Seahawks Coach Praises Sam Darnold’s Coolness After Last-Minute Win: ‘Playing Out of His Mind’

Darnold hit Jaxon Smith-Njigba for a 22-yard completion to set up the game-winning field goal on Thursday against the Arizona Cardinals.

Sam Darnold #14 of the Seattle Seahawks looks to pass against the Arizona Cardinals during the third quarter of the game at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Ariz., on Sept. 25, 2025. Christian Petersen /Getty Images

Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold is a man on a mission.

Darnold’s 22-yard pass to wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba set up the game-winning field goal against the Arizona Cardinals on Thursday Night Football, stifling the Cardinals’ 14-point 4th quarter comeback. Darnold is having something of a career renaissance after having a career year with the Minnesota Vikings in 2024 and signing a $100 million deal with the Seahawks this offseason. Head coach Mike Macdonald said Thursday that Darnold plays with a lot of determination.