Mon Mar 10 00:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Vikings Move On From Darnold, Explore Veteran Options After Playoff Exit

**MINNEAPOLIS, MN** – The Minnesota Vikings are parting ways with quarterback Sam Darnold after a surprising yet ultimately short-lived resurgence in 2024. The team announced today that they will not be bringing back the 28-year-old signal-caller, who led them to a 14-3 regular season record before a Wild Card playoff exit against the Los Angeles Rams.

Darnold’s season was a career high, boasting impressive numbers including 4,319 passing yards, 39 touchdowns, and a 66.2% completion rate. However, the Vikings are looking to upgrade at the position, with several options already in play.

The team’s first-round draft pick, J.J. McCarthy, is expected to be healthy in the spring after missing his rookie season with a knee injury. However, his impact is anticipated for 2025 at the earliest, prompting the Vikings to seek a veteran addition.

Among the potential candidates is re-signing Daniel Jones, who is weighing multiple offers, including one from the Indianapolis Colts. Long-shot contender Aaron Rodgers, currently under contract with the New York Jets, is also reportedly under consideration. The opening of a quarterback spot in Seattle, following Geno Smith’s trade to Las Vegas, has also opened up the possibility of Darnold joining the Seahawks.

Darnold, now a free agent, is ranked as the No. 4 overall player in Gregg Rosenthal’s Top 101 NFL free agents of 2025 list, indicating significant interest from other teams.

The news of Darnold’s departure comes amidst a flurry of other NFL transactions, including:

* **Steelers acquire DK Metcalf:** The Pittsburgh Steelers traded for Seattle Seahawks wide receiver DK Metcalf in a deal involving a 2025 second-round pick. Metcalf signed a five-year, $150 million contract.
* **Josh Allen’s mega-deal:** Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen signed a six-year, $330 million extension, solidifying his future with the team.
* **Numerous other signings and extensions:** Several other notable players signed contracts including Jamien Sherwood (Jets), Davante Adams (Rams), Ernest Jones (Seahawks), Aaron Jones (Vikings), Nick Bolton (Chiefs), Myles Garrett (Browns), and Derek Carr’s contract restructure with the Saints. The Bills also released Von Miller, though a return is possible.

The Vikings’ pursuit of a new quarterback will undoubtedly shape the direction of their franchise in the coming season.

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