The Minnesota Vikings’ decision to part ways with quarterbacks Sam Darnold and Daniel Jones at the end of the 2024 season is increasingly appearing to be a critical error. Both players are now performing at an elite level, with Darnold showcasing Pro Bowl-caliber skills for the Seattle Seahawks and Jones leading the Indianapolis Colts to the NFL’s best record this season. Meanwhile, the Vikings are grappling with their quarterback situation after a disappointing 37-10 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers.
Vikings’ Offseason Choices Under Scrutiny
The Vikings entered the offseason with optimism surrounding their first-round pick J.J. McCarthy, believing he would be ready to assume the starting quarterback role. They had concerns about Darnold’s ability to replicate his successful 2024 campaign, which included a remarkable 14-win season. Furthermore, Jones’ uninspiring performance during his tenure with the New York Giants left many doubting his potential.
Despite these considerations, the risks associated with the Vikings’ decisions are becoming apparent. McCarthy, who missed his entire rookie season due to a significant injury, struggled in his initial outings this season before sustaining another injury. As a result, he has appeared in just two of a possible 25 games in his NFL career, severely limiting his development as a quarterback.
The Vikings could have opted for a contract structure similar to the one Seattle offered Darnold, which was effectively a one-year deal with two voidable years. Retaining Darnold would have provided McCarthy additional time to develop without the pressure of starting. Even if the Vikings were reluctant to invest in Darnold, they could have pursued a more reliable backup than Carson Wentz, who has been with six teams in six years and has won just 17 of his last 42 starts.
Current Quarterback Woes
Wentz’s performances this season have further compounded the Vikings’ issues. His lackluster play during Thursday’s game against the Chargers, where he turned the ball over multiple times, has not helped the team’s situation. While it may be unfair to attribute all of the Vikings’ struggles to Wentz, his declining performance certainly adds to their concerns.
With McCarthy still sidelined and uncertainty surrounding his future, the Vikings find themselves in a precarious position regarding their quarterback options. The situation is exacerbated by the fact that their former quarterbacks are now potential MVP candidates for other teams.
The Vikings took a significant gamble in their quarterback strategy, but the unfolding season has shown that it has not paid off. As the team confronts this reality, the need for a solid quarterback solution becomes increasingly urgent.
