Sam Darnold’s Career Year Sparks Vikings’ Playoff Hopes and Future Dilemmas

EAGAN, Minn. — Sam Darnold, the Minnesota Vikings quarterback, is set to make his first postseason start Monday night against the Los Angeles Rams in the final wild-card game of the 2024 NFL playoffs. The 27-year-old, who joined the Vikings on a one-year, $10 million contract, has had a career-defining season, setting personal bests with 4,319 passing yards, 35 touchdowns, and a 102.5 passer rating.

Darnold, a former third overall pick by the New York Jets in 2018, has revitalized his career in Minnesota after stints with the Jets, Carolina Panthers, and San Francisco 49ers. His breakout season has not only propelled the Vikings to a 14-3 record but also positioned him as a key figure in the team’s playoff aspirations. “It’s exciting, man, to be able to step into an environment like we’re gonna step into on Monday night,” Darnold said Thursday. “All the guys in that locker room are very excited about it.”

However, the game carries added significance for Darnold, a Southern California native and USC product, as wildfires ravage the Los Angeles area. Despite the personal challenges, Darnold remains focused on the task at hand. His performance this season has earned him his first Pro Bowl nod and widespread praise from teammates and coaches alike.

Head coach Kevin O’Connell has lauded Darnold’s leadership and consistency. “Just to see how he’s ultimately been able to maximize everything about his opportunity, our football team loves him for it,” O’Connell said after a recent victory over the Green Bay Packers. “I’ve had an absolute blast coaching him.”

Yet, regardless of Monday’s outcome, Darnold and the Vikings face a critical decision about their future. With his contract set to expire, the team must weigh whether to retain him, franchise tag him, or turn to rookie J.J. McCarthy, the 10th overall pick in the 2023 draft. Darnold’s resurgence has made him a coveted asset in a league where reliable quarterbacks are in high demand.

Former NFL scout Marc Ross believes Darnold’s performance could command a significant contract. “If they go on a nice run, and he balls out again, they gotta lock this guy up,” Ross told USA TODAY Sports. The Vikings could also use the franchise tag to retain Darnold while exploring trade options or negotiating a long-term deal.

Darnold’s journey to this moment has been marked by resilience. After struggling with the Jets and Panthers, he found a fresh start in Minnesota. His high school coach, Jaime Ortiz, attributes Darnold’s success to his versatility and work ethic. “His experience playing wide receiver and linebacker gave him a better sense of defenses and coverages,” Ortiz said. “He’s always been a competitor.”

As Darnold prepares for his playoff debut, the stakes couldn’t be higher. A strong performance could solidify his place as the Vikings’ franchise quarterback or attract lucrative offers from other teams. For now, Darnold remains focused on the task at hand. “It’s just exciting,” he said. “All the guys in that locker room are very excited about it.”