Seahawks QB Sam Darnold Leads Team to Super Bowl Victory

Darnold overcomes early career struggles to win first Super Bowl championship

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Sam Darnold, the No. 3 overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, has had a remarkable journey to winning his first Super Bowl championship as the starting quarterback for the Seattle Seahawks. After struggling on bad New York Jets teams early in his career, Darnold found success with the Minnesota Vikings before leading the Seahawks to victory in Super Bowl LX.

Why it matters

Darnold's Super Bowl win is a testament to his perseverance and ability to overcome early career challenges. His story provides inspiration for young athletes who may face setbacks but can still achieve their dreams with hard work and determination.

The details

Darnold, 28, was the No. 3 overall pick by the New York Jets in the 2018 NFL Draft. He struggled mightily during his first three seasons with the Jets, compiling a 13-25 record as the team's starting quarterback. Darnold was then traded to the Carolina Panthers in 2021, where he had a brief reprieve before joining the Minnesota Vikings in 2023. It was with the Vikings that Darnold blossomed into a Pro Bowl quarterback, setting the stage for his Super Bowl run with the Seahawks.

  • Darnold was drafted by the New York Jets in 2018.
  • Darnold was traded to the Carolina Panthers in 2021.
  • Darnold joined the Minnesota Vikings in 2023.
  • Darnold led the Seattle Seahawks to victory in Super Bowl LX in 2026.

The players

Sam Darnold

The 28-year-old quarterback who overcame early career struggles to win his first Super Bowl championship with the Seattle Seahawks.

New York Jets

The NFL team that drafted Darnold in 2018, where he struggled during his first three seasons as the starting quarterback.

Minnesota Vikings

The NFL team that Darnold joined in 2023, where he blossomed into a Pro Bowl quarterback before leading the Seattle Seahawks to a Super Bowl victory.

Seattle Seahawks

The NFL team that Darnold led to victory in Super Bowl LX in 2026.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Not only do we have the best defense in the world, we've got the best team in the world.”

— Sam Darnold

The takeaway

Darnold's journey from struggling with the Jets to winning a Super Bowl with the Seahawks is an inspiring story of perseverance and the power of never giving up on one's dreams. His success shows that even when faced with early career setbacks, hard work and determination can lead to ultimate triumph.