Sam Darnold is having a standout season at just the right moment. However, as the Minnesota Vikings approach upcoming games, this success may lead to unique challenges for both the 27-year-old quarterback and the team. Darnold, who is a first-time Pro Bowler this season, has the chance to solidify his position as a franchise quarterback that was anticipated when he was drafted third overall by the New York Jets in 2018. His opportunity to showcase his talent will come on Monday night when the Vikings face the Los Angeles Rams in the final wild-card game of the 2024 playoffs. This will be Darnold’s first postseason start, and he has set a record for quarterbacks by achieving 14 wins in his inaugural season with Minnesota, his fourth team in a seven-year career.
Darnold expressed his excitement about this upcoming challenge, acknowledging the hard work required to earn success on the field. Despite his enthusiasm, there may be mixed emotions for Darnold, a California native, as he faces the impact of wildfires in the Los Angeles area. Regardless of the outcome on Monday night, both the Vikings and Darnold will need to address the future of their relationship, as his one-year, $10 million contract is set to expire. Darnold joined the team last year after serving as a backup for the San Francisco 49ers in 2023 and taking over the starting role due to McCarthy’s injury.
Unexpectedly, Darnold’s performance has been outstanding, with career-high stats in passing yards, touchdowns, and passer rating, leading the Vikings to a strong record. Head coach Kevin O’Connell has praised Darnold for his leadership and decision-making abilities, earning respect from teammates and staff. As the season concludes, Darnold and the team will need to evaluate their options, considering whether his success is a one-time occurrence, a sign of his development, or something in between. Despite past disappointments, Darnold has been embraced by his teammates and coaches, fostering a positive atmosphere within the team.
Looking ahead, Darnold and the Vikings have several options to consider, with one choice seemingly standing out as the most likely: Darnold departing in free agency. This decision could be mutual, as the team may allow him to explore other opportunities. The future remains uncertain, but Darnold’s impact and growth this season have left a positive impression on the team, making him a valued asset as they navigate the next steps.
The Michigan product was carefully chosen to potentially fill the void left by Kirk Cousins, who moved on to the Atlanta Falcons the previous year. During his brief preseason appearances, he showed both athleticism and composure that hinted at his ability to translate his championship-winning experience from college to the NFL at some point.
Looking ahead to the 2025 draft, the quarterback talent pool appears to be more limited compared to previous years. If he had waited another year, he might have been a top pick, but now there is high demand for quarterbacks like him. While he may not reach the salary heights of top earners like Dak Prescott, there is a good chance he could surpass the mid-tier deals signed by his draft mate Baker Mayfield in 2018.
If the Minnesota Vikings decide not to invest heavily in the quarterback position, they could hand the reins to the young prospect, potentially gaining a compensatory draft pick and keeping Daniel Jones as insurance. This choice could lead to Sam Darnold seeking better opportunities elsewhere with a more lucrative contract.
Darnold’s future with the Vikings will largely depend on the team’s performance in the playoffs, especially after a disappointing game in Week 18 cost them a division title. Former NFL scout Marc Ross believes that if Darnold continues to impress, the team should secure him for the long term.
Using the franchise tag on Darnold seems like a sensible short-term decision, ensuring he doesn’t leave for below-market value while guaranteeing him a substantial payday for the upcoming season. This move could be just the first step in a series of decisions regarding the team’s quarterback situation.
From their own self-interests, the tag could potentially spark a bidding war and an outside offer sheet, offering Minnesota two first-round picks if Darnold signs and the Vikings choose not to match. Additionally, Minnesota could use the tag to leverage Darnold’s value, allowing GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah to explore trade options with interested teams, potentially securing a favorable return in the form of players, draft picks, or a combination of both. As is often the case with tagged players, this could serve as an initial step in a longer negotiation process that culminates in a multi-year contract agreement between the player and the team.
Another strategic option made possible by the tag is the creation of a trade market for Darnold. Given the anticipated scarcity of quarterback talent in the 2025 draft class, Darnold’s availability could generate substantial interest from teams seeking a proven signal-caller. This scenario not only benefits the Vikings by maximizing their return on Darnold but also adds an intriguing layer to the offseason quarterback landscape.
In considering Darnold’s future in Minnesota, the franchise tag represents a floor for his tenure with the team. By assessing the market demand for Darnold and exploring potential trade opportunities, the Vikings can ensure that they retain control over his immediate future while positioning themselves to capitalize on his trade value.
Ultimately, the impending decision regarding Darnold’s status in Minnesota presents a complex and multifaceted dilemma. By strategically utilizing the franchise tag and exploring all available options, the Vikings stand to navigate this situation in a manner that maximizes their leverage and potential returns on investment.
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This article was originally published on USA TODAY: “Vikings’ Sam Darnold options: Is franchise tag the best path with QB?”
