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Brady Henderson
RENTON, Wash. — The Seattle Seahawks’ field general, Sam Darnold, has a penchant for commencing his weekly media briefings with an introductory remark, frequently incorporating some indication of his eagerness for the forthcoming contest.
Hence, Darnold communicated in his typical manner when he approached the podium this past Friday to deliberate the Seahawks’ impending game this Sunday, set against the Minnesota Vikings at Lumen Field, by stating, “My anticipation is high for this particular game.”
Darnold did not appear overtly sentimental whilst responding to queries concerning facing his previous squad, albeit he conveyed appreciation for having spent the preceding season in Minnesota.
“I hold the time I spent there in high regard, along with the connections I formed, the individuals in that locker room, the coaching staff, and everyone within that facility,” Darnold remarked when asked about the significance of his year with the Vikings. “However, my enthusiasm lies here, in continuing our endeavors for the current year.”
Selected as the second overall pick in the 2018 draft, Darnold amassed a record of 21 victories and 35 defeats as a starting quarterback during his initial six seasons, representing the New York Jets, Carolina Panthers, and San Francisco 49ers. His trajectory experienced a surge after committing to a one-year agreement in Minnesota. Under the tutelage of head coach Kevin O’Connell, Darnold launched 35 aerial strikes for touchdowns, steered the Vikings to a 14-3 season record, and garnered some acclaim for the Most Valuable Player award, ultimately earning a Pro Bowl distinction.
“I believe my development spanned numerous facets of my existence, not only on the field but also in my personal life,” he elucidated. “The continued acquisition of football knowledge from exceptional coaches and the association with remarkable players contributed significantly.”
Despite Darnold’s impressive resurgence, it was insufficient to solidify a long-term position in Minnesota. The Vikings, instead, elected to proceed with J.J. McCarthy, following the tenth overall selection of the previous year, who remained sidelined during his inaugural season due to a knee impairment. Consequently, they opted against retaining Darnold for an additional season through the utilization of the franchise designation.
Following a stalemate in contract extension discussions, the Seahawks orchestrated a trade involving Geno Smith to the Las Vegas Raiders, subsequently pivoting towards Darnold, whom they secured with a three-year contract valued at $100.5 million.
Darnold faced an inquiry regarding the potential viability of a return to Minnesota.
“For me, it was a matter of understanding the discussions taking place … behind closed doors with the relevant parties and my representation,” he responded. “Ultimately, I arrived at the decision to join this organization, and I harbor immense satisfaction with that choice. I’m eager to persist in the manner we’ve been operating here, fostering relationships within the locker room and with the coaching staff.”
McCarthy currently occupies the 33rd position in Total QBR (24.2) for the ongoing season and will be absent from Sunday’s game, remaining subject to concussion protocol. Undrafted rookie Max Brosmer is poised to make his inaugural professional debut for the Vikings (4-7).
Meanwhile, Darnold holds the sixth position in Total QBR (69.5), notwithstanding certain difficulties related to turnovers, encompassing 10 interceptions and four fumbles relinquished. Nonetheless, he showcases the fifth-highest completion percentage (69.5%) and leads in yards per attempt (9.3) while orchestrating the NFL’s foremost run-oriented offensive scheme. He has only been subjected to 11 sacks across 11 contests, denoting a discernible divergence from the preceding season.
During his tenure with the Vikings, Darnold endured 48 sacks throughout 17 regular-season encounters, followed by an additional nine sacks in their wild-card playoff defeat. His performance also faltered in a Week 18 loss, completing merely 18 of 41 pass attempts for a total of 166 yards.
When questioned on Friday, Darnold addressed the potential overemphasis placed on his final two games in the evaluation of his 2024 season.
“We have already traversed that avenue, and at this juncture, I am here,” he asserted. “Regardless of external commentary, the present reality is what it is. My gratitude extends to being here and occupying this situation.”
Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores referred to Darnold as “one of my favorites” earlier in the week, citing the development of a friendship during the preceding season.
“I hold him in high regard, but we intend to execute blitz plays against him this week,” Flores affirmed. “That is a certainty.”
Minnesota’s blitz rate of 44.5% substantially surpasses all other teams in the NFL. Over the Vikings’ most recent three games, they have employed an additional pass rusher on over 59% of opponents’ passing plays.
“The challenge presented by facing Flo, his defensive strategies, and the array of issues he can generate for an offense is significant,” Darnold acknowledged. “His scheme is undeniably exceptional … complemented by truly outstanding players and the entire team. I recognize KO’s influence in the team’s current trajectory. We approach this opportunity with enthusiasm and eagerness.”
