After leading the Seattle Seahawks to Super Bowl LX, star quarterback Sam Darnold could've had a lot to say to his naysayers from earlier in his career, but he took the high road instead.

The Vikings have to be wondering what could have been.

Former NFL cornerback Aqib Talib has rejected the idea that Sam Darnold belongs among the league’s top 10 quarterbacks, despite reaching the Super Bowl. Aqib Talib addressed Sam Darnold’s standing among NFL quarterbacks while debating whether a Super Bowl appearance should significantly alter perceptions of his career.

Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold completes a 14-yard pass to wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba against the Los Angeles Rams during the NFC Championship Game of the 2025 NFL season.

Minnesota let Darnold walk in favor of J.J. McCarthy but the alternative would not have yielded much better results.

In an era of accelerated verdicts and diminished patience, Darnold's success is the latest proof that QBs must be developed, not anointed.

Plus, more on Drake Maye’s winning run, the Patriots’ secret weapon on offense and the remaining coaching searches.

Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba brings in a short pass from quarterback Sam Darnold for a gain of 16 yards against the Los Angeles Rams during the NFC Championship Game of the 2025 NFL season.