Overview
- Sam Darnold is expected to enter free agency as the Vikings are unlikely to use the franchise tag on him before the March 4 deadline.
- The Vikings are reportedly prioritizing J.J. McCarthy as their long-term quarterback, though his readiness for the 2025 season remains uncertain due to past injuries.
- Darnold is drawing interest from multiple teams, with speculation linking him to the Pittsburgh Steelers, New York Jets, and Las Vegas Raiders as potential landing spots.
- Minnesota is also considering retaining Daniel Jones as a backup or bridge quarterback, with General Manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah describing him as a 'great option.'
- The free-agent quarterback market is thin this offseason, increasing Darnold’s potential value despite his late-season struggles in 2024.