Darnold thanks Seahawks for believing in him as Seattle celebrates - ESPN

SEATTLE — After the confetti had fallen on Sam Darnold on Sunday night at Levi's Stadium following the Seattle Seahawks' victory in Super Bowl LX, the Pro Bowl quarterback thanked his mom and dad, telling them he was only there because of their unwavering belief in him.

That was the theme of Darnold's brief address to fans at Lumen Field on Wednesday as the Seahawks kicked off their championship parade with a celebration at their home stadium.

Holding a beer in one hand, Darnold hoisted the Lombardi Trophy with the other before addressing the crowd.

«I've talked a lot this last week about belief,» he said. «A lot of people didn't believe in me, but it didn't matter because the ones that are close believed in me, including you all. I appreciate you all so much. That short list also includes [team owner] Jody Allen, [general manager] John Schneider, [coach] Mike Macdonald. I appreciate the belief you all had in me for signing me this past year.

»And last but certainly not least, these players, man, for believing in me. I wouldn't be here without these guys."

Darnold, Schneider and Macdonald were among 10 Seahawks who spoke on a stage in front of the north end zone at Lumen Field, which depicted the Lombardi Trophy on either side and a banner running across the top that read «SUPER BOWL LX CHAMPIONS.»

Linebacker Ernest Jones IV, wearing a T-shirt depicting Darnold's likeness with a cigarette in his mouth, a beer in one hand and the quarterback flipping the bird with the other, spoke as well. He drew an uproarious reaction after he repurposed the now-famous remarks he gave in defense of Darnold earlier in the season.

The Seahawks were panned by some after they traded Geno Smith in March and signed Darnold to a three-year,