Sam Darnold, the Seattle Seahawks’ new quarterback, looked back on his final NFL season with the Minnesota Vikings, admitting the offense faltered significantly in their 27-9 loss to the Los Angeles Rams during the <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/nfc/”>NFC Wild Card round. Using the phrase “laid an egg,” Darnold expressed a sense of failure despite his rise as the team’s starter. His candid reflection highlighted his personal dissatisfaction with his performance and the overall team result.
“For lack of a better term, we laid an egg as an offense,”
Darnold said, according to Michael Silver of The Athletic.
“And I think, for me personally, that sucks. I felt like we were a really good team, but at the end of the day — and this is gonna sound a little pessimistic — but when you get to the end of it and you don’t win the whole thing, you failed. I feel like I could have played way better, to be completely honest with you. I feel I didn’t play up to my standard. I truly feel that way. I feel like if I would have just played better, I would’ve been able to give the team a chance.”
Insight Into the Pressure and Expectations on NFL Defensive Players
Meanwhile, former Miami Dolphins left tackle Terron Armstead shared his thoughts on some of the most challenging defenders he faced during his career. Among those he singled out was Jared Verse, a rookie defensive end for the Rams, whose relentless pass rushing left a strong impression. Armstead described Verse as a player destined for greatness, highlighting the difficulty in blocking him during games.
No. 1, he was a rookie from the Rams. That young boy, Jared Verse? I’m cool. I’m good. I never gotta see that man again,
Armstead explained during a SiriusXM NFL Radio appearance.
I’m OK with never seeing that young man again in my life. Bull rush different. Dawg, it’s different. You know that it’s coming. You brace yourself. He’s different. Jared Verse is different. He will be a Defensive Player of the Year one of these days. Mark my words.
Armstead also mentioned his battles with Myles Garrett and two other elite pass rushers, Trey Hendrickson and Maxx Crosby, confirming the toll these matchups took on him as an offensive lineman. He acknowledged Hendrickson’s consistent impact on the Cincinnati Bengals’ defense and the significant difference his presence makes to a team.
I’ve had enough battles with Myles Garrett, so he’s on the list too. I’m cool on that. We’ve danced enough. I’m good,
Armstead added.
And lastly, it’s between Trey Hendrickson and Maxx Crosby, so I have to split the three from both of those two crazy young men. I’m alright never seeing those guys again either. I’m not going to talk bad about Cincinnati, but that’s a no-brainer. Trey, it’s a no-brainer. You need him on the team. He’s one of the best, if not the best, pass rushers in the game. He’s consistent, he’s relentless. You have to have him. The defense is completely different without him.
Walter Nolen Responds to Pre-Draft Criticism Ahead of NFL Debut
In a separate NFL development, Cardinals’ first-round defensive tackle Walter Nolen addressed pre-draft remarks doubting his commitment and passion. He shared that those comments stirred emotions but found encouragement through Arizona’s coaching staff, who were willing to understand his side of the story.
“Seeing that some stuff,” Nolen revealed via AZ Central,
“It did make me feel some type of way.”
He recounted explaining his personal journey to the coaches, creating a sense of mutual understanding that helped defuse the negativity.
“I just listened to the coaches,”
Nolen said,
“and told them my story and everything that I’ve been through myself.”
Future Outlook for Sam Darnold and NFL Teams
As Sam Darnold embarks on the next chapter of his career with Seattle, his reflections on the past season underscore his determination to improve and contribute meaningfully to his new team’s success. His acknowledgment of the offense’s shortcomings and personal accountability suggest a driven mindset focused on bouncing back stronger.
Meanwhile, insights from Terron Armstead and Walter Nolen point to the intense challenges and pressures facing players across the league, highlighting the physical and mental battles that shape NFL careers. With new season preparations underway, these stories offer a glimpse into the players’ drive and resilience as teams gear up for future contests.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Sam Darnold sober?
A. He stopped drinking alcohol in 1980 after starting with a martini at age 12 in his parents’ home. Since then, he has focused on helping teens recover from addiction. For many years, Darnold has been assisting young people in Orange County, California, who are at risk. “I haven’t used alcohol or drugs for 38 years,” he says.
Q. Did Sam Darnold have an MRI?
A. Sam Darnold’s injury seems to be minor. A scan on the quarterback’s knee showed only a bruise without any deeper injury, according to NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero. Pelissero mentioned on Monday that Darnold is unlikely to miss any games. “Really good news,” he said.
Q. What disease did Sam Darnold get?
A. Darnold appeared on ESPN’s The Michael Kay Show for his regular segment. He was questioned about catching mono, often referred to as “the kissing disease.” Laughing, Darnold replied, “I don’t know, guys. This illness is complicated. You might carry it for months before you feel any symptoms …”
Q. What disease did Sam Darnold have?
A. When it came to the details about Sam Darnold’s surprising mononucleosis diagnosis, Gase was not very informative. He didn’t know how Darnold contracted the illness or when it happened. He also wasn’t sure about Darnold’s return timeline.