The Seahawks are attempting to improve from last year's 10-7 season that resulted in them missing the postseason. They were good, not good enough. GM John Schneider and Macdonald responded accordingly this offseason, having made sweeping changes to the offense that include a new starting quarterback and offensive coordinator.

Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald was taken aback from a question surrounded by Sam Darnold's starting status. After trading Geno Smith to the Las Vegas Raiders, Seattle saw what Darnold did in his resurgence with Minnesota and acquired him with the thought of being their starter.