Sam Darnold’s tenure as a quarterback has been a rollercoaster ride, punctuated by moments of brilliance and periods of inconsistency. The conclusion of the 2024-25 NFL season raised eyebrows, especially as Darnold’s performance in the final two games left much to be desired. However, according to esteemed sports agent Leigh Steinberg, Darnold’s future with the Minnesota Vikings may still be secure. Steinberg’s confidence stems from a deep understanding of the sport, as he’s represented notable quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes and Troy Aikman throughout his illustrious career.
Darnold, the third overall pick in the 2018 draft, saw a resurgence this past season, amassing an impressive 4,300 yards and throwing 35 touchdowns. This performance helped the Vikings secure a remarkable 14-3 record, demonstrating that Darnold can lead a team effectively. The late-season struggles against the Los Angeles Rams and the Detroit Lions, however, have caused some concern among fans and analysts alike. Yet, Steinberg emphasizes the importance of evaluating a player’s overall contributions rather than fixating on a few less favorable performances.
Evaluating the Big Picture
The crux of the argument for retaining Darnold lies in the broader context of his performance. While the playoff loss was a disappointment and his stats in those final games were less than stellar, Steinberg believes these instances do not define Darnold’s capabilities or potential as a quarterback. “If you take his whole body of work, it played very well and he was every bit a franchise quarterback,” Steinberg noted, highlighting the inconsistency of one or two games compared to an otherwise strong season.
Moreover, the presence of first-round pick J.J. McCarthy on the Vikings’ roster adds another layer of complexity to Darnold’s situation. McCarthy represents both a challenge and an opportunity; while he could be the future face of the franchise, the Vikings may recognize the vital qualities Darnold brings to the table. The organization could view the evolution of their current roster and Darnold’s significant contributions throughout the season as a reason to continue building around him.
Looking Ahead: Contract Negotiations
Should the Vikings decide to stick with Darnold, discussions of a contract renewal are likely on the horizon, especially after his one-year, $10 million deal. Given his standout performance this past season, a significant pay raise seems inevitable. The development of these negotiations will be critical, as both Darnold’s representation and the Vikings organization will need to find common ground that satisfies both parties’ ambitions.
Steinberg’s insights shed light not only on Darnold’s on-field potential but also on how important it is for teams to remain open-minded when evaluating their quarterbacks. With his history of influencing the careers of NFL quarterbacks, Steinberg’s analysis serves as an important reminder that a true franchise quarterback can overcome short-term setbacks to achieve long-term success. As the Vikings navigate the offseason, their strategy regarding Darnold will likely shape their trajectory in the coming years and crucially impact the franchise’s aspirations to return to championship contention.