Sam Darnold, once seen as a mediocre NFL quarterback, has found new life with the Minnesota Vikings after signing in 2024. After stepping in as a starter due to a rookie's injury, he led the team to an impressive 5-0 start, showcasing remarkable performances with a 65.9% completion rate, 724 passing yards, and nine touchdowns. As a result, he has emerged as a contender for the AP NFL Comeback Player of the Year award, drawing comparisons to recent winners Geno Smith and Joe Flacco in their comeback seasons.
Darnold completed 65.9% of his passes for 724 yards and nine touchdowns in consecutive wins against the 49ers, Texans and Packers.
Panagakis believed the Vikings QB should be a frontrunner to win the AP NFL Comeback Player of the Year award.
Darnold has a similar resume to the two most-recent CPOY winners: Geno Smith and Joe Flacco, who both had career seasons.
Darnold's unexpected success led to a surge in confidence from fans and sports bettors, hoping he could achieve Comeback Player status.
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