If Minnesota makes the wrong choice on Darnold's future, it could haunt the franchise for a generation. GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah has a few options. He can tag Darnold, let him walk, or re-sign him to a long-term contract in the Baker Mayfield vein.

Vikings QB JJ McCarthy tells Rich Eisen his plans for the 2025 NFL season after missing his rookie year with a knee injury, what he learned from watching Sam Darnold and how he’ll respond to a possible QB competition with him next season.

The Minnesota Vikings drafted J.J. McCarthy with the No. 10 pick in the 2024 draft expecting him to be the team’s long-term solution at quarterback. Sam Darnold signed with the Vikings on a one-year deal that was meant to serve as a bridge until McCarthy was ready to start.