50 Facts About Sam Darnold

Early Life and Family Background

Sam Darnold's journey to the NFL began in Dana Point, California. His family's athletic background played a significant role in shaping his career.

1. Born on June 5, 1997, in Dana Point, California, to Mike and Chris Darnold.
2. Father Mike was an offensive lineman at the University of Redlands.
3. Mother Chris played volleyball at Long Beach City College.
4. Grandfather Dick Hammer was a notable athlete, playing basketball at USC and participating in the 1964 U.S. Olympic men’s volleyball team.
5. Sister Franki played college volleyball at the University of Rhode Island.
6. Three cousins—Allie, Michele, and A.J.—participated in collegiate volleyball.

High School Career

Darnold's high school years at San Clemente High School were marked by his versatility in sports and his eventual focus on football.

7. Attended San Clemente High School in San Clemente, California.
8. Played multiple sports including football, basketball, and baseball.
9. Earned the title of South Coast League Most Valuable Player twice in basketball.
10. Named to the all-CIF team in basketball.
11. Initially played wide receiver and linebacker before becoming the school's quarterback.
12. Broke the school record for most touchdown passes in a game with five touchdowns on two occasions.
13. Led San Clemente High School to the CIF-Southern Section Southwest Division championship game during his senior year.
14. Ended his senior season with 3,000 passing yards and 39 touchdowns, along with 800 rushing yards and 13 rushing touchdowns.

College Football at USC

Darnold's college career at USC was a stepping stone to the NFL, where he showcased his talent and leadership.

15. Played college football for the USC Trojans under head coach Clay Helton.
16. Led the Trojans to several victories and was known for his ability to perform under pressure.
17. Rated as a four-star recruit by Rivals.com due to his exceptional high school performance.

NFL Draft and Jets Career

Darnold's entry into the NFL was marked by his selection in the 2018 draft and his subsequent career with the New York Jets.

18. Selected third overall in the 2018 NFL draft by the New York Jets.
19. Became the youngest quarterback to start an NFL game since the AFL-NFL merger at just 21 years old.
20. Started all 38 games he played during his three seasons with the Jets (2018-2020).
21. Threw for 8,097 yards and 45 touchdowns with the Jets.
22. Added 417 rushing yards and five rushing touchdowns to his statistics.
23. Holds the highest completion percentage by a rookie quarterback in a single season (57.7%) for the Jets.
24. Holds the highest rookie quarterback rating (77.6) for the Jets.
25. Named AFC Offensive Player of the Week in Week 6 of the 2019 season.
26. Achieved a passer rating higher than 110 at 21 years and 97 days old, setting an NFL record.

Trade to Panthers and 49ers Stint

Darnold's career took a turn with his trade to the Carolina Panthers and a brief stint with the San Francisco 49ers.

27. Traded to the Carolina Panthers in 2021 due to inconsistent play and injuries.
28. Spent two seasons with the Panthers before joining the San Francisco 49ers as a backup quarterback.
29. Served as a backup quarterback during his one season with the 49ers.

Current Status with the Minnesota Vikings

In 2024, Darnold signed with the Minnesota Vikings, where he continues to make an impact as a starting quarterback.

30. Signed with the Minnesota Vikings in 2024.
31. Currently plays as a starting quarterback for the Vikings.

Athletic Skills and Training

Darnold's diverse athletic background and rigorous training regimen have been crucial to his development as a quarterback.

32. Played multiple sports during his high school years, including basketball and baseball.
33. Basketball skills praised by coaches for their ability to translate into football.
34. Could have played college basketball in either the Pac-12 Conference or the Mountain West Conference.
35. Close friends with fellow quarterbacks Josh Allen and Kyle Allen.
36. Trains with Josh Allen and Kyle Allen during the offseason.
37. Focuses on mental preparation and practices mindfulness techniques to stay focused under pressure.

Family Influence and Support

Darnold's family played a significant role in his development, encouraging him to play multiple sports and maintain a balanced life.

38. Parents encouraged him to play multiple sports and not specialize too early.
39. Parents prioritized his happiness and personal growth over his athletic achievements.
40. Mother is a physical education teacher at Shorecliffs Middle School.
41. Parents' parenting style is often cited as an example of how to raise athletic children without overemphasizing sports.
42. Grew up in a vibrant athletic environment in Orange County, California.
43. Did not receive private coaching from expensive tutors; learned through experience.

Community Involvement and Personal Philosophy

Darnold remains committed to his community and holds a personal philosophy that emphasizes enjoying the journey of athletic development.

44. Engages in charitable activities and supports local causes.
45. Maintains close relationships with his coaches from high school and college.
46. Enjoys spending time with family and friends when not playing football.
47. Believes in the importance of enjoying the journey rather than just focusing on the end goal.
48. Involved in various charitable activities, including supporting local youth sports programs.
49. Inspired by several athletic role models growing up, including his grandfather Dick Hammer.
50. Holds several NFL records, including being the youngest quarterback to achieve a passer rating higher than 110 and holding the highest completion percentage by a rookie quarterback in a single season.

Sam Darnold: A Journey of Talent and Resilience

Sam Darnold's path from a multi-sport athlete in high school to a professional quarterback in the NFL is nothing short of inspiring. His diverse athletic background, combined with a supportive family, laid the foundation for his success. Despite facing challenges like injuries and inconsistent play, Darnold has shown remarkable resilience. His time with the New York Jets, Carolina Panthers, San Francisco 49ers, and now the Minnesota Vikings highlights his adaptability and determination. Off the field, Darnold's commitment to community involvement and personal growth sets him apart. His story underscores the importance of balance, humility, and enjoying the journey. Whether breaking records or engaging in charitable activities, Darnold continues to make a significant impact both on and off the field. His journey serves as a testament to hard work, dedication, and the power of a well-rounded upbringing.