Sam Darnold Admits He Was ‘Bummed’ by His Super Bowl Performance Despite Seahawks’ Victory

Sam Darnold won a Super Bowl ring, but his performance in the final failed to meet his high standards.

Sam Darnold Admits He Was ‘Bummed’ by His Super Bowl Performance Despite Seahawks’ Victory

Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold (Image via IMAGO/X)

Even though Sam Darnold clinched a Super Bowl victory with the Seattle Seahawks, he doesn’t have many fond memories of the game. From his perspective, he could have played a lot better.

When the Seahawks signed Darnold, a lot of people called it a downgrade from Geno Smith. Despite losing his first game, Darnold bounced back with three straight wins. The Seahawks finished with a 14-3 record.

In the final, Seattle faced off against the surprise package of the year, the New England Patriots. Vegas viewed the NFC team as the overwhelming favorites to win the Super Bowl.

Darnold threw for 202 yards and a touchdown. The Seahawks won 29-13 and became world champions for the second time in their history. However, Darnold didn’t have a clean game against the Patriots. Speaking with the crew of the Bussin’ With the Boys, the 29-year-old admitted that he could have played a lot better.

I didn’t play great in the Super Bowl. I missed way too many throws, and we still won. Our defense balled out. I didn’t turn the ball over, which helped. But to win the Super Bowl that way? I was bummed.

Darnold completed just 50% of his passes. He recalled overthrowing an open Jaxon Smith-Njigba that could have led to a touchdown in the first half. And toward the closing stages, he failed to connect with Rashid Shaheed.

I want to score 40 points. I want to go out there and ball out. Like dang, I didn’t play my best football in the Super Bowl. That sucks!

Darnold put up a career high 4319 yards and threw 35 touchdowns during his only season with the Minnesota Vikings. The Vikings declined the chance to sign him on a long-term deal. Seattle quickly plucked him from free agency. They signed him to a three-year deal.

Darnold paid the Seahawks back by getting a ring. However, his numbers were lower the previous year. He registered 323 completions, 4048 yards, threw 25 touchdowns, and 14 interceptions. Seattle’s offense ranked in the top 10, but the defense, led by DeMarcus Lawrence and Boye Mafe, received a top-five grading. Seattle’s defense covered for his mistakes.

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Jaxon Smith-Njigba sends a message to Sam Darnold

JSN experienced a breakout campaign in 2026. He caught a career high 119 passes for 1739 yards (most in the league), and scored 10 touchdowns.

Sam Darnold Admits He Was 'Bummed' by His Super Bowl Performance Despite Seahawks' Victory
Sam Darnold (Image via IMAGO)

JSN earned Pro Bowl, All-Pro, and the Offensive Player of the Year honors. In year two, JSN wants Darnold to put his faith in him and pass him the ball. Smith-Njigba said via Seahawks official website:

I just wanted to make it as easy as possible for him [Sam Darnold] to look my way and throw the football. I get excited for that. I get happy for my quarterback that, and I am letting him know that your job’s going to be easier when I am on the field, you can count on me…

Where does Sam Darnold rank in Pete Prisco’s Top 100 NFL Players list?

CBS Sports veteran contributor Pete Prisco recently released his 2026 issue of Top 100 NFL Players. JSN is the highest-ranked Seahawk on the list at 13th overall. Defensive back Devon Witherspoon (24) is the second Seahawk on the list, followed by defensive lineman Leonard Williams (59), Darnold (72), tackle Byron Murphy II (81), and safety Nick Emmanwori (93).

Darnold still has two years left on his contract. However, it won’t be surprising if the Seahawks give him another extension.

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