Sam Darnold Takes Center Stage at Super Bowl Opening Night: Fans Chant "Ham for Sam"

Super Bowl Opening Night was a lively affair, particularly for Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold, who became the center of attention with a unique twist on fan engagement.

A Memorable Moment with Guillermo

During his media session, Darnold was greeted with a delightful surprise by Guillermo Rodriguez, a popular personality from Jimmy Kimmel Live!. Here’s how the memorable moment unfolded:

• The Presentation: Guillermo arrived with a “Ham for Sam” button, a whimsical ham-shaped hat, and a colorful serape.
• Chanting Begins: As he presented the gifts, Guillermo playfully remarked, “Everybody is saying gay for Maye, but not me, I say, Ham for Sam.”

Darnold’s Humble Reaction

The playful atmosphere led to the crowd breaking into a chant of "Ham for Sam," which seemed to catch Darnold off guard. With a smile, the quarterback responded:

“No, no, no you guys are good. That’s really nice. Thank you; you don’t have to do that.”

He briefly donned the oversized ham hat and showcased the serape, bringing laughter and joy to the fans present.

Darnold’s Resurgence in the NFL

Sam Darnold’s journey in the NFL has been nothing short of remarkable. After experiencing challenges during his early years with the New York Jets, he was traded to the Carolina Panthers in 2021. Since then, his career has taken a significant upward turn.

Key Stats from the 2025 Season

• Passing Yards: 4,048
• Completed Passes: 323
• Touchdowns: 25

Darnold’s stellar performance with the Seattle Seahawks has rekindled interest in his career and showcased his potential as a star quarterback.

Media Enjoyment and Humor at the Event

Super Bowl Opening Night featured a mix of excitement and humor, punctuated by Guillermo’s antics. Not only did he engage Darnold, but he also lightened the mood during other press conferences, including a hilarious interaction with Patriots coach Mike Vrabel. Guillermo humorously nudged Vrabel to direct a message to Matt Damon, echoing the long-running comedic feud from Jimmy Kimmel’s late-night show.

Conclusion: A Night to Remember

Sam Darnold’s time at Super Bowl Opening Night left a lasting impression on fans and media alike. The whimsical “Ham for Sam” moment showcased not just his personality but also his evolution as a quarterback. As Darnold continues to shine in the NFL spotlight, it’s clear that he has a strong fanbase rallying behind him.

For more on Sam Darnold’s journey in the NFL, check out the latest updates on NFL or explore his stats at ESPN.