Getting the ball out in a timely manner is a critical trait for every quarterback. Seattle Seahawks starter Sam Darnold has struggled in that department since his return from injury in Week 3. Darnold needs to start getting the ball out faster in Week 6 versus the Denver Broncos.
Since Darnold returned in Week 3, his average time before throw is 3.25 seconds, according to Brady Henderson. That is the longest among 31 qualifying QBs, per ESPN Research. Darnold's average last season was a much-better 2.86 seconds.
Since Sam Darnold returned in Week 3, his average time before throw of 3.25 seconds is the longest among 31 qualifying QBs, per ESPN Research. His average last season: 2.86 seconds/21st. Darnold reiterated today that he wants to get the ball
out faster and be more decisive.
— Brady Henderson (@BradyHenderson) October 13, 2026
Darnold has been indecisive. Call it rustiness after a two-week stint on the sidelines. Whatever it is, Darnold is uncharacteristically holding onto the football for a lifetime when considering how effective NFL pass-rushes are.
Darnold's average time-to-throw versus the San Francisco 49ers in Week 5 was 3.12 seconds. That was fourth-slowest, per Next Gen Stats. Only Deshaun Watson (3.24), Brock Purdy (3.40), and Malik Willis (3.74) took longer.
The Seahawks will play versus the Denver Broncos on Thursday Night Football in Week 6. This Broncos defense has led the NFL in sacks in back-to-back seasons. Darnold doesn't need to be reminded about how he needs to improve his average release time. He'll get himself in trouble otherwise.
This article originally appeared on Seahawks Wire: QB Sam Darnold needs to get the ball out faster for Seahawks
