Sam Darnold is the crown jewel of free agency and these teams make the most sense for 2025
The Minnesota Vikings have quite a decision to make this offseason. Despite the fact they have $58 million in cap space and need to replace at least four, potentially five members of their starting secondary over the next three months, their biggest decision is how they handle quarterback. They will need to choose between Sam […]
The Minnesota Vikings have quite a decision to make this offseason.
Despite the fact they have $58 million in cap space and need to replace at least four, potentially five members of their starting secondary over the next three months, their biggest decision is how they handle quarterback.
They will need to choose between Sam Darnold or J.J. McCarthy as their lead signal caller. It would be an easy decision if money wasn't involved, but that's not how things work in today's salary cap world.
Who are the most likely options for Darnold to sign with this March?
Minnesota Vikings
The number one option for Darnold is still the Vikings. He thrived with the franchise in 2024, throwing for career highs in passing yards (4,319) and passing touchdowns (35). He also led the National Football League in multiple categories on throws 20+ yards down the field.
If the Vikings were to bring back Darnold, how would it look? That's the interesting question. The franchise tag is certainly an option, but bringing him back is likely the result of committing to him long-term. If the Vikings were to do that, it would signal a massive shift in the future of hte franchise.
Las Vegas Raiders
Is there a team more desperate for a quarterback in the NFL than the Raiders? They trotted out Aidan O'Connell, Gardner Minshew, and Desmond Ridder on the field last year and any form of stability at the position could have vaulted the Raiders into a much better spot.
The real intrigue here with the Raiders is having Pete Carroll at head coach. He understands how to maximize quarterbacks that have revitalized their careers. Carroll was the head coach for the first two years of Geno Smith's career and the patience he showed was pivotal to elevating his game.
Pittsburgh Steelers
The interesting thing when it comes to the Steelers is how they have handled the quarterback position is the odd nature of their additions post-Ben Roethlisberger.
From drafting Kenny Pickett in the first round in 2022 to adding Justin Fields and Russell Wilson, they haven't exactly made great decisions. Now, they are still in a poor spot at the position. If they end up signing Darnold, he could thrive within Arthur Smith's scheme, especially if George Pickens takes a step forward.
New York Giants
The last really good option for Darnold comes in an odd form. Would Darnold choose to go back to the same city where he failed with the Jets? If he chooses to do so, Darnold would be a really good fit for the Giants.
Head coach Brian Daboll is one of the few coaches who have shown the ability to elevate elite arm talent to a different level. He did so with Josh Allen in Buffalo and won coach of the year honors leading Daniel Jones to the playoffs in 2022. With Malik Nabers and Tyrone Tracy to help him get settled in, Darnold could thrive in the Big Apple his second time around.
Vikings make significant move that shows what their free agency priorities are
It’s a positive step forward
