As the NFL playoffs unfold, the pressure on every player—especially quarterbacks—ratchets up to a new level. For Sam Darnold, this heightened pressure was evident in the Wild Card matchup between his team and the Los Angeles Rams. Known for his inconsistency throughout his career, Darnold had the opportunity to prove his worth on a national stage, and many were watching closely to see if he could solidify his status as a franchise quarterback. Unfortunately for Darnold, his performance in that game raised more questions than answers, leaving fans and analysts wondering: Did his lackluster play cost him a big contract for the future?

 

 

A Lackluster Performance

Darnold’s performance against the Rams in the Wild Card round was far from stellar. Despite having talented weapons around him, including an impressive receiving corps and a reliable running back, Darnold struggled to move the ball consistently. His decision-making was questionable, his accuracy was off, and the offense stalled multiple times when it mattered most.

 

One of the key moments that stood out was his inability to convert in critical situations. The Rams defense, which had been average throughout the season, was able to stymie Darnold’s efforts with aggressive pressure and sound coverage. He seemed rattled, missing key throws and failing to read the defense effectively, which led to several turnovers and stalled drives. At a time when quarterbacks need to rise to the occasion, Darnold seemed overwhelmed by the pressure, and his performance was a reminder of why he has been unable to establish himself as a consistent starter in the NFL.

 

 

The Stakes Were High

For Darnold, this game wasn’t just about advancing in the playoffs—it was about his future. With the quarterback market heating up for 2025, many believed that this season could be his opportunity to prove he deserved a long-term starting job. Teams like the Washington Commanders, Atlanta Falcons, and Indianapolis Colts, all of whom could be looking for a quarterback, were potentially eyeing Darnold as a reclamation project. If he could lead his team to a deep playoff run, it would have significantly increased his market value.

 

However, Darnold’s performance in the Wild Card round likely soured the outlook for those teams. The failure to deliver in a high-stakes game may have made general managers and coaches think twice about offering him a big contract. In the NFL, quarterbacks are judged by their ability to perform in the most critical moments, and Darnold’s inability to show up when it mattered could be a dealbreaker for teams seeking long-term solutions under center.

 

 

What’s at Stake for Darnold’s Future?

The Wild Card performance raises an important question: How much does one game truly impact a player’s future in the NFL? For quarterbacks, the answer is simple—big games matter, especially in contract years. If you’re a franchise quarterback, the postseason is where you prove your worth and show that you can perform under pressure. Darnold, unfortunately, failed to live up to those expectations.

 

This could affect not only his immediate future but his long-term prospects as well. While Darnold may still have a career in the NFL, it’s unlikely that he will be able to land a lucrative, long-term deal following a disappointing playoff outing. Teams that were previously intrigued by his potential may now turn their attention elsewhere, looking for a more proven and reliable quarterback.

 

 

Can Darnold Rebound?

Despite his struggles in the Wild Card game, it’s important to remember that Darnold is still relatively young and has shown flashes of potential throughout his career. He possesses the physical tools—a strong arm and good mobility—that could make him a successful quarterback in the right system. It’s possible that a fresh start with the right coaching and a more stable environment could allow him to unlock the talent that made him a top draft pick in 2018.

 

However, his Wild Card performance has undoubtedly made it more difficult for Darnold to earn a starting job in 2025. With teams less likely to take a risk on a quarterback with such a mixed record, it may take a low-risk contract or a backup role for Darnold to prove himself once again.

 

 

Conclusion

Sam Darnold’s performance in the Wild Card round against the Rams was a missed opportunity to secure his future as a starting quarterback in the NFL. His inability to rise to the occasion and deliver in a critical playoff game may have cost him a shot at a big contract in 2025. While Darnold is still young and possesses the physical traits that many teams look for in a quarterback, his lack of consistency and failure to perform in high-pressure moments could leave him searching for another opportunity in a backup role.

 

In the NFL, quarterbacks are judged by their ability to perform on the biggest stages, and unfortunately for Sam Darnold, his Wild Card performance did not help his case. Moving forward, Darnold will need to prove that he can be the reliable, consistent leader his potential suggests if he hopes to secure a starting job and a lucrative deal in the future.