The Minnesota Vikings have opted not to use the franchise tag on quarterback Sam Darnold, making him one of the most sought-after free agents on the market. While Minnesota remains interested in re-signing him, the Vikings already have a potential replacement waiting in the wings, rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy.
Vikings Let Darnold Test Free Agency, Opening Door for J.J. McCarthy
Darnold is officially heading toward free agency after Minnesota declined to place the franchise tag on him before the deadline. The Vikings still have an interest in bringing him back, but with his agent set to negotiate with other teams starting Monday, his return is far from guaranteed.
Vikings officially will not be tagging QB Sam Darnold, per sources.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 4, 2025
Darnold made a massive comeback last season under head coach Kevin O’Connell. He threw for 4,319 yards and 35 touchdowns while leading the Vikings to 14 wins and earning his first Pro Bowl nod.
However, his struggles in the final two games, where he threw 23 off-target passes and took 11 sacks in back-to-back losses, may have made Minnesota hesitate to confirm his return. Darnold was originally signed as a stopgap for the team’s long-term plans at quarterback.
The Vikings drafted McCarthy in 2024; they were planning to develop him behind a veteran. However, McCarthy suffered a season-ending knee injury in the preseason, making Darnold set for a full-time starting role. Now, with Darnold’s future uncertain, McCarthy may finally get his chance under the spotlight.
Michigan quarterbacks have struggled for a long time to carry their college success into NFL starting roles since Tom Brady entered the league. However, according to critics, J.J. McCarthy has the potential to change that for good.
McCarthy was instrumental in Michigan’s national championship-winning season, throwing for 2,991 yards, 22 touchdowns, and just four interceptions while completing 72.3% of his passes.
His college coach, Jim Harbaugh, has been vocal about McCarthy’s potential. Harbaugh believes McCarthy’s arm talent, athleticism, and leadership qualities make him a top-tier prospect.
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Some analysts project him as a first-round pick, with teams like the Washington Commanders, New England Patriots, and Atlanta Falcons among possible landing spots. If Minnesota decides to move on from Darnold, McCarthy could get his first real shot at breaking the Michigan quarterback curse in the NFL.
With Darnold’s fate up in the air, the Vikings must decide whether to pursue another veteran or hand the reins to McCarthy. If given the opportunity, he could become the first Michigan quarterback to start an NFL game since Tom Brady, starting a new era for both the Wolverines and the Vikings.
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