Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold received an unexpected and uniquely inspiring welcome message from none other than Rainn Wilson, best known for his role as the eccentric Dwight Schrute on The Office.
Wilson, a longtime Seahawks fan and Seattle native, recorded a special message for Darnold, which the Seahawks’ social media team shared on Friday. The video featured Wilson delivering his trademark deadpan humor, channeling Schrute’s signature cadence and delivery.
Wilson’s Message to Darnold: ‘Don’t Be an Idiot!’
In the clip, Wilson greeted the Seahawks’ new quarterback with the dramatic intensity that made Dwight Schrute a fan-favorite.
“Sam. Greetings,” Wilson began, his tone instantly reminiscent of his The Office persona. “I think you know who this is. Welcome to the Hawks! Oh my god, it’s going to be epic. You and [Jaxon Smith-Njigba] getting jiggy with it. Welcome aboard. The 12s are gonna love you.”
And then, in classic Schrute fashion, he wrapped it all up with a blunt piece of advice:
“Don’t be an idiot!”
The line immediately resonated with Darnold, who later admitted that it might be one of the best pieces of advice he’s ever received.
Darnold’s Reaction: A Dream Fan Moment
Watching the video, Darnold couldn’t hide his excitement about receiving a personalized message from one of his favorite actors.
“The Dwight Schrute. Rainn making it rain out here,” Darnold said with a grin. “He’s one of my favorite characters from any television show, one of my favorite actors as well. Shoutout Rainn Wilson—that was awesome.”
For Darnold, who just signed with the Seahawks this offseason, the message was more than just a humorous welcome. It was a reminder of the diehard fanbase he’s now playing for, with celebrities like Wilson leading the charge.
Seahawks’ 12th Man Energy is Already in Full Swing
Seattle’s 12th Man fanbase is one of the most passionate in the NFL, and Wilson’s message is just another example of how deeply the team is ingrained in Seattle’s culture.
Wilson has long been vocal about his love for the Seahawks, frequently attending games and hyping up the team on social media. His enthusiasm for Darnold’s arrival signals that Seattle fans are ready to embrace their new quarterback—as long as he follows the golden rule: Don’t be an idiot.
For Darnold, who is looking for a fresh start after stints with the Jets, Panthers, and 49ers, the warm welcome from both the Seahawks organization and its most dedicated fans is a promising sign.
Now, all that’s left is for him to prove Wilson right and make his mark in Seattle—without being an idiot, of course.