Kevin Ng-Imagn Images

Michael Irvin Sends Jets, Sam Darnold Message on Tuesday

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ankit K. | Last updated Jan 27, 2026 4:18 PM ET

NFL legend Michael Irvin had strong words for the New York Jets ahead of the Super Bowl.

Speaking on The White House podcast, Irvin's comments came at a time when Sam Darnold is preparing for the biggest game of his career. He praised Darnold while blasting the Jets for moving on too soon.

Irvin pointed to Darnold’s 346-yard performance in the NFC Championship and framed it as a message to New York. Irvin said Darnold proved doubters wrong after being pushed out of town.

"Sam Darnold! Sam Darnold throws for three hundred and forty-six yards, tells all of New York, 'Kiss my [expletive]. You didn't think I could do it? I'm going to the Super Bowl, and you still are garbage. You let me go.'

"Sam Darnold, you gotta give him his flowers. He's going to the Super Bowl, B, and you guys in New York kicked him out like he was garbage."

Michael Irvin gives Seahawks QB Sam Darnold his flowers on The White House pod

"He's going to the Super Bowl and you guys in New York kicked him out like he was garbage." pic.twitter.com/8oBCQ3REbu
— Netflix (@netflix) January 27, 2026

Darnold’s path to the Super Bowl has been anything but smooth. Drafted third overall by the Jets in 2018, he struggled in an unstable situation and was traded after three seasons. Stops with the Carolina Panthers and San Francisco 49ers followed, along with injuries and backup roles. His breakout finally came in Minnesota before landing with the Seattle Seahawks in 2025.

Now in Seattle, Darnold has delivered the best season of his career. He threw for 4,048 yards and 25 touchdowns during the regular season. His calm decision-making and accuracy reshaped his reputation. In the NFC Championship win over the Los Angeles Rams, he threw three touchdowns with no turnovers.

Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold (14) celebrates with the trophy on the podium after defeating the Los Angeles Rams in the 2026 NFC Championship Game. Kevin Ng-Imagn Images

Seattle finished 14-3 and dominated the NFC West. The Seahawks balanced a top-tier defense with an explosive offense. They crushed San Francisco in the playoffs and survived a late push by the Rams to clinch the NFC title.

Darnold now leads Seattle into the Super Bowl to face the New England Patriots, completing a comeback few once believed possible.

Irvin’s message was clear. The Jets’ decision still echoes, and Darnold is having the last word on football’s biggest stage.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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