Indianapolis Colts Make Blockbuster Move, Sign Sam Darnold to Four-Year, $120.5 Million Deal
In a stunning move that has sent shockwaves through the NFL, the Indianapolis Colts have announced the signing of Pro Bowl quarterback Sam Darnold in a massive four-year contract worth $120.5 million. This bold acquisition marks a significant investment in the future of the franchise, as the Colts look to solidify their quarterback position and compete for a Super Bowl title.
The signing of Darnold signals the Colts’ commitment to establishing stability at the quarterback position, something the team has struggled with since the sudden retirement of Andrew Luck in 2019. After cycling through a series of quarterbacks, including Philip Rivers, Carson Wentz, Matt Ryan, and most recently Gardner Minshew and rookie Anthony Richardson, the team is betting big on Darnold to be the answer under center.
Colts General Manager Chris Ballard expressed excitement about the deal, emphasizing the team’s confidence in Darnold’s ability to lead the franchise.
“Sam Darnold is a talented quarterback with tremendous potential, and we believe he has all the tools to thrive in our system,” Ballard said in a statement. “He’s a competitor, a leader, and someone who has shown resilience throughout his career. We’re thrilled to have him in Indianapolis and are eager to see what he can do with this team.”
Sam Darnold, the former third-overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, has had a rollercoaster career. He started with the New York Jets, where he struggled to find consistency in a dysfunctional system. After three seasons in New York, he was traded to the Carolina Panthers in 2021, where injuries and inconsistent play once again hindered his ability to cement himself as a long-term starter.
In 2023, Darnold signed with the San Francisco 49ers as a backup, where he had the opportunity to work under head coach Kyle Shanahan and refine his game. His brief stints as a starter in San Francisco showed flashes of the talent that once made him a top draft pick, and the Colts clearly believe he is ready to take the next step as a franchise quarterback.
The Colts have built a strong foundation with a talented roster, including a dynamic running game led by star running back Jonathan Taylor and a promising group of young receivers. With a solid offensive line and a defense that has shown potential, Indianapolis is hopeful that Darnold can elevate the team to playoff contention.
Head coach Shane Steichen, known for his work with quarterbacks, will now have the opportunity to mold Darnold into the leader the Colts need. Steichen played a crucial role in the development of Jalen Hurts in Philadelphia and will look to do the same with Darnold.
“We’re excited about what Sam brings to the table,” Steichen said. “He’s got a strong arm, good mobility, and a high football IQ. We’re confident that with the right system and support, he can take his game to the next level.”
One of the biggest questions surrounding this signing is what it means for Anthony Richardson, the Colts’ first-round pick in 2023. Richardson showed promise in his rookie season before suffering a season-ending shoulder injury. While he is still seen as the future of the franchise, the addition of Darnold could mean the Colts want to give Richardson more time to develop rather than rushing him back into action.
Whether Darnold is the long-term answer or a bridge quarterback remains to be seen, but for now, the Colts have made a bold statement by investing heavily in his services.
The signing of Sam Darnold is a clear indication that the Indianapolis Colts are serious about contending in the AFC. With a lucrative four-year, $120.5 million deal, the organization is putting its faith in the 26-year-old quarterback to lead them into a new era.
As the NFL offseason progresses, all eyes will be on Indianapolis to see how Darnold adapts to his new team and whether he can finally fulfill the potential that made him a top draft pick. One thing is certain—Colts fans have plenty to be excited about heading into the 2025 season.