Sam Darnold Has A Best Projected Landing Spot That Will Surprise Almost Every Fan

The Minnesota Vikings find themselves in a delicate situation at quarterback that demands resolution in the coming months. With Sam Darnold’s contract set to expire in March, the team faces a critical decision regarding his future.

If Darnold had delivered the kind of performances expected from a quarterback who threw for 4,319 yards and 35 touchdowns during the season, Minnesota’s decision might have been much more complicated. However, his struggles in the final stretch of the season, including back-to-back losses in Week 18 and the Wild Card round against the Los Angeles Rams—who lacked a true home-field advantage—have cast doubt on his long-term value to the franchise. These underwhelming performances have made it easier for the Vikings to consider parting ways with Darnold, without the lingering fear that they’d be letting a top-tier quarterback walk out the door.

Key Factors in the Vikings’ Decision

Several factors will influence the Vikings’ approach to the quarterback position this offseason. Darnold’s contract demands are a significant consideration, given that his one-year deal is expiring. Additionally, the team must monitor the progress of JJ McCarthy’s recovery from injury, as he could emerge as a potential solution under center. Lastly, the Vikings must assess the trade market for Darnold to determine what compensation, if any, they could receive if they decide to move him.

One possibility is that the Vikings use the franchise tag on Darnold, which is projected to cost approximately $42 million. This would allow them to retain control over his rights while exploring a trade. However, if the trade market suggests they wouldn’t recoup more than a third-round pick—the likely compensatory value if Darnold leaves as a free agent—they may opt to let him test the market. The decision will also hinge on the Vikings’ free agency plans since significant spending could negate any compensatory draft picks they might receive.

Where Could Sam Darnold Land Next?

If the Vikings choose to move on, Darnold is expected to attract interest from quarterback-needy teams, especially those outside the top two picks in the 2025 NFL Draft. With Miami QB Cam Ward and Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders projected to be off the board by pick #3, teams like the New York Giants, Pittsburgh Steelers, and New York Jets could enter the fray for Darnold’s services.

However, Pro Football Focus (PFF) has identified a different team as an ideal fit for Darnold: the Las Vegas Raiders. According to Mason Cameron of PFF, the Raiders could offer Darnold a fresh start and a better environment for success.

“Although the redemption arc of Darnold returning to New York would be poetic,” Cameron writes, “the Jets have too many questions at quarterback and likely insufficient cap space to facilitate a deal for their former No. 3 overall pick. On the other hand, Las Vegas projects to hold the second-most cap space this offseason and currently sits outside the range of the top quarterbacks in the 2025 NFL Draft.”

The Case for Las Vegas

The Raiders have endured a tumultuous two decades, recording just two winning seasons since their Super Bowl loss in 2003. Despite their long-standing struggles, the franchise appears poised for a significant overhaul. With substantial cap space and the potential to draft key pieces, the Raiders could reshape their roster under new leadership.

The offensive line has already seen improvement, thanks to rookies Jackson Powers-Johnson and DJ Glaze, while rookie tight end Brock Bowers has emerged as one of the league’s most dynamic weapons. These factors make Las Vegas a more attractive destination than it was a year ago.

Moreover, with new general manager John Spytek at the helm, the Raiders are in position to hire a strong head coach. Candidates like former Jets head coach Robert Saleh and current Bills offensive coordinator Joe Brady could help create a quarterback-friendly system. The involvement of Tom Brady, now part of the Raiders’ ownership group, could also influence the team’s direction, especially in evaluating Darnold’s potential.

Can Darnold Revive the Raiders?

While it’s unlikely that Sam Darnold alone could turn the Raiders into contenders, he could serve as a key piece in their rebuilding efforts. If the organization makes the right hires and roster additions, Darnold’s 2024 breakout season—highlighted by an 82.0 PFF overall grade—could be a sign of his potential to thrive in the right environment.

Ultimately, the decision lies with the Vikings and their willingness to either retain Darnold or let him seek a fresh start. For the Raiders, a well-executed offseason could make them a viable landing spot for the former No. 3 overall pick, offering him a chance to revitalize his career while helping to rebuild a struggling franchise.