The Minnesota Vikings are facing a quarterback transition following the Kirk Cousins era, with several options in contention. Head coach Kevin O’Connell announced to reporters that Sam Darnold will be starting training camp as the team’s quarterback. O’Connell emphasized the competitiveness of the camp across various positions.
“We haven’t finalized a depth chart,” O’Connell stated regarding the quarterback position, as reported by ESPN’s Kevin Siefert. “But based on his performance this spring and his career progression, Sam appears to be the front-runner. He’s taken full advantage of the competitive environment.”
Darnold, a former third overall draft pick, spent last season as a backup with the San Francisco 49ers behind Brock Purdy. At 27, he signed a one-year, $10 million deal with the Vikings in March.
Notably, the Vikings drafted JJ McCarthy from Michigan as the tenth overall pick this year, adding to the quarterback roster that includes veterans Nick Mullens and Jaren Hall. While there were reports of McCarthy impressing during OTAs, the experienced Darnold will lead the Vikings’ offense as they open training camp.
