Minnesota Vikings Face a Franchise-Altering Decision: What to Do with Sam Darnold?
Hello, NFL fans! Reporting live as the Minnesota Vikings head into a pivotal offseason, the team’s most pressing question centers on one man: Sam Darnold.
Originally brought in as a bridge quarterback, Darnold was expected to hold the fort until rookie JJ McCarthy, the 10th overall pick, was ready to take over midseason. But fate had other plans.
Darnold’s Career Year Shakes Things Up
A preseason meniscus injury sidelined McCarthy, and Darnold stepped up in a big way, delivering a career-best season. His numbers? 4,319 yards, 35 touchdowns, just 12 interceptions, and a 102.5 passer rating—all while leading the Vikings to a stellar 14-3 record in the NFC North, arguably the toughest division in football.
Now, the Vikings face a dilemma that could reshape their future.
The Vikings’ QB Conundrum
Minnesota has three options:
- Trade Darnold: Cash in on his career year and send him to a team willing to pay his hefty price tag—potentially $50+ million per year—and fork over draft picks.
- Trade JJ McCarthy: Stick with Darnold as the franchise quarterback and move McCarthy, who’s recovering from a second knee surgery.
- Franchise Tag Darnold: Keep both quarterbacks and navigate an awkward scenario where neither is clearly the long-term answer.
Should Darnold hit free agency, at least one team has already emerged as a potential suitor.
Raiders Targeting Darnold?
According to PFF, the Las Vegas Raiders should make Sam Darnold their top free-agent target this offseason. “Las Vegas probably won’t land one of the draft’s top arms, and the team can afford Darnold’s hefty price tag,” the site noted.
PFF graded Darnold as the 12th-best QB in the league this season with a solid 82.7 grade, putting him in the 11th-16th range among NFL quarterbacks—right where many analysts and fans rank him.
However, landing Darnold won’t be simple. The Raiders, despite their historical allure, have been a dysfunctional franchise, cycling through four full-time coaches in less than four years. Still, money talks, and a big enough offer could sway Darnold to head to Vegas.
What’s Next for Minnesota?
If the Vikings can’t find a trade partner willing to offer more than a third-round pick—the compensatory value they’d receive if Darnold leaves—it’s possible they’ll let him walk.
Alternatively, the Raiders could explore trading for McCarthy if the Vikings commit to Darnold.
Ultimately, the Vikings are at a crossroads, and their decision over the next few months will define the future of the franchise. Will it be Sam Darnold, JJ McCarthy, or a surprising twist? Stay tuned, because this story is far from over!
