Sam Darnold of the Minnesota Vikings started Week 18 on a high note, but his season-ending streak was marred by two poor games. But, at just 27, he is still in a terrific position as he gets closer to unrestricted free agency in March.
Darnold’s market worth has been high due to a weak draft class and a lack of free-agent options; contract prediction for the player range from $100 million to $160 million for about three or four years. Benjamin Solak of ESPN carried out a market analysis of Darnold on January 28 and estimated an annual salary of between $30 million and $40 million, but he included a crucial disclaimer.
“I wouldn’t be shocked if those numbers materialize, though signing Darnold to a four-year, $140 million deal might seem absurd,” Solak wrote. “If Darnold does well, the contract would probably work more like a two-year, $70 million deal with team options attached.”
Sam Darnold is anticipated to pique the interest of several teams.
It’s unclear how hard Minnesota will try to hold onto Darnold given his possible range of price. With Kevin O’Connell as head coach , the Vikings already have rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy. Deshaun Watson has a $230 million contract with the Browns that is fully assured until 2026.
With a franchise tag, the Vikings may dominate Sam Darnold’s market.
Given the need for quarterbacks, the Vikings will be considering to use the franchise tag to retain control over Darnold’s future. This move may not be about keeping him, but it will undoubtedly cost Minnesota approximately $40 million for the 2025 season. Instead of losing Darnold for nothing during free agency, the Vikings will likely consider tagging and trading him to recover assets. In 2025, Darnold’s trade value is expected to be between a late second-round selection and a third-round pick; instead, the Vikings may receive a package of mid-to-late-round selections, including a fourth- and sixth-round pick distributed over the next two drafts. Minnesota currently only has two fifth-round picks and a first-round pick in the upcoming draft.
In 2025, Darnold’s trade value is anticipated to be between a late second-round selection and a third-round pick. A package of mid-to-late-round selections, including a fourth- and sixth-round pick distributed over the next two drafts, may instead be given to the Vikings. Minnesota currently only has two fifth-round picks and a first-round pick in the upcoming draft.