According to NFL Network, Sam Darnold is not expected to return to the Minnesota Vikings in 2025. The team recently chose not to use the franchise tag on Darnold, who served as their quarterback during the 2024 season.
A key factor behind Darnold’s potential departure is the recent trade that sent Geno Smith from Seattle to Las Vegas. With Smith gone, the Seahawks are now in need of a quarterback, making Darnold a likely target.
Darnold had the best season of his career in 2024, throwing for over 4,000 yards and leading the Vikings to 14 wins. However, Minnesota was eliminated in the NFC Playoffs after losing to the Los Angeles Rams.
Now, the Vikings face a decision about their future at quarterback. Rookie J.J. McCarthy missed almost the entire 2024 season due to injury, but he is expected to be cleared for practice in the spring. According to NFL Network, the Vikings may also consider signing a veteran quarterback this offseason.
If Darnold does leave, replacing him will be a challenge, as he had a breakout year, throwing 35 touchdowns and finishing with 4,319 passing yards. However, the Vikings struggled in their postseason game against the Rams, with Darnold being sacked nine times in a 27-9 loss. Improving their pass protection will be crucial, especially if the inexperienced McCarthy takes over as quarterback.
There are still many available quarterbacks in free agency, including Aaron Rodgers, who is seeking a new team after spending the last two seasons with the New York Jets. The Vikings may explore Rodgers as a potential option.
Throughout his career, Darnold has played for the Jets, San Francisco 49ers, and Carolina Panthers, accumulating 16,383 passing yards and 98 touchdown passes.
Leave a Reply