Seattle, Wash. — After claiming a Super Bowl title with the Seattle Seahawks, quarterback Sam Darnold expressed gratitude towards the fans of his former team, the New York Jets, who have stood by him through his career ups and downs.

During a promotional event at Raising Cane’s in Seattle, Darnold was asked about his message for Jets supporters who cheered him on during the Seahawks’ 29-13 victory over the New England Patriots in the Super Bowl earlier this month. “The biggest thing is feeling supported, especially by the team that drafted me,” he said. Darnold reflected on his time in New York, acknowledging, “I always look at myself and feel like I could have done a lot more for that franchise. The fact that they’re able to support me even through that means a lot.”

Darnold, the third overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, faced challenges during his three seasons with the Jets before being traded to the Carolina Panthers in 2021. His fortunes changed after serving as a backup for the San Francisco 49ers in 2023. Since then, he has found success with the Minnesota Vikings and now the Seahawks, culminating in his recent Super Bowl victory.

In the past two seasons, Darnold has posted an impressive 28-6 record, throwing for over 4,000 yards and 25 touchdowns just this year. His remarkable turnaround has turned him into a fan favorite, evident during his recent appearance at the Raising Cane’s restaurant, where throngs of fans welcomed him with cheers as he exited the venue.

Video footage from the event captured a bustling scene where police and security had to assist in clearing a path for Darnold’s departure from the restaurant, highlighting his elevated status in the city. Enthusiastic fans had been gathering for hours, waiting to hear from him as they showed their support.

The quarterback’s celebrity status has surged since his Super Bowl success, with supporters chanting “Sea-Hawks” as he navigated through a crowd. Darnold’s rise to prominence reflects a significant shift from his early career struggles and indicates a strong connection with the Seahawks’ fanbase.

Just a day prior, Darnold celebrated his Super Bowl win by joining teammate Kenneth Walker III at Disneyland, where they rode on a float in a celebratory parade. This whirlwind of events marks a new chapter in Darnold’s career, one where he goes from struggling QB to a celebrated champion.

As Darnold embarks on this journey with the Seahawks, he retains fond memories of his time with the Jets, grateful for the unwavering support from their fans. The next phase of his career promises to be filled with anticipation, both from himself and the loyal fans who have witnessed his transformation.