The New York Jets face a crucial decision at the quarterback position this offseason. With Aaron Rodgers’ future uncertain, the team must begin assessing potential alternatives, and one option to consider is former Jets quarterback Sam Darnold, who is set to become an unrestricted free agent.
In a recent interview with radio host Jake Asman, ESPN’s Rich Cimini discussed Darnold’s potential return to the NFL’s free-agent market. “Sam Darnold, I’ve always thought he was a talented guy, but it just didn’t work out here in New York. He probably needed a fresh start,” Cimini said. “He put in the work, rehabilitated, and I think last year was good for him. He had a solid year with Kyle Shanahan in San Francisco, which helped him. Now, he’s in a position to get a huge contract from someone this offseason. It’s great for him, but I don’t see him returning to the Jets. I’m betting on him finding a new home, maybe in Minnesota, Tennessee, or somewhere like that.”
Cimini’s remarks align with the growing consensus around Darnold’s market value. According to Spotrac’s calculated market value, Darnold is projected to sign a four-year deal worth $141 million, which would average $35.4 million per year. This salary would make him the 14th highest-paid quarterback in the NFL, according to Over The Cap. However, given the dynamics of free agency, Darnold’s final contract could end up being even more lucrative than anticipated.
The 27-year-old former USC standout will hit free agency at a prime age for a quarterback. A year ago, a contract in the $35 million range might have seemed like a dream deal for Darnold. However, the landscape of free agency is constantly evolving. In a market where quarterbacks are always in high demand, Darnold’s value is influenced by more than just his on-field performance. The availability of other top-tier quarterbacks plays a significant role, and the demand for a starting-caliber quarterback in 2025 could push Darnold’s contract closer to $45 million annually, if not higher.
Darnold’s potential suitors could include several NFL teams looking for an upgrade at quarterback. One factor that might drive his value up is the relatively slim free-agent class for quarterbacks. Darnold and Russell Wilson of the Pittsburgh Steelers are the only two proven starting quarterbacks scheduled to hit the open market in 2025. With Wilson already locked into a long-term role in Pittsburgh, Darnold could quickly emerge as the top free-agent quarterback, sparking a bidding war among teams in need of a signal-caller.
As a result, Darnold’s financial prospects are more promising than ever. What seemed like a $35 million per year contract a year ago might now be a baseline. Given the competition for his services, it’s not out of the question that he could command a significantly larger deal, perhaps in the $45 million range or beyond.
While the prospect of a reunion between Darnold and the Jets is intriguing, it remains a longshot. The franchise that drafted him in 2018 and later traded him away has undergone significant changes since his departure. The front office and coaching staff that once made decisions about Darnold’s future with the team are no longer in place, and by the time Darnold makes his decision, the Jets could have a new leadership structure in place.
Darnold, currently enjoying a career season with the Minnesota Vikings in 2025, is having a breakout year. The team boasts an impressive 13-2 record and is on track to secure the No. 1 seed in the NFC. Darnold has thrown for 3,776 yards, with 32 touchdowns to 11 interceptions, while completing 67.2% of his passes. These statistical milestones represent new career highs for the seven-year pro, further solidifying his status as a top-tier quarterback in the league.
As Darnold heads into free agency, he will have no shortage of suitors. The future remains uncertain for the Jets and their quarterback situation, but one thing is clear: the team will need to make some tough decisions in the coming months to secure the best possible option for their franchise’s future. Whether Darnold finds his way back to New York remains to be seen, but the Jets’ quarterback search is far from over.
Vikings QB Sam Darnold breaks silence on decision after top Jets insider personally contact him to make a return to Jets at his primate age of 27……..
