Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold secured his first Super Bowl ring as Seattle triumphed over the New England Patriots 29-13 at Levi’s Stadium on Sunday. After rebuilding his career, Darnold, the former Minnesota Vikings Pro Bowler, played a crucial role in the Seahawks’ second-ever Super Bowl win during the 2025 season.
Darnold’s journey was notable, having struggled during his initial five NFL seasons before guiding the Vikings to a 14-3 record in 2024. Despite this, Minnesota chose not to re-sign him for 2025, prompting Darnold to join Seattle in the offseason.
Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua took to X to mock Darnold’s success, posting a simple, “😂 Sam Darnold,” an apparent jab at the quarterback winning a ring before other high-profile players like Drake Maye, Lamar Jackson, and Josh Allen.
Ernest Jones Responds Sharply to Puka Nacua’s Criticism
Ernest Jones, linebacker for the Seahawks and former teammate of Nacua with the Rams, did not hold back in defending Darnold. He fired back on X with,
“Ain’t you at home, Goofy ass,”
calling out Nacua’s disrespect just after Seattle eliminated the Rams 31-27 in the conference championship and went on to win the Super Bowl.
Emmanuel Acho Urges Respect for Darnold’s Achievement
The exchange drew attention from NFL analyst and former player Emmanuel Acho, who urged Nacua to recognize Darnold’s accomplishment rather than mock it. Acho commented on X,
“Puka needs to chill out and give Sam Darnold his RESPECT! Sam Darnold beat Puka and then won a Super Bowl, what the heck Puka laughing for?!”
Darnold himself remained focused after the victory, stating,
“As long as you believe in yourself, anything is possible.”
The Seahawks’ win ended the Patriots’ hopes of securing their first Super Bowl title since the departures of Bill Belichick and Tom Brady.
Impact of the Conflict and What to Watch Next
This public spat highlights tensions following the Seahawks’ unexpected rise to Super Bowl champions. Nacua’s mocking underscored lingering rivalries between players and teams, especially after Seattle eliminated the Rams. With voices like Ernest Jones and Emmanuel Acho defending Darnold, the episode has drawn attention to the importance of respect in the NFL community.
Moving forward, it remains to be seen how these interactions will influence player relations and team dynamics as the 2025 NFL season progresses. Seattle’s surprising victory and Darnold’s redemption story set a compelling backdrop as the league prepares for another competitive year.
Ain’t you at home. Goofy ass https://t.co/1CFlOFvc9J
— Ernest Jones (@ernestjones) February 9, 2026
Puka needs to chill out and give Sam Darnold his RESPECT! Sam Darnold beat Puka and then won a Super Bowl, what the heck Puka laughing for?!
SPEAKEASY IS LIVE NOW AND COOKING!! Y’all better hit the link below asap! https://t.co/pcYR6yA3st
— Emmanuel Acho (@EmmanuelAcho) February 9, 2026
