Super Bowl Hero Darnold Hit With Massive California Tax Bill

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Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold's Super Bowl LX victory over the New England Patriots has resulted in a massive tax bill from California that exceeds his championship earnings. Under the state's 'jock tax', Darnold is expected to owe around $249,000 to California despite only receiving $178,000 in winnings from the NFL for the championship game.

Why it matters

This case highlights the aggressive tax policies in California that can turn a career-defining achievement into a financial penalty for professional athletes. Critics argue the state's tax regime has become overly confiscatory and disconnected from common sense, transforming a celebratory moment into what feels like a government shakedown.

The details

Darnold, who recently signed a lucrative 3-year, $105 million contract with the Seahawks, is subject to California's 'jock tax' which demands a portion of an athlete's income based on the number of days they work within the state's borders. For the 8 days the Seahawks spent in California leading up to the Super Bowl, Darnold's tax bill is estimated to be around $249,000 - significantly more than the $178,000 he earned for winning the championship game.

• Darnold and the Seahawks arrived in Northern California on February 1.
• Super Bowl LX was played on February 9, 2026.

What’s next

The NFL Players Association may demand that future Super Bowls be held in states with more favorable tax policies, such as Florida, Texas, Louisiana, or Nevada.