Did Tom Brady block Sam Darnold signing for the Raiders?

Less than one year after the Minnesota Vikings allowed Sam Darnold to leave the team, the quarterback has guided the Seattle Seahawks to an unlikely Super Bowl appearance.

Darnold threw for 346 yards against the LA Rams in Sunday’s NFC Championship Game, with three touchdowns and zero interceptions. It was a thrilling win for Seattle, and a stunning rebuke to anyone who questioned whether Darnold could be an effective postseason quarterback.

One of those who has previously doubted Darnold’s ability, according to a report in The Athletic, was none other than Tom Brady.

The legendary seven-time Super Bowl winner is now a minority owner with the Las Vegas Raiders, who were tipped with a move for Darnold last year. The report suggests that it was Brady who opposed bringing Darnold to the Raiders, ultimately allowing him to move to Seattle instead.

Brady has not spoken publicly about the claims and Darnold has insisted that he has “never paid attention” to those who have questioned him. But with the Seahawks poised to make a fifth-ever Super Bowl appearance, Sunday’s win feels like a moment of validation for Darnold.

Writing on social media after the Seahawks’ NFC Championship Game win, Giants quarterback Russell Wilson paid tribute to Darnold’s development: “Sam Darnold’s comeback story over the past 2 years has been one of the most inspirational things to watch! Cool seeing him overcome!!! Congrats bro. Hope you win it!

Now, Darnold is just one win away from a first NFL championship ring. The 28-year-old is younger than the likes of Joe Burrow and Josh Allen and looks set to lead Seattle for a long time to come.

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.

Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.