Sam Darnold and the Vikings Shock the NFL with Stunning Season
MINNEAPOLIS, MN – Quarterback Sam Darnold and the Minnesota Vikings turned heads this season, finishing with a stellar 14-3 record and securing their spot as one of the biggest surprises in the NFL.
In his first year with the Vikings, the 27-year-old Darnold delivered the best season of his career, firmly establishing himself as a top-tier quarterback. He posted career-high numbers across the board: 4,319 passing yards, 35 touchdowns, and a 66.2% completion rate. These achievements not only highlighted his growth but also earned him the prestigious Pro Football Writers of America (PFWA) Most Improved Player of the Year Award.
Darnold’s journey to success has been anything but straightforward. Drafted by the New York Jets as the No. 3 overall pick in 2018, he struggled to find consistency during his three seasons in New York. After two years with the Carolina Panthers and a brief stint with the San Francisco 49ers in 2023, Darnold’s career appeared to be at a crossroads. But with the Vikings, he achieved a remarkable resurgence.
Darnold also made history, becoming the first quarterback since 1950 to win 14 games in his debut season with a new organization, according to PFWA. His explosive playmaking abilities stood out in the 2024 season as he led the NFL in completions of 20-plus yards (62) and completions of 25-plus yards (41).
After reviving his career with a phenomenal season, Darnold now enters the offseason as one of the most intriguing free agents in the league. His performance has certainly raised his value and left fans and analysts eager to see what’s next.
Darnold’s remarkable turnaround is a testament to perseverance and the right fit, and his future in the NFL is now brighter than ever.
