Ever wondered who’s the special someone supporting NFL quarterback Sam Darnold through his football career? Let me introduce you to Katie Hoofnagle – she’s way more than just “an NFL girlfriend.” I’ve been following their story since they first went to public events, and trust me, you’ll love getting to know her.
Katie has made her own mark with an impressive career, athletic background, and the kind of supportive presence that helps a pro athlete thrive. While Sam makes headlines on the field, Katie’s been building her own path that’s equally impressive. Let’s dive into the story of the woman who’s been Sam’s rock through team changes and his recent big moves.
Katie Hoofnagle: Age & Wikipedia
| Personal Information | |
| Full Name | Katie Hoofnagle |
| Birthday | December 3 (27 years old in 2024) |
| Current Residence | Seattle, Washington |
| Relationship Status | Dating NFL quarterback Sam Darnold (since 2023) |
| @_hoofy | |
| Education | University of South Carolina (2020) |
| Degree | BS in Business Administration, Marketing major |
| Athletic Career | NCAA club soccer player (67 games as defender) |
| Current Occupation | Account Executive at Renvio (since October 2024) |
| Previous Work | Mortgage Loan Officer, Account Manager |
| Notable Experience | Wells Fargo intern, Augusta National Golf Club |
| Community Service | Habitat for Humanity, Make-A-Wish South Carolina |
| Known For | Supporting Sam through Vikings and Seahawks |
Katie Hoofnagle Personal Background
Katie Hoofnagle is one of those people who seems to have it all together! Born and raised with a love for sports, she brings positive energy wherever she goes. Her friends and family know her as someone who’s always ready with support and a smile.
Looking at her Instagram (@_hoofy), you can see glimpses of her childhood through throwback photos from her 27th birthday on December 3rd, 2024. There’s little Katie dancing with her dad, playing at the beach, and sweet moments with family pets. Those early years shaped the determined, supportive woman she became.
Katie’s always had that perfect mix of drive and heart. Growing up, she developed discipline that would serve her well in both college sports and professional life. Her background prepared her for the unique challenges of dating someone in the spotlight while maintaining her own identity.
Katie Educational Journey
Katie graduated from the University of South Carolina in 2020 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. She focused on Marketing with a minor in Nutrition & Food Systems – a smart combo that set her up for success in multiple fields!
College wasn’t just about academics for Katie. She balanced studies with being a NCAA soccer player on USC’s club team. Plus, she took on the role of University101 Peer Leader, helping freshmen adjust to college life. Talk about impressive time management!
What makes her education extra notable is that she finished during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. While many struggled with remote learning, Katie completed her degree under unprecedented circumstances. That kind of adaptability says a lot about her character. (LinkedIn)
Katie Hoofnagle Athletic Career
Katie was a serious athlete long before meeting Sam. As a defender on USC’s club soccer team, she played in 67 games over four seasons! That shows serious commitment and athletic ability.
Her soccer background gives her unique insight into Sam’s career. In a March 2025 interview, Sam mentioned, “She’s a former athlete herself, and just gets kind of the grind of everything.” (Yahoo Sports) That shared understanding creates a special bond between them.
This athletic background explains Katie’s approach to life. Years of practice, teamwork, and pushing through tough games built the resilience we see in her today. As someone who’s been on the field, she understands the mental challenges athletes face in ways most never could.
Katie Hoofnagle Professional Career Timeline
Katie’s career shows she’s not afraid to explore different industries. After college in August 2020, she started as a Loan Officer Assistant at Loan Pronto. By June 2021, she’d already moved up to Account Manager – impressive progress!
Before graduation, Katie gained experience through internships, including Wholesale Content Marketing and Strategy at Wells Fargo during summer 2019. She worked as a Retail Associate at Augusta National Golf Club from March to April 2021 and spent time as a Sales Associate at Anthropologie in 2018.
According to her LinkedIn Profile Now Katie works as an Account Executive at Renvio, developing dialysis EMR software (Electronic Medical Records). She started this role in October 2024, showcasing her versatility by moving into healthcare technology. I’m impressed by how she’s built a career spanning content, finance, and tech sales!
Katie Hoofnagle Relationship with Sam Darnold
Katie and Sam’s relationship began in 2023 when he played for the San Francisco 49ers. They kept things quiet initially but went “Instagram official” when Katie posted for Sam’s 26th birthday that year.
Her birthday message was genuine:
“Your huge heart, goofy energy, and ability to quote every movie you’ve ever seen are unmatched. Happy 26th birthday, celebrating you is so easy!” (IMDb)
This gives us a glimpse into their real relationship, showing the playful side of Sam we don’t see on the field.
Sam’s been vocal about Katie’s importance to his success. In a March 2025 interview with Us Weekly, he said,
“The support from my girlfriend is unbelievable. You know, the fact that she just understands it… When I just want to chill, she’s very up for that, especially during the season.”
That understanding is invaluable for someone under the pressure Sam faces.
Supporting NFL Life
In February 2025, Katie shared a heartfelt Instagram post during the NFL Honors, celebrating Sam’s journey through seven seasons. “Thanks for letting me be a part of your journey, Sam,” she wrote. “Standing by your side is a blessing I’ll never take for granted.” Her words emphasized that while she admired his athletic achievements, it was his character off the field that mattered most to her.
Being with an NFL quarterback means supporting someone through public scrutiny, career uncertainty, and constant travel. Katie has shown up consistently through Sam’s journey across multiple teams, from the 49ers to the Vikings and now the Seahawks. During the 2025 NFL playoffs, Katie and other Vikings WAGs made custom matching jackets for the Wild Card game against the Los Angeles Rams (which moved to State Farm Stadium in Arizona due to wildfires).
When Sam led the Vikings to a 14-3 record and earned his first Pro Bowl appearance, Katie was right there celebrating his success. She understands the mental game behind the physical one – how to be there for the tough losses without dwelling on them, and how to celebrate the wins without letting them define everything. This balanced perspective makes her exactly the kind of partner a quarterback needs through the emotional rollercoaster of NFL seasons.
Social Media and Public Presence
Katie’s Instagram (@_hoofy) has over 4,482 followers and features NFL game days, vacations, and everyday moments with Sam. Her social media gives just enough of a window into their life without oversharing – a tough balance!
Remember that internet rumor connecting Sam to viral sensation Hailey Welch? Katie and Sam shut that down when he went “Instagram official” on her birthday, resharing her post with “It’s my best friend’s birthday @hoofy” – simple and clear about who his heart belongs to.
Katie handles public attention with grace and clear boundaries. She’s not trying to be an influencer or leveraging Sam’s fame. Instead, she’s living her life, sharing meaningful moments, and keeping private things private. In today’s share-everything culture, that feels refreshingly authentic.
Community Involvement
Beyond her career and supporting Sam, Katie makes time for giving back. She’s volunteered with Habitat for Humanity and Make-A-Wish South Carolina, showing her commitment to community service.
This philanthropic spirit matches Sam’s charity work. He participated in the RX3 2025 Charity Flag Football Tournament at Saddleback College in Mission Viejo, California on March 15, 2025, raising money for NEGU – The Jessie Rees Foundation, which helps kids fighting childhood cancer.
What’s impressive is how Katie balances everything – a demanding career, supporting Sam, maintaining relationships, AND making time to volunteer. It speaks volumes about her values and priorities. Wouldn’t we all love to have a friend like that?
Katie Hoofnagle Current Life and Future
Katie’s world changed when Sam signed his three-year, $100.5 million contract with the Seattle Seahawks in March 2025. The deal includes a $32 million signing bonus and $52.5 million guaranteed – opening new possibilities for their future.
Recently, she shared photos celebrating their new Seattle home, holding the keys with Sam in the background. This move represents a major life change, as Katie had been based in Minneapolis during Sam’s Vikings days. Will she continue at Renvio remotely or find new opportunities in Seattle?
With Seahawks’ OTAs (Organized Team Activities) set for late May or early June 2025, they’re settling into Seattle life just in time for Sam to start with his new team. It’s an exciting chapter for them both – new city, new team, new home, and more adventures ahead!
Conclusion
Katie Hoofnagle is much more than “Sam Darnold’s girlfriend.” She’s a former NCAA soccer player, a successful professional in healthcare technology, and someone who balances personal ambitions with supporting her partner’s high-profile career.
What stands out about Katie is how she’s maintained her identity while being part of Sam’s journey. In a world where women are often reduced to “so-and-so’s girlfriend,” Katie has built her own path. Their relationship shows what true partnership looks like – mutual support, understanding, and room for both to grow.
As Sam begins this Seahawks chapter, Katie will undoubtedly continue supporting him while pursuing her own goals. Their relationship gives us a glimpse of modern NFL partnerships – based on respect, individual growth, and genuine connection. I can’t wait to see what’s next for them!
Stay tuned to CaptionDoze for more related updates.
FAQs on Katie Hoofnagle
How did Katie Hoofnagle and Sam Darnold meet?
They reportedly met in 2023 when Sam was playing for the San Francisco 49ers, going public later that year.
What does Katie Hoofnagle do for work?
Katie works as an Account Executive at Renvio, a software development firm specializing in dialysis EMR software, starting October 2024.
Did Katie Hoofnagle play sports in college?
Yes! Katie played club soccer at the University of South Carolina, appearing in 67 games as a defender.
Where did Katie Hoofnagle go to college?
Katie graduated from the University of South Carolina in 2020 with a Business Administration degree, majoring in Marketing with a Nutrition & Food Systems minor.
Are Sam Darnold and Katie Hoofnagle engaged?
As of June 2025, there have been no public announcements about an engagement.
Where are Katie and Sam living now?
They recently moved to Seattle after Sam signed with the Seahawks in March 2025.
How long have Katie Hoofnagle and Sam Darnold been dating?
They’ve been dating since 2023, making their relationship public on Sam’s 26th birthday that year.
Hi there! I’m Helix Yates, the creator of CaptionDoze.com and a sports writer with over 14 years of experience covering athletes’ stories and net worth.
On Caption Doze, we dive into amazing sports personalities from NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, WWE, MLC, PLL, NWSL, and PWHL. You’ll find about their backgrounds, career highlights, contract details, and what makes them financially successful.
From NFL underdog stories to superstar contracts, I specialize in athlete net worth analysis while keeping things simple and factual — like chatting with a sports-loving friend who knows the numbers.
