PFT Names Sam Darnold as 2024 NFL Most Improved Player
Sam Darnold shines in 2024, leading the NFL as the most improved player
Sam Darnold, NFL, Vikings, Football, 2024
Minneapolis: So, guess what? The NFL is shaking things up a bit. Starting next year, they’re adding a new award for the most improved player. But we’re getting a head start on that this year.
And the standout for 2024? It’s gotta be Sam Darnold, the Vikings quarterback. He signed a one-year deal for $10 million, which is pretty modest for a veteran. Everyone thought he’d just be a temporary fill-in after Kirk Cousins got a massive contract with the Falcons.
But then, things took a turn. J.J. McCarthy, the rookie quarterback, got hurt in the preseason, and suddenly, Darnold was the guy. He stepped up and made history, becoming the first QB to win 14 games in his first season with a new team.
He had an incredible year, throwing for over 4,300 yards and 35 touchdowns, with just 12 picks. His passer rating? A solid 102.5. Talk about a comeback!
There are other players who also had great seasons. Like Zack Baun from the Eagles, who went from being a backup to a full-time starter and racked up 151 tackles. He’s looking at a potential All-Pro season.
Then there’s Jameson Williams from the Lions. After a rough couple of years, he finally broke out with over 1,000 receiving yards. And Jerry Jeudy, who was traded to the Browns, also hit the 1,000-yard mark for the first time in his career.
Even Derek Stingley Jr. from the Texans is stepping up his game, looking like a potential All-Pro. And let’s not forget Trey McBride from the Cardinals, who boosted his stats big time with 111 catches and over 1,100 yards.