The Minnesota Vikings will face a key decision at quarterback this offseason.
Sam Darnold delivered an impressive performance on a one-year contract, playing a pivotal role in the team’s 14-win regular season.
Now, the franchise may need to open its wallet if it hopes to retain him.
“Sam Darnold’s market is projected to exceed $30 million per season, according to James Palmer. This is likely driven by the high demand for quarterbacks and the relatively weak draft class this year,” JPAFootball shared on X.
Darnold threw for 4,319 yards, 35 touchdowns, and posted a career-high passer rating of 102.5.
After struggling with the New York Jets and Carolina Panthers, Darnold gained valuable experience with the San Francisco 49ers, leading to this breakout year.
If Minnesota opts not to pay Darnold, they would turn to quarterback J.J. McCarthy, who is recovering from a torn meniscus and has only limited NFL experience, mostly from preseason action.
Choosing an unproven quarterback returning from a season-ending injury could prevent the Vikings from replicating the success of this season, possibly signaling the start of a semi-rebuild.
This decision is crucial for head coach Kevin O’Connell and the future of the organization.
Fans should expect more clarity on the situation when the NFL’s free agency period kicks off this offseason.
Leave a Reply