The Minnesota Vikings are expected to allow Sam Darnold to explore free agency this offseason, a move that will likely lead him to sign with a new team. One potential destination is the Las Vegas Raiders.
CBS Sports’ Cody Benjamin noted on February 20 that while the Vikings appreciate Darnold’s strong arm, they are equally invested in their 2024 first-round pick, J.J. McCarthy. Minnesota successfully transitioned from Kirk Cousins without overpaying at quarterback, and Darnold may prefer to capitalize on a lucrative opportunity elsewhere. Benjamin predicts Darnold will sign a three-year, $114 million deal with the Raiders.
Las Vegas recently hired Super Bowl-winning coach Pete Carroll, who has connections to Darnold’s alma mater, USC. Additionally, legendary quarterback Tom Brady, a minority owner of the Raiders, holds significant influence over the organization.
The Raiders are projected to have the second-most cap space this offseason at $99.5 million, while the Vikings rank seventh with $63.3 million, according to Over The Cap.
Darnold’s Late-Season Struggles Could Influence Vikings’ Decision
Darnold had a strong regular season, completing 66.2% of his passes for 4,319 yards, 35 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions while earning his first Pro Bowl selection. His 14 wins set a record for most victories by a quarterback in his first year with a new team.
However, his performance faltered in the final two games, including the Vikings’ NFC Wild Card loss to the Los Angeles Rams, raising concerns about his long-term viability.
Benjamin highlighted that after struggling with the Jets and Panthers, Darnold rebuilt his reputation under the tutelage of the 49ers before breaking out with Minnesota. Yet, his impressive 35-touchdown campaign ended on a disappointing note, as he struggled under pressure in the season’s most crucial moments.
In Week 18 against the Lions and the playoff game versus the Rams, Darnold completed just 53.1% of his passes for 411 yards, one touchdown, and one interception combined. He had only two multi-interception games all season but fumbled eight times, losing four. According to Pro Football Focus, he also had the eighth-highest sack rate among quarterbacks with at least 10 starts in 2024.
Vikings’ Confidence in McCarthy Signals Darnold’s Exit
Despite Darnold’s overall success, the Vikings’ long-term plans revolve around McCarthy, whom they traded up to select 10th overall in the 2024 draft. McCarthy missed his rookie season due to a torn meniscus suffered in the preseason but remains the team’s future starter.
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported that while Minnesota is open to re-signing Darnold, they are unlikely to use the franchise tag, which would cost around $40 million. If another team offers Darnold a major contract, the Vikings are unlikely to match it.
Fowler emphasized that McCarthy is expected to be the franchise quarterback, though the exact timeline remains uncertain. Whoever starts in 2025 will likely serve as a bridge option, with Daniel Jones emerging as a potential, more affordable alternative to Darnold.
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