Seahawks stick with Sam Darnold, but Mike Macdonald faces a bigger offensive problem

Seahawks need more than quarterback stability

Keeping Darnold in the lineup is understandable. Lock helped Seattle win while Darnold was sidelined early in the season, completing 35 of 48 passes for 422 yards and four touchdowns across his appearances. However, that limited sample does not necessarily make him a better long-term option, and changing quarterbacks would not automatically resolve the offense's underlying problems.

Seattle is also adjusting to a new offensive coordinator. Brian Fleury replaced Klint Kubiak, who left to become the Las Vegas Raiders' head coach. The transition has coincided with Darnold's reduced efficiency, although the available evidence does not establish that the coaching change alone is responsible for his struggles.

Macdonald acknowledged that the offense needs a broader evaluation, including how plays are designed and what the coaching staff asks individual players to do. That review should focus on helping Darnold regain his effectiveness while reducing the risks that have repeatedly undermined Seattle.

The timing is important. The Seahawks have a mini-bye before facing the undefeated Kansas City Chiefs in Week 7, giving the coaching staff additional time to reassess its approach.

Macdonald's public backing removes immediate uncertainty over the starting job, but it also raises expectations for a response. Darnold must demonstrate that the turnovers can be controlled, while Seattle's offensive staff needs to create situations in which he can play more efficiently.

The Seahawks do not necessarily need a new quarterback. They need their current one to stop giving opponents opportunities to decide close games.