The Seattle Seahawks quarterback, Sam Darnold, shared his enthusiasm as he prepared for the upcoming match against the Minnesota Vikings. Darnold, known for his initial statements in press conferences, expressed his excitement for Sunday’s game at Lumen Field. Darnold, when asked about his time in Minnesota, where he played last season, expressed gratitude for the relationships built and the experience lived. “I am very grateful for the time I spent there, for all the people with whom I built relationships, for everyone in that locker room, all the coaches and the people in that building,” Darnold stated. After his time with the New York Jets, Carolina Panthers, and San Francisco 49ers, Darnold’s career experienced a significant boost in Minnesota. Under the direction of coach Kevin O’Connell, he threw 35 touchdown passes, leading the Vikings to a 14-3 record and generating MVP expectations, which led to his selection for the Pro Bowl.
Despite his outstanding season, the Vikings opted for J.J. McCarthy and did not retain Darnold. The Seahawks, after negotiating with Geno Smith, signed Darnold to a three-year, $100.5 million contract. Darnold clarified that his decision to join the Seahawks was based on internal conversations and his happiness with the decision made. Regarding performance, McCarthy, currently in concussion protocol, will not play on Sunday. Rookie Max Brosmer will make his starting debut for the Vikings. Darnold, for his part, is in sixth place in Total QBR (69.5), despite some difficulties with turnovers. He excels in passing efficiency, ranking fifth in completion percentage (69.5%) and first in yards per attempt (9.3), leading an offense focused on the running game. He has suffered only 11 sacks in 11 games, a notable improvement over the previous season. Darnold was asked on Friday if he felt his last two games were overvalued in the evaluation of his 2024 season.I think I improved in many facets of my life, not only on the field, but also off it. I continued learning football from great coaches and being around very good players.
Sam Darnold
Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores described Darnold as “one of my favorites”, highlighting their friendship from last season.We went down that road and, in the end, I am here. What people want to say, is what it is. I am very grateful to be here and to be in this situation.
Sam Darnold
Minnesota’s blitz rate, at 44.5%, is the highest in the NFL. Darnold acknowledged the challenge posed by Flores’ defense and the Vikings’ scheme, highlighting the quality of the players and the work of coach Kevin O’Connell.I’m happy for him, but we’ll attack him this week. That’s for sure.
Brian Flores
