Key Takeaways:
– Former Cleveland Browns quarterback, Johnny Manziel, warns J.J. McCarthy about Sam Darnold’s skills.
– McCarthy and Darnold hold distinct skills that could fill distinct roles for the Vikings.
– The Minnesota Vikings might face a tough decision in choosing between the two.
– Darnold could potentially gain a significant contract if he excels as the Vikings starter.
Sam Darnold’s Potential Challenging the Newbie’s Position
Despite the recent drafting of J.J. McCarthy by the Minnesota Vikings, it doesn’t signify the imminent exit of Sam Darnold. In fact, Johnny Manziel, a former first-round quarterback for the Cleveland Browns, has hinted on his podcast that McCarthy’s future in Minnesota could face potential turbidity as a quarterback, in light of Sam Darnold’s ability. From his personal experience working with Kevin O’Connell and Josh McCown, Manziel suggests the situation with the Vikings is one that Darnold has been patiently anticipating.
“Darnold can play football. That guy can sling the rock. He was drafted where he was for a reason, and he’s been waiting for a situation like this,” Manziel affirmed. He further posed a pertinent question, wondering if McCarthy serves as an upgrade over Darnold in the quarterback room.
Shape of Vikings Future: McCarthy or Darnold?
While Darnold’s career trajectory, especially with the New York Jets and Carolina Panthers, has shown turbulence, the 26-year-old former No. 3 overall pick still holds a chance to amend his career arc. In contrast, McCarthy, at 21, harbors contrasting strengths like solid football IQ and decision-making abilities. Yet, he stands at a stage where developing vital arm strength and talent is crucial.
Darnold has the opportunity to redefine his professional journey in the upcoming season while under a one-year, $10 million deal with the Vikings. Parallelly, McCarthy could prove fruitful for the Vikings if he efficiently manages the offense and hones his playmaking skills in due course.
Is McCarthy More Beneficial to The Vikings Than Darnold?
Despite low expectations from Darnold as the Vikings’ starter, there exists a possibility that his performance could uplift to a Pro Bowl level, like fellow 2018 draftee Baker Mayfield. In such an event, the Vikings may face a dilemma in deciding whether to re-sign Darnold or let McCarthy steer the team’s future course.
Worth noting is that if Darnold outshines as the Vikings’ starter this season, he could garner a deal similar to Mayfield’s three-year, $100 million deal, equating to $33.3 million a season. However, considering the roster-building benefits and the Vikings’ path forward relying heavily on having significant cap space for signing veteran free agents, McCarthy indeed stands a strong case.
As the NFL season gains momentum, it will be fascinating to see how the quarterback team dynamics unfold for the Minnesota Vikings – will Darnold bounce back and establish his stronghold, or will McCarthy’s budding talents navigate the team to new heights?