Sam Darnold Embraces Growth Amid NFL Playoff Critique

WHO:

Seahawks.com - Sam Darnold, quarterback for the Seattle Seahawks

Seahawks.com - Mike Macdonald, Seahawks coach

Heavy NFL - Brad Gagnon, writer for Bleacher Report

WHAT:

Heavy NFL - The Seattle Seahawks are ranked No. 9 in Bleacher Report's ranking of every NFL team's path to the playoffs.

Heavy NFL - Sam Darnold has been working with Rashid Shaheed, who was acquired during the previous championship season, and their connection has improved significantly over the past nine months.

Seahawks.com - Sam Darnold has been selected to two Pro-Bowls over the last two seasons.

Seahawks.com - Darnold has a regular season record of 28-6 over the last two seasons.

Seahawks.com - Darnold led the Seahawks to a Super Bowl victory last season, playing turnover-free football in three postseason games.

Seahawks.com - Darnold had a performance in the NFC championship game with three touchdowns and 346 yards against Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford.

Heavy NFL - The Seattle Seahawks had a 14-win season and won the Super Bowl.

WHERE:

Seahawks.com - Virginia Mason Athletic Center, location of Seahawks training camp.

WHEN:

Seahawks.com - The Seahawks participated in their first padded practice of training camp on July 30.

WHY:

Seahawks.com - Darnold believes he can always improve as a quarterback, citing the complexities of the position and the need for muscle memory during games.

Seahawks.com - Darnold emphasized the importance of stability and continuity with the Seahawks, as they return 10 of 11 starters from their Super Bowl win.

HOW:

Seahawks.com - Coach Mike Macdonald noted that Darnold is being decisive with the ball, taking care of it, and making great decisions during training camp.

Seahawks.com - Darnold is focusing on improving his footwork and accuracy, particularly when making throws from left to right.

Seahawks.com - Darnold is treating every practice rep with the same seriousness as game situations, according to coach Mike Macdonald.

The Seattle Seahawks have secured the No. 9 spot in Bleacher Report's ranking of every NFL team's path to the playoffs. Quarterback Sam Darnold has been honing his skills with Rashid Shaheed, who joined the team during the last championship season, and their connection has noticeably strengthened over the past nine months. Coach Mike Macdonald praised Darnold for being decisive with the ball, emphasizing his ability to take care of it and make smart decisions during training camp.