate everyone. It’s a model that avoids rash decisions while preparing for multiple contingencies. Whether it ultimately leads to success in 2025 remains to be seen. But what’s undeniable is that Jalen Milroe’s presence has already added a layer of intrigue and excitement to Seattle’s quarterback room. His every throw is dissected. His every rep is analyzed. And his every step is being watched by fans eager to see whether the future might arrive sooner than expected.

For now, though, the Seahawks remain committed to the structure they’ve built. Sam Darnold is the starter, and Jalen Milroe is the project with enormous upside. That may not satisfy those clamoring for instant change, but in the eyes of the coaching staff, it’s the right plan at the right time. As the season draws closer and the Seahawks prepare for what they hope will be a playoff push, that clarity at quarterback might be the foundation they need to take the next step. Macdonald’s conviction, Darnold’s steadiness, and Milroe’s potential represent three pillars of an organization in transition. Whether that transition yields immediate results or future rewards will be one of the most compelling storylines to watch throughout the 2025 NFL season.