Kevin O'Connell sent strong message on Sam Darnold after Seahawks free agent signing originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Seattle Seahawks made one of the more controversial quarterback switches of the offseason, trading Geno Smith to the Las Vegas Raiders and signing Sam Darnold to replace him.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementSeattle could only make this switch thanks to the Minnesota Vikings letting Darnold walk despite a strong 2024 season. It's worked out great for Seattle, as they're 8-3 with a chance to secure the NFC West title with a strong finish.
Back in the offseason, according to Jay Glazer of NFL on Fox, when this change was made, Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell sent a message to Seahawks GM John Schneider on Darnold, and it was a very complimentary message.
Vikings' Kevin O'Connell had strong message on Sam Darnold after Seahawks signing
"And one other note here, once they got Sam (Darnold's contract) done, John Schnieder talked to Kevin O'Connell, Kevin O'Connell - zero sour grapes - told John Schnider, 'one of the best leaders you'll ever be around in your life.' Schnider was really happy to hear that."
O'Connell was incredibly complimentary of Darnold when talking with Schneider. O'Connell has no reason to mince words, and his support for Darnold is clearly evident in this comment.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementThe Vikings haven't found success with JJ McCarthy, while Darnold has thrived in Seattle. O'Connell has been very supportive of Darnold, and his comment right after the signing showed how much he believes in Darnold.
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Darnold has been great for the Seahawks, as he has 2,785 passing yards and 19 touchdowns on the year, also aiding Jaxon Smith-Njigba in what's shaping up to be one of the all-time seasons by a wide receiver.
The 28-year-old journeyman quarterback has found a home in Seattle, and the moment O'Connell found out about the move, he was very complimentary of Darnold when speaking with the Seahawks GM.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementThe Vikings let Darnold walk, and Seattle has benefited greatly from it. Darnold has been incredible in Seattle, and looks poised for a big offseason contract thanks to his incredible 2025 season thus far.
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