Sam Darnold’s free-agency options are becoming clearer by the day, with sources indicating that he may not have the robust market expected earlier in his career. Instead, Darnold is likely to opt for a one- or two-year contract with the Minnesota Vikings worth $25 million to $30 million per season.
League insiders believe Darnold’s best setup will be staying in Minnesota another year, citing a shaky end to the 2024 season as having had a chilling effect that could be remedied with another strong year. Two general managers also shared this opinion, pointing out that Darnold’s market is softer than anticipated.
The Vikings have left the door open for Darnold’s return on an economical short-term deal, which would give them another year to evaluate both Darnold and their 2024 first-round QB J.J. McCarthy. Another possibility is a fully guaranteed one-year, $25 million deal or a two-year, $60 million contract with some guaranteed money in the second year.
While speculation surrounds Darnold’s potential return to Minnesota, an unknown team like the Seattle Seahawks could also be in play if the Las Vegas Raiders pursue a trade for Geno Smith. The Raiders’ reported soft interest in Darnold has led them to reassess their own quarterback room, potentially making a player available for calls.
In contrast, teams like the Steelers and Browns are not considered strong suitors for Darnold, with some league sources suggesting that the Giants could be his most likely landing spot if they can’t find a path to drafting Cam Ward.
Source: https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/article/with-sam-darnolds-free-agent-options-expected-to-be-thin-the-nfls-qb-carousel-is-taking-shape-221351408.html