History of Sam Darnold in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: November 17, 2025

Sam Darnold is a professional American football quarterback currently playing for the Seattle Seahawks. He gained prominence playing college football for the USC Trojans, where he was recognized as the first freshman to receive the Archie Griffin Award. His professional career in the NFL has included stints with multiple teams, marking him as a notable player in the league.

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Full Timeline

June 5, 1997: Samuel Richard Darnold Born

On June 5, 1997, Samuel Richard Darnold was born. He later became a professional football quarterback.

Others born on this day/year

January 3, 2018: Darnold Declares for NFL Draft

On January 3, 2018, Sam Darnold announced his decision to enter the 2018 NFL draft.

July 30, 2018: Darnold Signs with the Jets

On July 30, 2018, Sam Darnold signed a four-year, $30.25 million fully guaranteed deal with the New York Jets, which included a $20 million signing bonus.

September 10, 2018: Darnold's First Regular Season Game

On September 10, 2018, Sam Darnold played his first regular season game on Monday Night Football against the Detroit Lions, becoming the youngest opening-day starting quarterback since the AFL–NFL merger. Although his first pass was intercepted for a touchdown, he recovered to finish with 198 passing yards and two touchdowns, contributing to the Jets' 48–17 victory.

April 5, 2021: Darnold Traded to Panthers

On April 5, 2021, Sam Darnold was traded to the Carolina Panthers in exchange for a 2021 sixth-round pick and second- and fourth-round picks in 2022.

April 30, 2021: Fifth-Year Option Exercised

On April 30, 2021, the Carolina Panthers exercised the fifth-year option on Sam Darnold's contract, guaranteeing him $18.858 million for the 2022 season.

September 12, 2021: Darnold's First Start for the Panthers

On September 12, 2021, Sam Darnold made his first start for the Carolina Panthers against his former team, the Jets, throwing for 279 passing yards and a touchdown, and adding a rushing touchdown in their 19–14 victory.

November 12, 2021: Darnold Placed on Injured Reserve

On November 12, 2021, Sam Darnold was placed on injured reserve due to a fractured scapula sustained during a game against the Patriots, sidelining him for four to six weeks.

September 1, 2022: Darnold Placed on Injured Reserve

On September 1, 2022, Sam Darnold was placed on injured reserve due to a high ankle sprain.

March 16, 2023: Darnold Signs with 49ers

On March 16, 2023, Sam Darnold signed a one-year contract with the San Francisco 49ers.

August 23, 2023: Darnold Named Backup Quarterback

On August 23, 2023, Sam Darnold was named the backup quarterback for the 49ers.

March 13, 2024: Darnold Signs with Vikings

On March 13, 2024, Sam Darnold signed a one-year, $10 million contract with the Minnesota Vikings and was expected to compete for the starting quarterback position.

March 13, 2025: Darnold signs with Seattle Seahawks

On March 13, 2025, Sam Darnold signed a three-year, $100.5 million contract with the Seattle Seahawks. The structure of the deal allows the Seahawks to release Darnold after one season, having paid him $37.5 million. The second year's salary includes an injury guarantee, and the third year is non-guaranteed.