Sun Dec 28 14:20:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing the text:
Seahawks’ Darnold Eyes $1 Million in Week 17 Incentives Despite Underpaid Status
CHARLOTTE, NC – While Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold might be considered a bargain for the team given his offseason performance, he has a chance to significantly boost his earnings in Week 17 against the Carolina Panthers. Despite a guaranteed salary of $5.5 million and a cap hit of $13.4 million, Darnold has the potential to unlock up to $1 million in performance-based incentives.
Two of those incentives are within striking distance during this week’s game against the Panthers. Darnold needs to throw for four touchdowns and 297 passing yards to hit thresholds earning him $500,000 each. While the yardage total might be a challenge, Darnold has thrown for four touchdowns twice this year already.
“He’s in a good position to earn some extra cash,” said one NFL analyst. “Those incentives are definitely attainable, especially against a team like the Panthers.”
Darnold is also close to triggering two other $500,000 incentives tied to his season-long performance. He currently boasts a 100.6 passer rating, needing to maintain at least a 100 rating to secure that bonus. Similarly, he needs to improve his completion percentage slightly from 67.2% to 67.5% or better. These incentives, however, will not be finalized until after the Week 18 game.
There’s an outside chance Darnold could be sidelined for the final game. The Seahawks would need to beat the Panthers, and the 49ers/Bears would have to tie and the Rams would have to lose to the Falcons. But the most likely scenario is that Seattle needs to win out against the Panthers and the 49ers in Week 18.
While Darnold’s financial situation is a storyline, the Seahawks’ playoff hopes hang in the balance. A strong performance from Darnold in Week 17 will be crucial for the team to secure a crucial win and continue their push for the top seed in the NFC.
First Piper 