Sam Darnold just redefined his career (and Daniel Jones could follow the same path)

What Sam Darnold just did with the Seattle Seahawks, winning the Super Bowl, and everything, is unique because the likelihood of a story similar to his will become hard to come by. Darnold's story is one of the NFL's greatest tales of redemption, resurgence, and resurrection. Can it be done again?

Daniel Jones, who already experienced the glimpses of a career resurgence, could be on a similar path to Darnold's. It takes more than just glimpses or a string of solid quarterback play. Darnold worked hard and didn't give up, and now, he's a Super Bowl champion. 

For Jones to become someone like Darnold, he'll also have to work hard and persevere, and hopefully, after recovering from a torn Achilles tendon, Jones can begin again. The only question is: Are the Colts the right situation for him, as the Seahawks were for Darnold? And, does Jones actually have it in him to replicate any resemblance to Darnold's story?

Colts' Daniel Jones' next couple of seasons will determine if he is en route to a complete career resurrection

Had it not been for his Achilles injury, Jones may very well have led the Colts into the playoffs last season. That's where they were headed before he went down. Nevertheless, Jones was having the best season of his career, and his numbers were matching that reality, until everything came tumbling down.

That glimpse, however, that short window when Jones appeared to be a significantly different quarterback than the one with the New York Giants was giving "career resurgence" vibes, though. 

In 13 games, Jones had surpassed 3,000 yards in passing with 19 touchdowns along the way. He was well on his way to a 4,000-yard season, joining a group of quarterbacks that includes the best passers in the league today.

Jones' start was one of the best offensive starts in league history, so it was a complete tragedy to watch him go down just when the Colts were finally riding high after several years of mediocrity. 

What was also evident from Jones' upgraded and improved play was the situation that aided him. The Colts, unlike the Giants, seemed to present Jones with the right opportunity to grow and produce at a high level. Shane Steichen, who is likely heading into the 2026-27 NFL season on the hot seat, clearly unlocked Jones on a different level than his previous head coaches couldn't. 

For the first time in his NFL career, Jones showed confidence not only in himself but also in his team and coaches, allowing him not only to thrive but also to show what he could truly do as a quarterback. The situation matters significantly, which is why Darnold was able to do what he did this past season. 

Of course, Darnold had already experienced the first phase of his career turnaround with the Minnesota Vikings, who later let him walk in free agency, leading to his signing with the Seattle Seahawks. With the Seahawks, the situation for Darnold played an instrumental role in the best season he's ever had, as far as winning is concerned. 

Jones has shown he can win and put up the necessary numbers to do it. It is expected that he and the Colts will agree on a new contract this offseason. Providing that happens, Jones will have another chance to turn the Colts' franchise around. And, if the football gods allow it, a Darnold-esque career resurrection that could open the door for Jones' wider than ever before.