The Sam Darnold era appears to be over after just one season with the Minnesota Vikings.
The Athletic’s NFL insider Dianna Russini reports that Darnold is expected to sign with the Seattle Seahawks, who recently traded starting quarterback Geno Smith to the Las Vegas Raiders, when free agency opens Monday.
Darnold resurrected his career with the Vikings in 2024. Thrust into the starting role after J.J. McCarthy tore the meniscus in his right knee, Darnold thrived under head coach Kevin O’Connell’s guidance. He led the Vikings to an impressive 14-3 record while posting career highs in passing yards (4,319), touchdowns (35), completion percentage (66.2%), yards per game (254.1), passer rating (102.5), and QBR (60.4).
The Vikings declined to use their franchise tag on Darnold and, despite hoping to bring him back, it now appears he’s heading elsewhere. Darnold is expected to command upwards of $40 million per year on his new deal.
With Darnold reportedly off the board, the Vikings are turning their attention to two alternative quarterback — including a surprising option.
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According to Russini, the Vikings’ first preference would be to bring back Daniel Jones, whom they signed last year after his November release by the New York Giants.
However, with Jones also receiving interest from the Indianapolis Colts, his return to Minnesota isn’t guaranteed. If that’s the case, Russini notes that the Vikings could pursue Aaron Rodgers.
“The Vikings could show interest in Aaron Rodgers if they are unable to re-sign Jones,” Russini posted on X.
As free agency approaches, the QB carousel is beginning to spin:
— Dianna Russini (@DMRussini) March 8, 2025
◽️ Decision makers around the league expect Sam Darnold to end up in Seattle on a multi-year deal
◽️ Minnesota will attempt to pivot and sign Daniel Jones, who is receiving interest from the Colts
◽️ The Vikings… pic.twitter.com/wu8NHBg4dW
It would be remarkable to see Rodgers in a Vikings jersey, reminiscent of when Hall of Fame quarterback Brett Favre signed with the team in 2009 and played two seasons there. Rodgers would follow Favre’s career trajectory: starting with the Green Bay Packers, then going to the New York Jets, before potentially landing with the Vikings.
The Jets have informed Rodgers they are moving on after two disappointing seasons. The 41-year-old threw for 3,897 yards, 28 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions while leading New York to a 5-12 record.
If the Vikings bring in Rodgers, McCarthy, their first-round pick in 2024, would likely spend the 2025 season developing behind the veteran quarterback.
