The Minnesota Vikings are not expected to use the franchise tag on quarterback Sam Darnold, according to NFL Network‘s Ian Rapoport, avoiding a $40.2 million cap hit while still “working through options” to keep him with the team.
This development potentially clears the path for former Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy to take over as starter in 2024.
McCarthy, selected 10th overall in last year’s draft, missed his entire rookie season after suffering a knee injury. Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell confirmed at the NFL Scouting Combine that McCarthy is “progressing well” in his rehabilitation.
Darnold stepped in and delivered the best statistical season of his NFL career.
The former USC standout played at a high level for most of the season, even generating early MVP discussion before his performance dipped in the final two games. His season ended with Minnesota’s 27-9 Wild Card loss to the Los Angeles Rams.
Darnold’s market position appears strong heading into free agency. The 2025 NFL Draft class is considered weak at quarterback, and the free agent pool has already lost Matthew Stafford, who re-signed with the Rams.
While Darnold likely seeks a long-term, lucrative contract, the Vikings may be hesitant to commit after investing a top-10 pick in McCarthy just last year.
If McCarthy takes over as starter in 2024, he would be making his first career NFL start.
Free agency begins in just over a week, when both quarterbacks’ futures with Minnesota will become clearer.
