Sam Darnold’s Stellar Seahawks Performance and Fiancée Katie Hoofnagle’s Support

Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold’s fiancée had a succinct reaction to his stellar Sunday Night Football performance.

Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold delivered an outstanding performance in a 38-14 victory over the Washington Commanders, and his fiancée, Katie Hoofnagle, expressed her excitement on social media. The couple, who got engaged in July shortly after Darnold signed a lucrative three-year contract with Seattle, have become a prominent pair both in and out of the NFL spotlight. Hoofnagle, a former collegiate soccer player and marketing specialist, has been a steadfast supporter throughout Darnold’s fluctuating NFL career.

• Sam Darnold completed 21 of 24 passes for 330 yards and one touchdown during the Seahawks’ 38-14 win over the Washington Commanders.
• Darnold became only the second quarterback since 1991 to complete all first-half passes while throwing four or more touchdowns in that period.
• Darnold and Katie Hoofnagle got engaged in July, about four months after he signed a $100.5 million, three-year deal with Seattle.
• Hoofnagle is a former University of South Carolina soccer player and currently works as a marketing specialist for a technology company specializing in medical software.
• The Seahawks currently hold a 6-2 record and are tied atop the NFC West, preparing for a divisional matchup against the Arizona Cardinals.

Sam Darnold’s exceptional Sunday Night Football performance

On November 2, during a Sunday Night Football matchup, Sam Darnold showcased remarkable precision and efficiency. Completing 21 of 24 attempts, he amassed 330 passing yards and one touchdown, leading the Seattle Seahawks to a decisive 38-14 victory against the Washington Commanders. His first half was particularly notable, as Darnold completed every pass while throwing for four touchdowns — a feat achieved by only one other quarterback since 1991, including playoff games.

After the game, Darnold modestly admitted to reporters that he was unaware he had completed all his passes in the first half until told at halftime. He humorously blamed an acquaintance for his sole incompletion in the second half, though he declined to reveal who it was.

Katie Hoofnagle’s supportive role and public reaction

Katie Hoofnagle, Darnold’s fiancée, demonstrated her enthusiasm via Instagram by resharing a Seahawks post celebrating his impressive statistics. Her reaction, expressed simply with three “out-of-breath” face emojis, reflected her awe and pride in Darnold’s performance.

The two have shared several moments of affection online, frequently attending games together and supporting one another. Hoofnagle’s sports background and understanding of an athlete’s demanding lifestyle provide a strong foundation for their relationship. Darnold praised her as his biggest supporter, highlighting the mutual respect and encouragement they share.

Engagement and life outside football

The couple became engaged in July 2025, a few months after Darnold’s signing with the Seahawks. Hoofnagle commemorated the engagement on Instagram, calling it the “best day ever” and hinting at a lifelong commitment with the phrase “here’s to forever together.”

Both are originally from California but forged their paths in different regions before uniting. Hoofnagle attended the University of South Carolina on a soccer scholarship, where she excelled academically and athletically, earning a marketing degree with a minor in nutrition. After college, she moved to Charlotte, North Carolina—a decision motivated by a desire for personal growth beyond career advancement—which coincided with Darnold playing for the Carolina Panthers.

Professionally, Hoofnagle currently works remotely as an account manager for Renvio, a technology firm specializing in software for kidney dialysis machines, indicating her involvement in the healthcare tech sector.

A journey through the NFL and personal stability

Sam Darnold’s football career has spanned six NFL teams since he was the No. 3 overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft by the New York Jets. His journey included stints with the Carolina Panthers, San Francisco 49ers, Minnesota Vikings, and now the Seattle Seahawks. Despite the transient nature of his career—with many one-year deals—Darnold’s recent performance earned him a stable three-year, $100.5 million contract with Seattle.

He has spoken openly about the challenges players face with frequent moves, especially for those with families, though he himself does not yet have children. The commitment from the Seahawks promises a more settled future for Darnold and Hoofnagle.

Hoofnagle’s lifestyle and connection to football culture

Beyond football, Katie Hoofnagle leads an active lifestyle that includes snowboarding, hiking, and yoga. Her Instagram gallery features various outdoor adventures from locations such as Lake Tahoe, Breckenridge, and Park City, underscoring her passion for sports and wellness.

Socially, she is well integrated into the community of football wives and girlfriends (WAGs). During Darnold’s time with the Minnesota Vikings, she was part of the group that sported matching team jackets, symbolizing camaraderie and team spirit among players’ partners.

Upcoming Seahawks season and their shared future

As the Seahawks prepare for an important game against the Arizona Cardinals on November 9, Darnold’s role as starting quarterback is critical to the team’s success. His fiancée, ever-present and vocal in her support, continues to be a constant throughout the highs and lows of his career.

Together, they represent a modern NFL couple balancing professional ambitions, personal growth, and the pressures of public life. Their story demonstrates the power of support and stability in the demanding world of professional sports.