It’s not every day you hear a San Francisco 49ers legend throw his support behind a Seattle Seahawk - especially when that Seahawk just helped eliminate the Niners from the playoffs. But that’s exactly what Hall of Fame quarterback Joe Montana is doing, and his reasoning is hard to argue with.
Montana, one of the most iconic figures in 49ers history, made it clear during an appearance on The Pat McAfee Show that he’s firmly in Sam Darnold’s corner. Yes, that Sam Darnold - the same quarterback who once backed up Brock Purdy in San Francisco, and who’s now leading the Seahawks into Super Bowl LX.
“Heck yeah. I’m all for Sam Darnold,” Montana said. “The things that he’s been through, the places that he’s played, the games that he’s won - even here in San Francisco before he got to Minnesota - like, c’mon.”
Montana referenced a stat that caught his attention: Darnold has racked up 28 wins across his last two teams. That stretch includes a brief stint with the 49ers in 2023, a breakout season with the Vikings in 2024 where he led Minnesota to a 14-3 record, and now, a Super Bowl run with Seattle. For Montana, that kind of resilience and success speaks volumes.
“I’m an NFC guy most of the time anyway, but I’m all about Sam,” Montana added. “He’s a good guy, a good player. I’m happy for him.”
It’s a rare endorsement that cuts through the noise of rivalry and recent playoff heartbreak. Montana isn’t just rooting for a player - he’s acknowledging the journey.
Darnold’s path hasn’t been smooth. From the highs and lows of his early career to finding stability and success with three different teams, he’s quietly built a résumé that demands respect.
And now, he’s on the biggest stage in football, set to face the New England Patriots in Super Bowl LX. It’s a moment that few could’ve predicted, but one that’s been earned through perseverance, adaptability, and a whole lot of grit.
For Montana, that’s more than enough reason to cheer - even if it means pulling for a Seahawk.