Vikings’ Quarterback Mystery: Will Sam Darnold Return or Hit Free Agency?
The Minnesota Vikings are heading into what promises to be a highly active offseason, with major decisions looming at quarterback. While they’ve already secured their head coach long-term and are reportedly locking in their general manager next, the real drama begins with who will lead the team under center in 2025.
Who’s QB1 in Minnesota?
Right now, the Vikings have Sam Darnold, Daniel Jones, and J.J. McCarthy on the roster, and any of them could realistically start Week 1. However, as of now, there’s no clear decision on which direction the team will go.
According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, the Vikings are still evaluating their quarterback options. However, one notable shift in their thinking has emerged:
“Minnesota is much more interested in bringing Darnold back than they were five to six months ago,” Fowler reported.
The issue? Money. While the Vikings like what they saw from Darnold, they have a clear spending limit and won’t break the bank for him.
Darnold’s Contract Dilemma: Franchise Tag or Transition Tag?
With Darnold set to hit free agency, Minnesota has a few key options:
- Franchise Tag ($41 million): This would lock Darnold in for one season, preventing him from negotiating elsewhere unless he refuses to sign, which could mean sitting out 2025.
- Transition Tag ($35.3 million): This allows other teams to make offers, while giving the Vikings the chance to match the best deal.
Fowler notes that some agents believe Darnold should demand a four-year, $160 million contract, mirroring Daniel Jones’ deal with the Giants. Others compare him to Baker Mayfield’s three-year, $100 million contract.
“Some agents have argued that Darnold shouldn’t take a penny less than Jones’ four-year, $160 million deal. Teams have suggested something more in line with Mayfield’s contract. The transition tag may make the most sense.”
— Jeremy Fowler, ESPN
However, if the Vikings opt for the transition tag, there’s a high probability another team will offer Darnold more than $35.3 million per year—a number Minnesota may not be willing to match.
Will the Vikings Let Darnold Walk?
At this point, Minnesota’s front office is weighing their options carefully. They still need to assess:
- J.J. McCarthy’s recovery from knee surgery
- Whether Daniel Jones is willing to stick around on a short-term deal
- If Darnold’s price tag is simply too high
If Darnold commands a massive contract elsewhere, the Vikings could tag and trade him, ensuring they get something in return rather than losing him for nothing.
This decision could shape Minnesota’s future at quarterback for years to come—and all eyes are on how they play their cards this offseason.