Sam Darnold closed out 2024 as one of the feel-good NFL stories of the year. The 27-year-old journeyman had led Minnesota to a 14-2 record ahead of a Week 18 showdown against the Detroit Lions that would decide the No.

I can’t stand to keep going to the playoffs and only playing in a game and being out of it,” the receiver said. “I want to compete for a Super Bowl.”

The Minnesota Vikings were blown off the field by the Los Angeles Rams in a 27-9 beatdown. Sam Darnold was sacked nine times, threw an interception, and lost a fumble. It was a nightmare, but it shouldn't be the only takeaway from a great season.