NFL Quarterbacks Seek Redemption: The Next Sam Darnold?

From Daniel Jones to Kyler Murray, several QBs aim to revive their careers like the Super Bowl winner Darnold did.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 7:36am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the dynamic movement and energy of an NFL quarterback, with sharp, overlapping planes of color representing the multifaceted challenges and opportunities these players face in reviving their careers.Cubist interpretation of the reinvention and resilience of NFL quarterbacks seeking a second chance at stardom.Indianapolis Today

The NFL is a league of second chances, and the story of Sam Darnold's resurgence is a testament to that. Several quarterbacks, including Daniel Jones, Kyler Murray, Mac Jones, Tua Tagovailoa, and Malik Willis, are looking to follow a similar path to redemption and rewrite their legacies, just as Darnold did in his journey from a first-round bust to a Super Bowl champion.

Why it matters

This trend of NFL teams investing in reclamation projects raises questions about the impact of coaching, culture, and environment on player performance. Darnold's story serves as a blueprint, showing that with the right opportunities, even quarterbacks who have struggled can turn their careers around and become stars.

The details

Darnold's path to redemption was not linear, as he endured setbacks with the Jets, Panthers, 49ers, and finally found success with the Vikings under coach Kevin O'Connell. This raises the question of how many other quarterbacks are just one opportunity away from rewriting their legacies. Daniel Jones, Kyler Murray, Mac Jones, Tua Tagovailoa, and Malik Willis are all looking to follow a similar path, with varying degrees of success and challenges.

  • In 2025, Daniel Jones had a promising season with the Colts until an injury derailed it.
  • Kyler Murray signed a one-year deal with the Vikings in 2026, looking to prove he's more than just a highlight reel.
  • Mac Jones served as Brock Purdy's backup in San Francisco in 2025, showing he's capable of stepping up when needed.
  • Tua Tagovailoa's 2023 season with the Falcons proved he can be elite when healthy, but his injury history remains a concern.
  • Malik Willis joined the Dolphins in 2026, facing long odds but offering a glimmer of hope with his dual-threat ability.

The players

Sam Darnold

A quarterback who went from a first-round bust to a Super Bowl-winning quarterback, serving as a blueprint for other struggling quarterbacks looking to revive their careers.

Daniel Jones

A quarterback who found himself in a similar position to Darnold's early struggles after a humbling exit from the Giants, now with the Colts looking to make a Darnold-like leap.

Kyler Murray

A quarterback with raw ability who signed a one-year deal with the Vikings, needing to prove he can channel Darnold's grit and focus to dominate.

Mac Jones

The backup quarterback in San Francisco, who has shown he's capable of stepping up and could be the next beneficiary of Kyle Shanahan's quarterback-friendly system.

Tua Tagovailoa

A quarterback whose career has been a rollercoaster, but his 2023 season with the Falcons proved he can be elite when healthy, though his injury history remains a concern.

Malik Willis

A longshot quarterback with the Dolphins, whose dual-threat ability and experience in Green Bay offer a glimmer of hope, though his true breakout year may be 2027.

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What’s next

As the 2026 NFL season approaches, fans and analysts will closely monitor the progress of these quarterbacks as they aim to follow in Darnold's footsteps and reinvent their careers.

The takeaway

The NFL's willingness to invest in reclamation projects highlights the importance of coaching, culture, and environment in player development. These quarterbacks' journeys serve as a reminder that in the league, redemption is always within reach for those willing to put in the work and seize the right opportunities.