Super Bowl Journey: A Look at Todd Downing and Corey Darden

Last year, Todd Downing had a rough season with the Jets, finishing with a 5-12 record. Fast forward to now, and he’s coaching wide receivers for the Patriots in the Super Bowl.

Downing previously served as the passing game coordinator and quarterbacks coach for the Jets over two seasons before heading to New England. After five games into the 2024 season, he took over play-calling following the firing of head coach Robert Saleh.

Reflecting on his career, Downing mentioned, “My 25 years in this field have been quite a ride. I feel fortunate to be here. It’s an amazing opportunity, and I really don’t want to mess it up.” He expressed disappointment about his time in New York, believing they had the potential to succeed.

“I’m genuinely disappointed that we couldn’t progress in New York,” he stated. “I felt we had the right people in place. When I stepped in as play-caller, I aimed to stabilize things. And while I’m proud of some of our achievements after that shift, it all comes down to results; without them, changes happen.”

Downing stays connected with several former teammates and coaches from his time with the Jets and is cheering for familiar faces, like Saleh and Aaron Rodgers, as the season unfolds. “I always root for them,” he said. “I’m really pleased Coach Saleh has another shot at Tennessee, and I’m eager to see how things pan out for Aaron.”

Meanwhile, Corey Darden, who was cut by the Giants after training camp last summer, found a new home with the Patriots just two days later and is also gearing up for the Super Bowl. “I was a bit surprised to be waived by New York, considering I mostly served as a reserve. But once I joined the Patriots, it all took off. I was on the practice squad one day, then on the active roster the next, and everything just clicked.” Now, he’s focused on clinching a Super Bowl title.

The Patriots recognized Darden’s talent, the 27-year-old defensive tackle having participated in 17 games this season, starting four of them. “Honestly, when we kicked off, I didn’t envision reaching the Super Bowl, but I did think we could win at least four games,” Darden shared.

In injury news, Seahawks safety Nick Emanwori practiced fully on Friday after nursing an ankle sprain earlier in the week and is cleared to play. “Nick is not a worry,” noted Seahawks coach Mike McDonald. “He’s shown he’s all good.”

On the other hand, Patriots linebacker Robert Spillane (ankle), outside linebacker Harold Landry (knee), and defensive tackle Joshua Farmer (hamstring) remain questionable for the game. Quarterback Drake Maye is not listed on the injury report after suffering a right shoulder injury in the AFC Championship Game.