“I was able to move on pretty fast”: Sam Darnold seemingly throws shade at Kevin O’Connell & Vikings ahead of Week 13 game against former team

Sam Darnold and the Seattle Seahawks are set to face the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday. Kevin O'Connell's team allowed the quarterback to leave in free agency despite leading Minnesota to a 14-3 season last year. Darnold inked a three-year, $100.5 million deal with Seattle in March.

Darnold addressed the media and shared his feelings about suiting up against his former team.

“It’s just another game," Darnold said on Sunday, via Fox. "I fully understand the decision behind it (Minnesota moving on). They clearly don’t see me as their guy, and I was able to move on pretty fast from that.”

Darnold has completed 69.5% of his passes for 2,785 yards, 19 touchdowns and 10 interceptions in 11 games this season. The Seahawks (8-3) are second in the NFC West, while the Vikings (4-7) are at the bottom of the NFC North.

Minnesota's faith in J.J. McCarthy has not paid dividends as the team is 2-4 with him under center.

McCarthy, who has struggled with injuries throughout his brief pro career, has been ruled out due to a concussion. Undrafted rookie Max Brosmer will take over the QB1 role.

Minnesota has its back against the wall as another loss might confirm its elimination from the playoff race.

Vikings DC Brian Flores warns Sam Darnold

Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores sent a warning to his former quarterback, Sam Darnold, ahead of the Week 13 game. Flores said he’s happy for him and values their friendship, but made it clear that Minnesota won’t shy away from the pressure.

“We had a great rapport, friendship, so I'm happy for him,” Flores told reporters on Wednesday. “But we will blitz him this week, that's for sure. We will, yeah.”

Flores was also asked if his team has an advantage due to his close bond with Darnold.

“I think every year is different,” Flores said. “I think there are some things that, you know, I think we could say may have bothered them a year ago, but maybe they don't this year."

Flores and his unit will likely try different schemes on the quarterback. He admitted that Darnold's play is at the same level as it was in 2024. Flores added that the 2024 Pro Bowler did a lot of great things in Minnesota, which are helping him in Seattle.