The Minnesota Vikings are set to explore the potential trade value of quarterback Sam Darnold this week at the NFL Scouting Combine. The annual event in Indianapolis is not just an opportunity for teams to evaluate incoming draft prospects but also serves as a hotspot for unofficial discussions between agents and front offices. With free agency looming, conversations about trades and roster moves are expected to pick up considerable momentum.
Matthew Stafford’s Situation Could Impact Darnold’s Future
One of the biggest storylines emerging from the combine revolves around Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford. Reports indicate that Stafford recently met with Tom Brady, part-owner of the Las Vegas Raiders, at Yellowstone, fueling speculation about a potential move. The meeting, which was reportedly approved by the Rams as Stafford’s agent explores his market, has drawn comparisons to his past “coincidental” encounter with Sean McVay in Cabo—just weeks before his blockbuster trade from the Detroit Lions.
If Stafford and the Rams ultimately decide to part ways, Los Angeles will be in the market for a new quarterback, and Darnold’s experience in the Vikings’ offense—designed by Kevin O’Connell, a disciple of McVay—makes him a logical target. McVay and O’Connell share a close relationship, and if the Vikings are comfortable with rookie J.J. McCarthy’s recovery timeline from meniscus surgery, O’Connell could play a key role in facilitating a trade.
Vikings’ Options: Franchise Tag or Trade?
Heading into the offseason, the idea of the Vikings using the franchise tag on Darnold before exploring a trade seemed unlikely. However, with the March 4 deadline to apply the tag approaching, the Rams’ potential quarterback vacancy makes Los Angeles a viable landing spot.
Critics of a Rams trade for Darnold argue that they could simply sign him in free agency rather than give up valuable draft assets. However, Los Angeles is not in the best position to compete financially for Darnold’s services. The team is already navigating contract standstills with both Stafford and Cooper Kupp, looking to restructure their deals to create more cap space. According to Over The Cap, the Rams currently rank 15th in the league with $44 million in cap space, limiting their ability to outbid competitors.
Other Teams Could Be in the Mix
If Darnold hits the open market, several teams with more financial flexibility could make strong pushes for him. The New York Giants ($48 million, 14th in cap space), Tennessee Titans ($51 million, 11th), Pittsburgh Steelers ($60 million, 9th), and the Raiders ($97 million, 2nd) all have greater financial resources to offer Darnold a more lucrative deal with significant guaranteed money upfront.
However, if the Vikings place the franchise tag on Darnold, they gain exclusive negotiating rights, potentially deterring rival suitors and creating opportunities for a more controlled long-term agreement with his next team.
Could the Vikings Extend Darnold Instead?
While the Vikings have J.J. McCarthy as their potential quarterback of the future, Darnold remains a compelling option for a multi-year extension. The team could offer him a contract with a 2025 cap hit similar to his current one-year, $10 million deal, allowing him to build on the progress he made in O’Connell’s system.
A second year in the Vikings’ offense proved to be a game-changer for Kirk Cousins, who was playing at an elite level before suffering an ACL injury. Darnold, despite struggling in games against the Lions and Rams, could see a similar career resurgence if given the opportunity to develop further under O’Connell.
Darnold’s Future: A Short-Term Play or a Long-Term Asset?
If Darnold were to return to Minnesota, he would still need to compete with McCarthy for the starting role. However, if he performs well, he could become a valuable trade asset in 2025, allowing the Vikings to capitalize on his improved stock. His new team would have the option to extend him long-term, especially as he nears 30 years old.
The biggest obstacle in retaining Darnold is the allure of free agency. As of now, he is positioned near the top of the quarterback market, and once free agency opens on March 12, he may prefer to test the waters rather than commit to Minnesota long-term.
Conclusion
The Vikings’ quarterback situation remains fluid, and how they handle Darnold’s future will depend on a variety of factors, including McCarthy’s recovery, Stafford’s status with the Rams, and the level of competition for Darnold on the open market.
As the NFL Scouting Combine unfolds, Minnesota will gain a clearer picture of what Darnold could command in a trade—whether it’s to the Rams or another quarterback-needy team. With the franchise tag deadline fast approaching, the Vikings must decide whether to lock in Darnold for another year, trade him for assets, or let him walk in free agency.
BREAKING: Stafford-Brady Meeting LEAKS Game-Changing Information Vikings and Darnold REJOICE!”
