What Should the Vikings Do with QB Sam Darnold? One Approach Stands Out
Sam Darnold’s career-best season has put the Minnesota Vikings in a unique position, presenting both challenges and opportunities as they consider his future. The 27-year-old quarterback’s performance in the 2024 season, culminating in his first Pro Bowl selection, has reignited discussions about whether he could finally fulfill the potential expected of him when he was drafted third overall by the New York Jets in 2018.
As the Vikings prepare to face the Los Angeles Rams in the final wild-card game of the 2024 playoffs, Darnold’s success this year highlights a dilemma. With his one-year, $10 million contract set to expire, the Vikings must soon decide whether to double down on Darnold or explore other options. The decision will likely shape the team’s trajectory for years to come.
Darnold’s journey to Minnesota was unexpected. After spending 2023 as a backup with the San Francisco 49ers, he joined the Vikings in March 2024. Shortly after, Minnesota drafted J.J. McCarthy with the 10th overall pick, aiming to groom him as the franchise’s quarterback of the future. However, a preseason injury to McCarthy gave Darnold the starting role, and he thrived in it.
The results were stunning: a 14-3 record (tied for the league’s third-best), career highs in passing yards (4,319), touchdowns (35), and a 102.5 passer rating. Head coach Kevin O’Connell praised Darnold as a leader and competitor, cementing his status as a favorite in the locker room.
“This team loves him for the way he’s maximized his opportunity,” O’Connell said after a win over the Green Bay Packers, where Darnold threw for a career-high 377 yards.
Now, the Vikings face three primary paths forward: let Darnold walk in free agency, re-sign him, or use the franchise tag.
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If Darnold chooses free agency, he could be a hot commodity. The 2025 draft class is expected to be light on quarterback talent, making him an attractive option for teams in need. While he’s unlikely to command $60 million annually like Dak Prescott, Darnold could surpass Baker Mayfield’s recent three-year, $100 million deal with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
The Vikings could pivot to McCarthy, who showed promise in preseason before his injury. If Darnold leaves, Minnesota might secure a third-round compensatory pick in 2026 and rely on backup options like Daniel Jones to support McCarthy’s development.
If the Vikings believe Darnold’s 2024 season is indicative of long-term growth, re-signing him is a logical step. A multi-year deal could provide stability and allow the team to continue building around him. While developing a rookie quarterback on a cost-effective contract has appeal, a proven young quarterback who doesn’t command top-tier salaries can also be a valuable asset.
Former NFL scout Marc Ross believes a strong playoff run could solidify the case for re-signing Darnold. “If they go on a nice run, and he balls out again, they’ve got to lock this guy up,” Ross said.
Tagging Darnold could be the most practical immediate solution. The non-exclusive tag would ensure the Vikings retain him for at least one more season at an estimated $40+ million while keeping options open. The franchise tag offers flexibility:
If the Vikings use the tag, they might also consider trading McCarthy. With limited quarterback prospects in the 2025 draft, McCarthy could fetch a significant return.
While letting Darnold walk or committing to a long-term deal both have merit, the franchise tag appears to be the most strategic choice. It preserves the Vikings’ flexibility, maximizes their negotiating leverage, and keeps options open for both Darnold and McCarthy.
“This situation only works in the Vikings’ favor,” Ross said. “Teams are desperate for quarterbacks, and Darnold’s market value will reflect that.”
As the offseason looms, the Vikings’ decision will undoubtedly shape the team’s future and could create one of the most intriguing quarterback storylines in years.
