Minnesota’s Big QB Dilemma: How Much Is Sam Darnold Really Worth?
The Green Bay Packers and Minnesota Vikings have built quite the rivalry in recent years, but 2024 belonged to Minnesota. The Vikings swept Green Bay and finished ahead of them in the NFC North—something few predicted before the season began.
Now, as the 2025 offseason unfolds, Minnesota faces some tough decisions, none bigger than what to do with quarterback Sam Darnold.
Sam Darnold’s Market Value Sparks Debate
Darnold delivered a career-best season in 2024, throwing for 4,319 yards and 35 touchdowns, positioning himself for a big payday in free agency. But how much is he actually worth? That question has become a hot topic, especially after former Packers WR James Jones took a shot at Darnold’s value during FS1’s The Facility.
Jones didn’t hold back when discussing Darnold and fellow free agent Russell Wilson, arguing that neither quarterback should be making top-tier money.
“I think both these dudes should be paid at [$20 million per year] and under. I don’t know what dudes are making [$20 million] and under, but I think that should be the number [or] $25 million a year.”
“I don’t care nothing about none of the salary cap whatever, that is what [their] play has earned. Forget talking about [what the market dictates]. That is what their play has earned.”
“I’m sure we can sit up here and we can name 15 quarterbacks right now better than Russell Wilson and Sam Darnold. We can. Pay them accordingly and go win.”
Will Darnold Get His Massive Payday?
While Jones believes Darnold’s true worth is closer to $20-25 million per year, the reality is that if a team wants to secure him, they may have to offer between $35-$40 million annually. With Minnesota still weighing their options, the big question remains: Will the Vikings break the bank for Darnold, or look elsewhere?
