The Emerald City just got another reason to celebrate our reigning Super Bowl champion quarterback, Sam Darnold! He cracked the NFL’s top 100 players list, landing squarely at No. 21, a massive nod from his peers after what many thought would be a step back.
From Journeyman to MVP Candidate, Then Lombardi Champ
Remember 2024? Darnold had his “resurrection season” with the Minnesota Vikings, playing like a legit MVP candidate. Honestly, when he left that “perfect situation” in Minnesota to join our Hawks, a lot of folks, even us die-hards, probably wondered if we’d get the same guy. There was uncertainty on offense. But Darnold didn’t just maintain his play, he absolutely built on it. He killed all those old narratives about his clutch play, showing everyone he’s for real.
An All-Time Campaign and a Second Lombardi
Jeremy Bergman nailed it, saying Darnold’s appearance in the top 25 is “the unlikeliest.” But who cares about unlikely when you’re hoisting the Lombardi? Our QB had an “all-time campaign” in 2025. He led Seattle to the No. 1 seed, played the most efficient football of his life, and even threw Jaxon Smith-Njigba into Offensive Player of the Year territory! Sure, the guy “still has issues with turnovers,” but when the turnaround is this profound, and you’re bringing home the franchise’s second Super Bowl trophy, you forgive a fumble or two, right?
Darnold’s still one of the more underappreciated quarterbacks in the league, even with a ring on his finger. But that No. 21 ranking, coming from his fellow players, tells you everything. His peers aren’t his doubters anymore. They see the work, they see the wins, and they see a Super Bowl champion. Get ready, 12s, because if this is how his peers respect him *now*, just imagine what’s coming next. We’re here for the ride!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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