Vikings Likely to Part Ways with QB Sam Darnold

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. — The Minnesota Vikings are reportedly shifting their focus away from quarterback Sam Darnold, who is not expected to return to the team as the free agency period approaches.

According to NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport, Tom Pelissero, and Mike Garafolo, the Vikings have begun evaluating other quarterback options with Darnold set to become a free agent on March 12. This comes after backup quarterback Geno Smith was traded to the Las Vegas Raiders, opening doors for other teams in search of a starting quarterback.

Darnold enjoyed a notable 2024 season with the Vikings, throwing for a career-high 4,319 yards along with 39 touchdowns and a completion percentage of 66.2. Under his leadership, the Vikings tallied a strong 14-3 record. However, their playoff run was cut short after falling to the Los Angeles Rams in the wild card round.

“I don’t know and no one around the league really knows who the frontrunner for Sam Darnold is,” said Pelissero, highlighting the uncertainty in the quarterback market.

The Vikings have a viable option in J.J. McCarthy, whom they selected in the first round of the 2024 draft. McCarthy is expected to be cleared to practice this spring following a knee injury that sidelined him all last season. Vikings’ management appears confident that McCarthy can step into a starting role if Darnold departs.

Additionally, the Vikings are reportedly considering re-signing veteran quarterback Daniel Jones, who is evaluating multiple opportunities for the upcoming season.

Should Darnold leave Minnesota, it would mark the end of his brief tenure with the Vikings and spark new competition in the quarterback marketplace as teams examine their needs heading into the 2025 season.

With Darnold’s standout performance in 2024, including a string of impressive statistics, teams are likely to show interest as they seek to enhance their quarterback situations.