Minnesota Vikings Quarterback Sam Darnold is Poised to Cash In Big in Free Agency
Minnesota, MN – The Minnesota Vikings are facing a crucial decision at the quarterback position this offseason. With 2024 first-round pick J.J. McCarthy sidelined for the entire season due to a knee injury, the team may be forced to rely on 2024 starter Sam Darnold as their signal-caller for 2025 and beyond.
Darnold, 27, is coming off a historic 2024 campaign with the Vikings, where he completed 66.2% of his passes for 4,319 yards, 35 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions. His impressive performance has positioned him as one of the most sought-after free agents this offseason, with projections indicating he could command a lucrative $160 million contract.
“Darnold’s 2024 is a rollercoaster ride we haven’t experienced at the QB position, with seemingly zero expectation to start, maximum output nearing the finish line, then a drop off of a cliff to end the season,” said Spotrac’s Michael Ginnitti. “A tag to keep him in Minnesota is likely too expensive ($40M+), and with limited options of his age and ability set to become available this March, it’s fair to assume that at least one team will be ready to open their wallet for the former #3 overall pick.”
While the Vikings have the cap space to potentially retain Darnold, the team may be hesitant to commit such a significant long-term investment, especially with the uncertainty surrounding McCarthy’s recovery. The decision could ultimately come down to whether the Vikings believe Darnold is the right quarterback to lead them to a Super Bowl championship.
“What will happen at quarterback?” ESPN’s Kevin Seifert wrote. “Everything in Minnesota hinges on whether the team brings back Sam Darnold, who produced a career-best season at age 27. If not, will the Vikings turn the keys over to J.J. McCarthy, who sat out the 2024 season because of a torn meniscus in his right knee? Or will they sign another veteran, perhaps free agent Daniel Jones who joined the team late in the season, to start in 2025 or until McCarthy is ready?”
Regardless of the Vikings’ decision, it’s clear that Sam Darnold is poised to cash in big this offseason, with a projected $160 million contract on the horizon. The quarterback’s future will be a closely watched storyline as the NFL’s free agency period approaches.
