The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/seattle-seahawks" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Seattle Seahawks</a> want Sam Darnold to feel comfortable leading the offense, which is why the team has made a last-minute roster move to add another weapon for the quarterback ahead of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Super Bowl</a> LX.



On Sunday, the NFL will crown its new champion. The Seahawks are set to face the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New England Patriots</a>, and the NFC West team understands that adding depth to the roster could be crucial in such a high-stakes matchup.



For that reason, Seattle has added a new running back—one who already knows what it’s like to lift the Vince Lombardi Trophy. On Saturday, the Seahawks elevated Cam Akers to the active roster for the Super Bowl showdown against New England.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/02/07172957/Cam-Akers-RB3-for-the-Seattle-Seahawks-1920x1080.webp" alt="Cam Akers, RB3 for the Seattle Seahawks" class="wp-image-575500"></figure><figcaption>Cam Akers, RB3 for the Seattle Seahawks</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Once an elite running back, Cam Akers is now a third-string option</h2>



Cam Akers won Super Bowl LVI with the Los Angeles Rams, where he was once regarded as a top-tier running back. However, he was never able to consistently maintain the elite level he displayed early in his career.



After failing to secure long-term continuity in Los Angeles, Akers went on to play for both the Houston Texans and the Minnesota Vikings. Now, he enters Super Bowl LX listed as the Seahawks’ third-string running back in their pursuit of another championship.


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Kenneth Walker III remains the team’s starting running back, with George Holani next on the depth chart. However, the season-ending injury recently suffered by Zach Charbonnet prompted Seattle to elevate Akers to an RB3 role from the practice squad for the final game of the 2025 NFL season.



<h2>Cam Akers is not the only “new” player the Seahawks will have</h2>



Along with Akers’ promotion to the active roster, the Seahawks also announced that Velus Jones Jr. has been elevated from the practice squad for Sunday’s matchup against New England.



While Walker III is expected to handle the majority of the snaps, Seattle wants to be prepared for any unexpected scenario involving its RB1. With a Super Bowl title on the line, the Seahawks are leaving nothing to chance in the most important game of the season.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="6987bc8770a943df4bc92ac0" data-title="Who will win Super Bowl LX?" data-options="2"></div>

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Seahawks make last-minute roster move by adding new weapon for Sam Darnold ahead of Super Bowl LX - Bolavip US

miniaturas

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/seattle-seahawks">Seattle Seahawks</a> and the New England Patriots are ready to face off in Super Bowl LX, which will be held at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California. One of the most important sporting events of 2026.



The Seahawks are 4.5‑point favorites but injuries could be a key factor. Running back Zach Charbonnet is officially out and the big question mark is <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/sam-darnold">Sam Darnold</a>, who has been battling an oblique injury for several weeks.



Meanwhile, the Patriots experienced days full of uncertainty after Drake Maye suddenly appeared on the injury report. Although it didn’t seem serious, all the attention was on the young quarterback.



<h2>Seahawks injury report for 2026 Super Bowl</h2>



Sam Darnold (oblique), Nick Emmanwori (ankle), and Charles Cross (foot) were full participants in the Seahawks’ final practice before the Super Bowl. A massive update for head coach Mike Macdonald. The big question mark is Josh Jones, who was a limited participant (ankle/knee).


 

 


<h2>Patriots injury report for 2026 Super Bowl</h2>



Robert Spillane (ankle), Harold Landry III (knee), and Joshua Farmer (hamstring) are all questionable for the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> against the Seahawks. Drake Maye (right shoulder) was a full participant with the Patriots and will be ready to go.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/tom-brady-issues-strong-warning-to-sam-darnold-and-seahawks-before-super-bowl-against-patriots"></div>

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Seahawks vs Patriots: Final injury report for 2026 Super Bowl LX - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/seattle-seahawks" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Seattle Seahawks</a> are the favorites to win Super Bowl LX against the New England Patriots. One of the reasons is because of a Sam Darnold key weapon that could exploit. However, his future postgame is up in the air and he has opened about it.



Running back <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kenneth-walker-iii" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kenneth Walker III</a> has been an absolute revelation and is a key component on the Seahawks offense. However, earlier in his career he couldn’t stay healthy. This is his first season where he actually got to play the whole season. 



Walker III is poised to be a free agent in 2026. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mike-macdonald" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mike Macdonald</a>, the Seahawks head coach, said “Of course, we want Ken back. He’s a phenomenal player. He’s a great person… Those are the people we want with the Seahawks.” Walker has now replied, “I’ve been here four years, so you know I’ve gotten to know a lot of stuff about Seattle, and you know a lot of the city, and I feel like they feel good about me as well,” he said. “So if it was my choice, though, I’d definitely stay.”



<h2>Walker is a versatile back</h2>



Walker describes himself as an “explosive and versatile” player and he is absolutely on point. The RB can easily go through a wall with sheer force but his jukes and ability to break ankles in open space is borderline unstoppable. He also generated 739 yards after contact, which is a career-high.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Let’s have a conversation about Kenneth Walker III <a href="https://t.co/BNt8Sly6yo">pic.twitter.com/BNt8Sly6yo</a>— ᴅᴏxx ⚡️ (@new_era72) <a href="https://twitter.com/new_era72/status/2016248281110630569?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2026</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



Since his fellow RB Zach Charbonnet fell injured, Walker has been the workhorse of this offense. During the postseason run, Walker has 38 attempts for 178 yards and four rushing touchdowns. He also helps <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/sam-darnold" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sam Darnold</a> a lot with play-action and checkdown plays.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/are-the-seahawks-being-sold-after-super-bowl-lx-vs-patriots"></div>


<h2>Walker could actually be the Super Bowl LX MVP</h2>



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/not-drake-maye-seahawks-star-favored-to-win-super-bowl-lx-mvp-over-patriots-qb" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sam Darnold is the favorite over Drake Maye to win the Super Bowl MVP</a>, but the fact is Walker has a case to be considered. After all, Sam Darnold will face a Patriots defense that has allowed, 3, 16, and 7 points during the postseason. Also, wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba will be matching up with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Patriots</a> star cornerback Christian Gonzalez. That means Walker might be the key to unlock the offensive potential for the Seahawks.



Walker is priced as the fourth-most likely player to win the Super Bowl MVP:



<ul><li>Sam Darnold – QB (+150)</li><li>Drake Maye – QB (+230)</li><li>Jaxon Smith-Njigba – WR (+550)</li><li>Kenneth Walker III – RB (+850)</li></ul>

Sam Darnold’s key weapon opens up about his future with the Seahawks ahead of Super Bowl LX vs Patriots

Sam Darnold's key weapon opens up about his future with the Seahawks ahead of Super Bowl LX vs Patriots - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/seattle-seahawks" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Seattle Seahawks</a> will play the New England Patriots in the Super Bowl LX for all the marbles. Also, it can be seen as a redemption game for quarterback Sam Darnold, who went from backup to franchise quarterback. Still, he doesn’t see it that way, or at least that’s what he said to the media.



The third overall pick in 2018, Darnold’s hype when he got drafted was big. After failing to solidify in the New York Jets, he became a backup quarterback for the Panthers and Niners. After a redemption season with the Vikings, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/sam-darnold" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Darnold</a> signed for the Seahawks and his first season was so stellar, the team is at the verge of a Super Bowl title.



For Darnold, though, it’s not his story, it’s his job. “It’s always just been about putting in hard work, every single day. Hard work and all the dedication and hours I put in in the offseason, during the season, it leads to this moment. That’s the mindset I have, and really the mindset I’ve had my entire career,” Darnold said to the media.



<h2>Having top-tier weapons helped Darnold quite a lot</h2>



Make no mistake about it, Darnold failed to play great in his first few years. However, it’s no coincidence that his two best years came when he was finally given two certified wide receivers to work with. He didn’t have that in New York, nor in Carolina. He barely played in one year in San Francisco and then it all changed.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/14124345/jaxon-smith-njigba-1920x1080.webp" alt="Jaxon Smith-Njigba #11 of the Seattle Seahawks" class="wp-image-545254"></figure><figcaption>Jaxon Smith-Njigba #11 of the Seattle Seahawks</figcaption></figure>



At Minnesota, Darnold found an incredible ally in Justin Jefferson. Now in Seattle, Darnold found Jaxson Smith-Njigba. Now, to be fair to Darnold, everyone saw how Justin Jefferson struggled with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/jj-mccarthy" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JJ McCarthy</a> this season. Also, JSN had the best year of his career with Darnold under center. It’s symbiotic. 


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<h2>Seattle is favored over the Patriots in the Super Bowl</h2>



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/not-drake-maye-seahawks-star-favored-to-win-super-bowl-lx-mvp-over-patriots-qb" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Drake Maye is not the Super Bowl MVP favorite</a>, and the Patriots aren’t favored either. In fact, Seattle comes as a five-point favorite to win Super Bowl LX. Darnold might not be the biggest reason for it, but he is key in the Seahawks’ success. 



However, Darnold had some turnover issues this season, ending as the third-most intercepted quarterback in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a> regular season. If he manages to avoid turnovers in this game, he could very well earn the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Super Bowl</a> MVP and give Seattle another ring.

Sam Darnold opens up about career path going into Super Bowl LX game between Seahawks vs Patriots

Sam Darnold opens up about career path going into Super Bowl LX game between Seahawks vs Patriots - Bolavip US

Sam Darnold confirmed that his oblique injury will not be a problem heading into the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> and that he will be ready to play next Sunday when the Seattle Seahawks face the New England Patriots in Santa Clara.



“It feels really good. Definitely the time off has helped a little bit. I’m always just going to take it one step at a time. Do my rehab and do everything I need to do to make sure it feels great going into practice and going into the game on Sunday. It feels great.”



Before the Divisional Round game against the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/san-francisco-49ers">San Francisco 49ers</a>, Darnold surprisingly popped up on the injury report. However, it has not affected him at all, as he has been a key factor the playoffs, especially in the NFC Championship Game by defeating the Rams.



<h2>Sam Darnold’s injury report for Super Bowl LX</h2>



Sam Darnold appeared as a limited participant on the latest injury report from the Seattle Seahawks heading into the Super Bowl. However, for the past three weeks that has been his status for the games against the 49ers and Rams respectively.


 

 


<h2>Will Sam Darnold play in Super Bowl LX?</h2>



Yes. Sam Darnold is expected to play in Super Bowl LX for the Seattle Seahawks against the New England Patriots. The two weeks of rest will be a key factor for the quarterback, so he is not expected to have any problem being on the field.


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Sam Darnold confirms if QB injury is really serious before 2026 Super Bowl LX between Seahawks and Patriots - Bolavip US

On both sides, the days are being crossed off the calendar as a new edition of the Super Bowl approaches. The Seattle Seahawks will be looking for revenge against the New England Patriots for what happened in 2015, and in order to come out on top at Levi’s Stadium, it is crucial that <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/sam-darnold">Sam Darnold</a> has all his key players available.



Alarms went off in the last few hours at the facility where Mike Macdonald’s team is currently training, as one of its defensive stars got injured and its status for Sunday remains uncertain.



Nick Emmanwori was listed as limited on Wednesday after suffering an injury to one of his ankles, according to pool reporter Kalyn Kahler of ESPN. While the safety was seen leaving the field on his own, the severity of the injury is still unknown.



“He had an ankle injury today,” head coach <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mike-macdonald">Macdonald</a> told Kahler. “We brought him in to look at it, and we’ll kind of go from here and figure out what are the next steps.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/02/05090754/nick-emmanwori-1920x1080.webp" alt="Nick Emmanwori" class="wp-image-573910"></figure><figcaption>Nick Emmanwori #3 of the Seattle Seahawks.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>The impact of Emmanwori on the Seahawks’ defense</h2>



Nick Emmanwori has emerged as a cornerstone of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/seattle-seahawks">Seahawks</a>‘ secondary, proving to be a second-round steal and a top finalist for Defensive Rookie of the Year. His consistency throughout the season was anchored by 56 solo tackles, 1 interception, and an impressive 11 passes defended. 


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However, it was the NFC Championship Game where he truly elevated his game, recording three crucial pass breakups to stifle the opposition and punch Seattle’s ticket to the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a>.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/02/05091739/nick-emmanwori-1-1920x1080.webp" alt="Nick Emmanwori" class="wp-image-573913"></figure><figcaption>Nick Emmanwori #3 of the Seattle Seahawks.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Darnold’s current situation</h2>



Since January 15, Sam Darnold has not participated in full practices with his teammates as he continues to recover from a left oblique injury. Macdonald, in remarks to the press, sought to reassure everyone on the matter.



“Sam’s right on schedule,” the HC told Kahler. “So we’ve had this plan here over the last X amount of weeks, and it varies every day. And today he had a great day, so we’re right on schedule.”

Sam Darnold could lose key Seahawks teammate to injury ahead of upcoming Super Bowl LX

Sam Darnold could lose key Seahawks teammate to injury ahead of upcoming Super Bowl LX - Bolavip US

The countdown to Super Bowl LX officially entered its final week, with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots">New England Patriots</a> set to face the Seattle Seahawks in a matchup few predicted. The game represented a compelling contrast at quarterback, with Drake Maye’s youth lining up against the veteran experience of Sam Darnold on the sport’s biggest stage.



Maye, the third overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, acknowledged the resilience behind Darnold’s rise with the Seahawks. Darnold, also selected third overall in the 2018 draft, led Seattle to the Super Bowl in his first season with the franchise after navigating a long and winding <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> journey.



SportsCenter shared a clip of Maye’s comments on X, formerly known as Twitter, highlighting how the Seahawks quarterback turned years of doubt into Super Bowl validation. “What a career he’s had. … He’s made them pay ever since [other teams moved on],” Maye said.



The 23-year-old quarterback expanded on that praise while discussing the broader significance of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/sam-darnold">Darnold</a>’s path through the league. “What makes the league so special is stories like Sam, who puts his head down, works hard, and turned into one of the best quarterbacks in the league,” Maye added.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" data-id="571009" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/01/31094805/sam-darnold-4-1920x1080.webp" alt="Sam Darnold #14 of the Seattle Seahawks" class="wp-image-571009"></figure><figcaption>Sam Darnold #14 of the Seattle Seahawks</figcaption></figure>
</figure>



<h2>The key to Darnold’s longevity, according to Maye</h2>



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/drake-maye">Maye</a> pointed to perseverance as the defining factor behind Darnold’s resurgence. “He’s battled not playing for years, being the backup, getting his chance, and making the most of it,” Maye explained, emphasizing the mental toughness required to stay prepared amid uncertainty.


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The Super Bowl carried added historical weight for the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/seattle-seahawks">Seahawks</a> quarterback. Now starting for his fifth NFL franchise, Darnold challenged long-held narratives about early-career struggles and the difficulty of earning second chances in the league.



On the opposite sideline stood a rising star in Maye, setting the stage for a Super Bowl defined by patience, persistence, and belief, qualities that ultimately carried both quarterbacks to football’s biggest moment.

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The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/seattle-seahawks" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Seattle Seahawks</a> will play against the New England Patriots in Super Bowl LX and they have the Super Bowl MVP odds-on favorite. That might come as a shock as the AFC team has a legit contender for that same regular season award in quarterback Drake Maye.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/sam-darnold-turns-heads-with-major-admission-about-his-time-with-jets-panthers-before-arriving-in-seattle" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sam Darnold turned heads with a major admission about his Jets and Panthers career</a>. However, he is also turning heads with his current play, which made <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/sam-darnold" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Darnold</a> the Super Bowl MVP favorite over Drake Maye. 



As of right now, Sam Darnold is +120 to win the award. This means if someone bets $100 and the Seahawks QB does win the Super Bowl MVP, that person would win $120 in return. As for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/drake-maye" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Maye</a>, he is next in the odds, at a +235 line.



<h2>The line does make sense</h2>



Darnold is the starting QB of the favored team to win the Super Bowl. Hence, it’s reasonable to see him as the favorite to win the award. The quarterback for the winning team has been awarded the MVP in 34 out of the last 59 Super Bowls. Hence, if the favored team wins, and in this case, that’s the Seahawks, so Darnold should clearly be the one favored here.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Sam Darnold didn’t even look back at his touchdown pass 😭 <a href="https://t.co/dobZRSdOYc">pic.twitter.com/dobZRSdOYc</a>— ᴅᴏxx ⚡️ (@new_era72) <a href="https://twitter.com/new_era72/status/2014453002069856298?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2026</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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Darnold has been playing lights out during the postseason. He has turned his career around and now, he’s on the verge of winning a Super Bowl. The Seahawks quarterback, however, is still dealing with an oblique injury that has bothered him during the whole playoff run. 


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<h2>Drake Maye hasn’t played his best yet</h2>



It also helps the fact that Maye hasn’t made the best playoff run ever. In fact, one could argue that his three worst games of the season came in the playoffs. Hence, that helps the bookmakers not only set the Seahawks as favorite over the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Patriots</a>, but Sam Darnold over Drake Maye too. Other odds for Super Bowl MVP are:



<ul><li>Jaxson Smith-Njigba – Seahawks (+550)</li><li>Kenneth Walker III – Seahawks (+550)</li><li>Rhamondre Stevenson – Patriots (+2800)</li></ul>

Not Drake Maye: Seahawks star favored to win Super Bowl LX MVP over Patriots QB - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/sam-darnold">Sam Darnold</a> had an extraordinary regular season with the Seattle Seahawks, throwing for 4,048 yards and 25 touchdowns. However, many experts doubted that the quarterback could carry that success into the playoffs after the disappointing finish he had with the Minnesota Vikings in 2024.



However, Darnold has silenced his critics. After a steady, mistake-free performance in the win over the 49ers in the Divisional Round, Sam showed all his potential and talent in the NFC Championship Game. He threw for 346 yards and three touchdowns to eliminate the Rams.



Now, the Patriots are the only obstacle to winning the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> and finally putting an end to the debate over whether he is an elite quarterback or not. The Seahawks enter as heavy favorites, but much will depend on the health of their star.



<h2>Sam Darnold’s status for Super Bowl</h2>



The Seattle Seahawks have confirmed that Sam Darnold is still dealing with an oblique injury, which is why he was a limited participant at the start of practices ahead of the Super Bowl. Before traveling to the Bay Area, the quarterback is not yet fully recovered.


 

 


<h2>Sam Darnold expected to play in the Super Bowl</h2>



Despite the oblique issue, Sam Darnold is expected to play in the Super Bowl. The quarterback has carried that designation on the injury report since the Divisional Round against the 49ers and has shown that it has not affected his performance. Even so, it is a key detail to monitor, as with any awkward movement, the injury could worsen.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/sam-darnold-explains-injury-alarm-ahead-of-seahawks-vs-49ers-in-2026-playoffs"></div>

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Sam Darnold injury update: Seahawks confirm QB status for Super Bowl against Patriots - Bolavip US

It’s undeniable that <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/sam-darnold">Sam Darnold</a> may be experiencing one of the best stretches of his career. However, it hasn’t all been smooth sailing for the Seahawks quarterback. His early days in the NFL, wearing the colors of the New York Jets and Carolina Panthers, undoubtedly served as valuable experience, helping the two-time Pro Bowler reach the brink of his first <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a>.



In a recent interview on the Dan Patrick Show, Darnold reflected on his time not only with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/carolina-panthers">Carolina</a> but also in the Big Apple, the team that took a chance on him and gave him his first steps in the NFL after the draft.



“I think just being able to handle it at this point of my career too, I feel like, even mentally, I handle it a little differently internally than I used to. Because I realize it is part of the journey, it is part of who I am,” Darnold said. 



“… I invested a little more thought into what happened in the past—I threw this pick against this coverage back in 2019, I’m not going to do that again, no, sometimes mistakes happen. You learn from it, and you don’t want to make the same mistakes again, but sometimes throughout your career, especially if its a long career, those things are going to happen.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/02/01100312/sam-darnold-3-1920x1080.webp" alt="Sam Darnold QB" class="wp-image-571520"></figure><figcaption>Sam Darnold.</figcaption></figure>



“But just being able to move on and learn from those experiences, but move on. And the days in New York, the days in Carolina, those were part of my journey, and they’re part of my experience and I loved every single part of it. Yeah there were some lows that (expletive), I’m not gonna lie to ya, and that’s part of it though. I learned so much from that and I’m able to move on.”



<h2>On the brink of glory</h2>


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Sam Darnold enters Super Bowl LX as an MVP contender, a crowning achievement that reflects a remarkable journey of professional maturation. After the early adversity and seeing ghosts during his stints with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-york-jets">Jets</a> and Panthers, Darnold underwent a transformative education, first absorbing the elite standards of the 49ers’ system as a backup and then executing at a high level with the Vikings in 2024. 



Now leading the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/seattle-seahawks">Seahawks</a> to a 14-3 record under Klint Kubiak, Darnold has combined the lessons learned from those diverse environments to post over 4,000 passing yards and 25 touchdowns this season. 



This weekend in Santa Clara, he isn’t just seeking a ring; he is looking to finalize the most impressive redemption arc in modern <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> history by proving that his refined processing and veteran poise have finally matched his undeniable physical talent.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="697f6d2270a943df4bc929dd" data-title="Can Sam Darnold become MVP and win the Super Bowl?" data-options="2"></div>

Sam Darnold turns heads with major admission about his time with Jets, Panthers before arriving in Seattle

Sam Darnold turns heads with major admission about his time with Jets, Panthers before arriving in Seattle - Bolavip US

Following their latest win over the Rams, it’s clear the Seattle Seahawks are locked in on one singular goal: capturing <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl LX</a> on February 8 at Levi’s Stadium. However, the franchise could be facing a significant loss in the short term as it looks ahead to next season.



Klint Kubiak, one of the key members of Mike Macdonald’s coaching staff, reportedly interviewed once again with two teams still searching for a head coach, and his future appears increasingly likely to take him away from Seattle.



According to a report from NBCSports.com, the talented offensive coordinator — one of the primary architects behind the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/seattle-seahawks">Seahawks</a>’ standout season — has emerged as the leading head coaching candidate for both the Arizona Cardinals and the Las Vegas Raiders.



A final decision is expected to come after the Super Bowl, as Kubiak is understandably focused entirely on the game. One of Macdonald’s top lieutenants is widely expected to earn his first opportunity as an <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> head coach.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/02/01082433/klint-kubiak-1920x1080.webp" alt="Klint Kubiak" class="wp-image-571465"></figure><figcaption>Offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak of the Seattle Seahawks.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>The impact of Kubiak on Sam Darnold</h2>



Klint Kubiak’s offensive system has been the definitive catalyst for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/sam-darnold">Sam Darnold</a>’s 2025 career resurgence, transforming him from a perceived bridge quarterback into a legitimate MVP contender and Super Bowl starter for the Seattle Seahawks.


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By implementing a sophisticated West Coast scheme that leads the NFL in play-action efficiency—averaging a league-best 11.7 yards depth of target on such plays—Kubiak has successfully shifted the launch point and used frequent bootlegs to keep Darnold out of heavy traffic. 



This structured environment, supported by a potent run game and a reliable connection with targets like Jaxon Smith-Njigba and Cooper Kupp, has allowed Darnold to maintain a 70% completion rate and significantly improve his decision-making under pressure. 



Ultimately, Kubiak’s ability to play to Sam’s strengths has provided the strategic safety net necessary for Darnold to finally pair his elite physical tools with consistent, high-level NFL processing.

Seahawks could be set to lose a key piece following Super Bowl LX

Seahawks could be set to lose a key piece following Super Bowl LX - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/minnesota-vikings" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Minnesota Vikings</a> may be living through the biggest “what if” moment in franchise history. With Sam Darnold thriving with the Seattle Seahawks, star wide receiver <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/justin-jefferson" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Justin Jefferson</a> has now shared his thoughts on what might have happened had Darnold remained the team’s QB1 instead of turning the offense over to JJ McCarthy.



During the 2025 NFL offseason, the Vikings chose not to offer <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/sam-darnold" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Darnold</a> a new contract. Now, the quarterback is one step away from winning a Super Bowl, while Minnesota failed to even reach the Wild Card round, making the decision look increasingly costly.



Following a disappointing season, Jefferson spoke about his former quarterback. While he expressed happiness over Darnold’s success, the All-Pro receiver admitted he couldn’t help but wonder how different things might have been if the Vikings had kept him under center in 2025.



“Everyone knows the difficulty of the quarterback position this year, how we were dealt it,” Justin Jefferson said. “But having a quarterback that already had a season under his belt with us, knew the plays, knew the playbook, knew the players, throwing to me, Jordan Addison, T.J. Hockenson, all these guys, I definitely feel like we would have done better. But it is what it is, it’s on to newer and better things. But I’m definitely happy and proud of him that he is able to reach it this year.”



<h2>The Vikings face a difficult quarterback dilemma</h2>



After the 2024 NFL season, Minnesota moved on from Darnold and committed fully to <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/jj-mccarthy" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JJ McCarthy</a> as QB1. However, McCarthy missed his rookie season due to a serious knee injury, delaying his development.



Unfortunately, the 2025 campaign did not go as planned either. McCarthy once again dealt with injuries and was sidelined for multiple games. Even when he was available, the Vikings struggled offensively, fueling doubts among fans and analysts about the decision to let Darnold walk.


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As the 2026 season approaches, the Vikings face a crucial crossroads. The organization must decide whether to continue investing in McCarthy or look for another veteran quarterback. Reports indicate the team is exploring options to add an experienced signal-caller—either as insurance behind McCarthy or as legitimate competition for the starting job.



While McCarthy remains a talented prospect, his inability to stay healthy is a growing concern. The 2026 season could represent his final opportunity to prove himself as the franchise quarterback. Time is running out for a team that cannot afford to waste the prime years of elite talents like Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison due to instability at the most important position on the field.

Vikings’ Justin Jefferson throws slight shade at JJ McCarthy as Sam Darnold thrives with Seahawks

JJ McCarthy receives significant warning from Kevin O’Connell regarding QB1 job ahead of 2026 NFL season

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Vikings' Justin Jefferson throws slight shade at JJ McCarthy as Sam Darnold thrives with Seahawks - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New England Patriots</a> await for their Super Bowl LX match against the Seattle Seahawks. Now, for one of Sam Darnold‘s teammates, it’s paying time before getting ready for the big game.



Riq Woolen was fined $17,398 for taunting, a penalty he got against the Rams in the NFC Championship Game. The timing of the penalty didn’t cost the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/seattle-seahawks" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Seahawks</a> the game, but it certainly didn’t help their case.



Woolen started seven games in the regular season with one interception and 12 passes defended. He has been good for the Seahawks but he needs to find peace of mind where the game gets heated.



<h2>The taunting was the start of an awful sequence for Woolen</h2>



It all started with an actual highlight. Woolen made a great coverage but then proceeded to celebrate unnecessarily against the Rams sideline. That warranted the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-rams" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rams</a> a first down and 15 yards. In the very next play, he was absolutely decimated by Rams wideout Puka Nacua for a long touchdown.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">What a sequence for Seahawks ‘veteran’ CB Riq Woolen: 1. Takes a bizarre, unnecessary, costly Taunting penalty 2. Gets COOKED by Puka Nacua for a long touchdown on the next play 3. Gets screamed at – rightfully – by his defensive teammates <a href="https://t.co/xlSJpZwKW5">pic.twitter.com/xlSJpZwKW5</a>— John Frascella (Football) (@NFLFrascella) <a href="https://twitter.com/NFLFrascella/status/2015608447182557288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2026</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



As if that wasn’t enough, he also got screamed at by teammates in the sidelines. Now, the bad streak continues due to the fine. At least it won’t affect his participation in Super Bowl LX against the Patriots, but the coaching staff will surely warn him about making costly mistakes like this one.


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<h2>Woolen and the Seahawks secondary will be key against the Pats</h2>



Seattle had the 10th-best passing defense in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a>. That will be key going against the MVP contender, Drake Maye. Maye hasn’t been able to shine this postseason, but now will have two weeks to study the Seahawks’ defense alongside offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels.



On the other hand, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/sam-darnold" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sam Darnold</a> will have to bring his A-game too, as the Pats had the ninth-best passing defense. The fact is that Darnold at least has one of the most unstoppable wideouts in football.

Sam Darnold’s teammate receives hefty fine ahead of  Super Bowl LX: Seahawks vs Patriots

Sam Darnold's teammate receives hefty fine ahead of Super Bowl LX: Seahawks vs Patriots - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/seattle-seahawks" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Seattle Seahawks</a> have an end goal: beating the New England Patriots in the Super Bowl LX. After that, however, Sam Darnold and company are almost guaranteed to lose a key coach that helped the team reach the Big Sunday game.



According to Adam Schefter of ESPN, Kubiak is leaving the Seahawks after the Super Bowl. “Klint Kubiak is getting the Raiders or the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/arizona-cardinals" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cardinals</a> job. He’s definitely getting one of those jobs,” Schefter said on the Pat McAfee Show.



Kubiak has done a wonderful job as the Seahawks offensive coordinator and he would’ve gotten plenty of more looks for head coaching vacancies if the Seahawks got eliminated earlier. However, many teams try to solve their HC openings sooner rather than later, and now that leaves Kubiak with two options. According to Schefter, he has the leverage in choosing which one he’s going to take.



<h2>Both options present tough tasks for Kubiak</h2>



If Kubiak decides to go for the Cardinals, he will face Mike Macdonald’s Seahawks, Sean McVay’s Rams, and Kyle Shanahan’s 49ers twice a year. Also, the Cardinals would have the worst roster of the division. So that is a tough task immediately.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/01/31095151/klint-kubiak-1-1920x1080.webp" alt="Offensive Coordinator Klint Kubiak of the Seattle Seahawks" class="wp-image-571012"></figure><figcaption>Offensive Coordinator Klint Kubiak of the Seattle Seahawks</figcaption></figure>



As for the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/las-vegas-raiders" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Raiders</a>, you’d have to play against Andy Reid and Patrick Mahomes with the Chiefs, Justin Herbert and the Chargers, and Sean Payton’s Broncos twice a year as well. Once again, Kubiak would have by far the worst roster in the division. Any of the two jobs require for the front offices to be patient with him, as he is dealing with a rebuild in very tough divisions.


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<h2>First, Kubiak must seal the deal with the Seahawks</h2>



Yes, Kubiak will literally seal the deal with either the Raiders or the Cardinals. But first, he must seal the deal figuratively with the Seahawks by helping <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/sam-darnold" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sam Darnold</a> win the Super Bowl against the Patriots on February 8th.



Kubiak guided the Seahawks offense to be the eighth-best in total yards and passing, and the third-best scoring offense. Under Kubiak, the Seahawks ranked sixth in yards per play with 5.9. He is quite the intriguing prospect, given that he is from the Shanahan tree.

Sam Darnold could ‘definitely’ lose Seahawks coach after Super Bowl LX vs Patriots

Sam Darnold could 'definitely' lose Seahawks coach after Super Bowl LX vs Patriots - Bolavip US

Kyle Juszczyk once again posted a 200-plus-yard season, but it wasn’t enough to help the San Francisco 49ers reach the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a>, which will now be played by the Patriots and Seattle Seahawks at Levi’s Stadium. Juszczyk admitted he’s leaning toward New England as his preferred pick to win the championship.



“I’m not a big fan of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/seattle-seahawks">Seattle</a>. I like the Patriots’ chances,” Juszczyk said recently on The Rich Eisen Show. He also made it clear he has no issue with the Seahawks potentially celebrating a Super Bowl win at Levi’s Stadium or anywhere else.



“They can celebrate wherever they want. I know I would celebrate if we won a Super Bowl in their stadium. I’m not salty about that,” Juszczyk said. “I would be very happy for Klint Kubiak, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/sam-darnold">Sam Darnold</a>, Eric Saubert — and that’s about it.”



<h2>Juszczyk evaluates the 49ers’ season</h2>



After finishing the year with two touchdowns and 213 receiving yards, Juszczyk said the 49ers’ season was a success, especially considering the injuries the team endured. San Francisco won more than 10 regular-season games and picked up a key playoff victory against the Eagles.



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Kyle Juszczyk was asked to describe the 49ers season: “It was a successful season. Obviously I’m gonna catch flack. Someone is gonna say ‘how’s it successful you didn’t win the Super Bowl?’. Well 31 teams don’t win the Super Bowl. Are we all unsuccessful? No, I don’t think so. I… <a href="https://t.co/SM4xxQcNWl">pic.twitter.com/SM4xxQcNWl</a>— Coach Yac 🗣 (@Coach_Yac) <a href="https://twitter.com/Coach_Yac/status/2017278647061696665?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 30, 2026</a></blockquote></div>



“It was a successful season. Obviously, I’m gonna catch flack. Someone is gonna say, ‘How is it successful if you didn’t win the Super Bowl?’ Well, 31 teams don’t win the Super Bowl. Are we all unsuccessful? No, I don’t think so,” Juszczyk said.


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“It was going to be one of those seasons where we just needed to figure it out. Then you tack on all the injuries, and we had to find out what era we’re going into with the Niners. With all the adversity we dealt with and winning 12 games, plus a Wild Card win against the defending champions, it’s hard for me to say it wasn’t a successful season.”

Kyle Juszczyk picks his Super Bowl favorite and sends a strong message to the Seahawks, Sam Darnold

Kyle Juszczyk picks his Super Bowl favorite and sends a strong message to the Seahawks, Sam Darnold - Bolavip US

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