ESPN’s Laura Rutledge has responded firmly to false allegations circulating online that Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold snubbed her for an interview following the team’s recent victory over the San Francisco 49ers.
The rumors emerged after Darnold posted an impressive 97.9 passer rating despite not throwing a touchdown, leading to speculation that he intentionally ignored Rutledge as she approached him for comments. This narrative sparked considerable discussion on social media.
However, Rutledge clarified the situation on X, stating, “Hey! You may have missed where I explained that I told Darnold to take his time talking to whoever he wanted to see because we had time before we were going off air. He was looking for Brock Purdy and was able to find him and then graciously did the interview.”
Rutledge’s account alleviates any misunderstandings surrounding the incident, emphasizing professionalism and understanding in high-pressure post-game scenarios. Her commitment to fairness is evident, especially as she has had her own share of awkward moments in interviews, including a recent encounter with Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert, who seemed more eager to celebrate with his teammates than to participate in an interview.
Despite the recent controversy, Rutledge had a noteworthy week, recognized for her accomplishments at the College Football Playoff and receiving a significant promotion from ESPN ahead of the 2025 season.
Meanwhile, the Seahawks, on a remarkable seven-game winning streak, have concluded their regular season with a strong performance of 14 wins out of 17 games, securing their position in the Divisional playoffs. This accomplishment not only showcases the team’s talent but also builds excitement for their upcoming playoff journey.