If you’ve been watching the 2024 NFL season, you know one of the biggest surprises has been the resurgence of Sam Darnold. The Minnesota Vikings’ quarterback is putting together the kind of season that Hollywood loves to script—a comeback story for the ages.
On Sunday afternoon, Darnold led the 13-2 Vikings to a dominant 27-10 win over the Green Bay Packers at U.S. Bank Stadium. It wasn’t just a win; it was a statement. Darnold threw for an impressive 349 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception by the early fourth quarter. The performance not only solidified his role as the Vikings’ leader but also put him squarely in the conversation for NFL Comeback Player of the Year.
A Journey of Ups and Downs
For Darnold, now 27 years old, this season must feel like sweet redemption. His early career with the New York Jets was marred by poor team performance, coaching changes, and constant turnover. Despite being the No. 3 overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, Darnold’s tenure in New York never quite took off.
After bouncing around the league with stints in Carolina and San Francisco, it seems like Minnesota has finally given him the platform he needs to shine. Head coach Kevin O’Connell has created an environment where Darnold can thrive, and the results speak for themselves. Through 16 weeks, Darnold has thrown 35 touchdown passes, shattering his previous career-high of 19 from the 2019 season.
A Winning Season On and Off the Field
But it’s not just football that’s bringing joy to Darnold’s life. His longtime girlfriend, Katie Hoofnagle, has been by his side throughout this journey, and she’s been turning heads herself. On Sunday, Katie shared her excitement for the Vikings’ win on her Instagram Story, captioning it with a simple but powerful “Skol.”
Katie, who began dating Darnold during his time with the San Francisco 49ers, has been a regular presence at Vikings games this season. She’s shared behind-the-scenes moments and snapshots of their life together, giving fans a glimpse into their relationship. The two even went viral earlier this year for their Halloween costumes, dressing up as early 2000s Justin Timberlake and Britney Spears. The internet loved it, and so did we.
Net Worth and the Road Ahead
With Darnold’s stellar performance this season, his net worth has seen a noticeable boost. As of 2024, Sam Darnold’s estimated net worth is around $30 million, bolstered by his current contract, endorsements, and performance incentives.
Looking ahead, the Vikings are in the mix for the No. 1 seed in the NFC, which would secure them home-field advantage throughout the playoffs. With Darnold at the helm and an arsenal of offensive weapons, Minnesota has legitimate Super Bowl aspirations.
As sports commentator Colin Cowherd put it, “Sam Darnold is on a freaking heater. Yea, the weapons are strong, but he is on it.” And that’s exactly what Vikings fans are hoping for as the postseason approaches.
