Sam Darnold (b. 1997) is an American football player who has staged a remarkable comeback in the NFL. After being chosen as the third overall pick in the 2018 draft, he was expected to be a franchise player for the New York Jets. Instead, he became a journeyman, playing for five different teams in eight years. After a strong season with the Minnesota Vikings in 2024, he was signed by the Seattle Seahawks to a three-year $100.5 million contract. In the 2025 season he helped Seattle win the franchise’s second Super Bowl.
Darnold played football at the University of Southern California, where he became known for his arm strength and mobility. In the 2018 NFL draft he was selected by the New York Jets with the third pick. It was hoped that Darnold would revitalize the team, which had not made the playoffs since the 2010 season. However, he and the Jets struggled over the next three seasons.
After New York went 2–14 in 2020, Darnold was traded to the Carolina Panthers. He began the 2021 season as the starter but was hampered by a shoulder injury, and his role diminished the following year. After becoming a free agent, Darnold signed with the San Francisco 49ers in 2023, serving as a backup to Brock Purdy. The next season Darnold joined the Minnesota Vikings and was named the starting QB after rookie J.J. McCarthy suffered a season-ending injury during the preseason. Darnold had a breakout season in 2024, throwing for 4,319 yards and 35 touchdowns as the team went 14–3. The Vikings qualified for the playoffs but lost in the wild card round.
In 2025 Darnold signed with the Seahawks. He exceeded expectations, guiding the team to a 14–3 record and a 29–13 victory over the New England Patriots in Super Bowl LX.