Sam Darnold, quarterback for the Vikings, is a finalist for Comeback Player of the Year.

In the world of the NFL, the “Comeback Player of the Year” award is given to the player who has overcome significant adversity—whether from injury, personal challenges, or a dip in performance—and has returned to form with a remarkable season. This year, Sam Darnold, the Minnesota Vikings’ quarterback, has proven himself as a strong contender for the prestigious award after a journey filled with both setbacks and breakthroughs.

Darnold’s story is one of perseverance, redemption, and finding his place in the league after facing years of inconsistency and skepticism. Once seen as a promising prospect, Darnold’s career path took unexpected turns as he navigated the pressures of being a high-profile draft pick and the struggles that came with it. However, his ability to overcome these challenges, find success with the Vikings, and become a finalist for Comeback Player of the Year speaks volumes about his resilience and determination.

Early Promise and Struggles in New York

Sam Darnold was drafted by the New York Jets with the third overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft. Coming out of USC, Darnold was touted as the franchise quarterback that would lead the Jets into a new era of success. His college career was filled with potential, and many believed he had the tools to succeed in the NFL. However, as the years wore on, Darnold’s time with the Jets was marked by frustration.

From a lackluster offensive line to inconsistency at the skill positions, Darnold was placed in a difficult situation in New York. Under different coaching staffs, his development was stunted, and the Jets were unable to build a competitive team around him. The inconsistency in his play—from turnovers to missed throws—led many to question if he was the answer at quarterback.

In 2021, after three seasons with the Jets, Darnold was traded to the Carolina Panthers in search of a fresh start. While many hoped that a change of scenery would help Darnold find his rhythm, his time with the Panthers was similarly marred by inconsistency and injuries. Although he showed flashes of the talent that made him a top draft pick, he was never able to put together a full season of elite play. Carolina eventually turned to other quarterbacks, and it seemed as though Darnold’s future in the league was uncertain.

A New Beginning with the Minnesota Vikings

After a rocky start to his career, Darnold was signed by the Minnesota Vikings in the 2023 offseason. By this point, Darnold had become somewhat of a reclamation project—many saw him as a player who had underperformed and needed a fresh start to prove he still had what it took to succeed at the highest level.

The Vikings, led by head coach Kevin O’Connell, were coming off a successful season in which they made the playoffs, and the team had a talented roster with weapons such as Justin Jefferson, Dalvin Cook, and Adam Thielen. However, Minnesota was looking for stability at quarterback. With Kirk Cousins being the starter, the Vikings also sought a capable backup quarterback who could step up in case of injury or poor performance.

Darnold, who had been a starter for much of his career, was brought in as a backup to Cousins. However, as fate would have it, Cousins suffered a season-ending injury midway through the year, thrusting Darnold into the starting role.

Rising to the Occasion: Darnold’s Resurgence

Darnold’s initial performance as a starter for the Vikings was anything but smooth. Stepping in for a long-time starter like Cousins was a monumental challenge, and Darnold had to quickly adjust to a new system, new teammates, and a high-pressure situation. The expectations were immense, but Darnold’s ability to rise to the occasion became one of the standout storylines of the season.

In the face of adversity, Darnold showcased his skills and began to play with confidence. The offensive system designed by O’Connell, who had helped guide the Los Angeles Rams’ offense to a Super Bowl victory just a season earlier, was built around a strong passing game. With talented wide receivers like Jefferson, K.J. Osborn, and T.J. Hockenson, Darnold had the weapons needed to succeed. The Vikings’ offense flourished as Darnold built chemistry with his teammates and gained confidence in his abilities.

Despite the change of scenery and the challenges of stepping into a starting role midseason, Darnold managed to keep the Vikings in playoff contention. He displayed his trademark arm strength and mobility, and his decision-making improved significantly. Most notably, Darnold was able to limit turnovers, a key issue in his earlier years. His performances in clutch situations, where he kept the Vikings competitive in several games, earned him praise and recognition across the league.

One of the most memorable moments of Darnold’s season came in a late-season showdown against the Green Bay Packers. The game was critical for both teams’ playoff hopes, and Darnold’s performance was nothing short of heroic. He led the Vikings to a comeback victory, throwing for over 300 yards and two touchdowns, including a game-winning drive late in the fourth quarter. His ability to execute under pressure solidified his place as the Vikings’ most trusted quarterback for the remainder of the season.

The Case for Comeback Player of the Year

As the season progressed, it became clear that Darnold was not only helping the Vikings stay competitive but also earning his spot as a legitimate contender for the Comeback Player of the Year award. Darnold’s story of overcoming adversity—from being a top draft pick who struggled in his first few years to becoming a capable starter for a playoff-contending team—was one that resonated with fans and media alike.

In terms of stats, Darnold finished the season with over 3,500 passing yards, 25 touchdowns, and a 95.1 passer rating. His improved decision-making and ability to avoid turnovers were crucial to the Vikings’ success. Additionally, his chemistry with Jefferson, who had a career-best season, was a testament to Darnold’s growth as a quarterback. Darnold had not only rediscovered his form but had also proven that he could lead a talented offense with poise and efficiency.

What made Darnold’s case for Comeback Player of the Year even stronger was his mental fortitude. After enduring the criticisms and setbacks of his early career, Darnold found a way to reclaim his confidence and success. His resilience and determination to prove himself were key factors in his transformation from a perceived bust to a legitimate starting quarterback in the NFL.

Furthermore, Darnold’s ability to navigate the challenges of stepping in for a high-profile player like Kirk Cousins and performing at a high level showcased his maturity as a leader. He took on the responsibility of leading a team that had playoff aspirations, and he did so without missing a beat. For a player who had once been written off by many, Darnold’s redemption story was one of the most heartwarming narratives of the 2023 season.

The Vikings’ Future with Darnold

Looking forward, the Vikings are in a unique position. With Darnold’s strong play in 2023, they now have a proven quarterback who could serve as their long-term solution at the position. While Cousins remains the starter, Darnold has shown that he can handle the starting job if necessary. The Vikings’ ability to move forward with either quarterback gives them flexibility in the offseason and beyond.

If Darnold wins the Comeback Player of the Year award, it will be a crowning achievement in his career. However, more importantly, it will solidify his place as a leader on the Vikings roster and in the NFL. His story of perseverance and growth serves as a reminder of the value of resilience in professional sports.

A Story of Redemption and Resilience

Sam Darnold’s journey from being a high draft pick with high expectations to a backup quarterback facing doubts and criticism, to now being a finalist for Comeback Player of the Year, is a testament to his perseverance and determination. His performances for the Minnesota Vikings have shown that, even in the face of adversity, a player can rise above and prove his worth.

The 2023 season marked a significant chapter in Darnold’s career, and his story is one that will inspire athletes and fans alike for years to come. As he continues to grow and develop, it’s clear that Darnold’s best days may be ahead of him. Whether or not he wins the Comeback Player of the Year award, his remarkable journey has already proven that redemption is always possible for those who are willing to fight for it.