**QB Sam Darnold Not Expected to Re-Sign with the Vikings: What’s Next for the Quarterback?**
As the 2025 NFL offseason heats up, quarterback Sam Darnold, who joined the Minnesota Vikings in 2024, is reportedly not expected to re-sign with the team for the upcoming season. This news comes as a surprise to many, given Darnold’s role as a backup quarterback in Minnesota last season, where he had the chance to showcase his skills in limited action.
Darnold, drafted third overall by the New York Jets in the 2018 NFL Draft, has experienced a rollercoaster career in the league. After a few inconsistent years with the Jets, he was traded to the Carolina Panthers in 2021. However, his tenure with the Panthers was marred by injuries and poor performances. In 2024, Darnold was given a fresh start with the Minnesota Vikings, who had him serve as the backup to veteran Kirk Cousins.
During his time in Minnesota, Darnold was able to showcase his athleticism and potential in limited opportunities, but with the Vikings focused on Cousins as their starting quarterback, Darnold remained in a backup role. While he didn’t get a chance to start many games, his presence as a solid backup was seen as a key asset for the Vikings’ quarterback depth.
With the Vikings not expected to re-sign Darnold, the team’s quarterback situation remains an intriguing storyline heading into the offseason. Kirk Cousins, now entering his 15th NFL season, is entering the final years of his career, and his future in Minnesota is uncertain. While Cousins has been a consistent performer, the Vikings have to start planning for the future, especially with the emergence of young quarterbacks in the league.
The Vikings may opt to draft or sign a younger quarterback to develop as the heir apparent to Cousins, rather than investing in a veteran like Darnold. As of now, Minnesota’s plans for the quarterback position remain fluid, but the exit of Darnold could signal a shift toward either a future-focused approach or a move for a more experienced signal-caller if they feel the need to contend immediately.
As Darnold heads into free agency, the next chapter in his career is uncertain. Despite his ups and downs, Darnold still possesses significant potential, and there are several teams around the league that could be interested in bringing him on as either a starting quarterback or a backup.
Darnold’s ability to make all the throws combined with his mobility could appeal to teams seeking a dual-threat quarterback or a potential reclamation project. He has shown flashes of his talent but has yet to establish himself as a consistent starting quarterback in the NFL.
Teams like the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Washington Commanders, or even the Las Vegas Raiders could view Darnold as a viable option to compete for a starting job or as an experienced backup to mentor a younger quarterback.
While Sam Darnold’s time with the Minnesota Vikings appears to be coming to an end, his NFL journey is far from over. With his skill set and experience, he could find another opportunity with a team looking to take a chance on his potential. For the Vikings, the decision to move on from Darnold could be part of a broader strategy to reshape their quarterback room for the future, but it also leaves the team with a critical question to address as they continue their quest for an NFC Championship.
Darnold’s next destination could be one of the offseason’s more intriguing storylines, and the next few months will reveal where the former third overall pick will land.
