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Sam Darnold Surpasses Josh Allen Amid NFL Playoffs

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ankit K. | Last updated Jan 26, 2026 3:58 PM ET

Sam Darnold, drafted third overall in the 2018 NFL Draft has reached a milestone many once doubted possible.

The Seattle Seahawks quarterback led his team to an NFC Championship win and a Super Bowl berth. In the process, Darnold surpassed several stars from the 2018 draft class, including Josh Allen (drafted 7th overall).

Seattle finished the regular season with a 14-3 record and clinched the playoffs in dominant fashion. The Seahawks crushed the San Francisco 49ers 41-6 to advance to the NFC title game. They followed that with a 31-27 win over the Los Angeles Rams to punch their Super Bowl ticket.

Darnold delivered his best performance when it mattered most. He threw for 346 yards and three touchdowns against the Rams. His accuracy and calm under pressure defined the night. Seattle leaned on his arm in critical moments and trusted his decisions late.

"We're here."

Sam Darnold is smiling all the way to Super Bowl LX. pic.twitter.com/skDG0gjs79
— NFL (@NFL) January 26, 2026

The NFL highlighted Darnold’s rise with a post on X. The league noted he became the first starting quarterback from the 2018 draft class to reach the Super Bowl. The image featured Baker Mayfield (drafted first overall), Allen, and Lamar Jackson (drafted 32nd overall), all of whom were passed by Darnold this postseason. Tampa Bay and Baltimore missed the playoffs, while Buffalo exited early.

Sam Darnold becomes the first starting QB from the stacked 2018 Draft class to reach the Super Bowl! pic.twitter.com/GqK6ISbORW
— NFL (@NFL) January 26, 2026

Darnold’s full season backed up the moment. He threw for 4,048 yards and 25 touchdowns while limiting mistakes. Seattle matched his growth with balanced offense and timely defense.

The Seahawks will now face the New England Patriots in Super Bowl 60.