Sam Darnold began the 2025 NFL season with high hopes. The Seattle Seahawks quarterback carried Super Bowl aspirations into the year. He also entered it as an engaged man. His fiancée, Katie Hoofnagle, has been a constant companion since their relationship became public in 2023. Their engagement in July 2025 captured significant attention across the football world.
Public Relationship and Engagement Details
Sam Darnold and Katie Hoofnagle first confirmed their romance publicly in June 2023. Hoofnagle marked Darnold's 26th birthday with an Instagram post. She shared celebratory photos and wrote a heartfelt message. "Your huge heart, goofy energy, and ability to quote every movie you've ever seen are unmatched," she stated. "Happy 26th birthday, celebrating you is so easy!"
The couple announced their engagement in July 2025. Hoofnagle posted pictures from a beachside proposal. She captioned the images, "from the best day ever?️ here's to forever together." Darnold also shared the joyful moment on his own account. He posted a simple yet excited, "YES!!!!!"
Reports suggest Darnold proposed on a beach in Dana Point, California. The setting featured white flowers. An engagement dinner with close friends and family followed the special moment. Neither Darnold nor Hoofnagle has revealed specific wedding plans publicly. However, reports indicate a wedding is unlikely during the current NFL season.
Katie Hoofnagle's Background and Career
Katie Hoofnagle graduated from the University of South Carolina in 2020. She earned a degree in marketing with a minor in nutrition. Hoofnagle made the Dean's List every semester during her college years. She also played soccer for the South Carolina Gamecocks, showcasing her athletic background.
After graduation, she moved to Charlotte, North Carolina. This move aligned with her career and personal growth goals. Interestingly, Charlotte was also the city where Sam Darnold played for the Carolina Panthers during the 2021 and 2022 seasons.
Hoofnagle worked in loan management from 2020 through 2023. She then transitioned into the healthcare sector. Since October 2024, she has worked remotely as an account manager for Renvio. The company develops dialysis machine software for kidney patients. This remote role provides flexibility. It has allowed her to relocate with Darnold as his NFL career progressed, including moves to Minnesota and Seattle.
Life Alongside an NFL Quarterback
Katie Hoofnagle maintains an active presence on social media. Her Instagram showcases various interests. She posts about hiking, snowboarding, and attending NFL events. Hoofnagle attended the 14th Annual NFL Honors in February 2025.
She has become a familiar face at Seattle Seahawks games. Hoofnagle cheers for Darnold from the stands and box suites. In September 2024, she wore a custom top featuring Darnold's name and his No. 14 jersey number. She also shared a supportive message online. "Thanks for letting me be a part of your journey, Sam," she wrote. "Standing by your side is a blessing that I'll never take for granted."
Sam Darnold has openly discussed her importance in his life and career. During a March 2025 interview, he praised her understanding and support. "The support from my girlfriend is unbelievable," Darnold said. "The fact that she just understands it. She's a former athlete herself, and just gets kind of the grind of everything."
As the Seattle Seahawks continue their postseason push in January 2026, interest in Darnold's personal life remains high. Fans follow both his performance on the field and his relationship off it. Katie Hoofnagle's journey from college athlete to healthcare professional and NFL partner illustrates a modern sports romance story.
