The Seattle Seahawks are heading into their 2026 title defense with another reason to feel overlooked, as Skip Bayless has called attention to what he views as major disrespect toward Sam Darnold. The veteran quarterback landed at No. 100 in a preseason ranking of the NFL’s top players, a placement that drew criticism considering what he accomplished last season.
Darnold’s position at the bottom of the list stands out because of his recent success. He helped guide Seattle through a 14-3 regular season, an NFC championship run and ultimately a Super Bowl victory, adding another chapter to a career that has dramatically changed since his early struggles in the league.
Bayless argued that placing Darnold at the final spot on a list of the league’s top 100 players failed to properly recognize the quarterback’s accomplishments. His reaction centered on the contrast between Darnold’s winning record and the skepticism that continues to follow him despite consecutive strong seasons with different teams.
The ranking was based largely on expectations for the upcoming season rather than serving strictly as a reward for past accomplishments. That distinction helps explain why Darnold was included but still placed behind a long list of players, including quarterbacks who have not matched his recent postseason success.
Skip Bayless Reacts to Seattle Seahawks Star Sam Darnold’s Major Snub
Bayless shared his thoughts about ESPN placing Darnold last in their list of Top 100 Players. This can be seen in a post he made on his official X account.
It is amusing to me that Sam Darnold ranks only 100th on ESPN’s Top 100. I’m not the biggest fan – he did lead the NFL in turnovers last year. BUT HE WAS 31-7 AS STARTER IN MINN AND SEATTLE LAST 2 YEARS, INCLUDING 3-0 IN LAST YR’S PLAYOFFS AND WINNING THE SUPER BOWL! 100TH???
— Skip Bayless (@RealSkipBayless) September 1, 2026
Still, Darnold’s supporters have reason to question whether his ranking accurately reflects his value. He has accumulated 31 wins over the past two seasons with the Minnesota Vikings and Seahawks, while his move to Seattle resulted in one of the most successful seasons in franchise history.
For the Seahawks, the perceived slight could become another source of motivation as they attempt to defend their championship. Darnold has spent much of his career answering questions about his legitimacy as a starting quarterback, and a No. 100 ranking gives him another opportunity to prove that his recent success deserves far greater respect.
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The post Seahawks News: Skip Bayless Calls Out Major Sam Darnold Disrespect appeared first on Gridiron Heroics.