When the Minnesota Vikings signed Sam Darnold last offseason, few could have predicted the transformation he would undergo. After years of inconsistency and flashes of potential, Darnold has found his groove in Minnesota, delivering a career-best season that has him in the thick of MVP conversations.
This year, Darnold has set personal highs with 3,776 passing yards and 32 touchdown passes, leading the Vikings to an impressive 13 wins. That feat puts him in elite company, as only Pro Football Hall of Famer Peyton Manning (2012 with Denver) and Steve McNair (2006 with Baltimore) have also recorded at least 13 wins in their first season with a new team since 1970.
Climbing the Record Books
Darnold’s numbers don’t just make him a standout this season—they place him among the NFL’s all-time greats for quarterbacks joining a new team. With just two more touchdown passes against Green Bay this Sunday, he’ll surpass Brett Favre (33 touchdown passes with Minnesota in 2009) and Vinny Testaverde (33 in 1996 with Baltimore) for the fourth-most touchdown passes in a debut season with a team. Only Matthew Stafford (41 in 2021), Tom Brady (40 in 2020), and Peyton Manning (37 in 2012) have thrown more.
A Model of Consistency
Darnold has been remarkably efficient this year, recording 11 games with at least two touchdown passes and a passer rating of 100 or higher. With one more such game, he’ll join an exclusive club that includes Aaron Rodgers (14 games in 2020 and 13 in 2011), Patrick Mahomes (13 in 2018), and Matt Ryan (12 in 2016). What’s more, every quarterback to achieve this milestone also went on to win Associated Press MVP honors, a testament to Darnold’s MVP-caliber season.
The Secret to Success
A big part of Darnold’s resurgence has been the Vikings’ offensive system, tailored to his strengths. With a strong running game, elite pass protection, and weapons like Justin Jefferson and T.J. Hockenson, Darnold has been able to play with confidence, showcasing the arm talent and decision-making that made him a top pick in the 2018 draft.
What’s Next?
As the Vikings prepare for a critical divisional showdown against the Packers, all eyes will be on Darnold to see if he can continue his historic season. With a chance to climb further up the record books and solidify his MVP candidacy, this Sunday could mark yet another defining moment in his career. Whether you’re a Vikings fan or just love a great redemption story, Sam Darnold’s 2024 season has been nothing short of extraordinary.
Headline Image – Sam Darnold IG
