Some of the media outlets have suggested that the Minnesota Vikings want to re-sign Sam Darnold but he is not interested in using the franchise tag to retain him.
The news was broken on Monday, February 3. Different media houses have different opinions, but the news also suggests that a deadline for teams to use the franchise tag is on Tuesday at 4. PM ET.
Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reported that the Vikings and Darnold are looking for different options to keep the duo together, but Darnold chooses to set for free agency.
Minnesota Vikings and Sam Darnold hold discussions on backdrop of franchise ‘tag’
Darnold has recently bagged his first career Pro-Bowl bid. He has scored 4,319 yards, 35 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions in the 2024 season. He thrived under Kevin O’Connell’s after facing a huge blow in his career.
It has been that Darnold has a huge role in bringing the Vikings back and helped him return to the playoffs. Darnold landed in Minnesota on a one-year free agent deal.
The deal was projected as the Vikings’ very particular after a first-round pick on QB J.J McCarthy. Darnold and McCarthy have a long-term relationship.
Sam Darnold previously won the quarterback job in training camp, whereas the Vikings suffered from a right knee injury. Darnold is known to be a major player leading the Vikings to a 14-3 record and completing 66.2%.
Sam Darnold has bagged 4319 yards and 35 touchdowns in his career highs. He has also intercepted for 12 times and earned a Pro Bowl selection.
On the other hand, it has been predicted that Mc. Carthy might need some time as he was out of the 2024 season. It seems like Darnold remains a bridge.
Sources say that Vikings might pay Darnold if they plan to turn to McCarthy in the near future for deals. It even says that if Vikings is unable to seal the deal, then it shall be easy for Darnold to draw a large contract.
Some of Darnold’s benchmark performance has a record of 35-38 as a starter. He has connected on 61.2% and passed 16,383 yards with 98 touchdowns. Keeping all the aspects in mind, Darnold seems to be in heavy demand.
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