Vikings’ opinion of McCarthy makes Darnold’s future seem clear

Quarterback Sam Darnold broke out in 2024, however the Minnesota Vikings nonetheless do not appear to assume he is their man.

On Tuesday, The Athletic’s Alec Lewis reported that the Vikings nonetheless consider J.J. McCarthy — the tenth general choose of the 2024 NFL Draft — will turn into their franchise QB. 

McCarthy did not play in 2024 after tearing his meniscus within the preseason. Nonetheless, he not too long ago informed Sports activities Illustrated’s Claudette Montana he must be prepared for the start of OTAs within the spring. 

If McCarthy continues to progress, that will increase the possibility Darnold indicators elsewhere when free company begins on March 12 at 4 p.m. ET. 

“Consider it nearly like a guidelines,” wrote Lewis. “If McCarthy’s well being continues to development the best way it’s, and the Vikings determine their roster is healthier off and not using a hefty cap hit at QB, and no different group expresses curiosity in buying and selling for Darnold, and the Vikings wish to create an opportunity for a compensatory choose, letting Darnold stroll can be the comprehensible path.”

In a bit printed Monday, ESPN’s Kevin Seifert instructed the Vikings will use the franchise tag on cornerback Byron Murphy Jr. — who tied for third within the league in interceptions (six in 17 video games) in 2024 — as an alternative of Darnold. 

Spotrac estimates Darnold’s market worth is a four-year deal value $40.1M yearly. The underwhelming QB class within the 2025 NFL Draft provides him leverage, which can assist him safe a good greater contract.

Providing Darnold a mega deal is probably not a sound monetary transfer for the Vikings. A brand new contract might characteristic a large cap quantity, depleting Minnesota’s spending room. 

If the Vikings wish to give McCarthy extra time, they might re-sign backup QB Daniel Jones, a former starter for the New York Giants.

Letting Darnold stroll could also be tough, particularly after he threw a career-high 35 landing passes in 17 regular-season begins in 2024. Nonetheless, the Vikings really feel McCarthy has extra upside and wish to construct round him.