In a fiery statement that’s sure to turn heads, Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold has declared that he’s not just ready to face pressure — he thrives under it. With his confidence soaring, Darnold made it clear that when opponents bring the blitz, he doesn’t back down. Instead, he turns up the heat, asserting that it’s an opportunity for him to showcase the hard work and preparation he’s put in throughout the offseason.
This powerful statement isn’t just talk; it’s a reflection of Darnold’s growing reputation as a player who excels in high-stress situations. Over the years, many have questioned his ability to handle pressure after stints with the New York Jets and Carolina Panthers, where he often faced criticism for struggling when under duress. However, the 2025 season has shown a different side of Darnold, one that looks to rewrite his narrative.
Thriving Under Pressure
In his time with the Seahawks, Darnold has proven that he’s more than just a capable quarterback; he’s a force to be reckoned with when facing adversity. Statistics back up his bold claim, showing that Darnold is not only handling pressure, but using it as fuel to elevate his performance.
According to recent stats, Darnold is currently one of the league’s most effective quarterbacks when facing blitzes. His ability to read defenses, make quick decisions, and remain composed under duress has turned him into a dangerous weapon against opposing defenses. His ability to stay cool under pressure has allowed him to make big-time throws, often converting tough situations into game-changing moments.
While his early career struggles were well-documented, Darnold’s transformation has been nothing short of remarkable. His improved performance in high-pressure situations shows that he’s learned from past mistakes and is now embracing challenges instead of avoiding them.
The Seahawks’ Confidence in Darnold
The Seahawks have invested heavily in Darnold, and it’s clear they believe in his ability to handle the pressure. With the team eyeing a playoff run, having a quarterback who thrives in tough situations is a critical asset. Darnold’s experience in high-stakes games, coupled with his newfound confidence, makes him the ideal leader for a team that’s hungry for success.
If Darnold continues to perform under pressure the way he has been, there’s no doubt he will cement his place as one of the NFL’s most dangerous quarterbacks. His message to opposing teams is loud and clear: Bring the heat, and watch me rise to the challenge.
Looking Ahead
As the season progresses, Darnold’s ability to handle pressure will be one of the key factors in the Seahawks’ success. With a talented roster around him and the belief that he’s learned how to thrive under fire, the team has all the tools it needs to make a deep playoff run.
So, the next time an opposing defense decides to bring the blitz, remember Darnold’s words: “I don’t react, I thrive.” And if history is any indicator, he’s just getting started.
Getty
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott.
The last decade has been an incredible run for Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott … in the regular season and in his checking account.
That’s not going to create many legacies.
Until Prescott can find some modicum of playoff success, he’s going to continue winding up at the top of lists like the one Bleacher Report’s Alex Kay just put out ranking the NFL’s Most Overrated Quarterbacks.
In a sad, small victory, at least Prescott didn’t take the No. 1 spot. That belonged to Baltimore Ravens quarterback and 2-time NFL MVP Lamar Jackson, who Prescott finished as runner-up to in the 2023 NFL MVP vote. Prescott was in the No. 4 spot.
“The Dallas Cowboys have been riding with Dak Prescott as their starting quarterback for a decade now,” Kay wrote. “While he’s helped the team emerge as a playoff contender for much of that run, his stunning lack of success in the postseason has also held this proud franchise back from reaching its potential.”
The Cowboys are 3-5-1 and still firmly in the NFC Wild Card hunt headed into a Week 11 road game against the Las Vegas Raiders on Monday Night Football — with Prescott playing some of the best football of his career this season.
While the Cowboys have been atrocious on defense this season — 31st out of 32 teams in overall defense — the offense has been one of the NFL’s crown jewels.
Prescott is sixth in the NFL in passing through 9 games with 2,319 yards, 17 touchdowns and 6 interceptions, with all of the Top 3 passers yet to have their bye week — the Cowboys are coming off their bye in Week 10.
The storyline of Prescott’s career has been defined by his regular season success as much as his postseason failures — he’s 2-5 in the playoffs — but more than that it’s been defined by his incredible timing when it comes to new contracts.
Twice in his career, Prescott has become the NFL’s highest paid player of all time. In 2020, he became the NFL’s first $40 million per yer player when he signed a 4-year, $160 million contract. In 2024, he became the NFL’s first $60 million per year player when he signed a 4-year, $240 million contract.
When Prescott’s current deal runs out following the 2028 season, he’ll have approximately $436.3 million in career earnings.
Prescott got some relief from the criticism lobbed his way almost continually throughout each offseason of his career as former Cowboys edge rusher Micah Parsons and owner Jerry Jones drew almost all of that fire with their ongoing, messy contract dispute.
That’s not to say some people still weren’t going out of their way to take digs at Prescott, including the No. 1 Cowboys hater in the world — ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith — when Smith questioned the level of respect Prescott garners in his own locker room.
“Do people respect the man who they know isn’t going to show up in January?” Smith asked on ESPN’s First Take on May 15. ” … I think he’s a fabulous regular season quarterback who does an outstanding job of making sure he gets paid.”
The Cowboys haven’t advanced to the NFC Championship Game since following the 1995 season — also the same year they last won the Super Bowl. It’s the longest NFC Championship Game drought out of the 16 NFC teams.