Former Minnesota Vikings quarterback Rich Gannon serves as a blueprint for the potential career transformation Sam Darnold could undergo this season. Gannon, initially a fourth-round pick in 1987, had an average career as a starter before ascending to become a perennial Pro Bowler. His achievements include winning the league MVP and reaching a Super Bowl in 2002.
Reflecting on his early days with the Kansas City Chiefs, Gannon emphasized a crucial lesson he learned that altered his trajectory. He highlighted the importance of ball security as pivotal for survival in the NFL. Gannon shared this insight with former Carolina Panthers coach Matt Rhule, urging that it is fundamental for Darnold’s development, irrespective of his teammates or play-calling support.
Ex-Vikings quarterback Rich Gannon shares a hard lesson. Sam Darnold will have to embrace
During his time with the Minnesota Vikings, Rich Gannon experienced a volatile period as a quarterback, throwing 40 touchdowns and 30 interceptions across three seasons as a starter.
Upon joining the Kansas City Chiefs, Gannon received a stark admonition that his style of play needed a fundamental shift: prioritize ball security above all else. Despite delivering a nearly flawless performance, including completing 7 of 8 passes with impeccable decision-making and timing, an unfortunate interception off a tipped pass prompted Chiefs head coach Marty Schottenheimer to deliver a serious ultimatum. Schottenheimer bluntly informed Gannon that turnovers were unacceptable in Kansas City, emphasizing that such mistakes would sideline him, regardless of fault.
Under Schottenheimer’s guidance, the Chiefs developed a reputation for exceptional ball security, consistently ranking among the league’s best in avoiding turnovers from 1990 to 1997, reaching the playoffs seven times in eight seasons.
During his tenure in Kansas City, Gannon achieved an 11-8 record as part of a rotation of starting quarterbacks, markedly improving his performance metrics. He cut his interception rate in half, dropping from 3.6% to 1.7%, and also reduced his sack rate under Schottenheimer’s coaching.
Gannon’s pivotal career breakthrough came with the Oakland Raiders, where he emerged as their primary quarterback. Thriving in an offense that capitalized on precise short passes to playmakers, Gannon achieved a remarkable 45-29 record, earned four consecutive Pro Bowl selections, claimed an MVP award, led the team to a Super Bowl appearance, and established himself as a resilient player who evolved into an elite quarterback after persevering for 11 seasons.
Rich Gannon Believes in Sam Darnold
Gannon took 11 years of struggling in the NFL before becoming a top-tier quarterback, and he believes Darnold has similar potential.
“In my overall assessment, Sam Darnold is incredibly talented. He’s very athletic with nimble footwork, possesses a powerful arm, and can execute all types of throws,” Gannon remarked. “He’s still young at 26 years old. It’s remarkable that he’s been in the league for six years already and is only 26.”
Gannon discussed Darnold’s promise with Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell, noting the positive impressions from spring workouts where Darnold’s passing ability impressed beat reporters. Darnold’s next challenge is mastering game situations, protections, and exploiting defensive weaknesses—an area where playing under a supportive coach like O’Connell with a strong offensive team should aid his development.
“If I get the chance and we start strong, I’m not giving up that spot. That’s my mindset,” Gannon affirmed. “Sam just needs an opportunity to prove he’s grown and can be relied upon—a consistent, dependable player who gives us a chance to win every week.”
