In 2018, when Sam Darnold was selected in the draft, he expressed aspirations of reaching the Super Bowl. Fast forward to today, and he has achieved that goal, albeit in a manner different from his initial expectations. Originally drafted by the Jets as the third overall pick, he envisioned ending the team’s championship drought. However, after three disappointing seasons, he was traded. Currently serving as Brock Purdy’s backup with the 49ers, Darnold finds himself gearing up for Super Bowl 2024.
“Obviously, I wish things would have gone different. … I wish we would have won more, obviously,” Darnold said Monday about his time with the Jets.
Reflecting on his time with the Jets, Darnold expressed a mixture of sentiment. While acknowledging the challenges and disappointments, he still cherishes the experiences and relationships forged during his tenure with the team. Despite the prevailing memories of losses, he fondly recalls the camaraderie and growth he experienced.
“Obviously, it was an experience that I’ll never ever take for granted,” Darnold said. “To be able to go through the ups, go through the downs with that organization and with those coaches, with those guys, you tend to remember most of the good moments that you have. Obviously, a lot of people can bring up some of the bad ones sometimes.
I always envisioned going deep in the playoffs with New York and being able to make a run at the Super Bowl,” Darnold said. “Obviously, that’s what you dream of as a kid. Right when I got drafted by the Jets, and still to this day it’s my goal to be able to bring a championship somewhere. At the same time, you kind of understand what it takes, even in the backup role like I am right now you understand what it takes to actually make it here and actually get it done and not just dream of it and envision it. It’s a lot of hard work, a lot of sacrifice.”
Although his stint with the Jets didn’t unfold as he had hoped, Darnold remains driven by the ambition to contribute to a championship-winning team. His dreams of playoff success and Super Bowl glory persist, even as he adjusts to a backup role with the 49ers. Recognizing the dedication and perseverance required, he embraces the opportunity to support his team’s pursuit of victory, whether it means mimicking opposing quarterbacks in practice or stepping onto the field if called upon.
“As a competitor, you always want to play football,” Darnold said. “Obviously, there are different ways to be able to help the team. During the week, I play scout team and try to get the defense ready for Pat Mahomes and everything that Chiefs offense does. That part is fun for me.”
Approaching free agency, Darnold maintains his desire to reclaim a starting role. However, for now, he prioritizes his role in aiding the 49ers’ championship aspirations. Whether as a starter or backup, his commitment to his team’s success remains unwavering.
“Obviously, we want Brock to stay healthy and stay on the field,” Darnold said, “but if my time does come, I’m very confident in myself to be able to go out there and do my job.”
