Live from Minnesota: The buzz around the Vikings’ quarterback situation continues to dominate conversations, with General Manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah addressing the media last week in a candid end-of-season press conference. The focal point? Quarterback Sam Darnold and his uncertain future with the team.
A Season of Highs and Lows for Sam Darnold
Darnold, who delivered flashes of brilliance this season, faced heavy criticism after back-to-back underwhelming performances against the Detroit Lions and Los Angeles Rams in Week 18 and the playoff opener. However, Adofo-Mensah had nothing but praise for the veteran signal-caller.
“We got to see Sam play some incredible football for us. Won a lot of big games,” Adofo-Mensah emphasized on January 16. “We’re talking about games where he won them for us. There were a lot of games where he was a win-because-of-type player. And you also have to net that with all of it in totality.”
Despite his commendation, the Vikings have yet to commit to a definitive starter for 2025.
Vikings’ Quarterback Room Packed With Options
The Vikings’ quarterback lineup has become increasingly intriguing. Alongside Darnold, the team brought in Daniel Jones mid-season following his release by the New York Giants. They also drafted J.J. McCarthy with the No. 10 overall pick in the 2024 draft and recently added veteran Brett Rypien on a reserve/future contract.
When asked about the ongoing quarterback additions, Adofo-Mensah offered insight into the team’s strategy:
“You’re talking about the most important position in our sport,” he stated. “I don’t think it’s a bad thing to assemble a lot of talented players in that room who fit your vision, fit how you want to play football, fit from a personnel standpoint what you want to do.”
J.J. McCarthy and Daniel Jones in the Mix for 2025
The conversation also turned to J.J. McCarthy, the promising rookie sidelined all season due to a preseason injury. Adofo-Mensah expressed confidence in McCarthy’s potential to take over the starting role next season.
“We’re really confident in him, his work ethic, and his preparation,” Adofo-Mensah said. “That position is about talent and preparation, and he’s got those things in spades. So if that’s the course of action we decide, we’ll go there confidently.”
Meanwhile, Daniel Jones remains a possible contender for the starting spot if Darnold exits in free agency or McCarthy isn’t ready.
“He’s a potential option for us going forward,” Adofo-Mensah confirmed.
Looking Ahead
The Vikings could earn a compensatory draft pick in April if Jones departs in free agency after being elevated to active status in Week 18. As the offseason unfolds, all eyes will be on Kwesi Adofo-Mensah and his final decision about the most important position in football.
Stay tuned—Minnesota’s quarterback saga is far from over!
