QB Sam Darnold Wins Super Bowl Championship in San Francisco

Darnold's journey to the top included a stint reviving his career with the 49ers

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Sam Darnold, the quarterback for the Seattle Seahawks, won the Super Bowl championship in the same stadium where he recently revived his NFL career as a backup for the San Francisco 49ers. Darnold, who has played for five teams in eight seasons, completed 19 of 38 passes for 202 yards and a touchdown to lead the Seahawks to a 29-13 victory over the New England Patriots.

Why it matters

Darnold's Super Bowl victory is a remarkable turnaround for a quarterback who was once considered a bust after a disappointing start to his career with the New York Jets. His time with the 49ers, where he learned from their coaching staff and backup QB Brock Purdy, proved crucial in reviving his career and putting him in position to win a championship.

The details

Darnold, 28, started one game and appeared in 10 for the 49ers in 2023, throwing 46 total passes with 28 completions and 2 touchdowns. He credited the guidance he received from 49ers quarterbacks coach Brian Griese as key to his development. After a breakout season with the Minnesota Vikings in 2024, Darnold signed with the Seahawks and led them to the Super Bowl title in his first year as their starting QB.

  • Darnold started one game and appeared in 10 for the 49ers in 2023.
  • Darnold had a breakout season with the Minnesota Vikings in 2024.
  • Darnold signed with the Seattle Seahawks and led them to the Super Bowl championship in 2026.

The players

Sam Darnold

The 28-year-old quarterback who won the Super Bowl championship with the Seattle Seahawks after reviving his career as a backup for the San Francisco 49ers in 2023.

Brock Purdy

The 49ers' backup quarterback in 2023, from whom Darnold learned while serving as the team's second-string QB.

Brian Griese

The 49ers' quarterbacks coach in 2023, who provided crucial guidance to Darnold during his time with the team.

Klint Kubiak

The Seahawks' offensive coordinator in 2026, who previously served as the 49ers' passing game coordinator in 2023.

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What’s next

Darnold's Super Bowl victory is likely to cement his status as one of the NFL's top quarterbacks and could lead to further opportunities, such as endorsement deals or a potential coaching career after he retires from playing.

The takeaway

Sam Darnold's journey from a struggling young quarterback with the Jets to a Super Bowl champion with the Seahawks is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of finding the right environment to thrive. His time with the 49ers proved pivotal in reviving his career, and his success shows that even the most promising players can overcome early setbacks to reach the pinnacle of their sport.