Key Takeaways:
– Reported plans of the Minnesota Vikings to replace outgoing quarterback Kirk Cousins with the former New York Jet and currenty San Francisco 49er backup Sam Darnold.
– Pioneer Press indicates that the Atlanta Falcons are interested in Cousins for their quarterback position.
– If Darnold is signed, expectations are that he will serve as a bridge veteran, while a rookie quarterback is being trained.
– The Minnesota Vikings are believed to be benefitting from savings on the salary cap by favoring Darnold.
– Sam Darnold reportedly offers strong prospects for Minnesota, being a seasoned NFL starter with less expense than Cousins.
As we approach the off-season, the Minnesota Vikings have quarterback changes on their agenda. Reports suggest veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins could be replaced by former New York Jet Sam Darnold, currently backing up at San Francisco 49ers.
Vikings Eyeing Darnold as Cousins Replacement**
Cousins’ contract is due to expire mid-March and is speculated to attract interest from the Atlanta Falcons. As reported by Pioneer Press columnist Charley Walters, the Vikings are simultaneously considering signing Darnold as their short-term quarterback. Darnold, 26, would serve as an experienced bridge QB, setting the stage for a rookie to step in after the April draft.
While there is no overwhelming excitement around Darnold’s potential signing, the quarterback’s experienced NFL play could maintain the Vikings’ offensive momentum, which was sustained competently by Nick Mullens in 2024. The scope is that Darnold’s signing would keep the Vikings competitive while grooming a promising young quarterback prospect selected during the first-round draft.
Notably, parallels are drawn between Darnold’s situation and the rise of talented late bloomer Baker Mayfield last year.
Sam Darnold’s Career Path**
As the 2018 draft’s third pick, Darnold entered the NFL with promising potential, renowned for his precision and powerful arm. Darnold commenced his career with the New York Jets but transitioned to the Carolina Panthers after three challenging seasons. Despite starting positively and reducing his turnover rate in Carolina, Darnold met setbacks with an ankle injury in 2022, ultimately leading to his trade to the 49ers.
Since joining the 49ers, Darnold has been performing admirably as a backup under head coach Kyle Shanahan. NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero puts forth that Darnold could possibly follow in Mayfield’s footsteps. Mayfield experienced significant progress working with Shanahan’s student, Sean McVay, before leading the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to a surprise playoff place. Darnold’s exposure to seasoned offensive play-caller Shanahan’s guidance bolsters his chances for similar growth.
Potential for Cap Savings with Darnold**
In contrast to Cousins, who could potentially command a contract of $45 million per annum, Darnold would symbolize a significant cut in the quarterback payroll. Football executive Randy Mueller noted to The Athletic that despite inherent drawbacks concerning Darnold’s performance level compared to Cousins, a player like Darnold could allow the Vikings to preserve salary cap resources. Darnold has pocketed $53 million throughout his career, but a $10 million annual salary might make an agreeable offer for the Vikings.
All eyes will be on the Vikings as the team makes its next strategic move ahead of the NFL draft. The prospects for the team moving forward will indeed be contingent on their decision.
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