Seahawks consider adding a third quarterback as Sam Darnold recovers from injury

Seattle’s quarterback room will be reduced to two healthy players after Sam Darnold was placed on the short-term injured list with a glute strain. Team officials are evaluating whether to bring in an additional quarterback for depth rather than a starter. Options discussed include undrafted rookie Jake Retzlaff, veteran journeyman Josh Johnson, former Washington Huskies starter Jake Browning and backup Brandon Allen, all of whom are currently free agents or on practice squads. Retzlaff, a dual-threat player from Tulane, participated in the Seahawks’ 2026 rookie minicamp but was not signed. Johnson, a 19-year NFL veteran who most recently was on the Cincinnati Bengals practice squad, could provide experience as a third-string option. Browning, who saw limited action with the Bengals in 2023, is a free agent with prior Pacific Northwest ties. Allen, who has previously worked with offensive coordinator Brian Fleury, was released by the New York Giants during final cuts. The Seahawks would likely sign any of these players to the active roster only if Darnold’s absence extends beyond the initial 4-6 week estimate.

"Adding Johnson would be like adding another coach to the quarterback room," a source familiar with the situation said.

The team’s immediate priority remains the recovery timeline for Darnold, with any new signing intended solely to bolster the backup pool.