Sam Darnold surpasses expectations, but comparisons to Trent Dilfer raise eyebrows
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 27, 2026, 6:38 PM
Last updated Aug 27, 2026
Sam Darnold has emerged as a Super Bowl champion quarterback, surprising many after a lackluster start to his NFL career. After leading the Minnesota Vikings to a 14-3 record in 2024 and winning the championship, pundits are debating his comparison to Trent Dilfer. While both benefited from strong defenses, their playing styles and statistics diverge significantly, with Darnold achieving higher yardage and completion rates. As the NFL season approaches, discussions around quarterbacks like Darnold and their legacies intensify.
- •Darnold threw for 4,319 yards and 35 touchdowns in the 2024 season.
- •His career completion percentage stands at 62.5%.
- •Debate centers on comparing Darnold and Dilfer despite their differences.
- •Darnold's rise contrasts with earlier expectations of being a potential bust.
- •Media discussions highlight the changing of quarterback evaluations.
- 6:38 PMYahoo Sports — Please do not compare Sam Darnold to Trent Dilfer
"The Super Bowl-winning quarterbacks have something in common. But there are some stark differences.
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